Loste Café

Loste: from the combined initials of its founders, Lorenzo and Stefano. Their partnership began at the multi-starred Noma in Copenhagen, one of the most avant-garde restaurants in the world, where Stefano was head pastry chef for many years and Lorenzo sommelier. They then decided to return home and bring to life their vision of coffee and pastries with a distinctly international feel. They chose a cosmopolitan city like Milan, and we could not be happier. We are in the Risorgimento neighbourhood, at number 3 Via Gucciardini. The interior, designed by architect Giulio Marchesi, immediately evokes classic Nordic decor. The furnishing is minimalist and modern, highlighting the light wood features to great effect. Inside, pride of place goes to the counter displaying Stefano’s true masterpieces: the pastries.

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You will find Loste’s version of classic pastries, such as the PAC (pain au chocolat) or the cinnamon roll, alongside creations like the Danese with laminated dough, almond cream, medlar and lemon thyme, or the Giorgina with cocoa glaze, organic Sicilian pistachio cream and cocoa nibs. Every day there is also a selection of savoury pastries, such as laminated dough with ham, fontina and wholegrain mustard or the finocchiona – Tuscans will know we are not talking about the vegetable: sesame seeds, black pepper and the famous cured meat.

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These are just examples, as the menu changes daily based on availability and inspiration. When it comes to coffee, there are no doubts: 100% Costa Rican Arabica from Volcan Azul roasted in Copenhagen, with a fresh, acidic profile that lifts the flavours and pairs well with the butter of the pastries. But Lorenzo and Stefano do not stop at sweet treats: for the lunch break, they have started serving crudités, tartare and focaccia (such as nettle, Taleggio and bergamot) and a pulled pork sandwich with crunchy cabbage – sensational!

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Loste often experiments with new recipes for aperitivo too, pairing unusual bites such as takoyaki (Japanese dumplings) with carefully selected natural wines. Even so, we recommend your first visit to this Nordic corner for breakfast at the weekend: a walk in the sun, a pastry and a coffee here will brighten any day. As for those who already know Loste, what can we recommend? Simply to taste every new creation coming out of their magical oven!