Ottocene — Restaurant in Milan

Before leaving Milan, I was eager to try a wine tasting experience and learn more about the world of wines. After searching online and finding most places fully booked, I stumbled upon an Airbnb listing titled “Wine Tasting with the Most Italian Sommelier in Milano.” Thankfully, we managed to secure a last-minute spot.

The experience took place at Ottocene, a restaurant I had passed several times and had already caught my eye. Jack, the owner, welcomed us with genuine warmth and effortlessly brought the whole group together. We mingled, exchanged stories, and shared fascinating conversations before diving into the wine experience.

It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it was. Jack’s detailed explanations, his way of teaching the basics, and his attentiveness after each tasting made the whole experience unforgettable. His charm and passion for wine left a lasting impression on me, I didn’t want the evening to end.

After the tasting, we decided to stay for dinner with the same group, choosing the unique tasting menu. Each dish transported us to a new world, and the dessert—oh my—was simply heavenly.

We left that night not only enriched by a beautiful wine journey but also having shared delicious food and heartfelt moments with wonderful people. This is an absolute must for anyone visiting Milan, a full sensory adventure that nourishes both...

Love, a very unique and elevated experience. Delicious food and wine, beautiful presentation; the dishes are unique and different. For example, we loved the poppyseed lemon cheesecake with buckwheat. It’s just so cool and unlike anything we have tried before. We had the tasting menu both times we were here, and we were super impressed. We also loved the wine pairing (a must). The owner was super friendly; he took the time to describe each dish and wine in a beautiful way, telling us about the grapes and where they grow, elevating the entire experience to another level. He is passionate about his restaurant and this passion shows in every ingredient and detail. Everything on the menu sounds, looks, and tastes delicious. They nailed it! This restaurant has a very friendly and homey atmosphere, the kind that makes you want to keep coming back. Also, it is reasonably priced and located in a cute area of Milan. Overall, a must visit spot in Milan. You will leave here having tasted something extraordinary, having learned something new, and having made a good friend. I would love to come back on my next trip in Milan. Also, next time I plan to do the wine tasting as well. Thank you, Otto Cene,...

I'm not one for reviews - but this was special.

My wife and I went for dinner one night and a wine tasting the following night. Simply put, if I was a local I would try to keep this place under the radar because I would want it all to myself. But I'm not a local, and I wish the owner all the success he deserves, so instead I'm writing this glowing review.

Portions are perfectly sized, quality is impressive, dishes were both traditional and imaginative. We had the squid, lentils, mussels and eel dishes, finishing with lemon custard and coffee mascarpone - accompanied by a bottle of Ribolla Giala. All were great but the eel was just spectacular, seriously memorable. I love my wife so we shared it, but I probably would have challenged anyone else to a duel if they tried to sneak a bite.

The wine tasting was very intimate, and I think unusual in that you focus on process and product - learning why things taste like they do rather than how they taste. Jack was very knowledgeable, warm, generous, charming, fun, and down to earth. It was a wonderful experience!

I don't know if we will return to Milan, but if we do, I can promise you we will come here -...