Seven reasons to visit Seta at Mandarin Oriental, Milan

For many Milanese people, the meaning behind Seta is easy to understand. For out of towners, the restaurant is named after the Italian word for silk – a material that has woven its way into the restaurant’s philosophy, with its connections to the East and the origins of Mandarin Oriental. Silk is also the inspiration behind some of Seta’s best dishes, which are inspired by the places Chef Guida and his team have worked.

However, Chef Guida is constantly changing Seta’s menus to help diners experience the very best cuisine, inspired by daily market finds and the humblest of ingredients. Cauliflower, risotto rice, Savoy cabbage – anything can truly become the star of the plate at Seta. It is purely about simple flavours and ingredients paired with the most exclusive ones. Not that you’d know there was anything experimental going on from the unfalteringly balanced flavours and coherence of each day’s menu.

For those who want to get even closer to the action, there is a chef’s table in the heart of the kitchen, where two guests can experience the nine-course tasting menu. For Guida, the chef’s table is as much for the kitchen as it is for the guests. “Clients must be happy. Here I can see what makes them happy,” he says. He has even, on occasion, had guests join him at the stove.

The team is working hard to ensure that Seta has the most creative of dishes and is running as smooth as silk before they even think of moving on. For Chef Guida and his team the focus right now is on making the best dishes – ones that truly stand out, but that are recognisable to all. And that is a reminder of a great trip to Milan.