Pasticceria Cucchi

Pasticceria Cucchi is a neighbourhood institution on Corso Genova, on the way from the centre to the Navigli. It has been run by the same family for three generations since 1936, and in 2026 it marked its 90th anniversary with a limited-edition creation. Generations of Milanese have stopped here for breakfast on the way to work or school, and for a cake on Sunday morning.

The day starts early with breakfast, when the counter is lined with a wide choice of brioches, filled and plain, to go with a cappuccino or espresso. Through the rest of the day the cabinets hold small pastries, cakes and pralines, and the café serves lunch for people working nearby. In the early evening it turns into an aperitivo spot, with drinks and snacks, and its enoteca has a selection of wines. The pastry is classic rather than experimental, which is exactly why regulars keep coming back.

The atmosphere is that of a traditional Milanese pasticceria: busy and efficient at the counter, with tables for those who want to sit down. Prices are moderate, better value than the cafés in the fashion district or around the Duomo, and a breakfast at the bar remains inexpensive.

Cucchi suits families, couples and solo travellers looking for an authentic local café rather than a tourist stop. It is a convenient breakfast or coffee stop before a morning in the Navigli, at the Basilica of Sant'Eustorgio or the Basilica of San Lorenzo, or on the way to the Science and Technology Museum. It is also a good place to buy cakes or pralines to take away.

The café is open every day from early morning until late evening, which makes it useful on Sundays and holidays, when many smaller places close. Weekend mornings are the busiest, especially around mid-morning. The nearest metro stop is Sant'Agostino on line M2, a few minutes' walk away. From here, the Darsena and the Naviglio Grande are about ten minutes on foot. As in most Milanese pasticcerie, it is usual to pay at the till first and then order at the bar with your receipt, and a coffee at the counter costs less than at a table.