Stepping into Bar Luce, whether before, during or after adventuring through Fondazione Prada, is akin to stepping some decades into the past and a rather dreamy Milanee cafe of times gone by. Designed by film director Wes Anderson whose visionary work is typically of a symmetrical world that plays into a weirdly wonderful perfection, his real world creation at Bar Luce is, as it were, a less fantastical reality in which the everyday life can be enjoyed - ratherly chicly. 

As part of the Fondazione Prada complex it is a the perfect noshery at which to top up on some of the cafés delicious delights from perfectly curated paninis and delectable desserts to creative cocktails (the ‘White Lady’ is unmissable) to some of the best coffee in town. You’ll find both tourists and locals at this iconic hotspot.

The interiors are a wonder in themselves and Anderson brings to life a theme rich in a Italian culture from the 50’s and 60’s all of which is evocative of some of his previous works including Castello Cavalcanti, a short film his directed in 2013 and subsequently distributed by Prada.

Of the space Anderson notes ‘there is no ideal angle for this space. It is for real life, and ought to have numerous good spots for eating, drinking, talking, reading, etc. While I do think it would make a pretty good movie set, I think it would be an even better place to write a movie. I tried to make it a bar I would want to spend my own non-fictional afternoons in.’ So sit back, relax and enjoy. 

www.fondazioneprada.org

Open Monday / Wednesday / Thursday, 9 am – 9 pm and Friday / Saturday / Sunday, 9 am – 10 pm. Closed on Tuesdays.

Located at Largo Isarco 2, 20139 Milan