Tramé

Along Corso Garibaldi, a few blocks away from Brera, is one of the most ancient and fascinating corners of Milan, San Simpliciano Plaza. You step into it and you almost forget you’re walking in the modern capitol of design. The sanpietrini and the bricks of the Basilica that dominate the plaza remind you more of an artistic city such as Venice, for example. It’s probably because of this timeless context that the owners of Tramé have decided to set their little gourmet jewel here.

In fact, at Tramé it is possible to try the typical Venetian tramezzini (sandwiches): good ones, which have nothing in common with the sandwiches we are used to. Two incredibly soft slices of white bread (or whole wheat) that wrap around all kinds of fillings. From the classic tuna with scallions to the more elaborate Tuscan roast with mustard and lettuce, there really is something for everyone, at Tramé the preparation is done with care.

Each specialty evokes the names of the most popular areas of Venice: Rialto for refined combinations, San Marco for the ones with PDO cold cuts, Lido for the specialties with fish, Canal Grande for the vegetarians. A unique gourmet experience in Milan, a new way to consider the lunch break and the most cherished moment for Milanese, the aperitif. Sitting down at the outdoor tables, biting into a tramezzino full of flavor, sipping a Spritz made the old fashioned way: Prosecco, seltzer, ice, lemon rind and a choice of Aperol, Campari or even Cynar. It doesn’t take much to recreate the warm atmosphere of the Venetian bacari (wine sellers). And the prices are made in Venice, too. For a tramezzino the prices start at 2.50€, for a Spritz you don’t spend more than 3,50€.

Of course the purists turn up their noses, they have been venetian for generations and their vindications are just and understandable. But here in Milan we were pleasantly awed by this surprise. Rediscover new flavors and forgotten traditions. Recreate a Venetian weekend just in the middle of Brera. Losing yourself among the choices for the tastiest tramezzino, lingering at the counter, and then ordering two, or three, just to be on the safe side. Discover that you are crazy about the one with shrimp and rocket and decide to take a few home, to prolong the pleasure. Because at Tramé they also have a take away service, besides a delivery service.

Oh, and did I tell you they also do a Spritz for a stroll?