The History and Evolution of Milanesa
Milanesa, a beloved dish transcending borders, has its roots traced back to Milan, Italy. Originally known as cotoletta alla milanese during the Middle Ages, it was a piece of meat breaded and fried, offering a golden crust and juicy interior. Over time, the recipe traveled across Europe and eventually to Latin America, where each country adapted it to create unique versions that now form part of daily gastronomic life.
In Mexico, milanesa found fertile ground. Its combination of tender meat, crispy breading, and versatility in accompaniments like rice, beans, potatoes, or salads quickly made it a classic. It’s one of those home-style dishes prepared at home, sold in food stalls, economic kitchens, markets, and restaurants. Its adaptability allows for ingredient experimentation, maintaining its relevance and enduring love from generations.
Super Orejas de Elefante: Giant Milanesas for Sharing
Super Orejas de Elefante is a true Capital marvel: giant milanesas, as big as a monumental platter, designed for sharing… or showing off. The traditional base of crispy breading is elevated here, serving as a “gastronomic canvas” where you can add melted cheese, ham, fried potatoes, or even chilaquiles. Each order comes with a powerful combination of well-made beans and chilaquiles that elevate any craving; it’s an experience that goes beyond the ordinary, crafted for those who believe a milanesa should never fall short.
The sheer size ensures that where one person would typically eat alone, here two—or even three—can enjoy without hunger. It’s abundant food with a homemade flavor and generous spirit that defines popular cuisine: large portions, affordable prices, and a bold taste that conquers from the first bite. If you’re looking for a must-try spot to sample something monumental, this is an unmissable destination in the eastern part of the city.
- Calle Oriente 243 #114, Agrícola Oriental
París 16 Bistró: A Miniature Gem in the City
París 16 Bistró is a tiny treasure nestled in the city, a small local just above Paseo de la Reforma that surprises with the perfection of each dish. Though its menu boasts several gems, focusing on milanesa today makes it impossible not to recommend it. Here, they achieve an impeccable crunch, with a texture that crunches without excess fat, juicy meat perfectly cooked, and a flavor that conquers with the first cut.
The experience is completed with an “exquisite potato purée,” smooth, creamy, and perfectly seasoned, which accompanies the milanesa as if they were made for each other. París 16 Bistró proves that you don’t need a large space to offer memorable plates; precise cooking, attention to detail, and a French touch that gives personality to every bite are all it takes. If you’re seeking a milanesa crafted with mastery, this is an essential destination on Reforma.
- Paseo de la Reforma 368
Key Questions and Answers
- What is milanesa? Milanesa is a classic dish originating from Milan, Italy. It’s breaded and fried meat, popular in Mexico where it has been adapted with various accompaniments.
- Why are Super Orejas de Elefante noteworthy? They offer giant milanesas, perfect for sharing, with customizable toppings like melted cheese, ham, fried potatoes, or chilaquiles. The generous portions and home-style flavors make them a beloved choice.
- What makes París 16 Bistró special? This small yet impactful restaurant delivers impeccably crispy milanesa with juicy meat and a French-inspired puré de papa, proving that exceptional food doesn’t require a large space.
