A corner of old-fashioned cuisine in the heart of Milan
Entering Osteria la Vecchia Lira is like taking a dip into the past, but with the comfort and sophistication of today
Located in Largo la Foppa, just steps from Corso Garibaldi and Via Moscova, our restaurant welcomes you into an environment that celebrates the elegant simplicity of traditional trattorias
Exposed brick walls, warm wood, and authentic details make every corner a tribute to the history of our families
The design, curated by architect Alessandro Mauri, combines rustic and sophisticated elements to create an atmosphere that makes you feel at home, yet with a touch of class
Look at the interiors, where you can immerse yourself in a space where every detail is designed to offer an experience of flavor and warmth.
What sets us apart?
Exquisite meats
The finest selections of meat, sourced from certified farms and expertly cut to ensure tenderness and flavor.
Innovative preparations
Dishes that honor tradition but dare to combine creative pairings, for an experience that delights the palate.
Welcoming atmosphere
A warm and rustic atmosphere, perfect for savoring the best of Italian cuisine, in the company of friends or family.
Chef Matteo Merletti
Behind every dish lies the passion and talent of Matteo Merletti, chef at Osteria la Vecchia Lira. His cooking is a perfect balance between tradition and innovation: starting from classic Italian recipes, Matteo adds creative and contemporary touches that enhance the original flavors without ever altering them. Raised with a deep love for Italian cuisine and trained in high-end restaurants, Matteo carefully crafts every detail, from selecting ingredients, which are always seasonal and of the highest quality, to the refined presentation of each dish. With a selection of fine meats and recipes that honor the Italian culinary culture, Matteo leads the guest on an experience that touches the senses and remains etched in the memory.
A tribute to the past
The name Osteria la Vecchia Lira is a tribute to the authentic soul of Italy. The restaurant was born during the transition from the lira to the euro.
The founders, Eugenio Lavelli and Marco Medici, wanted to create a place that preserved the memory of the old osterias, where every meal was a ritual of sharing and tradition.
The atmosphere you'll find here evokes those places from the past, with an extra touch of elegance: from the warm and welcoming environment to the dishes prepared with passion, the osteria aims to be a refuge from the hectic pace of the city, a space that reconnects you to the roots of Italian culture.
