Osteria Brunello

“Those who don’t drink wine have something to hide”, said Charles Baudelaire. And I’m inclined to believe him, given how much I enjoy a glass of excellent Brunello di Montalcino with company and while savoring a great meal. Garibaldi in Milan is always full of culinary proposals of all kinds, but it is here where you can find Osteria Brunello, showing behind two large windows a view of the double room and the walls filled with top quality wine.

It’s not the usual kind of osteria, but rather a place where tradition and modernity are reconciled. Contemporary Italian cuisine is updated at Osteria Brunello, both in presentation and execution. The location is just informal enough for you to feel a little bit at home, however the excellent service and the impeccable presentation of the dishes are almost worthy of a Michelin star.

The decor is minimal, executed in dark woods. It’s the perfect place for a gourmet lunch break while at work, or perhaps a cozy and romantic evening by candlelight. It even works for a casual dinner with friends. The menu is concise though well-curated. The few dishes offered are made to perfection, respecting seasonality and locality.

Do not miss the great classics – saffron risotto, traditional Milanese veal cutlet, tagliatelle with ragù, and ravioli with pumpkin. These are offered alongside fresh and innovative dishes like the tuna steak or seared salmon, on a menu that is revised every month. There is a very extensive wine list, with a choice of Brunello di Montalcino suitable for all budgets. There are other varieties of wine from all over Italy, in different sizes (half or magnum) to the standard 750ml.

I would not have expected to have found somewhere that was such excellent value for money in this area, with this level of presentation and quality of raw materials. My advice is not to limit yourself to the traditional menu, but visit again and again to try some of the newer dishes, and above all else, try a glass of good wine!