A historic Italian butcher shop meets authentic Chinese flavors in the ultimate culinary mashup
Intro
Via Paolo Sarpi, in Milan’s Chinatown, has long been one of the city’s liveliest and most multicultural streets. Among its many food spots, Macelleria Sirtori offers something a little different. This historic Italian butcher shop has teamed up with Agie Hujian Zhou the founder of Ravioleria Sarpi, combining high-quality Milanese meat with Chinese-inspired flavors in a way that reflects the neighborhood’s evolving dining scene.
Curious about the attention it has been getting online, we stopped by to see what the concept was really about. The format is simple but distinctive: a traditional butcher shop where you can also sit down and enjoy freshly prepared hot dishes on site. It is a cross-cultural idea that feels especially fitting in Paolo Sarpi, where different food traditions continue to meet and shape the identity of the area.
The Vibe
The setting is one of the most distinctive parts of the experience. Rather than following a standard restaurant format, the space is organized around a communal dinning area at the center of the shop, with the butcher counter still very much part of the scene. Eating here feels informal and lively, with a setup that stays close to the shop’s original identity while giving it a more contemporary rhythm.
The interior combines vintage details with a simple, welcoming atmosphere. Because of the format, the space can get quite animated, especially now that it stays open until 10 PM for both lunch and dinner. Sharing a table with other diners adds to the casual, communal feel, making it a spot that works equally well for a quick meal or a more relaxed dinner with friends.
The Food
The menu reflects the hybrid identity of the place, bringing together traditional butcher-shop quality and Chinese-inspired dishes. We started with the costata di manzo, which was tender, flavorful, and a clear reminder of the meat quality the shop is known for. The butchery background comes through strongly, and it gives the menu a solid foundation.
Among the dishes with a stronger Chinese influence, the spiedini (meat skewers) are one of the highlights. Well grilled and nicely seasoned, they are simple but satisfying. We also tried the noodles, which were savory and well balanced, absorbing the sauce well without feeling too heavy. Alongside the meat and hot dishes, the bread is a thoughtful addition, especially for soaking up the richer sauces and juices. Overall, the meal feels generous, comforting, and well put together.
The Verdict
Macelleria Sirtori offers a concept that stands out in Paolo Sarpi without feeling forced. The idea of transforming a historic butcher shop into a space where you can also sit down for a hot meal could have felt gimmicky, but in practice it works surprisingly well. The combination of quality ingredients, informal service, and cross-cultural influences feels coherent with the neighborhood around it.
Prices feel reasonable for the quality of the ingredients, and the portions are satisfying without being excessive. For anyone looking for something a little different from the usual restaurant format, this is a spot worth considering. It reflects the changing identity of the area while still staying connected to its Milanese roots.
Macelleria Sirtori
📍address: Via Paolo Sarpi, 27, 20154 Milano
🌐 website: https://www.laravioleriasarpi.com/
Have you tried Macelleria Sirtori yet? Let us know your opinion, and do not forget to bookmark chinatownmilano.it for more unique fusions around the city.