Argentina's Crispy Milanesa Craze Hits U.S. Shores with Messi's Backing

A beloved Argentinian dish is making its way to the U.S. thanks to a growing restaurant chain. El Club de la Milanesa, founded in Buenos Aires nearly two decades ago, has opened its first American location in Miami. The brand now plans to expand further, backed by a famous investor and a mission to popularise Milanesa beyond Argentina.

El Club de la Milanesa was launched 19 years ago by Kitty Rosso and Fede Sala. The chain has since grown to 70 locations, all specialising in Milanesa—a thin, breaded, and fried cutlet. While traditionally made with veal, the dish can also feature chicken or eggplant, served with fries and beer or as sandwiches, wraps, or bowls.

The restaurant’s menu offers creative twists, with toppings like fried eggs, prosciutto, mozzarella, or even pizza-style ingredients. A standout is the Napolitana Milanesa, a favourite of Lionel Messi, the soccer legend who owns a 25% stake in the company. Unlike most U.S. beef, the chain uses premium Black Angus beef imported from Argentina. After establishing a strong presence in Argentina, Rosso and Sala opened their first U.S. outlet in Miami in 2022. Two more locations are planned for 2026, with ambitions to franchise the brand across America. The founders also aim to expand into Spain once a larger production centre is set up in Argentina. Their goal is clear: to introduce Milanesa to the U.S. food scene, much like pizza, shawarma, and sushi arrived from Italy, the Middle East, and Japan, respectively.

El Club de la Milanesa is bringing a taste of Argentina to American diners. With Messi’s backing and a focus on quality ingredients, the chain is set to grow. More U.S. locations and potential franchises could soon make Milanesa a familiar name in fast-casual dining.