Recommended in Milan

We traveled to Italy, April 27-May 1, ’04.

• In Milan, try the centrally located Hotel Sanpi (Via Lazzaro Palazzi 18). Our room was large and very clean, with two beds and a remodeled bathroom with (on request) shower. The online rate was $135. A European breakfast was included. We found the staff very accommodating.

• Across the street from the hotel is the excellent restaurant New Transatlantico Re del Mare. They served a pasta with mushrooms that was one of the best I’ve ever tasted, and for the first time in northern Italy I came across my favorite dessert, cannoli, homemade and delicious.

The fish was quite fresh, and it could be prepared as indicated or “as you like it.” Veal and beef were also offered. Although soup was not on the menu, they would prepare it on request. They had a good selection of wines.

Our waiter was English-speaking, and the menu was in Italian and English. The à la carte prices were quite reasonable, €7-€12 (near $8.50-$14.50). We tried other restaurants in the vicinity but kept going back to this one. Try it. You won’t be disappointed.

• Within walking distance of the Duomo, make time to visit a food store (deli?) that is worth seeing. It’s called Peck and it’s on Via Spadari. There are three floors of mouthwatering items plus an extensive wine cellar.

On the second level there is a café that offers the best lasagna you’ll ever eat. We had lunch there three days in succession; it was that good. A meal cost about $15 including beverage and dessert — a little above mid-price but worth every euro. Also on the second level are coffees and teas from around the world.

This store offers meat, poultry, salads, oils, vinegars, a wonderful selection of cheeses, breads, pastries, chocolates and gelato. Great gifts to bring home. If you walk out of the store without a purchase, it will be a miracle.

JO HARDING
Sparks, NV