Whoever has ever searched for a quality cocktail in the vibrant heart of Milan, especially in areas like Colonne di San Lorenzo and Porta Ticinese, knows how challenging it can be to find a cocktail bar that meets expectations. Known for their lively nightlife, these neighbourhoods hide true liquid treasures, but beware, the temples of mixology are often the least known. In this case, do not worry! At Flawless, we have explored, tasted, and passionately discussed to compile a list of the perfect spots for an evening of fine drinking.
Here is your guide to the cocktail bars to try in the Colonne di San Lorenzo and Porta Ticinese area in Milan, where every venue is a promise of excellence and security in terms of masterful mixology. Cheers!
MAG – LA PUSTERLA
Via Edmondo de Amicis, 22
Mag La Pusterla needs no introduction. It is one of the most well-known establishments in Milan, transporting guests into a refined and retro environment, similar to its twin, Mag Navigli. Upon entering, you are immersed in a classic 1940s setting, with a marble bar, leather sofas, vintage lamps, and even a reading room. Drinks are accompanied by finger foods such as taralli, olives, crisps, and crudités, but you can enrich your aperitif with tartines, bruschettas, or other appetisers. The drink list is renewed every six months, and every time we are astonished and ecstatic. Unmissable are the great classics, such as the Sailor’s Negroni or the legendary Fusettone. Here, attention to detail reigns supreme, evident in the creativity of the little touches: from coasters reminiscent of playing cards to the card with the name and recipe of the cocktail… but we don’t want to spoil too much; Mag La Pusterla must be experienced.
SENSI PORTA TICINESE
Via Vetere, 12
Sensi was born from the ambition of three young people who, after years of experience in the catering sector, decided to create a unique and highly successful concept. The aim is to craft a venue with a chic yet simple look and a sober style, leaving the real surprises in the menu. To stand out from other cocktail bars in the Colonne and Ticinese area, here you will find delicious cocktails expertly crafted, ranging from the classics to the so-called Premium, featured in the drink list. Evoking the most worthy temples of mixology, Sensi offers the chance to order a signature drink that we are sure will capture your taste and spirit. The venue’s modern vibe is evident both in the furnishings and the menu offerings, which include appetisers of Italian origin (like pinse), Spanish (ham croquettes), or American (bbq ribs or the club sandwich). A drink with the team at Sensi is a must if you’re in the area.
OFFICINA MILANO
Via Giovenale, 7
A location that transports you to 1950s Milan, where sipping a simple drink becomes a unique experience. We’re talking about Officina Milano, a cocktail bar that, among motorcycles and vintage cars, has held a prestigious position in the World’s 50 Best Bars list for several years. In this corner of elegance, wrapped in a retro atmosphere and decorated with vintage furnishings, you discover the art of mixology while immersing yourself in the quiet of a romantic Milanese courtyard. There are various options to take a break from a busy and monotonous routine: from sophisticated drinks to the iconic weekend brunches. An appointment at Officina Milano is a must for: “A people of poets, artists, heroes, saints, thinkers, scientists, navigators, and migrants.”
ISSEI ROOFTOP
Via Santa Sofia, 37
On the seventh floor of the Santa Sofia Milan hotel, Issei rooftop takes off — an elegant terrace with spectacular city views. Like in Tallinn, Dubai, Stockholm, and Copenhagen, the idea is to offer a cocktail bar dedicated to Nikkei cuisine. Traditionally, Nikkei cuisine blends Japanese and Peruvian flavours, creating a culinary style where creativity is the key word. The simplicity and precision of Japanese cuisine meet the flair of Latin America, resulting in dishes where the intensity of spices combines with the delicate Japanese flavours. The Nikkei specialties, which are fish-based, mix fresh ingredients with earthy flavours, accompanied by expertly crafted cocktails.
ZIZANIA
Via Celestino, IV
CALLNAVIGATE
“We make drinks with things inside and rice with things on top”
It has been called the place where you can find the craziest aperitifs in Milan, described as “irreverent, pop, colourful.” Zizania, opened in March 2022 in the Colonne di San Lorenzo area, is a small cocktail bar worth trying. The atmosphere is cheerful and fun, as evidenced by the bubbles on the tables, or drinks that crackle in your mouth; or the small candy-filled tub and the mini-basketball hoop in the bathroom. The idea is to offer a wide selection of elaborate drinks (but there are also classic options) in a lively and relaxed environment. The uniqueness of Zizania lies in the Rizi, an Italian-style sushi made from rice balls with Mediterranean toppings (perfect even for vegetarians).
WAVE COCKTAIL BAR
Via Edmondo de Amicis, 28
Wave cocktail bar is a hidden gem in one of Milan’s most famous areas. Opened by Luca and Andrea in 2014, it is the perfect spot for spending an evening in what feels like a speakeasy, but where everyone is welcome. The location features leather sofas, soft lighting, antique market finds, and vintage details. The intimate and elegant atmosphere is made even more welcoming by the courteous staff, offering a variety of cocktails for discerning tastes (the menu includes over 100 gins). In addition to numerous drinks, the menu offers various snacks for aperitifs. It is also suitable for birthday or graduation parties, offering the possibility to book buffets or platters of cold cuts and cheeses.
