Here’s our list with the best “cheap eats” spots in Milan for delicious food and culinary memories
Just arrived in Milan and don’t know good dining spots in the neighborhood yet? No more struggles with finding a budget-friendly and tasty place to eat! Milans food scene is amazing and quite different from the south of Italy. Historical occupation and migration from all over Italy shaped the dishes famous for this region today. This includes Risotto alla Milanese and Cotoletta alla Milanese. Stay until the end to discover a true hidden gem and also to learn about all the other amazing „cheap eats“ spots of Milan we exclusively picked that will satisfy your wallet and taste buds!
Cheap Eats from around the world at Sidewalk Kitchens in Milan
Location: Via Bonvesin de la Riva, 3, 20129 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Monday from 12:30pm – 3pm and 6pm – 11:30pm / Tuesday – Friday from 9am – 5pm an 6pm – 11:30pm / Saturday – Sunday from 9:30am – 5pm and 6pm – 11:30pm
We’re starting off strong with a creative and innovative collective that brings together four kitchens, a specialty café, and a wine shop — all under one roof. Whether you’re coming for breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, or dinner, this spot has something for every craving. Their current partners include:
- Chuck’s NYC – Grab a juicy smash burger made with only the freshest ingredients.
- Katsusanderia – Enjoy a Japanese sandwich with your choice of fillings or a comforting hot meal.
- Goings – The dream café, serving everything you could possibly wish for.
- Onda Listening Bar – Sip your first drink of the night while soaking up great music and chill vibes.
- Mr. Dumpling – Authentic, traditional dumplings that are guaranteed winners.
It’s truly a special place that radiates an electric atmosphere. On top of that, I completely fell in love with the outdoor seating, the great music, and the fun, lively vibes. I’d come back here again and again!
Handmade pasta from Trattoria Bolognese da Mauro
Location: Via Elia Lombardini, 14, 20143 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday from 8pm – 11pm / Saturday – Sunday from 12:30pm – 2pm and 8pm – 11pm
We’re continuing with a restaurant that serves only high-quality food in one of the coziest settings imaginable. Loved by locals, it truly feels like being invited into someone’s own kitchen. Tucked away in the Navigli district, far from the city’s usual hustle and bustle, it’s a hidden gem with a warm, thoughtfully decorated interior.
Some even say it’s the best place to get pasta in Milan, plus it’s all handmade! You might just have to find out for yourself . The portions are generous and will keep you happily full for hours. I definitely recommend making a reservation in advance. Depending on what you order, expect to spend around €15 and up. Not the cheapest place in town, but absolutely worth it for the service, atmosphere, and seriously delicious food.
Visit Nonna at Il Brutto Anatroccolo
Location: Via Evangelista Torricelli, 3, 20136 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Monday – Friday from 12pm – 2:30pm and 9pm – 12:30am
The list continues with another classic and a must-visit if you’re in Milan. Especially during lunchtime, you’ll come across many Italians who like to spend their break there, indulging in traditional, mouth-watering yet simple Milanese cuisine. Sometimes, the oldest recipes are the ones that captivate you the most. It feels like you’ve stepped back in time and Nonna cooked just for you. The prices are very fair—not raised for tourists because it’s located in a popular area or anything similar. If you still have some room left at the end of the day, I suggest trying the tiramisu. It’s really good and only €4.
However, if you’d like to have dinner there, I recommend arriving 15 minutes before they open to ensure you get seated immediately.
Something to grab for on the way – Panini De Santis
Location: Corso Magenta, 9, 20123 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Every day from 11am – 11pm
For me, there is no better quick lunch than a really crispy and juicy sandwich — especially if it’s as delicious as the ones from De Santis. They have so many options that it’s hard to choose just one. So, if you’re going there with a friend, I recommend sharing your dishes. That way, you can taste as many flavors as possible. The ingredients are excellent, and they offer a great wine selection as well. It’s up to you whether you take your panini to go or enjoy it in one of their beautiful seating areas, both indoors and outdoors.
Fancy dinner at La Bettola di Piero
Location: Via Orti, 17, 20122 Milano MI, Italy
Opening hours: Monday from 12:15pm – 2pm and 8pm – 11pm / Tuesday – Friday form 12:15pm – 2pm and 8pm – 11:30pm / Saturday from 12:15pm – 3pm and 8pm – 11pm
Last but not least, a slightly pricier restaurant, though totally worth the money. You’ve guessed it: of course, it’s typical Milanese food again. It’s just too good not to have it EVERY. SINGLE. DAY. since it’s not every day you’re in the city. This time I’d actually go for the antipasti. Real Italian food, but something different from pasta.
For all our vegetarians, I suggest trying the baked eggplant glazed with tomato, parmesan ice cream, and a pumpkin seed wafer. As you notice, you can also get more unusual dishes here. I really appreciated that because, although Italian cuisine is one of the best in the world, after some time it can get a bit repetitive. (To be fair, this might be the case with every cuisine — but you know what I mean.)
Extra bonus for Cheap Eats beyond Milan
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