N'Ombra de Vin

This cozy, subterranean bar in an old wine cellar has become a destination for oenophiles with a soft spot for things old-fashioned. Wine bottles line the walls from floor to ceiling, interrupted by an occasional painting. The atmosphere is far from glamorous, but the mood is quintessentially bohemian. Owner Cristiano Cora, a second generation sommelier, happily holds forth on any number of fine wines and explains how to store them correctly. Everything from the menu to the anachronistic interior comes together to create a special ambience. "Shadow" is in the bar's name, and there's no shortage of marvelous shadows inside. 

You can't pass by in the summer without noticing the people standing on the street, wineglass in hand, or chatting on benches near the entrance. The bar functions like a bistro; order something to nibble on while imagining yourself in the 16th century, when Augustine monks ate here.

Atmosphere: bohemian.

Crowd: native Milanese, creative types, journalists, residents of the trendy Brera district.

Key info: This is an excellent place for aperitifs, digestives, and late-night hear-to-hearts. The music is fairly loud in the evening. The bar frequently hosts wine tastings; if you take a liking to any particular wine, you can buy it on the spot.

Tags: Nombra de Vin