UNMISSABLE EATS

All’antico Vinaio

There aren’t many places we’d queue for 45 minutes in sub-10-degree temperatures for, and yet we soon find ourselves on the pavement outside All’antico Vinaio, wondering if this hyped sandwich shop, with outposts in New York and LA, will live up to its reputation. Inside, the tightly packed counter displays a wide selection of sandwich fillings, including fresh and high-quality meats, cheeses and vegetables. High energy staff dance around each other moving in an effortless production line like the trained professionals they are. Our sandwich sets us back 10 Euros (approx. Dhs40) and we’re swiftly ushered outside to eat it so more people can fit inside. The sandwich is a classic focaccia, crisp and crunchy on the outside, light and bubbly inside, and thin enough to ensure the filling to bread ratio is just right. We’ve gone for sliced honey roast ham, Emmental, pesto, and sundried tomatoes. It’s simple, sure, but the result of using only the best ingredients casts no doubt in our mind about whether it was worth the long wait. allanticovinaio.com

Maccheroni –Cucina Italiana

In the Risorgimento area is a restaurant famed for one signature dish. Here, the humble carbonara is served in a silver pan alongside a complimentary glass of Prosecco and a warm smile. The homemade pasta comes as large al dente rigatoni tubes, with chunky, juicy bacon pieces served extra crispy on top, before being doused with Parmesan. Well-executed, if a little too on the salty side for our taste, for those looking for a traditional carbonara, don’t skip this spot. maccheronicucinaitaliana.com

The Dome Rooftop

For us, rooftop bars are a must on every new city visit. And in Milan, they don’t come chicer than The Dome. Perched atop the building famed for having a huge lit-up Gucci sign, guests are treated to views of Duomo from above. The space is beautifully boho, with rattan chairs, tasselled parasols and pretty pink foliage. Inside, the greenery continues, cascading over cosy booths finished in brown leather and Aztec patterned cushions. Here, The Dome serves a range of dishes, including Japanese wagyu sandwiches, glazed salmon, black cod, truffle pizza and saffron risotto. thedomemilano.com