Bars and Cafes in Brera (Milan)

El Tropico Latino

During the day this place is just a bar, but the latin vibes are already present. Later, in the early evening one can begin to try tequila, daiquiri's, margaritas, coco loco's, caipirinha... to Latin rhythms. The kitchen opens at 8p serving Mexican specialities which are always out of this world; after 1a one can drink cocktails late into the night and eat snacks. The formula is a good one and the seats of El Tropico Latino have become known all over Milan.

Cotti

This could be defined as 'the temple of Bacchus': it offers a wide variety and choice of wines, along with a selection of culinary specialities and confectionery. In the cellars, Luigi Cotti has been selecting the finest wines and years from Italian and international production, for his clients, since 1952. Over 1,300 labels are stocked at a constant temperature of 14-18°C. Goods are despatched abroad too.

El Tombon de San Marc

In the center of the Brera district, this historic pub has been a favorite with Milanesi for many years. Many generations have enjoyed and continue to enjoy this pub which is thought to be one of the oldest in the city, yet still attracts a varied crowd of students, professionals and many foreigners. All the traditional pub drinks are found here, from draught beer to cocktails and long drinks, accompanied by unmissable sandwiches and snacks which are available until late at night. Don't miss the happy hour which is sure to surprise you!! This is an excellent place for anyone who is a bit fed up with usual pubs, and wants to taste a bit of tradition, whilst immersing oneself in a crowd of like minded people.

Bassethound

The Bassethound is a typical Irish pub that offers a rich quantity of different kinds of beer. For the Milanese, used to loud and colourful bars, the bar is 'strange'. In fact, the Bassethound succeeds in re-creating perfectly, an ambience that is quite different from that of the Italian pubs: dark and smoky places more fitting for werewolves than for common folk. Nevertheless, the bar is very welcoming and the personnel succeed in making you feel completely at ease. In addition, the Bassethound has some hidden and winning weapons as well, that render the bar very well-frequented, even late-night. In fact, in the 'secrets' under the bar, one can listen to trendy live music and dance. A place to see some different faces.

Ibiza

A truly super crowded bar for the last few years, the Ibiza is getting back on top to re-take its just place as a bar of great style and trend. It is famous, not only for its restaurant, but also for its special cocktails and typical liquors of Ibiza which are served in all kinds of ways. The bar is very cool and airy thanks to a typically marine style with white walls and marine-style tables that remind you of the long winter nights, the warmth of the sea, and the happiness of summer. For stomachs of steel, the house B52 which is truly a kick.

Amistani di Guarda

This bar offers wines and gastronomic delicacies in the Valdobbiadene and Conegliano area. There is the atmosphere of an old cellar in this shop, with sought-after bottles which are kept in dark wood cupboards. Coats of arms border the walls in a style reminiscent of old family lineage.

Moscatelli

Unchanged for more than 100 years, it oozes stories of old Milan. The motto of Giuseppe Moscatelli is famous, "Water is for rogues, the flood is the proof". Here there is only wine, for all occasions, of all types, by the bottle or the glass. This place is a tradition of old Milan, you can see it in the décor (1950s) and hear it in the speech (Milanese dialect). Lots and lots of good times and cheer.

Birreria Uno

Historic Milanese Beerkeller, in the heart of the city, has always managed to distinguish itself from the others. The latest idea? A computer terminal with modem on every table so that you can contact other tables in the pub as well as contact other pubs that are linked up. Amidst the neon coloured lights, pinball machines, slot machines, playstations and screening of football games there are 13 different types of beer.

Louisiana Bistrò

This is one of the most popular places in the Brera zone. The style is still Art Nouveau but the atmosphere is transformed into that of Mississipi and the Deep South: the background music is strictly American, they take care to remember the American celebrations like Thanksgiving, you can play billiards and follow American football. The food is that of the Deep South including a substantial Sunday brunch.

Sant'Ambroeus

Old Milan, elegant Milan, well-to-do Milan, classy Milan. All this is within everyone's reach at the historical Sant'Ambroeus, which is very Milanese. In the city centre this is an old style cafe which has made Milan a drinking city. Here you can enjoy breakfast, a coffee break, cappuccinos, flans, tea in the afternoon, and the excellent, large cocktails, to say the least for aperitif time, in the fashion of the last twenty years, accompanied by good quality snacks and confectioneries. Prices are average but the quality is well above.

Orient Express

To celebrate the famous train that ran from Paris to Constantinople, the atmosphere could not be more perfect. Every detail of the Orient Express restaurant is perfect, and the atmosphere is more like a movie set than a restaurant. Savor a host of delicious appetizers, healthy salads, and meat and vegetarian courses along with great drinks to accompany your meal. Guests can also eat by candlelight in the carriage restaurant. Brunch is available every day and the cocktails are good. The entire experience is fresh and exciting. Call ahead for reservations.

Fuori Porta Cafè

The name of this place brings to mind the Spanish era when anything that was outside the imposing Iberian ramparts was fuori porta - outside the gates. In terms of atmosphere, decor, and service it is something between a Parisian bistro, an American bar and a Latin basement; the overall impression is rustic and relaxed. It is excellent for business lunches as well as for a game of cards. Sundays feature leisurely brunch and televised football.