Luini

Luini is one of Milan's most beloved street-food institutions, a tiny shop on Via Santa Radegonda just steps behind the Duomo that has been frying panzerotti since 1888. The panzerotto is a half-moon of leavened dough, traditionally filled with tomato and mozzarella, then fried until golden and puffed — a portable, irresistible snack with roots in the Puglia heritage of the founding family, now thoroughly adopted as a Milanese ritual. The classic tomato-and-mozzarella version remains the icon, but the counter offers a long roster of fillings both savoury (spinach and ricotta, ham, various cheeses and vegetables) and sweet (Nutella, ricotta and more), as well as baked options for those who prefer them lighter. There is essentially no seating; Luini is a stand-up, takeaway affair, and part of its charm is eating a hot panzerotto on the move or perched nearby with the cathedral in view. The near-permanent queue snaking from the door is testament to its popularity and moves quickly, as the staff work at speed. Prices are very low, making it one of the best-value quick bites in the centre of the city. Because it is so central and so famous, the busiest times — weekend afternoons and lunchtime — bring the longest lines, while mid-morning or mid-afternoon on a weekday is calmer. Note that opening hours are reduced on Mondays and it is closed on Sundays. For visitors exploring the Duomo area who want an authentic, inexpensive taste of Milanese street food rather than a sit-down meal, Luini is an essential stop and a delicious slice of the city's everyday food culture.