Internationally known, world renowned, and yet, somehow.. dare we say.. Bologna is underrated and under appreciated? When folks ask the masses where to visit on their first (and often, only) trip to Italy - Rome, Venice, and Florence (justifiably so) will win top billing. Often, it’ll just make the itinerary as a lunch stop, if it’s so lucky. When it’s featured on famous travel shows, it often barely makes a cameo as there are such great places around it to go to (Imola for an F1 race or Modena to make the pilgrimage to Massimo Bottura - just a couple of examples).
We’re here to tell you that Bologna is a wonderful place that shouldn’t be skipped. It is the capital of the Emila-Romagna region, which is often referred to as the breadbasket of Italy. Known by it’s three names: La Dotta, La Rossa, and La Grassa (the learned, the red, and the fat), Bologna has layers to uncover. The learned: the oldest university (with 80,000 enrolled! - in the world - check. The red: multiple meanings, as the city is red as that’s the main color of brick used, but also could signify its historical political leanings, and the famous car brands (Ferrari, Ducati, Lamborghini, and Maserati) that have been founded in or close by. And finally, the fat: so mainly famous foods from here and the region that have worldwide impact: mortadella (everything you know about bologna doesn’t do the original justice), tortellini pasta, tagliatelle al ragù (no, not spaghetti 😀) all hail from Bologna and shouldn’t be missed.
Oh! And Bologna is centrally located with easy connections to Florence, Venice, and Milan. And don’t miss out (really, you can’t, they’re everywhere) on the kilometers of portici - it makes the strolls through Bologna that much more magical. When you make it here, you’ll wonder what took you so long. We definitely did!
(emilia-romagna)
bologna, italy
Jump to:
what to drink, what to try, helpful resources
where to eat
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This gem of a restaurant could not be better, even if it tried. The quality of the food is unmatched - the salumi, the pasta, the desserts, oh my! The lively and welcoming atmosphere, the great service paired with incredible food, made this one of our favorite restaurants ever. We dined here 3 times in one week so we could try as many dishes as we could - and they were all great (and consistent)! Make sure you call ahead to make a reservation because they book up quickly.
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
This is a gem that is worth seeking out. You’ll try dishes here that you won’t find anywhere else. This well-designed, inventive restaurant has a highly-attentive and knowledgeable staff that made our dining experience superb! Our favorites included: The gamberi (shrimp) antipasto - served on a bed of asparagus cream with ‘nduja oil. The flavors blended together with just a hint of spice. The calamari “in zimino” - which means braised with chard - antipasto. It has a tiger milk that resembled a Thai curry. The spoja lorda primi - a square, stuffed pasta that had a ton of flavors with small bites of frutti di mare (assorted shellfish). While we ordered a la carte, they also have tasting menus that looked amazing too!
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna all'una crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
A table for two by the window, please! We were introduced to salsiccia e gramigna in a crema di parmigiano reggiano (aged 24 months) here. It was to die for. We came back for a second time just so that we could both order this dish and not share! The menu offers a traditional menu and a creative menu (traditional dishes with a twist) along with an extensive wine selection. The selezione di salumi emiliani con crescentine was a stellar starter. And if you are a dessert person, opt for the crema catalana alla nocciola - hazelnut creme brulee! The tiramisu and zuppa inglese were also delicious! The staff is welcoming, helpful, and were patient with us while we practiced our Italian! A highly recommended stop.
It’s hard to go wrong here. The three items we ordered were outstanding, with accompanying tastes you won’t find elsewhere in Bologna (we didn't, at least!). Their capon broth used for their tortellini in brodo is divine. On that particular day, we were craving a steak and knew that this was the place to go to. We ordered the Blonde d'Aquitaine which was topped with a "carpaccio" of black truffle and accompanied by a high end olive oil. Delivered on a searing cast iron plank, you’re going to want to bottle up the leftover oil and take it home - it's so delicious! Save your appetite for this one, as there’s a ton to order and every bite is fantastic.
It’s hard to go wrong here. The three items we ordered were outstanding, with accompanying tastes you won’t find elsewhere in Bologna (we didn't, at least!). Their capon broth used for their tortellini in brodo is divine. On that particular day, we were craving a steak and knew that this was the place to go to. We ordered the Blonde d'Aquitaine which was topped with a "carpaccio" of black truffle and accompanied by a high end olive oil. Delivered on a searing cast iron plank, you’re going to want to bottle up the leftover oil and take it home - it's so delicious! Save your appetite for this one, as there’s a ton to order and every bite is fantastic.
It’s hard to go wrong here. The three items we ordered were outstanding, with accompanying tastes you won’t find elsewhere in Bologna (we didn't, at least!). Their capon broth used for their tortellini in brodo is divine. On that particular day, we were craving a steak and knew that this was the place to go to. We ordered the Blonde d'Aquitaine which was topped with a "carpaccio" of black truffle and accompanied by a high end olive oil. Delivered on a searing cast iron plank, you’re going to want to bottle up the leftover oil and take it home - it's so delicious! Save your appetite for this one, as there’s a ton to order and every bite is fantastic.
Located at Piazza Santo Stefano, this is a restaurant that has something for everyone. First, choosing where to sit: if it’s nice weather, why not sit out on the piazza with the ambiance of the beautiful basilica next door and enjoy an alfresco meal? Not a fan of eating outside? The inside is beautifully decorated - trattoria charm, but make it upscale. Next: the menu. It has a ton of choices, but not in an overwhelming way. The antipasti, primi, and secondi sections all have options from a traditional, modern, or seafood option. You could definitely come here a few times and never eat the same thing! We opted for super traditional dishes for this meal - Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Gramigna con Salsiccia.
Located at Piazza Santo Stefano, this is a restaurant that has something for everyone. First, choosing where to sit: if it’s nice weather, why not sit out on the piazza with the ambiance of the beautiful basilica next door and enjoy an alfresco meal? Not a fan of eating outside? The inside is beautifully decorated - trattoria charm, but make it upscale. Next: the menu. It has a ton of choices, but not in an overwhelming way. The antipasti, primi, and secondi sections all have options from a traditional, modern, or seafood option. You could definitely come here a few times and never eat the same thing! We opted for super traditional dishes for this meal - Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Gramigna con Salsiccia.
Located at Piazza Santo Stefano, this is a restaurant that has something for everyone. First, choosing where to sit: if it’s nice weather, why not sit out on the piazza with the ambiance of the beautiful basilica next door and enjoy an alfresco meal? Not a fan of eating outside? The inside is beautifully decorated - trattoria charm, but make it upscale. Next: the menu. It has a ton of choices, but not in an overwhelming way. The antipasti, primi, and secondi sections all have options from a traditional, modern, or seafood option. You could definitely come here a few times and never eat the same thing! We opted for super traditional dishes for this meal - Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and Gramigna con Salsiccia.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
Sfoglia Rina is a first come, first served establishment where you wait in line to be seated. The lines remind of us of trying to get BBQ in our hometown of Austin, Texas - get there early or be prepared to wait. Is it worth the wait? We think so! Once it's your turn, you'll get escorted to your table where you can look at the chalkboard for the dishes of the day (or choose from their other menu offerings). This place is all about their fresh, handmade pasta, and you can't go wrong no matter which dish you choose. We recommend saving room for dessert since they are also made in house. If you don't want to wait in line, no worries. They have a takeaway option - just walk inside and order at the counter.
L’Emporio uses the highest ingredients for its meat, cheeses, and breads, mostly procured from producers of the region and/or local to Italy. We recommend ordering the tagliere - a large selection of artisanal meats and cheeses. While it comes with bread, don't forget to add some tigelle (a typical round bread of the region), as they are absolutely delicious - the best we've tried. Pair this with a couple drinks of your choice and you’ve got the perfect aperitivo, lunch, or light dinner! They also have a large selection of wine and sandwiches which look equally as amazing.
L’Emporio uses the highest ingredients for its meat, cheeses, and breads, mostly procured from producers of the region and/or local to Italy. We recommend ordering the tagliere - a large selection of artisanal meats and cheeses. While it comes with bread, don't forget to add some tigelle (a typical round bread of the region), as they are absolutely delicious - the best we've tried. Pair this with a couple drinks of your choice and you’ve got the perfect aperitivo, lunch, or light dinner! They also have a large selection of wine and sandwiches which look equally as amazing.
L’Emporio uses the highest ingredients for its meat, cheeses, and breads, mostly procured from producers of the region and/or local to Italy. We recommend ordering the tagliere - a large selection of artisanal meats and cheeses. While it comes with bread, don't forget to add some tigelle (a typical round bread of the region), as they are absolutely delicious - the best we've tried. Pair this with a couple drinks of your choice and you’ve got the perfect aperitivo, lunch, or light dinner! They also have a large selection of wine and sandwiches which look equally as amazing.
L’Emporio uses the highest ingredients for its meat, cheeses, and breads, mostly procured from producers of the region and/or local to Italy. We recommend ordering the tagliere - a large selection of artisanal meats and cheeses. While it comes with bread, don't forget to add some tigelle (a typical round bread of the region), as they are absolutely delicious - the best we've tried. Pair this with a couple drinks of your choice and you’ve got the perfect aperitivo, lunch, or light dinner! They also have a large selection of wine and sandwiches which look equally as amazing.
L’Emporio uses the highest ingredients for its meat, cheeses, and breads, mostly procured from producers of the region and/or local to Italy. We recommend ordering the tagliere - a large selection of artisanal meats and cheeses. While it comes with bread, don't forget to add some tigelle (a typical round bread of the region), as they are absolutely delicious - the best we've tried. Pair this with a couple drinks of your choice and you’ve got the perfect aperitivo, lunch, or light dinner! They also have a large selection of wine and sandwiches which look equally as amazing.
This is one of our favorite lunches! We ordered the Piatto Aperitivo (with a half order of the crescentine fritte) and were stunned when out came a 3-tiered stand full of incredible bites. The crescentine fritte pairs perfectly with the cured meats. Polpette e Crescentine has two locations. We went to the Piazza Aldrovandi location - an area with a ton of restaurants that operate out of little sheds along the main street, with either alfresco seating or takeaway options. Come early or call ahead to reserve a table. This area is swarming with students and young professionals. It is a very lively scene and always busy!
This is one of our favorite lunches! We ordered the Piatto Aperitivo (with a half order of the crescentine fritte) and were stunned when out came a 3-tiered stand full of incredible bites. The crescentine fritte pairs perfectly with the cured meats. Polpette e Crescentine has two locations. We went to the Piazza Aldrovandi location - an area with a ton of restaurants that operate out of little sheds along the main street, with either alfresco seating or takeaway options. Come early or call ahead to reserve a table. This area is swarming with students and young professionals. It is a very lively scene and always busy!
This is one of our favorite lunches! We ordered the Piatto Aperitivo (with a half order of the crescentine fritte) and were stunned when out came a 3-tiered stand full of incredible bites. The crescentine fritte pairs perfectly with the cured meats. Polpette e Crescentine has two locations. We went to the Piazza Aldrovandi location - an area with a ton of restaurants that operate out of little sheds along the main street, with either alfresco seating or takeaway options. Come early or call ahead to reserve a table. This area is swarming with students and young professionals. It is a very lively scene and always busy!
This is one of our favorite lunches! We ordered the Piatto Aperitivo (with a half order of the crescentine fritte) and were stunned when out came a 3-tiered stand full of incredible bites. The crescentine fritte pairs perfectly with the cured meats. Polpette e Crescentine has two locations. We went to the Piazza Aldrovandi location - an area with a ton of restaurants that operate out of little sheds along the main street, with either alfresco seating or takeaway options. Come early or call ahead to reserve a table. This area is swarming with students and young professionals. It is a very lively scene and always busy!
This is one of our favorite lunches! We ordered the Piatto Aperitivo (with a half order of the crescentine fritte) and were stunned when out came a 3-tiered stand full of incredible bites. The crescentine fritte pairs perfectly with the cured meats. Polpette e Crescentine has two locations. We went to the Piazza Aldrovandi location - an area with a ton of restaurants that operate out of little sheds along the main street, with either alfresco seating or takeaway options. Come early or call ahead to reserve a table. This area is swarming with students and young professionals. It is a very lively scene and always busy!
We made many a trip to Forno Brisa for breakfast during our time in Bologna! While we've always known that not all cornetti (croissants) are created equal, this place solidified that. You can always tell the quality of the pastry somewhere by simply ordering a plain croissant (cornetto vuoto). These were fresh, moist, and flaky (the right amount). Not a croissant for breakfast person? No problem. They also have a ton of other pastries available, as well as focaccia, and great coffee.
We made many a trip to Forno Brisa for breakfast during our time in Bologna! While we've always known that not all cornetti (croissants) are created equal, this place solidified that. You can always tell the quality of the pastry somewhere by simply ordering a plain croissant (cornetto vuoto). These were fresh, moist, and flaky (the right amount). Not a croissant for breakfast person? No problem. They also have a ton of other pastries available, as well as focaccia, and great coffee.
We made many a trip to Forno Brisa for breakfast during our time in Bologna! While we've always known that not all cornetti (croissants) are created equal, this place solidified that. You can always tell the quality of the pastry somewhere by simply ordering a plain croissant (cornetto vuoto). These were fresh, moist, and flaky (the right amount). Not a croissant for breakfast person? No problem. They also have a ton of other pastries available, as well as focaccia, and great coffee.
We made many a trip to Forno Brisa for breakfast during our time in Bologna! While we've always known that not all cornetti (croissants) are created equal, this place solidified that. You can always tell the quality of the pastry somewhere by simply ordering a plain croissant (cornetto vuoto). These were fresh, moist, and flaky (the right amount). Not a croissant for breakfast person? No problem. They also have a ton of other pastries available, as well as focaccia, and great coffee.
We made many a trip to Forno Brisa for breakfast during our time in Bologna! While we've always known that not all cornetti (croissants) are created equal, this place solidified that. You can always tell the quality of the pastry somewhere by simply ordering a plain croissant (cornetto vuoto). These were fresh, moist, and flaky (the right amount). Not a croissant for breakfast person? No problem. They also have a ton of other pastries available, as well as focaccia, and great coffee.
what to drink
what to drink
Have you ever had a sparkling red wine? If not, lambrusco is a great one to start with! Made with the grape of the same name, this is a refreshing wine that goes well with all the local favorites - gnocco fritto, dried meats, aged cheeses - or even just by itself! Lambrusco is known for its slightly sweet and fizzy characteristics. You can also opt for a drier version - look for 'secco' in the name - if you prefer!
lambrusco
what to try
what to try
This region has an abundance of incredible cured meats. Like wine, these meats are aged from months to years, depending on the type and desired outcome. You may be familiar with prosciutto, but have you ever tried mortadella? Known in the United States as something out of an Oscar Mayer package, the original hails in comparison. Order a tagliere di salumi (charcuterie board), add some local cheeses (formaggi) and a side of tigelle (thin, round bread), and savor all of the wonderful flavors.
mortadella
Tortellini in brodo consists of a small, stuffed pasta served in a flavorful broth (brodo). Tortellini is typically filled with a mixture of meats, cheese, or vegetables. The broth is a light and savory soup, usually made from chicken/capon, beef, or vegetable stock.
Balanzoni is another type of stuffed pasta originating from Bologna. Often stuffed with ricotta and mortadella, and doused in a butter sauce, this green pasta gets its color from being prepared with spinach.
tortellini in brodo
balanzoni
The breaded veal cutlet - Bolognese style. Unlike the crisp, crunchy version found in Milano, this version is rich and creamy - layered with prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano melted atop.
cotoletta alla bolognese
Crescentine fritte are small squares or diamonds of fried dough. Typically served hot and accompanied by mixed cold cuts (affettati misti), such as prosciutto or salami. Although filling, crescentine fritte makes for a great starter and is one of our favorite things to eat in the region.
Layered with green pasta and ragù, lasagna verde is a Bolognese classic that is traditionally served on Sundays.
crescentine fritte con affettati misti
lasagna verde con ragù alla bolognese
helpful resources
helpful
resources
This site contains affiliate links which we may receive a small commission from at no additional cost to you.
recent posts
Touring turin (torino)
home base in verona
picturesque portofino
The Full Story »
Touring turin (torino)
Venice in winter
lake como is calling
The Full Story »
home base in verona
The Full Story »
Touring turin (torino)
The Full Story »
Touring turin (torino)
The Full Story »
Venice in winter
The Full Story »
not so gritty Genoa
The Full Story »
back to bologna
