University of Wisconsin–Madison

Italy: Rachel Kuenzi (Food in Milan)

A wooden panel wall with a mural above with trees and a lake, and several hung portraits of ducks.
Geese paintings, pictures, light fixtures, and trinkets.

Living in Milan has introduced me to an incredible array of food and dining experiences that I will forever cherish. The Italian café culture is one of my favorites. Within a few blocks of my accommodation, there are dozens of tiny cafés. I love wandering in a new direction and popping into any café I stumble upon to give it a try. In Italy, it is customary to stand at the bar of a café and have a single shot of espresso or cappuccino. Although the size and way you enjoy coffee differs in the US, it has allowed me to try many different places and truly appreciate a good espresso. Plus, it helps that the average cappuccino is only $1.60! Paired with a light and fluffy croissant, especially the filled ones, breakfast out is always quick and tasty!

A plate with small, rounded pasta with a yellow sauce.
“Garganelli dell’Oca zafferano zucchine e gamberetti” – Garganelli pasta with saffron, zucchini, and prawns.

My favorite local sit-down restaurant is, Osteria dell’Oca Giuliva. The “dell’Oca Giuliva” translates from Italian to ‘happy goose,’ reflected in the unique goose décor throughout the family-owned restaurant. The menu is full of simple, flavorful dishes. Two memorable items I’ve had here include a starter of bruschetta topped with burrata and saffron pasta with prawns. The saffron flavor is something I’d never tried before, and I now really enjoy it! It has a vibrant yellow color; I think it has a mildly creamy, slightly sweet flavor. It is usually used in a traditional Milanese risotto. I’ve dinned here a few times, and every time, the atmosphere is welcoming and cozy, making me feel right at home!

A collage of four different photos of pastries and cups of coffee. Many of the pastries are croissants, and the coffees have art with foam.
Various cafes around Milan. “Posso avere un cornetto e un cappuccino, per favore?” is a very helpful phrase I learned in my Italian language crash course!
Rachel smiles in front of the corner of a pride flag hung in a window.

Rachel Kuenzi

Hometown: Neenah, Wisconsin

Major: Finance, Investment & Banking; Risk Management & Insurance

Program: Bocconi University Exchange

One reason I chose Bocconi University because it had the best selection of finance classes that allow me continue completing degree requirements while abroad.

I am looking forward to learning about the culture of Milan through sightseeing of all parts of the city, trying as much authentic food as possible, and taking in the rich history through museums and historic landmarks.