Down-to-earth hotel in fashion capital is very much in vogue
Open since November 2022, this unique luxury hotel is the sixth property launched in Italy by the Ferragamo family from Florence, famed for their haute couture shoes.
Portrait Milano brings back to life a splendid 15th-century building as a prestigious address to stay at and is already the place to be seen in the fashion and design worlds.
The National checked in to find out how it measures up to the hype.
The welcome
First impressions of the hotel are strong as a smart, dark-suited doorman leads me into the hotel’s Piazza del Quadrilatero, an immense colonnaded square – originally a 15th-century seminary.
It is much more laidback as I walk into the modern reception, with lounge music, designer sofas and low tables covered with art books.
There is no classic concierge or receptionist, and instead I am welcomed by one of the lifestyle team, who sits alongside me for the check-in, offering a complimentary tea, coffee or house beverage.
The neighbourhood
Perfectly located by Milan’s ultra-chic fashion district, where exclusive boutiques line Via Montenapoleone and Via della Spiga, this is a shopping haven for anyone tempted by Gucci, Roberto Cavalli, Prada and, of course, Dolce & Gabbana. The brand’s home interiors showroom, just by the hotel entrance, is to die for.
Milan’s top cultural sights, from the Duomo and La Scala to old masters hanging in Pinocoteca di Brera, are all within walking distance. And don’t miss a cappuccino and chocolate gianduiotti at the venerable Pasticceria Cova.
The room
All the rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly furnished, giving the feel of a classic Milanese apartment.
Architect Michele Bonan began by designing the Ferragamo family homes and excels in intimate, homely touches, with each room displaying a pink print of one of Salvatore’s famous shoe designs.
The service
For those used to classic luxury hotels and all-knowing concierges, the Portrait’s concept of a casual lifestyle team can take a bit of getting used to, especially the emailed pre-arrival survey. But at the end of the day, their enthusiasm and friendliness is infectious and the team can still magically procure sought-after seats for La Scala and seemingly impossible restaurant reservations.
The scene
The Portrait has established itself as one of the hot spots of Italy’s fashion capital. The Longevity Spa in the old seminary’s medieval cellar has raised the hotel’s profile, and management need to decide whether to add a gourmet fine-dining option.
The food
The life and soul of the hotel is the vibrant 10_11, an eclectic all-day venue serving food and drinks from breakfast through dinner, spread over a casual dining room, shady garden and beneath a palm-lined portico.
Although it’s not fine dining, delicious dishes are on offer, such as Milanese favourites mondeghili veal meatballs topped with creamy mayonnaise and riso al salto.
The venue is a firm favourite with locals for meeting, eating and mingling, while on the other side of the piazza lies the luxurious Beefbar Milano, the first Italian outlet of a MonteCarlo restaurant group (also in Dubai), famous for its aged Kobe beef, ceviche and tartare.
Highs and lows
There is a non-stop buzz about the hotel, with its unique Piazza del Quadrilatero hosting exhibitions and fashion events that create a hip melting pot of cosmopolitan guests, Milanese fashionistas and artists.
Loud music is played day and night, so it is not ideal for guests looking for a quiet breakfast or romantic dinner.
The insider tip
Hidden away in the portico, check out the minimalist So-Le Studio. Rather than being yet another classic fashion boutique, it features refreshing sculptural jewellery and bags created by Maria Sole, granddaughter of Salvatore Ferragamo, using only recycled materials, including leather from the family’s shoe production.
The verdict
Unlike Armani and Bulgari branded hotels, the discrete Portrait plays down its link with Ferragamo’s famed shoes, displaying simply a few stylish photos of the maestro with the likes of Audrey Hepburn.
It is a luxury hotel that is open rather than exclusive, symbolised by its landmark piazza that has immediately become a favourite Milanese rendezvous.
All in all, it’s a welcome, innovative newcomer to the Milan luxury hotel scene.
The bottom line
Room rates begin with a comfortable studio at €1,000 ($1,067) rising to €14,000 for the exclusive Borromio Suite. Breakfast is extra. Check-in from 2pm, check-out at midday; www.lungarnocollection. com/portrait-milano-hotel
This review was conducted at the invitation of the hotel and reflects hotel standards during this time. Services may change in the future