My first full day in Italy was filled with coffee, the Duomo, and an incredible dinner at VUN Andrea Aprea, a two-Michelin-star restaurant at the luxury Park Hyatt Milan.
I wanted to kick off my month-long trip to Italy in style, so upon researching Michelin-starred restaurants in Milan, I chose VUN Andrea Aprea.
Located a few blocks from the Duomo in the heart of Milan, I stopped by earlier in the day, and one of the hotel staff gave me a preview of the restaurant's dining room.
Editor's Note: VUN Andrea Aprea closed permanently in 2021.
VUN Andrea Aprea is only open for dinner, so it was empty then. Since I was already there, I asked and was allowed to pick my table for later.
I arrived at 7 p.m. and was one of the first customers seated that night. The sommelier greeted me and offered me a glass of sparkling wine (Bellavista Vittorio Moretti, $31), which I accepted.
The restaurant offers a 5-course Neapolitan tasting menu, a 9-course signature tasting menu, and à la carte contemporary cuisine. I thought, "go big or go home," and ordered the signature menu ($183), and we were off and running.
Executive Chef Andrea Aprea is from Naples and offers diners a sophisticated take on Italian cuisine using seasonal ingredients and modern techniques.
My favorite courses were the beautifully presented caprese, the decadent potato Amatriciana-style with edible silver, the tortellini pasta with buffalo ricotta cheese, the Neapolitan ragout, and the lemon sensation dessert.
Tasting Menu at VUN Andrea Aprea
These photos were from the 9-course signature tasting menu at VUN Andrea Aprea on October 4, 2018.
As I wrapped up the meal, I asked my waiter if I could see the kitchen, and upon checking, he confirmed it was okay. On the walk back there, I didn't expect to be greeted by Chef Andrea Aprea, who then gave me a tour, signed my menu, and obliged in a photo.
If you're visiting Milan and looking for a luxurious yet playful dinner in an elegant setting with a kind, professional staff, VUN Andrea Aprea is for you.
