The best cocktail bars in Brera
Between narrow alleys, historic boutiques, romantic corners and ateliers, if you know where to look you can drink very well in Brera
What better way to explore a vibrant, creative neighbourhood like Brera than through its cocktail bars, where tradition, innovation and imagination meet? Here is our guide to the best cocktail bars in Brera: whether you are a cocktail enthusiast or simply looking for somewhere special for an evening with friends, these spots will hit the spot.
ByIT
Via Fiori Chiari, 32
At BYIT Milan, in the heart of Brera, Milan’s cocktail bar scene finds an address that balances structured mixology and conviviality. The central counter is the focal point of the experience, with a cocktail list built around the great classics – Negroni, Margarita, Daiquiri and Highball – each offered in three versions: lighter, true to the original recipe, or gastronomic and designed to pair with food. Modern interiors, a curated display of spirits and a playlist spanning jazz to electronic beats create a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere, perfect from aperitivo to late evening. Alongside the drinks, a selection of bites — with ultra-thin pizzas taking pride of place — completes the experience.
Cinc
Via Marco Formentini, 5
Overlooking one of the most romantic little squares in Brera, where time seems to stand still, Cinc combines excellent mixology with the pleasure of catching up with friends in a cool, relaxed setting, whether over a masterfully mixed drink or a glass of wine. Signature cocktails and international classics sit alongside delicate alcohol-free creations, paired with savoury bites including top-quality cured meats and cheeses.
Altrimenti Mixology Art
Via Castelfidardo, 6
Altrimenti Mixology Art, in the San Marco area, takes its cues from London bars: dominated by a large, theatrical counter set against wallpaper and designer armchairs, it offers a well-crafted, inventive cocktail list for aperitivo through to late drinks. Food-wise, there is an Asian-inspired menu that reinterprets sushi with an Italian spin. To pay homage to the neighbourhood, there is also a dedicated cocktail: the Brera Mule, mixed with vodka, yuzu sake, ginger, lime juice and Angostura bitters.
Agua Sancta
Corso Garibaldi, 110
Agua Sancta, created by young entrepreneur Fabio Morelli, is a vibrant spot and a city benchmark for tequila and mezcal cocktails, set along one of Milan’s liveliest nightlife hubs: Corso Garibaldi. To accompany the drinks list, carefully put together with signature serves, margaritas and no fewer than 200 labels of mezcal and tequila, there is a bar snack menu ranging from tapas, aguachile and tacos to starters like guacamole and nachos, plus meat and fish tartare to suit any hour.
Clotilde Brera
Piazza San Marco, 6
On this enchanting terrace overlooking Piazza San Marco, besides taking in evocative views over the rooftops of Brera, you can sample classic, signature and creatively reworked cocktails, ideal for elevating aperitivo or exploring pairings with dishes from the restaurant. Devised by Filippo Sisti, the cocktail list at Clotilde Brera brings a fresh, vibrant touch to summer evenings.
Chinese Box
Corso Garibaldi, 104
In the Moscova area, this cocktail bar at the foot of the iconic Gucci Art Wall is an ideal destination for aperitivo in the heart of Milan. Its counter, nearly seven metres long, dominates the interior and lets you watch skilled bartenders at work, while the buzzing outdoor terrace is the place to enjoy a refreshing drink at sunset, right between bohemian Milan and the futuristic skyscrapers of Piazza Gae Aulenti.
Vesta Fiori Chiari
Via Fiori Chiari, 1/A
A striking, monumental setting that brings a modern international touch to Brera’s alleys, Vesta stands out from the first glance with its entrance and terrace set on an imposing travertine staircase right on Via Fiori Chiari. The restaurant’s menu focuses firmly on seafood, while the carefully curated cocktail list hides plenty of gems, such as Dolce vita in Brera, paying tribute to the historic Milanese quarter with bitters, gin, yuzu, French liqueur and champagne.
