Frida

Writing about Frida is very difficult. First of all because it is an institution, a place that has changed the history of the neighbourhood in which it took place, Isola. Precisely via Pollaiuolo, civic 3. An area that we now associate with the dynamism, the evolution and the great variety of bistros that populate it. Yet over 10 years ago, when Frida opened its doors, Isola was much less known. It was a part of Milan linked to working life and production rather than leisure. And it is from a former industrial area that the restaurant is born, taking full advantage of the great spaces and setting itself as a meeting point. This is another reason why writing about Frida is very difficult. He does not let itself be framed. It escapes, reunites, enchants.

Frida is not just a cocktail bar or a restaurant. It is not even a museum or a market. Frida is a square. And like every square it is absolutely popular. Starting, for example, from its museum concept: free walls, ready to welcome the drawings of anyone who wants to exhibit them. The marvelous outdoor dehor, then, hosts various artisans, becoming a real Sunday market where you can buy clothing, design objects, vinyl and handmade pieces.

After the shopping or just a stroll around the stalls, it is impossible to refrain from taking a seat in the covered courtyard tables, surrounded by climbing plants. The menu is perfect for brunch: first courses, egg dishes, sandwiches and salads. I advise you to spoil yourself with the club sandwich. The list for which the place is really famous, however, remains that of cocktails: in all there are 80, served as an aperitif from 6 PM onwards and accompanied by some tastings. The ingredients used are really special, such as absinthe. The bar then continues until late night and is always crowded thanks to very competitive prices, which make Frida a white fly within the Milanese landscape.

To unite the multiple robes of Frida is the relaxed and informal atmosphere that encourages you to stay, to chat and meet new people. I absolutely recommend it for an evening with friends, for a cocktail after dinner and, in general, for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in the historic Milan’s nightlife, which never ceases to evolve.