Specialty Coffee Places to Work Or Hang Out in Milan
Working or spending time in cafés in Milan isn’t always straightforward.
Many places are designed for quick espresso stops, not laptops or long stays.
That said, Milan does have a solid specialty coffee scene where sitting, working, or spending time is acceptable if you choose the right places.
Below are some reliable options.
What Makes a Place Work-Friendly in Milan
Before the list, a quick clarification- in Milan, a café that works for staying usually has:
table seating (not only bar service)
a relaxed attitude toward laptops
steady but not chaotic noise
people staying longer than 5 minutes
These places are the exception, not the rule.
Orso Nero
A calm, minimalist space with a strong focus on coffee quality.
Good for:
quiet work sessions
reading or studying
spending time alone
Less ideal for long calls, better for focused tasks.
Loste Café
More bakery than café, but very comfortable for staying.
Good for:
working a few hours
breakfast meetings
slower mornings
Can get busy during peak hours.
Cafezal
A well-known name in Milan’s specialty coffee scene.
Good for:
working during off-peak hours
meeting someone casually
quality coffee without rush
Best avoided during lunchtime when turnover increases.
Nowhere
A relaxed, creative environment.
Good for:
laptop work
informal meetings
spending time without pressure
One of the easier places to blend in if you’re staying longer.
The Coffee
More structured and predictable than independent cafés.
Good for:
short work sessions
relaxed seating
knowing what to expect
Not atmospheric, but functional.
Final Thoughts
Milan isn’t a café-working city by default.
But with the right places (and the right timing) it’s possible to work, read, or spend time without feeling rushed.
These cafés are a good starting point if you’re looking for spaces that allow you to stay.
