Dua Lipa, Milan and two addresses we love too

This summer Dua Lipa told the story of Italy like few others: her wedding in Sicily, the September cover of Vogue Italia and a list of favourite addresses across Rome, Naples, Palermo and Milan. In Milan she picked Bar Paradiso, a place we have been going to for a long time. And in her latest Instagram photo dump, a dinner at Pepe – Barra Italiana showed up: another address we often recommend to our guests.

Bar Paradiso: a bar à vin, the Milanese way

At Via Tiraboschi 4, not far from HÕMA 22 Marzo and HÕMA Cinque Giornate, Bar Paradiso has the format of a French bar à vin and a fully Milanese soul. The space is small, so booking ahead is a good idea. The atmosphere is just right: a relaxed, informal mix of locals and travellers, where one glass easily turns into an evening.

The food revolves around small plates, of exceptional quality, with ingredients sourced personally by the owners. Don't miss the torta di rose and the Cantabrian anchovies, which quite literally melt in your mouth.

Cantabrian anchovies, bread and butter · Photo: Bar Paradiso

Wine comes first

The real reason to come here, though, is the wine. The list is full of French, Italian and Spanish gems that are hard to find in Milan, at fair prices. This is where we first tasted a Fonsalette, to give you an idea. It's a must for wine lovers, and also the perfect place for a classic Milanese aperitivo in a different setting.

A special mention goes to Andrea Chinosi, host and sommelier: professionalism, kindness and expertise at the highest level. He is the difference between a good glass and the right one.

The counter and the wine selection · Photo: Bar Paradiso

Pepe – Barra Italiana: before La Scala

If Bar Paradiso is the informal aperitivo, Pepe is the elegant stop, and it seems Dua Lipa has found it too: the illustrated menu is unmistakable. Pepe is on the fourth floor of Palazzo Lancia, at Corso Matteotti 9, a few minutes from HÕMA Spiga, and comes from the Langosteria group, with chef Luca Fantin leading the kitchen. Here Italian cuisine is served at the counter, in a warm, contemporary space designed by Fendi's architecture team.

For us it's an essential address, especially before a performance at La Scala: elegance, excellent food and fresh, contemporary hospitality, free of any stiffness. You dine well, unhurried and without formality, and walk to the theatre.

Pepe – Barra Italiana, Palazzo Lancia · Photo: HÕMA

Why we're writing about it

Our guests often ask us where to go 'like a local'. These two addresses answer two different moments of the same city: the neighbourhood wine bar, where residents and travellers mix, and the elegant evening in the heart of fashion and opera. Finding both in Dua Lipa's Milan is, for us, a nice confirmation.

You don't understand Milan from its monuments, but from its counters: the one where they pour you a wine you didn't know, and the one where you dine before the opera.

Opening hours and availability may vary: we recommend booking and checking official updates before your visit.