The story
At La Cucina de' Mibabbo, the spirit of Tuscany is not just replicated—it's lived. Chef Davide Balduini, whose family nickname informs the restaurant's name, describes his cooking as genuine, straightforward, and a little rough around the edges, much like the Tuscan people themselves. "Genuine like our slightly rough dialect, tasty like a funny joke, frank and simple like our way of doing things," he says. The kitchen relies on recipes passed down from father to son, using ingredients that are simple yet exceptional: Certaldo onion, Bazzone prosciutto, red Lucca bean, Prato mortadella, and Biroldo from Garfagnana—all Slow Food Presidia from Tuscany. These building blocks are transformed into refined, flavourful dishes that honour tradition while adding a modern touch.
The undisputed star of the menu is the bistecca alla fiorentina, cooked in a special oven fuelled by vegetable charcoal. This method, rare in Milan, delivers a deeply charred crust and a tender, rosy interior. The restaurant's commitment to simple, high-quality products extends to every plate, from the antipasti to the desserts. The result is a cuisine that celebrates the pleasure of simplicity, as the restaurant itself puts it: "the perfect harmony of tradition and modernity."
Located in the Porta Romana district, the restaurant offers a welcoming interior decorated with wood, terracotta, stone, and metal—materials that create an intimate yet unpretentious space. Up to 60 guests can dine indoors, while a small garden with outdoor seating (up to 20 guests) provides a tranquil setting during warmer months. It's a place suited for a relaxed business lunch or a convivial evening among friends.
The quality and consistency of this Tuscan cuisine earned La Cucina de' Mibabbo a place in the Michelin Guide, a recognition that reflects the genuine passion at the heart of the kitchen. For those seeking authentic Tuscan flavours in Milan, this is a destination that delivers without pretence.
Recognition
Ambience
Location