The Chinatown in
Milan is just as vibrant, cultural, and lively as many other similar city districts around the world. From the lantern-laden Via Paolo Sarpi to the massive Fabbrica del Vapore cultural center, there's much to look forward to in this part of the city. Though Milan has more famous and, admittedly, more upscale neighborhoods, Chinatown still deserves a lot of recognition. Not only is it a diverse area, but it's also a great place to eat, explore, and more. Consider settling down here if you're looking for a place to stay in the city.
Where is Chinatown in Milan?
Chintatown (Quartiere Cinese) is one of
Milan's central neighborhoods. Just how central is it? It's one of the districts that directly border Centro Storico, the city center. Many of Milan's most famous landmarks are only a hop and a skip away, making it a popular place to stay for locals and tourists alike. Chinatown itself is surrounded by many of the city's most famous districts. Apart from Centro Storico, the area is also near Porta Garibaldi, the Central Station district, Portello, Bullona, and Citylife, to name a few. Who wouldn't want to stay here?
Is it Safe in Chinatown, Milan?
The Chinatown districts in major cities tend to have notorious reputations. No one can deny that some of them truly are some of the grittier parts of their respective cities, but what about here in Milan? Is the Chinatown in Milan just as dangerous as those in other major metropolises? Luckily, the answer is no, it's not. Chinatown is generally safe despite how high
Milan's crime rates tend to get. Most of the city's sketchier parts are along the outskirts. Since Chinatown is a central district, not to mention it borders Centro Storico too, the neighborhood enjoys the same security and safety as Milan's main areas.
What's The Vibe in Chinatown, Milan?
Milan's colorful Chinatown enjoys a diverse and vibrant scene. True to its name, the neighborhood predominantly houses most of the city's Asian communities, including the Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese communities, and beyond. They have set up their restaurants, shops, and boutiques that highlight their fascinating cultures, making it a must-see place for anyone who wants to go beyond the glamour of the Italian fashion capital. Naturally, this is one of the best places for those
moving to Milan to settle down. Not only is it near the city center, but there's an entire slew of great hotspots and colorful cultures to look forward to.
Is it Expensive in Chinatown, Milan?
As the famous Italian fashion capital where many of the world's biggest luxury brands operate,
Milan's living costs tend to be high. Does this mean that Chinatown is an expensive place to stay? Fortunately, it's not. Or, at the very least, it's one of the more affordable neighborhoods in Milan. Take eating out, for example, which is what Chinatown is often known for. Did you know that you can get a meal here for as low as €6.00 to €7.00 per person in an inexpensive restaurant? This is practically unheard of in many of the nearby districts!
Source: Flickr.com/ Mia Battaglia
What to See in Chinatown, Milan
More than just eating, there's also a lot to see in Milan's Chinatown. Via Paolo Sarpi is the perfect place to start. Not only is it the heart of the district, but you can still find semblances of how Milan's Chinese community managed to settle down here all those years ago. You shouldn't miss the ADI Design Museum on Piazza Compasso d'Oro, which often serves as a great space for contemporary creativity. From exhibitions to forums, there's a lot of art, fashion, design, and more to absorb here. And if you want a unique sight to see, look no further than Monumental Cemetery! It's one of the most picturesque cemeteries you will ever see!
What to Do in Chinatown, Milan
You might tire of hearing this, but eating out is truly the best thing to do in Chinatown, Milan. This doesn't mean the area is only about its restaurants and the like—the neighborhood still has a lot to offer beyond its fabulous culinary scene! With that said, however, Milan's Chinatown truly is a foodie's paradise. From traditional restaurants to modern cafes that fuse different cuisines, take your taste buds on a wild journey here! Explore the different shops and boutiques while you're at it! There's no telling what sort of knick-knacks you'll find in a place that highlights various Asian cultures.
The Best Restaurants in Chinatown, Milan
Speaking of eating out in Chinatown, Milan, isn't it worth knowing the best hotspots in the neighborhood? After all, they're bound to some of the best places to eat in the entire city! Ranging from more humble diners to some of
Milan's best Michelin-starred restaurants, any true-blue foodie knows to explore Chinatown. One of the many highlights is Ramen a Mano on Via Paolo Lomazzo, an oasis of authentic Japanese cuisine amidst a flurry of Chinese eateries. Jin Yong on Via Pailo Sarpi is also a must-try, especially for their vegan dumplings and mish-mash of Chinese and Italian dishes and delicacies.
Here are some of the best places to eat in Chinatown, Milan:
- Jin Yong on Via Pailo Sarpi
- Ravioleria Sarpi on Via Paolo Sarpi
- Xiao Hutong on Via Paolo Sarpi
- Yuebinlou on Via Paolo Sarpi
- Houjie on Via Paolo Lomazzo
- Ramen a Mano on Via Paolo Lomazzo
- Wang Jiao on Via Paolo Lomazzo
- MU dimsum on Via Aminto Caretto
- Takumi Ramen Kitchen on Via Luigi Canonica
- Ceresio 7 Pools & Restaurant in Dsquared2 Headquarters on Via Ceresio
What to Know About Chinatown, Milan Apartments for Rent
As already mentioned, Chinatown is one of the more affordable neighborhoods in Milan. This also rings especially true regarding rent here. The average rent in Milan's Chinatown is only about €800.00 to €2,000.00 per month. While you'll only get to live in very small spaces in rentals that cost less than €1,000.00 per month, that's still a pretty notable feat. Most of the
luxury apartments to rent in Milan cost about €1,200.00 and above, even for small studio flats. The fact that it's possible to rent one for as low as €800.00 per month should tell you just how affordable Chinatown is compared to the rest of the city.
You'll have the cultural adventure and foodie trip of your life in Chinatown in Milan! This is the city's most vibrant and diverse neighborhood, boasting a fabulous slew of restaurants, shops, and more that you won't find anywhere else.
