Since 1817 Identity and Tradition
In 1817, the pastry Cova opened its doors right next to the famous Teatro alla Scala, in the elegant center of Milan. Born as a literary café, Cova established itself as one of the most important historical establishments of the time. A refined café, a social gathering place after the theater and a meeting point for the patriots of the Risorgimento: Cova has seen the elite of the engaged high society within its walls. Caffè Cova soon became the favorite spot of world-class artists, such as Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. In 1950, Cova moved to Via Montenapoleone, the heart of the Milanese fashion quadrilateral in full ascent, where it has continued to pass down the prestigious tradition of Italian savoir-faire. Today, rich in a history that spans two centuries, Cova is an institution that honors the expertise and creativity of specialized artisans. Entering Pasticceria Cova is akin to perpetuating a timeless ceremony, characterized by expert chefs meticulously preparing refined products, elegant waiters who instill a sense of warm welcome. It is a place where the worlds of fashion and business meet a cosmopolitan clientele, animated by the desire to breathe in the unique atmosphere of Cova, an authentic bastion of Italian tradition.
1817
The year is 1817 when Antonio Cova opens the "Caffe del Giardino" next to the Teatro alla Scala. The dazzling rooms filled with mirrors and chandeliers become a meeting place for the beautiful people of the time and are infused with a patriotic spirit, animated by anti-Austrian fervor that stirs the spirits of the era.
Montenapoleone 8
Destroyed by the bombings of World War II, in 1950 Cova moved from its original location to the current site at Via Montenapoleone 8, where it became an elegant and refined salon, reproducing furnishings and environments borrowed from the original ones.
International
The international expansion of the brand began in 1993, when Cova opened its first store across the border in Hong Kong SAR. In 2013, it became part of the LVMH Group and continued its expansion worldwide. Pastry boutiques were then established in China, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, and nearby Monte Carlo. In 2021, in the context of the renovation of La Samaritaine, Cova Paris opened.
Tradition
The story of Cova intertwines with that of the city and its most representative moments. A meeting place for a cosmopolitan clientele, bourgeoisie, and nobility, Cova fully enters into the history and stories of Milan.
Ancient headquarters at Via Manzoni corner of Via Verdi.
"I would have liked to be in Milan with her: to take her to dinner at Cova, and then walk along Via Manzoni," wrote Ernest Hemingway in his "A Farewell to Arms" as early as 1929.
Historical photo of Piazza della Scala and the Theater.
Café-restaurant and Pastry Shop Cova, corner of Via Manzoni and Via Verdi
Historical photo of Piazza della Scala and the Theater.
Café-restaurant and Pasticceria Cova, corner of Via Manzoni and Via Verdi.
Giuseppe Verdi strolls in front of the Cova. He, who at the "social" table shares passion and personal aspirations, eagerly consuming one of the products of tradition: the classic Panettone.
Experience
Courtesy and hospitality are cornerstones of the art of hosting, which aims to serve customers with grace, taste, and discretion. By combining an attentive presence to the smallest hint and the friendliness of industry professionals, a refined environment is created where soft music, linen tablecloths, and velvet sofas host members of the jet set, avid travelers, and simple curious onlookers.
Passion
The meticulous selection of raw materials, the application of established pastry techniques, and respect for the heritage of tradition are the elements of a daily pursuit of quality. Each creation interprets a story that is 200 years long and expresses the art and wisdom of true masters of taste.
Timeless elegance
The meticulous selection of raw materials, the application of established pastry techniques, and respect for the heritage of tradition are the elements of a daily pursuit of quality. Each creation interprets a story that is 200 years long and expresses the art and wisdom of true masters of taste.
