Backdoor43 Milan
Smallest, Most Mysterious Bar
In the lively heart of the Navigli district, amid the vibrant bars and bustling crowds, there’s a secret that only the curious find: Backdoor 43—Milan’s tiniest bar, and possibly the smallest in the world. Marked only by a discreet window of quirky ornaments and a wooden door with a tiny shutter, this 43-square-foot hideaway invites those who knock to experience a night unlike any other.
Inside, you’re greeted by a bartender donning a V for Vendetta mask, who welcomes you into a neo-Victorian escape filled with vintage memorabilia and rows of whiskey bottles embedded in the walls. The cosy, wood-panelled room can hold just three guests, creating an intimate experience that’s a refreshing contrast to the usual Navigli scene.
Whiskey is the star here, with a small but carefully curated cocktail menu that changes often. Every sip emphasizes quality and simplicity, and you can even set the vibe by playing your own music over the speakers. Booking is essential, and a week in advance is the minimum—this little door only opens to a lucky few.
So if you’re ready to step into a pocket-sized world of mystery and crafted cocktails, find Backdoor 43. It’s an unforgettable experience carved into the wood, just waiting for you to discover it.
Find your way with 185 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Milan
Frizzi & Lazzi
Your favorite beer garden ever
"Frizzi & Lazzi" is one of my old-time favorite beer gardens in Milan. It's an unassuming, easy-going place that has become a point of reference since '82.
by
Susanna
Baggio
Ofelé
My go-to place for Sunday brunch
"Ofelé" in Milan is a bistrot bakery that makes some of the best (Sunday) brunches around. It's simply one of my favorite pancake spots in town...
by
Carmen
Condeescu
Living Liqueurs & Delights
Fashion and aperitivo
"Living Liqueurs & Delights": one of my favorite aperitivo spots in Milan and its first real vodka bar. It has a beautiful bar ambiance & a nice lounge...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Wasabi Bar
Williamsburg in Milan
"Wasabi Bar" is one of the greatest bars in Milan. Why? Because it's great! It's actually tiny, but don't be misled: the drink selection & design are...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Via Solferino
Independent shopping
"Via Solferino" is a central Milan street, yet far away from the crowds. I go there to just look around the shop and I'm sure I can always find I...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
DOU
Dim Sum paradise
"DOU" was the first (Asian) restauarant I bumped into in Milan, and it remains one of my favorites in the city. What I like is the selection of cuisines...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Scalo Farini
Great aperitivo
"Scalo Farini" in Milan is a bar recommended to me by an Isola local as the best aperitivo in town. I can say that I haven't tried any better than this.
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Camporino in Galleria
To the roots of Campari
"Camporino in Galleria" in Milan is where the drink Campari was born. Every time I grab a drink at the bar, I feel as if I stepped into the old city...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
San Cristoforo Church
Old Milan
"San Cristoforo Church" is one of Milan's corners that can really take you back through time. Protip: take a walk along Naviglio Grande in the evening...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Al Fresco
A meeting place with food and dining
"Al Fresco" is my Milan cafe/restaurant I'd never visited because it was just next door to my place! Let me tell you, that was a mistake, if only for...
by
Ivan
Kalinov
Heading to Milan?
185 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
Heading to Milan?
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 185 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Bars
Our team loves Milan
Get to know our other Spotters from Milan
As featured on:
