Milan is the media, fashion, financial, and design center of Italy. In other words, it’s one of the few places in the entire country that isn’t driven by tourism. That means excellent restaurants, cutting-edge art galleries, and fashion and design boutiques that are heavy on quality. This being a city driven by locals, there are ample ways to get off the beaten path—quaint neighborhoods, like Brera, with its cobblestoned streets made for an evening passeggiata come to mind. And of course, we are in Italy, so the food rightly takes centre stage.
Alexander Lotersztain - Director, Derlot
What are some of the key design concepts you believe will be showcased at Salone del Mobile this year?
I think this year's Salone del Mobile will be very exciting, as it offers a chance to reconnect with fellow designers and explore new possibilities. The past year's significant shift in the way we live, and work is sure to influence the showcased design concepts, with a big focus on innovation and adaptability. It will be interesting to see how designers are adapting and pushing the envelope.
What is your favourite attraction to visit in Milan outside of the fair?
After the fair, I like to escape the hustle and bustle of Milan by renting a car and exploring the hidden gems of Toscanna (Tuscany). A relaxing dip in the region's thermal waters is the perfect way to unwind and feel rejuvenated before heading home.
What is your favourite place for food?
If you're looking for a great dining experience in a stunning setting, I highly recommend checking out Horto, the new restaurant by renowned chef Norbert Niederkofler. With its stunning views of the iconic Duomo, Horto offers a fantastic menu of fine dining dishes that are expertly prepared using the finest ingredients.
Dana Tomić Hughes - Founder & Editor, Yellowtrace
What is your advice to make the most of your time at Salone del Mobile, and ensure you see everything you’re interested in?
Only wear comfortable shoes - And by comfortable shoes, I mean sneakers only. This is very important! Establish and know your path of travel and stick to it — decide which areas you are focusing on that day and don’t deviate as you will lose too much time. If this is your first (or even the second) time in Milan, just go with the flow and accept you will miss a lot of stuff — make peace with this, and don’t suffer major FOMO. Remember to pace yourself. The burnout is strong during Salone. Slow (but not too slow) and steady wins the race.
What is your favourite attraction to visit in Milan, outside of the fair?
Fondazione Prada and Villa Necchi.
What is your favourite place for food?
Osteria del Binari — brioche and coffee at the counter for breakfast, or their Cotoletta Milanese for dinner. It’s love!
Scott Fellows - Creative Director, BassamFellows
What has been your most memorable Milan highlight from the past?
Our most memorable highlight is our first show back in 2003. (Yes, we are celebrating our 20th brand anniversary this year!) We showed in a group show at La Pelota – the best show venue in all of Milan. We dreamed of the day when we could have the entire space to ourselves. Hermes beat us to it! Brera is still our favourite area in Milan and home to our gallery space for the last 9 years.
What is your top Milan travelling tip?
Wear navy. You will look like a local.
What is your favourite attraction to visit in Milan outside of the fair?
A visit to Villa Necchi Campiglio.
What is your favourite place for food?
For dinner, Trattoria Torre di Pisa. When in Milan, stick to the classics.
"We think the best advice is to forget trying to see everything that is interesting – it’s impossible! A better strategy is to meet people and ask them what they saw and liked. If you ask enough people, you quickly get convergence on the best installations/exhibitions to visit."
- Scott Fellows, BassamFellows
Joseph Gardner - Stylist and Interior Design Consultant, Studio Joseph Gardner
What has been your most memorable Milan highlight from the past?
So so many – but I have to say, a private cocktail invite to the home of architect and artist Vincenzo De Cotiis and wife Claudia Rose is one that hasn’t escaped me. I am a long-time fan of Vincenzo’s work and this home in particular, so seeing it up close and personal was a special moment. Also every visit to Villa Necchi, and my first visit to Villa Borsani still hold a special place in my visual memory bank.
What is your favourite place for food?
I always love to eat at Trattoria Torre Di Pisa for the delicious food and those mad curtains. Another favourite is La Latteria, also delicious and so full of charm.
What is your advice to make the most of your time at Salone del Mobile, and ensure you see everything you’re interested in?
Pack a selection of chic yet comfortable shoes – you will be walking, a lot!
Gemma Alberton - Interior Designer, Studio McQualter and a Milan Local
What is your favourite attraction to visit in Milan outside of the fair?
Slightly out of Milan, but well worth a day trip to Varese. Housed in an 18th-Century Villa - which was renovated by Piero Portaluppi in the 30’s - is the collection of Giuseppe & Giovanna Panza di Biumo, one of the largest Contemporary American Art collections in the world.
Where is your go to for a quick coffee?
If you want a great flat white, Orsonero Coffee in my neighbourhood, Porta Venezia. . . and you won’t be judged for drinking milk after midday.
What are some popular local foods and drinks to try in Milan?
Negroni Sbagliato at Bar Basso, which is probably on every Milan recommendation list, but for good reason - The Negroni Sbagliato was created at Bar Basso in 1972 - so they’re really good - and there’s always someone interesting to chat to. If you don’t want to bump into everyone you know, have an aperitivo at Cantine Isola instead, Via Paolo Sarpi, they have a great wine selection and a nice low-key vibe.
