Monday, April 17, 2006

Restaurant Al Capriccio – Milan

Many people do not realize that Milan is a big city. It is the financial capital of southern Europe and the center of economic development of Italy. It is also home to some 3 million people and as such has zones that are more or less interesting to the vacationer. The city center has numerous attractions, from the Scala, to museums and even DaVinci’s last supper is located in the antique center of the city. As you move toward the outlying areas the composition becomes more and more residential.

It is also counter-intuitive to think of fresh fish in Milan, with the closest seacoast over 150 km away. It is well known in Italy that the best fish is found in Milan. Even before the local seaside markets are supplied the fish markets in Milan have already received the fresh catch of the day.

Raffaella grew up in one of the residential areas of Milan and it is thanks to her parents that I found this little gem in the big city of Milan. Al Capriccio was one of Raffaella’s father favorite restaurants. This is not a restaurant that you will find while seeing the sites or visiting the shopping district. Instead catch a cab and go for dinner.

Al Capriccio is a family owned establishment. Husband & wife run the place with the help of their two daughters. The Tuscan family has created a familiar environment where every person, whether an old time client or a first time visitor, feels like this is his home. They specialize in fish, cooked according to Tuscan traditions. The mother, who embodies every image you might have a beautiful Tuscan woman, chooses the fish every morning at the market while the husband takes care of the other suppliers. She is ever present, almost obsessive, both in the kitchen and in the dining room.

The entire family is very personable and knowledgeable about both the fish and the methods of preparation. The fish is very fresh and the overall quality is excellent while the price is reasonable. They are very attentive to the seasons and prepare dishes with the best fruits and vegetables. The pasta is made fresh and the sauces are savory without leaving the heaviness that can accompany complex condiments.

If in Milan this is a must visit restaurant, you can satisfy your desire for fresh fish without concern for the quality. When you walk through the door you enter into the Italian culture, fresh ingredients, quality preparation, friendly and competent service at a reasonable price.

Al Capriccio
Via Washington Giorgio, 106
MILANO
Tel.: 02/47710757

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4 Comments:

Blogger Tracie P. said...

best fish in italy is found in milan?! che stai diccendo...!

7:05 AM

 
Blogger Travel Italy said...

Tracie b. - Ah yes, unless you are fortunate enough to have a fisherman in the family, Milan receives the widest variety of fresh fish even before the local fish markets are supplied.

I had the opportunity to verify this while in Manfredonia.

Appearently the price paid for the Milan markets is higher than the local price resulting in the first choice being shipped as the boat arrives in port, the remainder is then put onto the local market.

Still marvelous and fantastically fresh but second choice. Interesting thought isn't it!

7:27 AM

 
Blogger Jerry said...

i miss italian food! no more humburger!

8:09 AM

 
Blogger Travel Italy said...

Jerry- I am with you!

8:20 AM

 

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