Address: Via Montenapoleone 8, Milan, IT
Website: www.pasticceriacova
Phone: +39 02 7600 5599
Pasticceria Cova, sometimes called Caffè Cova, has the distinction of being Italy’s oldest patisserie and, as Milan mom, Noona Peterson puts it, “a Milan instutition.” In 1817 a soldier by the name of Anotnio Cova opened a caffè which became a popular gathering spot for Milan’s intellectuals, artists, politicians, and upper-class citizens. Over its rich history the bar has played a part in many of Italy’s most important historical movements including the Cinque Giornate di Milano, or “the five days of men” in which Milanese drove Austrian foreigners from its city, some of whom were found in the Caffè Cova. Its original home was devastated by bombing during World War II, but the legacy lived on as it settled into its current home on the fashionable Via Montenapoleone in 1950. There’s more than food for thought at Caffè Cova. On top of its landmark status, the cakes, tarts, and cocktails are among the city’s best.