Italy: Tatem Adessi (A Favorite Culinary Experience in Milan)

Program: IES Milan Internships, summer

I remember sitting at a small outdoor table in Milan, the late afternoon sun warming the street as I took my first bite of risotto, which is the dish that Milan is famous for, as it originated there. The dish was so creamy and rich, yet it never felt heavy. In that moment, surrounded by the sounds of conversation and the rhythm of the city, I realized this was unlike any risotto I had ever had before.

Before this program, I had eaten risotto in the United States a few times, but it was never something I went out of my way to order. I thought of it as just another rice dish, but that completely changed after having it in Milan. I quickly realized that risotto is not just rice—it reflects tradition, technique, and the region’s culinary identity.

Milan is especially known for Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy risotto flavored with saffron. While many traditional versions include beef broth, I was happy to find restaurants that prepared delicious vegetarian versions. The first bite immediately surprised me. The texture was smooth and creamy without feeling heavy, and each grain of rice was perfectly cooked. The saffron added a beautiful golden color and a delicate flavor that felt both simple and refined.

As someone who does not eat meat, I often look for meals that feel complete rather than like a modified version of something else. This risotto never felt like a substitute—it stood on its own as the highlight of the meal. That made the experience even more meaningful because I could fully enjoy one of Milan’s most famous dishes in a way that fit my lifestyle.

I also noticed how differently meals are approached in Italy. No one seemed to be in a rush. People lingered over conversations, enjoyed each course, and treated dining as an experience rather than just something to check off during the day. Sitting outside at a restaurant, watching people stroll through the city while enjoying a bowl of fresh risotto, allowed me to slow down and appreciate the moment. It reminded me that food is closely connected to culture, family, and community. It also gave me the chance to spend time with new friends, sharing meals and conversations that helped us build meaningful connections.

I was especially impressed when I learned how simple the ingredients in risotto are. However, it is this simplicity that makes the dish so challenging to perfect. That philosophy seemed to reflect Milan itself—a city that balances elegance and simplicity in a way that is both beautiful and welcoming.

Trying authentic vegetarian risotto also encouraged me to become more adventurous with food during the rest of the program. Instead of ordering dishes I already knew, I became more willing to ask about local specialties and discover regional flavors. It reminded me that one of the best ways to understand a culture is through its cuisine. Every meal tells a story about history, geography, and the people who prepare it. It also helped me connect with my peers and form friendships that I will always value. This experience beautifully combined culture, learning, friendship, and food in a way that felt truly meaningful.

Looking back, tasting authentic risotto may seem like a small moment compared to visiting famous landmarks or museums, but it became one of my favorite memories from Milan. I have grown accustomed to ordering it at restaurants, and it remains both delicious and satisfying. I find it comforting and sophisticated at the same time. It deepened my appreciation for Italian traditions and showed me how familiar foods can feel entirely new when experienced in their place of origin. As a vegetarian, I am especially grateful that Italian cuisine offers so many accessible and flavorful options, allowing me to fully engage in the food culture. Whenever I make or order risotto in the future, it will bring me back to the unforgettable experience of discovering Milan through one of its most iconic and comforting dishes.