The best bistros and brasseries Lombardy

Checkered tablecloths, wooden chairs and tables and candles on the table: a neighbourhood brasserie atmosphere where you can taste very tasty Milanese and Tuscan dishes. Delicious antipasto delicatessen, to be eaten on a slice of gnocco fritto (fried bread). The plus: its unique position at the foot of the Basilica of San Lorenzo. On Sundays, enjoy a brunch with the flavours of the Mediterranean. Very popular even as an aperitif, it can be accompanied by tempting mini-portions of oysters, cold meats and even risotto.

It's impossible not to come across the Donizetti in the heart of the Ville Haute. Part bistro, part wine bar, this place pays tribute to the Bergamo composer in the best possible way: with tastings of products from the local culinary tradition. As an aperitif, try a platter of taleggio cheese or Bergamo sausage, accompanied by excellent Franciacorta vintages. For a more substantial meal, choose a dish of casoncelli or polenta with cheese or boletus, to be enjoyed indoors in the vaulted hall or under the medieval arbour outside.

Al Frate is a bit like the historical brewery of Brescia, characteristic in its decoration and in its cuisine which excels in regional specialities. Although the quality of the food is not to be blamed, it is a pity that the service is sometimes a little slow. It is therefore better not to be in a hurry. The cutting boards of cold meats and cheeses are excellent, with quality products. The osso buco is to be tried, it's a real delight! And the plates, in addition to being appetizing, are well stocked. Nice service

Along the lively Via Bergamo, here's a cool bistro that has become the temple of meat in town. Tasty burgers, fillets and ribs, served with good wine or beer. Good value for money. The choice of starters remains rather classic, with a focaccia and a loaded charcuterie board, while the tartars and burgers are more creative: beef tartare with truffle, redcurrants and mint and beef burger with parmesan cream and saffron or beer and red cabbage!

A small neighbourhood bistro run by two sisters and frequented by a clientele of regulars. The setting is informal but neat with wicker chairs, wooden tables, exposed beams and brick vaults, but a few orchids give it a certain style. There is a set menu for lunch and an à la carte menu in the evening, for a healthy and traditional cuisine. The plus: the selection of vegetarian or vegan dishes and gluten-free pizzas for those who prefer. In short, a place that's got it all and where you're sure to bring out satisfied taste buds.

This brewery takes its name from the pesa, an old measuring system for goods, placed in front of the entrance. Three wooded rooms, where you can breathe the scent of Milan of yesteryear, welcome you to the same place where Ho Chi Minh was said to have liked to come and eat. The kitchen offers a Milanese meal according to the rules of the art: saffron risotto, breaded chop and nervetti salad (small veal nerves) that will leave you with excellent memories. In season mushroom recipes.

Situated where the town's port used to be, this little bistro has a rustic, welcoming atmosphere, with wooden tables and paper tablecloths, in its pretty arcaded room. It serves carefully prepared regional specialties. Typical dishes include pumpkin ravioli with melted butter and sage, fried frogs, polenta and horsemeat, and cooked snails. For dessert, sbrisolona shortbread and chocolate sausage are served with a fine local wine.

A simple, unpretentious place, but in the space of a few years, has become very fashionable among the good Milanese society. Frequented by celebrities such as Miuccia Prada and Adriano Celentano, you can enjoy a healthy and tasty cuisine with a small touch of Tuscan specialities. Very good pizza too.