From renowned names to hidden gems, here’s where to sip in Porta Venezia (and beyond) when thirst strikes in the heart of Milan.
Where to Drink in Porta Venezia
In Milan, the art of finding a great drink often comes down to knowing where to look. And in Porta Venezia, opportunities are endless. Nestled among Liberty-style facades and vibrant streets, this neighborhood is a sanctuary for aperitivi and nightcaps, where every sip becomes a memory. Whether enjoyed at a polished bar counter or in a lush hidden garden, it’s the small details that define the best moments in a city that, noisily or quietly, always has something to offer—especially in a glass.
Porta Venezia has steadily become one of Milan’s most beloved neighborhoods, with an ever-expanding constellation of food and beverage addresses. Naturally, mixology found fertile ground here, flourishing among historic venues and fresh openings alike.
The Best Cocktail Bars in Porta Venezia
A selection of standout spots that have shaped the neighborhood’s reputation as one of Milan’s most vibrant drinking destinations. Industry experts know it well: Porta Venezia is home to one of the world’s top cocktail bars, proudly featured in The World’s 50 Best Bars ranking.
1930
A new address, a new look, a new cocktail list. But some things haven’t changed: the spirit, the outstanding drinks, and the unmistakable sense of fun. After more than a decade, 1930 opens a new chapter, unveiling its new home while staying true to its roots. A pioneer of the genre, this secret bar—Milan’s first to channel the spirit of Prohibition—has left behind its hidden location but not its soul. Today, it welcomes guests from the underground space of Mag La Pusterla, on Via Edmondo De Amicis, still under the expert direction of Benjamin Cavagna, and still serving a mixology experience that’s among the best the city has to offer.
1930 – Via Edmondo De Amicis 22, Milan
10_11 @ Portrait Milano
10_11 (Ten_Eleven) is a recent addition to Milan’s cocktail scene, perfectly positioned between Via Sant’Andrea 10 and Corso Venezia 11, within the historic walls of the former Archbishop’s Seminary. Today, it is part of Portrait Milano, the latest hotel by Lungarno Collection. Here, mixology finds an elegant home with a menu divided into four curated sections: ancestral creations, unforgettable classics, easygoing signatures, and traditional aperitivi, all crafted with a refined, contemporary touch.
10_11 – Via Sant’Andrea 10
Bar Basso
Bar Basso is a living symbol of Milan’s aperitivo culture. In the 1970s, the Stocchetto family turned this venue into a school of mixology, creating a legend that would soon travel beyond Italy’s borders. Tradition still reigns at Bar Basso, where drinks are served just as they were in the golden days. For those visiting for the first time, the iconic Negroni Sbagliato is a must, served at the bar with a side of peanuts, olives, and crisps. It was Mirko Stocchetto, who passed away in 2016, who first created this historic cocktail by swapping gin for sparkling wine.
Bar Basso – Via Plinio 39
Beefbar
At Beefbar, the culinary creations of chef Thierry Paludetto celebrate premium cuts of meat, while the beverage program, curated by Francesco Cione, invites guests on a global journey through flavor. The cocktail menu draws inspiration from the cities where Beefbar has made its mark—Hong Kong, Tulum, New York, Paris, London, Dubai—offering signature drinks that bring distant landscapes to life, one sip at a time.
Beefbar – Corso Venezia 11
Canteen
There’s no need to board a plane to Mexico to enjoy great tequila and mezcal. At Canteen, experts and agave lovers gather for aperitivi in a lush courtyard or for after-dinner drinks inside a lively, welcoming space. And for those with an appetite, the menu features authentic Mexican cuisine to complete the experience.
Canteen – Via Archimede 10
Dal Milanese
For those with a visceral love for Milan, Dal Milanese feels like home. Founder Luca Guelfi has blended Milanese tradition with the nostalgic spirit of the 1980s “Milano da bere” era. Surrounded by vintage signs, original photographs, and old advertising prints, guests can savor classic cocktails that honor a vibrant past.
Dal Milanese – Viale Premuda 16
Diana Garden Bar & Ristorante
Inside the Sheraton Diana Majestic Hotel, a hidden lounge bar opens onto one of the most beautiful gardens in Porta Venezia. Viewed from the bar counter overlooking the indoor conservatory, the lush green oasis invites guests to enjoy cocktails in complete tranquility, whatever the season.
Diana Garden Bar & Restaurant – Viale Piave 42
Dirty Milano
Dirty Milano captures the raw soul of Milanese nightlife, staying open until 4 AM when the rest of the city has already gone to sleep. Founded by Carola Abrate, Gianluca Tuzzi, and Paolo Coppola, this bar offers drinks—and bites—that seem perfectly in tune with the unspoken needs of the night. A must-visit for those who refuse to let the evening end.
Dirty Milano – Viale Regina Giovanna 14
DG Martini Bar
When two great names join forces, excellence follows. DG Martini Bar is the result of a collaboration between Martini and Dolce & Gabbana, blending Italian tradition with modern style. Guests are welcomed to sip on crafted cocktails or sparkling wines and sample dishes from the bistrot, all within a setting of impeccable elegance.
Martini Bar & Bistrot Dolce & Gabbana – Corso Venezia 15
Drinc.Milano Cocktail & Conversation
One name to remember: Luca Marcellin. The owner of Drinc.Milano has distilled his extensive mixology experience into just 40 square meters of space. A small, precious lounge where every detail matters—from the choice of glasses to the curated selection of 450 bottles displayed on the shelves. Gin and whisky take center stage, finely mixed under the signature of one of the city’s most esteemed bartenders.
Marcellin, who honed his skills in Milan’s top luxury hotels before opening his own bar in 2016, crafts cocktails that sound like promises—twists on classics and original signatures. Seating is limited; this is a place to savor drinks attentively, as Luca Marcellin’s creations deserve a keen, prepared palate. Today, the menu even features augmented reality cocktails, adding a playful, high-tech touch for guests thirsty for both drinks and Metaverse adventures.
Drinc.Milano Cocktail & Conversation – Via Plinio 32
Drinc.Different
The second address from bartender Luca Marcellin and partner Desiree Brunet lies just about a hundred meters from the first. Drinc.Different doesn’t define itself as a speakeasy, nor as an alternative venue—it’s simply something new, different, and decidedly intimate, with only 18 seats available. The drink list is tailored to offer both familiar and unexpected flavors, catering to every taste of true drink lovers. Here too, cocktails come to life through augmented reality, allowing guests to visualize their drinks in 3D.
Drinc.Different – Via Francesco Hayez 13
Eppol
Eppol is a little treasure chest where mixing glasses, strainers, and goblets shine like jewels. Looking up reveals a dazzling chandelier, showering light across the tables and chairs that cradle each sip. This venue leaves nothing to chance—not even the lush greenery adorning its walls. The drink list offers international flavors, with spirits from across the globe interacting with spices, bitters, and other liquid ingredients that transport the palate far and wide. Highly recommended, not only for its cocktails but also for its charming location on one of Milan’s most beautiful Liberty-style streets.
Eppol – Via Marcello Malpighi 7
Flores Cócteles
For lovers of Argentina dance, and open-fire grilled meats paired with fine wines or cocktails, El Porteño Prohibido is a paradise—and Flores Cócteles, its dedicated cocktail bar, is the crowning touch. Every detail of this “casa de tango” is imported directly from Buenos Aires, recreating the city’s vibrant life and passion. Tango shows accompany guests from aperitivo through dinner, and excellent classic cocktails await either at the striking bar counter or in the plush, red velvet lounge.
Flores Cócteles – Via Macedonio Melloni 9
Gesto
Gesto is a concept dedicated to the pleasures of taste. The venue offers playful tapas paired with lively cocktails, to be enjoyed either at the minimalistic bar counter or around the oval table with bottles on full display. This cocktail bar with kitchen is the perfect retreat for unwinding over the weekend, leaving behind the week’s rush and savoring the company of friends. Sharing is encouraged here—a delicious, appetizing idea at the heart of a place that has already won over countless fans in Porta Venezia’s vibrant food and beverage scene.
Gesto stands out for its originality and its accessible pricing, making it an experience worth discovering.
Gesto – Via Giuseppe Sirtori 15
Kanpai
No need to fly from Malpensa or Linate to reach Japan—Kanpai brings the spirit of the East directly to Porta Venezia. Behind the bar, Vito Laselva works his magic with sake, shochu, Japanese whisky, and gin, crafting minimalistic, inventive cocktails to accompany excellent Japanese cuisine, available even late into the night.
Kanpai’s menu plays with twists on great mixology classics and bold signature creations, all infused with a deep respect for raw ingredients. An essential stop for anyone recently returned from Japan—or simply longing for another taste of it.
Kanpai – Via Melzo 12
Kilburn
In perfect British—or rather English—style, Kilburn delivers excellence in every highball, lowball, and coupe glass. The venue meticulously selects only the finest labels across vodka, rum, whisky, and other exceptional spirits, seeking out the perfect aromatic pairings for each. At the bar, everything is taken seriously: original drinks with the ambition to leave a lasting impression on the palate, like vivid memories. Kilburn’s interiors are refined, elegant, and distinguished, much like the team that welcomes guests at the tables and behind the counter.
The cocktails are theatrical and dignified, the atmosphere composed, with every corner reserved for beauty and good taste. Highly recommended for those who refuse to settle for just any drink, and who appreciate deepening their knowledge of their favorite spirits.
Kilburn – Via Panfilo Castaldi 25
Nottingham Forest
Dario Comini, a world-renowned bartender and molecular mixology pioneer, introduced Milan to an astonishing new way of approaching cocktails at Nottingham Forest. The clientele here is anything but ordinary—sophisticated, curious, and still able to be surprised when faced with the endless collection of extraordinary drinks crafted at the bar on Viale Piave. Every inch of the space is filled with collected treasures from around the world, each detail curated by Comini himself. Nottingham Forest remains a sanctuary for slow, intimate evenings, despite its globally revolutionary reputation.
Nottingham Forest – Viale Piave 1
Oasy
Near Porta Venezia, with its entrance on Viale Majno, lies a hidden paradise known as Oasy. This secret garden welcomes guests with an open-air cocktail bar and a charming bistrot housed within a greenhouse-like structure. With its dual soul—restaurant and cocktail bar—Oasy promises excellent drinks and a gastronomic, convivial experience with a relaxed yet chic atmosphere.
Oasy – Viale Majno 44, Milan
Pandenus Tadino
Among the Pandenus venues, the one located on Via Tadino in Porta Venezia stands out for its cozy, intimate feel. Here, bread is king—as the name (meaning “walnut bread” in Milanese dialect) suggests—and the culinary offerings are centered around fine baked goods. While the food takes the spotlight, the venue is also well known for its aperitivo, a beloved ritual in the neighborhood.
Pandenus Tadino – Via Tadino 15
Panino Giusto & Rita – Aperitivo Giusto
Locals know Panino Giusto’s historic location near Porta Venezia and Rita on the Navigli well. Now, these two giants of Milan’s food and beverage scene have teamed up for a fresh, playful concept: Aperitivo Giusto.
Launched by casual dining brand Panino Giusto and cocktail institution Rita, it offers a vibrant experience starting at 6 PM: an enticing drinks menu curated by Edoardo Nono, founder of Rita, paired with generous boards of taralli, olives, toasted salted almonds, fresh pinzimonio with vinaigrette, cold cuts, cheeses, mozzarella nodini, and gnocco fritto.
Panino Giusto – Via Marcello Malpighi 3
Rumore
Adding new life to Porta Venezia, Rumore—the latest project by Riccardo Giraudi, founder of Beefbar—has quickly become a recognized symbol of Milanese nightlife. Located inside one of the historic spaces of the old Archbishop’s Seminary (now Portrait Milano Hotel), Rumore offers a sophisticated atmosphere steeped in the design influences of the 1920s and 1960s. Creative direction by Sara Battaglia, along with Francesco Cione and bar manager Sossio Del Prete, ensures that every cocktail and every detail resonate with style and energy.
Rumore – Corso Venezia 11
