When talking about the kind of restaurant that have welcomed generations of Milanese locals, professionals, artists, and discerning food lovers one name always comes up: Ristorante al Mercante. This is a genuine piece of the city’s history, a place that has managed to preserve its tradition and hospitality despite the many changes around it.
The story of Ristorante al Mercante begins in the early 20th century, when it first opened its doors inside House Panigarola , overlooking the timeless Piazza dei Mercanti. In the 1970s, Corrado and Margherita Romanini took the reins of this beloved institution, turning tradition into a daily promise kept with care. Today, their children Simona and Claudio continue to protect the family’s legacy, carrying it forward with both respect and vision. In 2010, Ristorante al Mercante was officially recognized as a Historic Shop of Milan, a well-deserved tribute to its enduring role in the city’s cultural life.
As the Cordusio area evolved, the restaurant found a new home at Via Cesare Cantù 7, directly opposite the Pinacoteca Ambrosiana.
The story stands still
Despite the move, the soul of Ristorante al Mercante has remained unchanged. Step inside today and you can still sense the spirit of the old square, reinterpreted in a contemporary key. Large glass windows interact with stone pilasters, while the interiors play with dramatic, almost Caravaggio-like lighting. Art lovers will appreciate the presence of three striking works by Achille Funi, which frame the dining room as powerful reminders of Milan’s early 20th-century cultural roots.
In the kitchen, creativity is guided by chef Giuseppe Puccia. Instead, the philosophy remains faithful to tradition: meticulously selected ingredients, often sourced during Claudio’s travels from northern to southern Italy. The menu is extensive and ever-evolving, filled with signature dishes that loyal guests would never allow to disappear. Recipes are simple, respectful of the ingredients, and always finished with a contemporary touch.
Dining at Ristorante al Mercante means enjoying refined Italian cuisine in a place where history, art, and hospitality come together.
Contacts
📍Via Cesare Cantù 7, Milan
📞 +39 02 8052198