As we stepped through the historic courtyard of Portrait Milano and into its gorgeous lobby, we couldn’t help but be impressed by the seamless blend of historic charm and contemporary luxury. Set in the majestic Piazza del Quadrilatero – the largest public square in Milan’s fashion district – this Lungarno Collection hotel, owned by the Ferragamo family, is a testament to refined Italian design and hospitality. The property is a masterful renovation of the former Archiepiscopal Seminary, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture dating to 1565, and among the oldest seminaries in Europe and the world.
We were captivated by the majestic palm-lined halls of the former cloister and the atmosphere of elegance and sophistication. The sleek, minimalist rooms boast luxurious furnishings, state-of-the-art technology, and an ambiance that is both welcoming and super-chic. A carefully curated collection of design-inspired coffee table books adorns all of the hotel’s public spaces and a stunning bar, reflecting the property’s commitment to art, fashion, and culture.
Portrait Milano goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of families traveling with babies or young children. During our stay, they provided us with a bottle warmer and cleaner, a Stokke crib with luxury bedding and mobile, as well as several books, bath toys, toiletries, and a new pacifier. If you’re planning a trip to Milan with a baby or child, we highly recommend considering this hotel for your stay.
The hotel’s in-house restaurant, 10_11, offers an exquisite dining experience. Pink and white pin-striped curtains create a whimsical atmosphere perfect for enjoying a fabulous breakfast each morning. In the evening, 10_11 transforms into Milan’s newest place to see and be seen.
We started our fabulous dinner with Italian-style ceviche and marinated fish with puntarella, followed by savoy cabbage rolls and Mondeghili – traditional Milanese meatballs served on a small rack with saffron mayonnaise. These paired well with one of our favorite Chianti producers – Monteraponi. The Alessandrino ravioli with roasted meat sauce was delectable, but the standout dish was undoubtedly the My Idea of Pasta Bianco. Cooked in a delicate Parmesan broth, the pasta is simultaneously luxurious and comforting. Each piece of pasta absorbs the delicious Parmesan cream, making it a memorable dish that we cannot recommend enough.
While staying at Portrait Milano, be sure to visit Beefbar Milano, the first Italian outpost of the Monaco institution, situated just steps away in Piazza del Quadrilatero. This innovative dining concept is sure to delight your taste buds and provide a unique culinary experience that will make your stay in Milan truly unforgettable.
Portrait Milano is not just a hotel; it’s an oasis of luxury in the heart of Milan’s bustling fashion district. The attention to detail, unparalleled service, and commitment to providing a world-class experience make it a must-visit destination for discerning travelers seeking the perfect blend of history, elegance, and contemporary sophistication. As seasoned travelers, we can confidently say that Portrait Milano exceeded our expectations and will undoubtedly hold a special place in our memories of Milan.
Note: The Portratit Milano provided support for the reporting of this story.