Hello, sweet-toothed travelers and coffee lovers! ☕ Some places feel like stepping back in time, and Biffi Restaurant in Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is one of them. Founded over 150 years ago and located in one of the world’s most elegant shopping arcades, Biffi combines culinary tradition with old-world charm. On my recent trip, after a morning exploring the dazzling Galleria and its boutiques, I stopped here for what turned into a delightful highlight of my day: a coffee and dessert break that felt equal parts indulgent and historic. Sitting there, surrounded by intricate mosaics, the hum of conversation, and the golden light streaming through the Galleria’s glass dome, felt like stepping into a living painting of Milan’s café culture.
A Legacy of Milanese Elegance
Biffi isn’t just another café, it’s an institution with a story woven into Milan’s history. Founded in 1867 by Paolo Biffi, the official pastry chef to King Vittorio Emanuele II, Biffi quickly became one of the first and most prestigious restaurants in the newly built Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. Its clientele included royalty, artists, and high-society figures who came not just for a meal but to see and be seen in Milan’s grand “living room.”
Over the decades, Biffi has stood as a symbol of Milanese elegance and tradition, witnessing political changes, fashion revolutions, and countless everyday moments shared over coffee and pastry. Even now, its polished wood interiors, gleaming brass details, and subtle nods to its royal heritage remind you that you’re experiencing more than just a café stop, you’re partaking in a piece of Milan’s cultural legacy.
Our Coffee & Dessert Experience
We opted for a sweet afternoon break, and it did not disappoint:
Pistachio Cake: Beautifully presented and layered with delicate pistachio cream, this cake struck the perfect balance between nutty richness and subtle sweetness. It paired beautifully with a sip of creamy cappuccino, creating that quintessential Italian coffeehouse experience.
Lemon Meringue Dessert: Light, citrusy, and topped with perfectly torched meringue, this dessert was as photogenic as it was delicious. The tangy lemon filling and sweet, airy meringue created a refreshing contrast, an ideal choice after a day of sightseeing.
Cappuccinos: Biffi’s cappuccinos were a highlight: rich espresso, silky foam, and just the right temperature. Enjoying them under the glass dome of the Galleria, with the hum of conversation and the occasional burst of music from a nearby street performer, made it feel like we were living a scene from a classic European film.
Atmosphere & Ambiance
There’s something about Biffi that immediately slows you down, in the best possible way. Inside, high ceilings, vintage mirrors, and elegant wood accents create a refined yet welcoming space. Outside, tables spill onto the Galleria’s iconic mosaic floor, giving you a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful pedestrian arcades in the world. The light filters through the Galleria’s glass and iron dome, bathing the space in a warm, golden glow, while the sounds of footsteps, chatter in multiple languages, and street performers create a soundtrack uniquely Milanese.
Here, you’re encouraged to linger. Whether you’re savoring a pastry, enjoying a cappuccino, or simply soaking up the people-watching opportunities, Biffi’s atmosphere is one of timeless elegance and relaxed indulgence. It’s easy to see why it has remained a staple for over a century: this is where Milan’s past and present meet over coffee and dessert.
Why You Should Visit Biffi Restaurant
- Historic Significance: Founded in 1867 by a royal pastry chef, it’s one of Milan’s oldest dining establishments.
- Prime Location: Right inside the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, steps from the Duomo and Teatro alla Scala.
- Perfect Break Spot: Ideal for coffee, dessert, or a light lunch when exploring Milan’s city center.
- Authentic Atmosphere: Offers a blend of history, elegance, and Milanese café culture.
Final Thoughts
Stopping at Biffi Restaurant turned a simple coffee break into a memorable experience of Milanese tradition and indulgence. The desserts were exquisite, the cappuccinos comforting, and the setting unforgettable. Whether you’re seeking a moment of calm amid sightseeing or looking to taste a piece of Milanese history, Biffi is worth adding to your itinerary.
Would you choose pistachio, lemon meringue, or both? Whatever your pick, don’t rush, soak up the ambiance, sip your coffee slowly, and let yourself feel part of Milan’s story.
xoxo,
Bubbly 🍰
