Bar Basso
Alessandro Scire CalabrisottoShare
Bar Basso – Milan’s Iconic Cocktail Bar and Home of the Negroni Sbagliato
Bar Basso in Milan is more than just a bar—it’s a revered institution and a beacon of Italy’s vibrant cocktail culture. Established in 1947, Bar Basso became world-famous thanks to its unique cocktail creations, most notably the Negroni Sbagliato. Situated in the heart of Milan, this iconic bar attracts both locals and international visitors who come to enjoy its atmosphere, impeccable cocktails, and rich history. With its vintage charm and legendary mixology, Bar Basso remains one of the most celebrated cocktail bars in Milan and a must-visit destination for any cocktail enthusiast.
In the 1960s, Bar Basso was transformed under the ownership of Mirko Stocchetto, a Venetian bartender who brought his expertise and creativity to Milan. Stocchetto was instrumental in introducing the art of cocktail making to the city’s nightlife, paving the way for Milan to become a leading force in Italy’s cocktail scene. It was at Bar Basso that Stocchetto accidentally created the Negroni Sbagliato (meaning “mistaken Negroni”) in the early 1970s. Legend has it that he mistakenly grabbed a bottle of sparkling wine instead of gin while preparing a Negroni, creating a lighter, effervescent twist on the classic. This “mistake” quickly became a sensation, and the Negroni Sbagliato is now a staple of Italian aperitivo culture.
The Negroni Sbagliato is a simple yet sophisticated drink, made with Campari, sweet vermouth, and prosecco or sparkling wine instead of gin. This “mistaken” Negroni has a delightful balance of bitterness, sweetness, and bubbly texture, making it both refreshing and complex. Today, the Negroni Sbagliato has achieved cult status, not only in Italy but around the world, and Bar Basso remains the best place to experience this iconic cocktail in its birthplace. The bar serves it in its signature oversized glassware with an equally oversized ice cube, adding to the drink’s unique presentation.
Beyond the Negroni Sbagliato, Bar Basso’s cocktail menu is a testament to traditional Italian mixology and innovation. The bar offers a wide selection of classic Italian cocktails as well as unique house creations, each crafted with high-quality ingredients and an emphasis on flavor balance. Patrons can enjoy everything from an expertly prepared Americano to a refreshing Aperol Spritz, each served with the flair and precision that has defined Bar Basso for decades. The bar also serves its cocktails with generous portions, enhancing the warm, welcoming experience that Italian bars are known for.
Stepping into Bar Basso is like stepping into a piece of Milanese history. The interior is a blend of retro elegance and classic Italian bar design, with wood paneling, leather seating, and a stunning marble bar. The atmosphere is lively and timeless, filled with a mix of locals and tourists who come to enjoy the bar’s unique ambiance and celebrated cocktails. The bartenders are known for their hospitality and expertise, making each guest feel welcome and ensuring that every cocktail served meets the high standards that Bar Basso is famous for.
One of the most popular times to visit Bar Basso is during Milan Design Week, when it becomes a hub for designers, artists, and creatives from around the world. This annual event has made Bar Basso a cultural landmark, where the worlds of design and mixology intersect. The bar’s unique cocktail creations, vintage charm, and historic significance make it a gathering place for those looking to experience the authentic spirit of Milan. During Design Week, Bar Basso is buzzing with energy, filled with creatives who share a love for Milanese culture, cocktails, and innovation.
Bar Basso’s influence on the cocktail scene extends far beyond Milan. It is frequently mentioned in guides to Italy’s best cocktail bars and has been featured in international publications for its pioneering role in Italian mixology. Its signature Negroni Sbagliato has inspired bartenders and cocktail lovers across the globe, and the bar itself has become a symbol of Milan’s vibrant nightlife. For any cocktail lover visiting Milan, a trip to Bar Basso is essential—not only to enjoy a world-class cocktail but to experience the history and heritage of one of Italy’s most beloved bars.
In Milan’s bustling cocktail scene, Bar Basso stands out for its commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. Its legacy as the birthplace of the Negroni Sbagliato and its role in shaping Italian cocktail culture make it a landmark in the world of mixology. Visiting Bar Basso is more than just a night out; it’s a journey through the history of Italian cocktails, a taste of Milan’s rich culture, and an immersion into the world of classic cocktails that continue to captivate patrons around the world.
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