When well-known personalities and discerning clients decide on where to stay in Milan, they have no doubts at all. As a rule, they head to their and our favourite Principe di Savoia. Hotel Director, Ezio Indiani, who has been running the hotel for almost 20 years, spoke to us about the famous people he has encountered here who like choose this hotel, as well as about his experiences and sought-after services.
How long have you held the position of Director of Hotel Principe di Savoia and what do you enjoy most about your work?
I have been working at the Principe as GM since 2005, after managing some of the most prestigious luxury properties in the world, such as Villa D’Este at Lake Como, Hotel Eden in Rome, Hotel des Bergues in Geneva, Hyde Park Hotel in London. I still enjoy my work very much, because the environment is dynamic and every day is completely different. I am also grateful to have an innovative and creative team, who constantly try something new to provide a really exclusive experience to guests.
Do any interesting guests choose Principe di Savoia for their stay?
Regular guests perceive the hotel primarily as a place for networking, strengthening of relationships, where memories are made to take home after their stay. This includes unique events, refined gastronomy, art exhibitions and other social events. Having magnificent rooms and suites is no longer enough. It is important that guests have at their disposal advanced technology, which is not too evident, that they receive nice surprises and personalised service. It is a pleasure for them when hotel employees recognise them and treat them in an informal, yet professional way. In so many years of my work in the hotel, I've personally had the honour to meet important contemporary politicians and members of Royal families, actors and actresses and sportsmen. To name just a few among others, Principe di Savoia has been visited by George Clooney, Matt Damon, Jean Dujardin, Charlize Theron, Sofia Loren, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Hugh Grant, Robert de Niro, Anthony Hopkins, Sofia Coppola, Lionel Messi, David Beckam, Zlatan Ibrahimović, Cristiano Ronaldo, Madonna, Lady Gaga, Sting, Elton John, Andrea Bocelli, as well as Rolling Stones' members.
Which local services would you recommend to guests and why?
There is the 'Club 10' fitness centre, fully equipped with Technogym machines, with a swimming pool and five treatment rooms on the 10th floor of the hotel. From there, our guests enjoy a wonderful view over the city, as well as a sunbathing zone. I’d also like to mention our Imperial, Principe and Royal apartments and the Presidential Suite known throughout Italy, with private swimming pool and terrace. During summer, if guests long for green tranquillity, they can set out into the hotel garden. As for gastronomy, Principe Bar is newly led by mixologist Daniele Celli, and in the Acanto restaurant, Italian delicacies are served by Chef Matteo Gabrielli.
What dishes can your guests look forward to in the Acanto restaurant?
The restaurant is entering a new era with the newly appointed Chef, Matteo Gabrielli. His meals are inspired by the desire to showcase the best of Italian cuisine and its finest seasonal ingredients. Under his creative direction, Acanto introduces a revamped menu, featuring a six-course tasting experience and a dedicated section celebrating traditional Italian cuisine, inspired by Lombard flavours. On Sundays, the restaurant serves a diverse brunch with five themed sections featuring hors d’oeuvres, vegetarian dishes, seafood, premium cheeses and smoked meats. Desserts are taken care of by Pastry Chef Beniamino Passannante.
What attractive places can guests visit in the vicinity of the hotel?
The hotel is located in the Porta Nuova district, just a few minutes' walk from famous districts such as Alta Moda and Brera, where guests go shopping, as well as Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. From my own experience, I can recommend visits to museums such as Pinacoteca di Brera, Museo del Novecento and Milan Museum, as well as to Teatro alla Scala, Duomo di Milano and Gallerie d’Italia. On walks, I go to Parco Sempione and Indro Montanelli or Biblioteca degli Alberi di Milano gardens. I relish coffee most often in Cova, Sant Ambroeus and Marchesi 1824 cafés. For jazz, I set out to Blue Note.
Will you reveal to us what your future plans are for the hotel?
Of course, we will continue to develop the tradition which the hotel has embraced since its founding. This means that, also in future years, we want to be the venue with a unique atmosphere, where the international elite meets. The guests' experience starts even before arrival in the hotel, when we listen carefully to their expectations. Because our main goal always was, is and will be to exceed their expectations, also by creating a tailor-made stay for every individual guest.
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