1930, Milan
A speakeasy done right
Hidden away in the heart of Milan, lies one of the city’s best-kept secrets: 1930. More than just a cocktail bar, 1930 is a gateway to a different era. Amazing cocktails, authentic speakeasy-vibe and world class hospitality, 1930 is a truly unique cocktail experience.
About the bar
Speakeasy taken seriously
Imagine this: it’s an April evening as you step off the train at Milan’s central station, tired but excited. You rush to your accommodation, freshen up quickly, and head out again with one goal in mind—1930, Milan’s hidden gem.
But there’s a catch. All you have to guide you is the name of a street and a single clue—a specific object to look for in the shop windows on the street. No sign and no address. You hop into a taxi and give the driver the street name. When you arrive, the real adventure begins. You step out, walking slowly, scanning each window in the hope of spotting the telltale clue. Behind it lies Milan’s most exclusive cocktail bar, cloaked in secrecy and offering an atmosphere like no other. We did just that... and the experience was unforgettable.
The menu
The team at 1930 finds inspiration for their menus by traveling around the world and doing anthropological studies of the locations. Diving deep into the details of a culture, cuisine and habits, they find important people, historical facts or local traditions as well as special ingredients and turn them into cocktails or rather memorable experiences for their guests. Some of their previous menus had been inspired by Asia and South America but the cocktails that we tasted belonged to Africa. When we asked for the drinks list, we didn’t get a simple piece of paper or a QR code, but were invited to pick up the beautiful handmade African mask that had been hanging on the wall in front of us all along. On the backside the menu was engraved into the wood.
Birimbao
Music in the blood
The Birimbao is inspired by the vibrant rhythms of capoeira, and the drink embodies the spirit of celebration and camaraderie. The Birimbao delivers a fresh and fruity experience from delicate watermelon, enhanced by a subtle coffee aftertaste. Its eco-friendly rim, crafted from melon skin, offers a delicious, no-waste touch. Each sip transports you to lively gatherings where music and dance flow freely. The Birimbao is an experience, delivered with watermelon flavor unlike any you've ever tasted.
Kilamba
Ghost city of Angola
Kilamba is an enigmatic cocktail named after a city in Angola. This masterful interpretation of a dirty martini offers a smooth, balanced sip where the alcohol is harmoniously accompanied by rich, savory umami flavors. The garnish—a port wine-soaked olive filled with anchovies—adds a unique twist, imparting a subtle fish sauce aroma that is not only unique but extremely delicious. Served in a beautiful glass, the Kilamba not only captivates the eye but also delivers a powerful umami aftertaste, making it a sophisticated and delicious choice cocktail.
Rumble in the jungle
Are you ready to rumble?
The Rumble in the Jungle cocktail is a bold and beautiful creation that packs a punch. This bourbon-based drink features a powerfully sweet honey taste, perfectly balanced with zesty lemon and spicy ginger, like a modern twist on classic cocktails like the Bee's Knees or Penicillin. The most captivating part of the cocktails is its stunning presentation: a bee hive-shaped ice cube. Rumble in the Jungle delivers everything you expect, and it’s a truly delicious, and crushable drink.
The fruit of the Shaman
Venture on your spirit journey
The Fruit of the Shaman is a fizzy and tropical potion. This drink bursts with the vibrant flavors of mango, banana and ginger, delivering a powerful kick that awakens your senses, preparing you for your spirit journey. The sweetness of ripe banana and the tangy bite of tamarind add complexity, while a slight bitter aftertaste balances the blend perfectly. The tartness transitions seamlessly into a spicy ginger finish, which works wonders with the carbonation.
Baobab
A mighty tree, for a mighty cocktail
The Baobab cocktail is a refreshing and intriguing beverage crafted with tea made from the giant and majestic African Baobab tree. It brings a prominent tea flavor to the forefront, and its low ABV ensures a light and enjoyable experience. This cocktail balances sweet and tart notes, offering a complexity in the aftertaste that keeps lingering for a while after you sip. Served in a tree-shaped vessel, the Baobab cocktail solidifies the menu theme, and makes for an interesting drinking experience. Its unique presentation and well-rounded taste, makes for a great experience.
