Barbajada

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Synthesised from Google · TripAdvisor · Reddit · Yelp · 1 food blog · Updated August 2026

The story the reviews tell

Barbajada is a Milanese drink that lives in the steam between coffee and chocolate—equal parts of each, whipped into a frothy cloud with milk and sugar, often crowned with cream. Born in 19th-century Milan, it arrived warm in winter cups alongside panettone, a beverage so beloved it made its creator, waiter Domenico Barbaja, wealthy enough to own the café at Piazza della Scala. You won't find it everywhere now, but when you do, it tastes like old Milan.

What makes this version distinct

Barbajada, also italianized as barbagliata, is a Milanese sweet frothy drink, popular in the 19th century and the early decades of the 20th century, but still occasionally served today. It is made with whipped chocolate, milk and coffee in equal parts, along with any amount of sugar, and possibly topped with cream. It is served warm in winter, usually to accompany desserts such as the panettone or other Milanese delicacies. In the past there was also a cold version served in summer. Reportedly, the recipe was a creation of Domenico Barbaja (hence the name), who was at the time a garzone (waiter) in a café. The drink was so successful that Barbaja eventually grew rich enough to become a theatrical impresario, as well as the owner of a café in the luxury venue of Piazza della Scala.

Signature elements