Simone Barlaam, a 23-time world champion Paralympic swimmer born and raised in Milan, has given us an insider's guide to the city. This Italian beauty is not only a sports icon but also a passionate foodie, culture lover, and advocate for accessibility.
When it comes to food, Simone knows his stuff. For a great coffee fix, he heads to Pasticceria Grossi in Piazzale Udine, where he meets with teammates after intense training sessions. Panificio Storico Vailati on Via Vitruvio is another favourite spot of his - the pastries are lovely and the staff treats him like an old friend. Pizzeria da Mimmo near Chinatown holds a special place in his heart; it's where he grew up, and the thick, soft pizza slices transport him back to childhood.
Milan has an incredible food scene, with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. For a cheap but fresh meal, Grano e Caffè in Viale Romagna is perfect for students like Simone used to be. If you want to splurge, Ratanà on Via Gaetano de Castillia offers delicious traditional dishes like mondeghini, as well as an exceptional risotto.
Chinatown is a must-visit destination in Milan, especially at night when the streets come alive with street food, restaurants, and karaoke bars. The area's energy is infectious - it's the perfect spot to let loose with friends.
Milan is synonymous with fashion, thanks largely to Giorgio Armani, whose legacy is still felt throughout the city. Simone had the privilege of designing a racing suit for the iconic brand, which is an honour in itself. His respect for the industry and its impact on Milan's culture is evident.
For inspiration, Simone turns to the Acquario Civico di Milano, one of Europe's oldest aquariums. The stunning sculptures of sea creatures around the building are a testament to the beauty of the natural world. Spending hours watching fish swim in the aquatic displays is mesmerizing - it's like being under the sea without ever leaving Milan.
Finally, Simone recommends exploring Parco Sempione, which offers breathtaking views and beautiful green spaces. The medieval Castello Sforzesco and triumphal arch Arco della Pace are just a short walk away. For added entertainment, check out the original Olympic posters on display until March 15th.
Accessibility is an issue in many Italian cities, including Milan, where ancient buildings often require renovations to make them more accessible for all visitors. Simone's own journey as a Paralympic athlete has shown him the importance of inclusivity and pushing boundaries.
Lastly, no visit to Milan would be complete without experiencing its vibrant culture scene. From street art to museums like the L.O.V.E. statue by Maurizio Cattelan to the stunning Museum of Natural History in a beautiful park - there's something for everyone in this incredible city.
When it comes to food, Simone knows his stuff. For a great coffee fix, he heads to Pasticceria Grossi in Piazzale Udine, where he meets with teammates after intense training sessions. Panificio Storico Vailati on Via Vitruvio is another favourite spot of his - the pastries are lovely and the staff treats him like an old friend. Pizzeria da Mimmo near Chinatown holds a special place in his heart; it's where he grew up, and the thick, soft pizza slices transport him back to childhood.
Milan has an incredible food scene, with plenty of options for all tastes and budgets. For a cheap but fresh meal, Grano e Caffè in Viale Romagna is perfect for students like Simone used to be. If you want to splurge, Ratanà on Via Gaetano de Castillia offers delicious traditional dishes like mondeghini, as well as an exceptional risotto.
Chinatown is a must-visit destination in Milan, especially at night when the streets come alive with street food, restaurants, and karaoke bars. The area's energy is infectious - it's the perfect spot to let loose with friends.
Milan is synonymous with fashion, thanks largely to Giorgio Armani, whose legacy is still felt throughout the city. Simone had the privilege of designing a racing suit for the iconic brand, which is an honour in itself. His respect for the industry and its impact on Milan's culture is evident.
For inspiration, Simone turns to the Acquario Civico di Milano, one of Europe's oldest aquariums. The stunning sculptures of sea creatures around the building are a testament to the beauty of the natural world. Spending hours watching fish swim in the aquatic displays is mesmerizing - it's like being under the sea without ever leaving Milan.
Finally, Simone recommends exploring Parco Sempione, which offers breathtaking views and beautiful green spaces. The medieval Castello Sforzesco and triumphal arch Arco della Pace are just a short walk away. For added entertainment, check out the original Olympic posters on display until March 15th.
Accessibility is an issue in many Italian cities, including Milan, where ancient buildings often require renovations to make them more accessible for all visitors. Simone's own journey as a Paralympic athlete has shown him the importance of inclusivity and pushing boundaries.
Lastly, no visit to Milan would be complete without experiencing its vibrant culture scene. From street art to museums like the L.O.V.E. statue by Maurizio Cattelan to the stunning Museum of Natural History in a beautiful park - there's something for everyone in this incredible city.
and it was totally crazy! The energy in the city was electric, especially when Italy made it to the final 
. Anyway, Simone Barlaam's guide to Milan is super cool - who knew he had such a great taste in food? I'm definitely going to check out Pasticceria Grossi and Grano e Caffè, their pastries and affordable meals sound amazing 
. And have you ever been to Chinatown at night? It's like the whole city comes alive with street food and karaoke bars 
! As a big sports fan, I love that Simone got to design a racing suit for Giorgio Armani - what an incredible experience 
. And lastly, exploring Parco Sempione is on my bucket list now, especially with the original Olympic posters on display 
... can't wait to visit Milan again!
Simone Barlaam is literally my ultimate crush rn lol, I mean who wouldn't love a 23-time world champion Paralympic swimmer 
, and now he's sharing his fave spots in Milan?!?! Pasticceria Grossi is literally on my bucket list ASAP!!! 
And can we talk about Chinatown at night?!?! It sounds like the most magical place ever 
! I'm def adding that to my itinerary for when I visit Milan. And wow, designing a racing suit for Giorgio Armani? What an honor! 
Simone is literally the coolest 
Simone is tryna get that espresso, and also get his pizza fix 
Chinatown at night, though... who needs sleep when you can have karaoke bars? 
The Acquario Civico di Milano's got some fire sculptures 
And let's be real, Simone knows a thing or two about accessibility 
️. And can we talk about Chinatown at night? It's like a whole different vibe 
. Simone's love for accessibility is so inspiring, especially when it comes to food and culture. He makes you want to try all the new places he's discovered 
. Must-visit spot: Acquario Civico di Milano - it's like swimming with the fishes 
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!!! Pasticceria Grossi and Panificio Storico Vailati are def my fave coffee spots too 
especially with all that street food & karaoke! 
That's some serious art vibes 
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. Simone didn't even mention that in his guide, but I'm sure he'd be down with some sick Instagram pics 
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. You gotta try their risotto alla milanese - it's a game changer! 
! It sounds so vibrant and fun, like the streets of Tokyo or Hong Kong but with that Italian twist 
. I wish they had those karaoke bars near where I used to hang out, it'd be a blast singing along to some oldies with friends 
It's wild thinking about him swimming for Italy and then grabbing a coffee at Pasticceria Grossi after practice 
. The food scene is okay, I guess, but have you ever walked around Chinatown at 3 am and seen the complete chaos? It's like a whole different world down there 
. Milan's all about being posh and stuffy, if you ask me. Where's the fun in that? The Acquario Civico di Milano is cool and all, but it's like they're trying way too hard to be educational instead of just chillin' and enjoying the aquarium vibes 
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It's like a whole different world when everyone shows up at the same time. And those Olympic posters? So cheesy 
. Just imagine it - lines for food, but not just any food, sick beats and street art galore! That's my idea of a real Italian experience 
gotta check out milan's fashion scene too, simone even got to design a suit for giorgio armani!