A neon-lit slice of Tokyo in Milan’s Porta Venezia, offering solid cocktails and contemporary izakaya plates.
Intro
Milan’s food scene is constantly evolving, but if you are searching for a Japanese spot that effortlessly bridges the gap between traditional aesthetics and modern metropolitan energy, Via Melzo is where you need to be. Tucked away in the lively Porta Venezia district, Kanpai is redefining the local izakaya experience. It is not just another standard sushi joint; it is a meticulously curated sensory trip that draws in the city’s stylish creatives and casual food enthusiasts alike.
Walking past the bustling street, the glowing neon signage acts like a beacon for anyone craving something a bit more dynamic than the usual Milanese aperitivo hour! The concept here is brilliantly straightforward yet deeply engaging: combine comforting Japanese food with a genuinely ambitious cocktail program. Whether you are planning an intimate date night or a casual catch-up with your friends, this place knows exactly how to set the mood without trying too hard or feeling overly pretentious.
The Vibe
Step inside, and you are immediately hit with a mesmerizing blend of industrial chic and warm, intimate lighting. The interiors embrace a raw, contemporary aesthetic, with exposed concrete, sleek metal fixtures, and cinematic neon accents that give the space a bold, distinctive character. It feels authentically global, as if a hip underground bar in Tokyo got seamlessly teleported to northern Italy. Sitting at the bar is arguably the best seat in the house, offering a front-row view of the mixologists working their magic!
But perhaps the most unexpectedly brilliant detail is hidden away from the main dining floor. If you take a trip to the restroom, you will not hear standard elevator jazz playing in the background; instead, the audio loop features the atmospheric announcements of an airport terminal. It is a quirky, borderline genius touch that leans perfectly into the theme of travel and escapism, making the entire dining experience feel slightly surreal and incredibly memorable for anyone stopping by.
The Food
When it comes to the menu, the kitchen stays true to the art of Japanese culinary precision while throwing in a few playful, modern twists. Forget the standard massive sushi boats; the focus here is on elevated, shareable izakaya plates designed to pair perfectly with your drinks. The fried chicken (karaage) is an absolute must-order, delivering the ideal balance of a crispy exterior and a super juicy center. You also cannot go wrong with their savory, perfectly pan-fried gyoza and the incredibly comforting bowls of udon, which bring a rich, deeply satisfying umami flavor that will have you immediately wanting a second round. Then, there is this incredibly tender fish fillet, which perfectly flakes apart and melts in your mouth, complementing the rest of the meal flawlessly.
Of course, you cannot talk about this place without diving into their seriously impressive sake collection. Pouring up a crisp, chilled sake completely levels up the meal, cutting through the richness of the fried dishes beautifully! Whether you prefer a premium unfiltered pour or a creative Asiatic cocktail, the bartenders are always ready to guide your pairing to perfection.
The Verdict
So, does this stylish izakaya actually live up to the neighborhood hype? It definitely does, though it comes with a few minor caveats. Because it is universally loved by the after-work crowd and weekend warriors, the space gets incredibly busy, and the energy can easily border on chaotic during peak hours. You might occasionally find it a bit tough to catch the staff’s attention when the house is totally packed, but the quality of the plates and the undeniably magnetic atmosphere usually make up for any slight service delays.
Ultimately, this is a spot you visit for the complete package rather than just a quick bite. It is sleek, slightly edgy, and serves up genuinely good flavors without taking itself too seriously. Just do yourself a favor and make sure you book your table well in advance, because trying to snag a walk-in spot on a Friday night is practically impossible!
Kanpai カンパイ
📍address: Via Melzo 12, Milano
🌐 website: kanpaimilano.it, instagram: kanpai_milano
Have you tried Kanpai yet? Let us know your opinion, and do not forget to bookmark chinatownmilano.it for more hidden gems around the city.