My first full day in Italy was filled with coffee, the Duomo, and an incredible dinner at VUN Andrea Aprea, a restaurant with two Michelin stars in the luxury Park Hyatt Milan.
I wanted to kick off my month-long trip to Italy in style, so upon researching Michelin-starred restaurants in Milan, I chose VUN Andrea Aprea. Located a few blocks from the Duomo in the heart of Milan, I stopped by earlier in the day, and one of the hotel staff gave me a preview of the restaurant's dining room.
Note: VUN Andrea Aprea closed permanently in 2021.
VUN Andrea Aprea is only open for dinner, so it was empty then. Since I was already there, I asked and was allowed to pick my table for later.
I arrived at 7 p.m. and was one of the first customers seated that night. The sommelier greeted me and offered me a glass of sparkling wine (Bellavista Vittorio Moretti, $31), which I accepted.
The restaurant offers a 5-course Neapolitan tasting menu, a 9-course signature tasting menu, and the option to choose contemporary cuisine a la carte. I thought, "Go big or go home," and ordered the signature menu ($183), and we were off and running.
Executive Chef Andrea Aprea is from Naples and offers diners a sophisticated take on Italian cuisine using seasonal ingredients and modern techniques.
My favorite courses were the beautifully presented caprese, decadent potato Amatriciana style with edible silver, tortello pasta with buffalo ricotta cheese and Neapolitan ragout, and the lemon sensation dessert.
Tasting Menu at VUN Andrea Aprea
These photos were from the 9-course signature tasting menu at VUN Andrea Aprea on October 4, 2018.
As I wrapped up the meal, I asked my waiter if I could see the kitchen, and upon checking, he confirmed it was okay. On the walk back there, I didn't expect to be greeted by chef Andrea Aprea, who then gave me a tour, signed my menu, and obliged in a photo.
If you're visiting Milan and looking for a luxurious yet playful dinner in an elegant setting with a kind, professional staff, VUN Andrea Aprea is for you.
