Nestled in the historic Bollate prison in Milan, In Galera offers an extraordinary dining experience that blends culinary creativity with a unique setting. This one-of-a-kind restaurant invites guests to savor inventive dishes like raw Fassona meat tartare prepared tableside, delicate red salmon tartare, and matcha ice cream nestled inside baked apples. Every bite tells a story, reflecting both quality ingredients and thoughtful presentation.
Dining inside an active prison yard might sound unconventional, but In Galera turns this into a fascinating ambiance. The decor features playful nods to famous jail break films, while simple furnishings create a welcoming space. Guests appreciate the genuine smiles and professionalism of the inmate staff, who prepare and serve meals as part of a rehabilitative initiative. This authentic environment transforms dining into a memorable, thought-provoking experience.
The menu at In Galera combines traditional Italian flavors with creative twists. Starters like cannellini bean soup with crème brûlée and foie gras captivate the palate, while main courses such as risotto with pepper cream and lemon zest or stuffed pig cheek with polenta showcase refined techniques. Desserts are equally impressive, offering layered chocolate cakes and unique ice cream creations. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, offers beer, wine, and coffee, and is accommodating for groups, although it is not tailored for children or breakfast service.
- Location and Access: Situated within Milan’s Bollate prison, the restaurant offers free parking on-site and on nearby streets.
- Reservation Policy: Due to the unique setting and popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended.
- Menu Languages and Options: Menus are available in Italian and English and include vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Is In Galera located inside a prison? Yes, In Galera is situated within the Bollate prison in Milan, offering a unique dining experience.
- Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.
- Is the menu available in English? Yes, the menu is available in both Italian and English.
- Are there vegetarian options? Yes, In Galera offers vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is parking available near the restaurant.
Overall, the community sentiment around In Galera is positive, celebrating not only its creative cuisine but also the meaningful social impact it fosters. Visitors praise the professional and friendly service provided by inmate staff, the inventive menu offerings, and the evocative ambiance. This dining spot in Milan stands out as a bold initiative that merges food, culture, and rehabilitation in a way few others do.
Nestled within the historic walls of the Bollate prison in Milan, In Galera stands as Italy’s only restaurant operating inside a functioning penitentiary. Since its inception in 2015, this innovative establishment has transformed the concept of dining, blending social rehabilitation with culinary excellence in a setting unlike any other.
The year 2015 marked a remarkable milestone with the opening of In Galera inside the Bollate prison. This pioneering restaurant was not just a culinary venture but a bold social initiative aimed at empowering inmates through professional culinary training and employment opportunities. The project sought to provide inmates with valuable skills that could facilitate their rehabilitation and ease their reintegration into society upon release.
Beyond serving innovative dishes to its patrons, In Galera has become a beacon of hope and transformation. The culinary training program equips inmates with practical skills in cooking, food preparation, and hospitality service. This exposure not only boosts their confidence but also opens pathways for employment after their sentences, highlighting the restaurant’s core objective of fostering social rehabilitation through gastronomy.
In 2023, In Galera’s groundbreaking concept and inspiring story reached wider audiences with the release of the documentary film Benvenuti in galera , directed by Michele Rho. The film sheds light on the unique environment of the restaurant and the powerful stories of transformation unfolding within its walls, cementing In Galera’s role not only as a dining destination but also as a social catalyst.
- Unique dining experience inside an active prison setting that offers a one-of-a-kind ambiance.
- Support social rehabilitation by dining at a venue that actively trains and employs inmates, fostering their reintegration into society.
- Creative menu offerings blending traditional Italian flavors with innovative culinary techniques crafted by talented inmate chefs.
- Insightful cultural experience that invites patrons to reflect on themes of redemption, second chances, and community impact.
Nestled within the active prison yard of Bollate in Milan, In Galera offers a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience that combines culinary innovation with a powerful social mission. This restaurant is housed within a functioning penitentiary, creating a dramatic and thought-provoking backdrop for your meal. Visitors are welcomed into a space where inmates actively participate in food preparation and service, supporting their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
The kitchen at In Galera showcases high-quality, innovative dishes crafted from fresh, carefully selected ingredients. The menu offers intriguing options such as delicate red salmon tartare and a creative cannellini bean soup with crème brûlée and foie gras. Main courses include refined choices like risotto with pepper cream and citrus zest, alongside classic Italian specialties. Desserts are thoughtfully prepared, with options like matcha ice cream in baked apples and multi-layered chocolate cakes delighting guests. The culinary craftsmanship is complemented by professional, friendly service delivered with genuine warmth and sincerity.
- Unique dining experience within a prison setting: an atmosphere unlike any other, enriched with cultural and social meaning.
- Supports inmate rehabilitation and reintegration: empowering individuals through meaningful work and skill development.
- High-quality, innovative dishes: offering a creative blend of flavors that delight the palate.
- Professional and friendly service: enhancing the overall dining experience with genuine hospitality.
- Positive community impact: demonstrating a meaningful contribution to social change and inclusion.
- Higher price point compared to some alternatives: reflecting the unique setting and quality ingredients used.
- Limited menu options during lunchtime: which may affect those seeking a broader selection midday.
- Reservations are recommended due to popularity: ensuring you secure your spot in this sought-after venue.
In Galera is not just a restaurant; it's an experience that challenges conventional dining by merging food with social purpose. While the menu may have some limitations and the setting might feel unconventional to some, the opportunity to support a positive community impact while enjoying thoughtfully prepared dishes makes it a compelling choice for adventurous food lovers and socially conscious travelers visiting Milan.
