A local’s guide to Milan: restaurants, culture and green spaces
A report from Theguardian says Simone Barlaam, born in Milan in 2000, is a 23-time world champion who won three golds and a silver at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He is a torchbearer and ambassador for the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games and also worked as a graphic designer for the games.
Barlaam grew up in Milan, lives in NoLo, and offers his favourite spots beyond the Duomo and La Scala. He recommends Pasticceria Grossi in Piazzale Udine, Panificio Storico Vailati on Via Vitruvio and Pizzeria da Mimmo near Chinatown. As a student he frequented Grano e Caffè and Vietnam Mon Amour, and for special meals he chooses Ratanà.
He also highlights Via Paolo Sarpi in Chinatown for its restaurants, street food and karaoke. Barlaam points to the Acquario Civico di Milano, Parco Sempione with Castello Sforzesco, Arco della Pace and the Triennale, and notes original Olympic posters are on display in the park until 15 March.