Finally, Starbucks Is Open In Milano

 Finally, a visit to Italy’s first Starbucks which has opened in Milano.  My wife had a knitting convention in Milano and she came  through with some photos to show my blog readers.  I had written about this Starbucks insertion a few times, and it certainly took some years to finally open for business.  Previously, the originator and American owner of Starbucks had promised never to open a Starbucks in Italy, but as you will see, he changed his mind.

The plan was to purchase the old main post office of Milano which is across the plaza from the Duomo (huge cathedral).  The main shopping area for exclusive clothing, etc., is also just steps away, so a great influx of tourists was to be expected to make a visit and leave their euros behind.  You must have heard stories about construction jobs in Italy and how turtle speed is the progress.  This project is a prime example.

   

The Entrance

Brewing Display

This is not your normal Starbucks with the food display, the coffee order and pick up line, tables, seating, wifi,  and bathrooms that you need a combination for entrance.  I have read where a few other places in the world (Tokyo??? ) where the coffee bar has been transformed into a quasi museum adventure. 

The Delicious Food

So thanks to my wife, who had to get up early in the rain and take these photos, we can all see and get a feel for this monument to coffee.   She is a good sport and came home with a few souvenir items as a reward.

The photos below will give you a clear idea of what you would see if you make a visit to Milano.  Milano is a big city, but most of what you want to see is in the center around the Duomo.  Only the painting, The Last Supper, which in Italian is, La Ultima Cena, is found a tram ride away.  Also nearby is the Sforza Castle where da Vinci worked for a few years before moving to France.

 

This is the Duomo, a huge cathedral where inside you will find famous paintings, relics and crypts.  However the best part is the view from the top, you can do the stairs or take an elevator.  

 

The Shopping Mall You Have Seen In The Movies

Ciao Tutti
This blog post is dedicated to my American friend, Lynn, who enjoys Starbucks and their coffee.