Description
Spontini is one of Milan’s most iconic pizza institutions, with roots dating back to 1953 when it opened its first location on Via Spontini. Originally known as Bottega Cibi Cotti, the small eatery quickly gained fame for introducing pizza al trancio—a thick, pan-baked slice that stood apart from the thinner Neapolitan style. Over the decades, the name “Spontini” became synonymous with Milanese pizza, and the brand has since expanded to dozens of outlets across Italy and abroad, while remaining a nostalgic part of the city’s food culture.
The hallmark of Spontini’s offering is its simplicity and consistency. Pizzas are baked in large iron pans, yielding a crispy base with a soft, airy interior, topped with tomato, mozzarella, and sometimes anchovies. Customers typically order either the standard slice or the abbondante (a larger portion), both served quickly and affordably. The atmosphere is informal and fast-paced, making Spontini ideal for a quick bite rather than a leisurely sit-down meal, but it delivers on flavor and portion size every time.
Beloved by locals and visitors alike, Spontini has been voted among the best pizza spots in Milan, though its popularity brings mixed opinions. Long-time fans appreciate the comforting, no-frills quality that hasn’t changed much in decades, while some critics argue that expansion has diluted its authenticity. Still, for many, a stop at Spontini remains a must-have Milanese experience: a hearty, satisfying slice that embodies both tradition and the city’s evolving food scene.