Officina del Riso Navigli — Restaurant in Milan

We arrived here with high hopes, fueled by glowing reviews and the recommendation of our hotel. However, our experience was far from what we had anticipated.

From the moment we stepped inside, we were met with a hostile atmosphere. Perhaps it was a language barrier, since we don’t speak Italian. The staff immediately informed us that this was not a pizza or pasta place (in English), dismissing our inquiries for a table. They asked if we had reservations, but we didn’t, and there were many empty tables and no wait. Despite our confusion, we were eventually seated, at the same time as an Italian-speaking couple.

While the other couple was promptly served, it took the wait staff about 15-20 minutes to even approach us. We patiently waited for our order, which was placed, but after 15-30 minutes, we were still left waiting for our cold appetizer. Meanwhile, our neighbors were enjoying their meals, and even those who sat after us were receiving service.

To add insult to injury, all of the other tables were served bread baskets, except for ours. This oversight would have been easily overlooked if the food had been exceptional, but unfortunately, it wasn’t.

I understand that Michelin-starred restaurants often require a higher level of culinary expertise, but I had expected a more refined dining experience. I certainly didn’t anticipate having to season my own food, with condiments like lemon, salt, and pepper, and if even those took an unusually long time to arrive after we asked for them.

While the food was fresh, it was hardly exceptional. I would rate it at best 2-3 out of 5. I usually refrain from writing reviews, but this experience was truly disappointing. I believe there is potential for this establishment, but it needs to significantly improve its service and food quality to meet most people’s expectations. My husband wholeheartedly agrees with...

Officina del Riso is a true gem in the heart of Milan, located right on the Navigli. The setting is beautiful, with both indoor and outdoor seating—perfect if you want to enjoy a view over the canal while dining. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant, and the staff is friendly and welcoming, providing fast service without making you feel rushed.

The highlight is undoubtedly the food. If you’re a risotto lover, this is the place to be. Each dish is crafted with premium ingredients and a gourmet twist—offering unique flavor combinations you won’t find elsewhere. The Meraviglioso risotto lives up to its name: flavorful, creamy, and perfectly balanced. The gunkan are another great surprise—refined and delicious.

Don’t skip dessert: the cannolo scomposto is a must-try, a modern take on a traditional favorite that ends the meal on a high note.

Prices are fair considering the quality and creativity of the dishes. All in all, Officina del Riso is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to enjoy top-tier Italian cuisine in a charming, authentic Milanese location. Highly...

The manager (owner?) is super rude. I had reserved a table for two and arrived first. The waiter said I could choose where to sit. I chose a table for four in the corner, outside, and checked that it was OK, as there were two of us. He said no problem. It was early and the place was practically empty so I thought no more of it and ordered a glass of wine while I waited for my friend. A few minutes after my drink arrived this blonde guy, red in the face, stormed up to the table and asked if I had a reservation. I said yes. He asked if it was for four, I said no, for two, but I'd been told it was OK. He started shouting at the waiter, asking why he'd let me sit there. When my friend arrived he came over and asked us to move. I said no problem, I'll pay for the wine and go. He tried to convince me that this was not necessary, we could just move to another table, but honestly, he had been so rude, unpleasant and aggressive that I didn't think he deserved...