Taking on its preparation at home isn't easy. First, you need a good copper pot, then you have to dedicate time to continuously stir it to prevent it from sticking or forming lumps. Precooked polenta? Horror. It's better to enjoy it out or have it delivered. Here are the top 9 addresses in Milan:
Where to eat polenta in Milan, the best restaurants
Crotto Quartino
Trattoria. Located in the San Cristoforo area, a place that has been open for about a year and a half with the intention of bringing the authentic flavours of Val Chiavenna to Milan, precisely from Piuro, where the 'mother house' is located. Don't miss out on the cured meats (especially the bresaola), sciatt, 'white' pizzoccheri following a recipe dating back to 1930, pork ribs, and, of course, the authentic Chiavennasca taragna polenta made with Lobia corn flour, generously seasoned with cheese and butter. All accompanied by a good robust red wine.
Crotto Quartino – via D. Bussola, 9 – 388 9031890 – crottoquartino.it
Delicatessen
Ristorante. "Alto Adige at the table" - that's the sign displayed at this welcoming address in the Porta Venezia area, tastefully furnished with attention to detail. The gastronomic journey could begin, for instance, with polenta fritters accompanied by stewed cabbage and country ham, followed by venison tagliata with Storo polenta and porcini mushrooms. The sweet ending features a chestnut heart filled with whipped cream and covered in dark chocolate. Their cellar showcases Trentino and South Tyrolean labels, along with craft beers from Val Gardena.
Delicatessen – viale Tunisia, 14 – 02 29529555 – ristorantedelicatessen.com
Galeria Antica Trattoria
Trattoria. In a perfectly restored former spacious sawmill from the early 20th century in the Ortica area, complete with a garden and internal parking, an address with a pleasant old-time atmosphere, ideal for savouring well-executed local cuisine following rather classic recipes. On the menu: nervous, mondeghili (meatballs), fried brains, risotto al salto, chestnut gnocchi with gorgonzola, fried frogs, grilled meats, and, of course, 'uncia' polenta (with cheese) or polenta with braised cheek or sautéed kidney. Takeaway service available upon reservation.
Galeria Antica Trattoria – via A. Corelli, 27 – 02 37074142 - galeriaanticatrattoria.it
Sciatt à porter
Bistrot. A warm and relaxed atmosphere welcomes guests in this urban 'refuge' in the Garibaldi area. The entire proposal focuses on the flavours and dishes of Valtellina, carefully executed with selected ingredients from small artisanal businesses, ranging from butter to cheeses and meats. Here, you'll find genuine bresaola, handmade pizzoccheri, sciatt with melted casera cheese, taroz, and tzigoiner, the typical 'meat on a stick', but above all, various versions of polenta. The wine cellar complements the cuisine perfectly. Convenient home delivery available.
Sciatt à porter – viale Monte Grappa, 18 – 02 63470524 – sciattaportermilano.it
Trattoria Milanese dal 1933
Trattoria. There aren't many places that can boast of 90 years of constant activity, but Trattoria Milanese is a commendable exception. Dark wooden tables, thick white cotton tablecloths, tall shelves filled with bottles: in this setting, you can savour robust dishes of typical Milanese cuisine, including polenta, served with braised meat or mushrooms, eggs and gorgonzola, or even on its own. And once you've decided to indulge without worrying about calories, don't miss the warm homemade zabaglione, a delight.
Trattoria Milanese dal 1933 – via Santa Marta, 11 – 02 86451991 – Facebook
La Pesa dal 1902
Trattoria. You feel somewhat at home in this centuries-old traditional place, with a couple of cosy rooms, chequered tablecloths, and the right level of informality. The kitchen focuses on substantial and flavorful dishes, such as the terrine of taragna polenta with spicy gorgonzola, fried polenta crostini with whipped cod, cassoeula, or small deer bites, all accompanied by taragna polenta. Desserts won't disappoint, nor will the wine selection. Takeaway and delivery available if desired.
La Pesa dal 1902 – via G. Fantoni, 26 – 02 36514525 - trattorialapesa1902.it
Salsamenteria di Parma
Trattoria. Located in the San Babila area (another branch at via Ponte Vetero 11), a franchise landed in Milan with the aim of introducing the delights of Emilian pork butchery in the style of traditional trattorias - even serving Lambrusco in bowls - offering the best hams, cured meats, cheeses, fresh pasta, fried polenta paired with gorgonzola and pancetta, a bowl of fried polenta, or traditional polenta with mushrooms, braised beef, pork cheek, or ragù.
Salsamenteria di Parma – via San Pietro all'Orto, 9 – 02 76281350 – salsamenteriadiparma.com
Osteria Valtellina
Trattoria. Nestled in the greenery of Parco Forlanini, this trattoria has a contemporary feel and is very welcoming, with one of the largest and most pleasant gazebos in the city. Crafted with a light touch, the culinary offering includes all the Valtellina classics on the menu, alongside meat-based dishes and delightful starters. Here, you'll find taragna polenta made with buckwheat flour, either 'concia' or with fondue, or the soft polenta served with the typical Tzigeuner (beef skewer). Noteworthy are the selections of cured meats and cheeses. The wine selection is also commendable.
Osteria Valtellina – via privata Taverna, 34 – 02 51827955 – osteriavaltellina.it
Osteria dei Vecchi Sapori
Trattoria. This establishment in the Isola district is about to celebrate its 30th anniversary, exuding a pleasant, convivial, and relaxed atmosphere. The cuisine revolves around fresh, seasonal produce, mainly sourced locally. The highlight is the taragna polenta, made with generous amounts of butter and Branzi cheese, served either as an accompaniment (to ossobuco, pot roast, pork shank, or various grilled cheeses) or as a standalone dish. Their delicious homemade desserts are worth a taste. Completing the experience is house wine and a selection of discreet labels.
Osteria dei Vecchi Sapori – via Carmagnola, 3 – 02 6686148 – osteriavecchisapori.com
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