Otto’s wall of windows, white interiors and abundant greenery lend the place a calm and carefree vibe, something of a rarity in high-powered Milan and even more so when you consider its location a few steps off Chinatown’s main thoroughfare. During the day, its distressed wooden tables are covered in Apple laptops belonging to freelancers. But come aperitivo time, the laptops are replaced with glasses of wine and aperitifs. Get here early to snag a seat, but don’t be concerned if you’re left to twiddle your thumbs—all ordering takes place at the bar and there’s no table service for drinks. The best time to visit is in the summer, when it’s warm enough to sit at one of the metal tables on their large stone terrace and drink until the sun goes down.
Time Out tip: If it looks like the sunset will be a stunner, quickly finish your drink and scurry around the corner to Ceresio 7, a bar and restaurant with a striking view over the city.