Langosteria

Langosteria is the restaurant that started a small seafood empire. The original opened on Via Savona in the Tortona district in 2007 and quickly became one of the most fashionable addresses in Milan, the kind of place where the fashion and design crowd mixes with groups celebrating a special occasion. The group has since added other venues in Milan, including Langosteria Montenapoleone and the more casual Langosteria Bistrot, as well as locations abroad, but Via Savona remains the flagship.

The menu is devoted entirely to fish and seafood. The raw selection is the centrepiece, with oysters, crustaceans and crudo prepared from what arrives at the market each day, and it is worth ordering a mixed platter to share. Cooked dishes take classic Italian seafood preparations, such as pasta with shellfish, whole grilled or baked fish and lobster, and add generous, indulgent touches. The wine list is long and well put together, with plenty of white wines that suit the food, as well as prestigious Italian labels.

The dining room is softly lit, with music and a busy, buzzy atmosphere, more glamorous night out than hushed fine dining. Service is polished and staff know the menu well. Prices are high, in line with the quality of the produce and the restaurant's reputation, so this is a place for a special dinner rather than a casual meal.

Langosteria suits couples, groups of friends and seafood lovers who want an evening out with energy. It is less suited to young children. Booking is essential, especially later in the week; reservations can be made online through the official website. The Via Savona restaurant focuses on evening service, so check current opening days before planning your visit. Smart casual dress fits the setting.

Via Savona is in the Tortona area, south-west of the centre, a former industrial area that now hosts design studios and showrooms and is a hub of Milan Design Week. The nearest metro stop is Porta Genova on line M2, about ten minutes' walk away. The Navigli canals and the Mudec museum are close by, so the restaurant fits well with an evening walk along the water or a drink in one of the canal-side bars.