Bologna is one of my favorite culinary destinations. And while it isn’t as well known as other Italian cities, the food in Bologna is the best! What kind of food can you expect? Well, Bologna is known for cured meats, salty cheeses, handmade pastas, hearty meat sauces, and of course, gelato. And if that doesn’t sound like enough, there’s even a “food theme park” where you can experience and taste all the foods of Italy. So when it comes to culinary travel, the food here is hard to beat. It’s no wonder Bologna’s nickname is “the fat one.”
And in addition to food, there’s also plenty to see and do. (You’ll need something to work up an appetite between meals). But one of the other great things about Bologna is that it’s not as “touristy” as other destinations. So you’ll have fun roaming the endless streets covered in porticoes discovering all the delicious foods and treats.
Here’s a list of all the must-try food in Bologna, our favorite restaurants, must-visit food markets, and the best places for pasta classes. We’ve also included a few tips on other things to see and do in-between meals while you’re there.
WHAT TO EAT IN BOLOGNA
There is so much delicious food in Bologna it can feel overwhelming. Especially if you’re there for just a short trip. Personally, I always want to taste it all! This list of Bologna foods below is quick guide on what to taste while visiting the area.
Tagliatelle al Ragu (a.k.a. Pasta Bolognese)
When it comes to Bologna food, the famous Bolognese tagliatelle al ragu is a must! And you won’t find spaghetti Bolognese in Bologna. For one, you’re in Bologna, so the sauce will simply be called “ragù.” Second, the Bolognese don’t eat spaghetti, they prefer a thicker, egg-based pasta noodle called tagliatelle because it holds the sauce better.
Ricotta and Fig Gelato
Bologna has a long history with Italy’s most famous dessert, gelato. Three of Italy’s top-rated gelatarias in Bologna! But if I had to pick one flavor for you to try, it would be ricotta and fig, or “ricotta e fichi.”
Tortellini in Brodo
This pasta dish is another must-taste when it comes to Bolognese Food. Bologna is known for tortellini and tortelloni, the small and large versions of a pasta dumpling that’s shaped a bit like a hat. Tortellini, is typically stuffed with seasoned ground meat and is most commonly served in a broth as a soup.
Lasagna Bolognese
Lasagna is originally from the Emilia Romagna region, of which Bologna was the center of commerce. But lasagna Bolognese is a little different that what you’re used to. It is layered with a rich and flavorful meat-based ragu, but what makes it different is that it’s typically served with green noodles. Of course, in Bologna, you’ll see it simply listed at lasagna on the menu.
Passatelli
Passatelli is one pasta you typically won’t find back home. This rustic pasta from the Emilia Romagna region is made with Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, eggs bread crumbs, and nutmeg. You can find it in a broth or served with a simple sauce. The photo of passatelli below is served with sage and cheese.
Mortadella
Mortadella is a lunch meat made of cured pork and spiced with black pepper, and sometimes pistachios! It’s definitely NOT baloney. Mortadella typically sliced thin and served with other charcuterie or on a piadina. It’s a cured meat you’ll see quite a lot in Bologna.
Piadina
Piadina is a rustic Italian flatbread made with flour, lard , and salt. Some piadina can be made with olive oil too. You’ll see piadina sandwiches, and torn piadina served with meats on a charcuterie board. When I stayed in Bologna, I even had Piadina with Nutella for breakfast in the morning. But my favorite was with Mortadella and fig – a perfect sweet and salty combination.
Parmigiano Reggiano
The King of cheeses! Parmigiano Reggiano is a regional cheese you’re probably familiar with. It’s a hard cheese that’s usually grated on pasta, but in Bologna you’ll also find served as bite sized crumbles. Sometimes Parmigiano Reggiano is also served with a little drizzle of balsamic vinegar on top.
Aperol Spritz
Happy hour in Italy is known as enjoying an aperitivo. And Aperol Spritz is the most common happy hour cocktail. It’s made with Aperol, Prosecco, and soda water. Although sometimes Campari is also added. It’s typically served in a large wine class with a slice of orange.
Lambrusco
This is not your grandmother’s Lambrusco, trust me. Lambrusco served in the United States has given it a bad rap. But this bubbly red wine is a regional specialty, with the vineyards located just north of Bologna in Reggio-Emilia. Proper Lambrusco is an effervescent red with a jammy flavor. Give it a try!
Balsamic Vinegar
Just a short drive north of Bologna is the town of Modena, known for making balsamic vinegar, or Balsamico di Modena. This balsamic vinegar is the real deal! Balsamico di Modena is aged in wood barrels called a battery and tastes bitter sweet. You’ll often see balsamic vinegar served alongside other Bologna foods as it’s a staple at most dining room tables. The most common way to serve it is drizzled on Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Shakerato
A shakerato is an Italian version of iced coffee and is made by shaking a double shot of espresso with ice and a bit of sugar in a martini shaker. The result is an ice cold, slightly sweet coffee, with a bit of foam or crema on top.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN BOLOGNA ITALY
I’ve spent a couple of summers in Bologna and it now feels like home each time I go. And there are so many great Bologna restaurants, it seems there’s always a new one to try! Here’s a list of recommendations for where I love to eat in Bologna!
Osteria dell’Orsa
This casual osteria is pretty popular and will often have a queue forming outside just before they open. Located by the university, Osteria dell’Orsa is known for traditional Bolognese food like tagliatelle al ragu, tortellini in brodo, and inexpensive (but delicious!) local wine sold by the carafe.
Address: Via Mentana, 1, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy | osteriadellorsa.com
Trattoria Ana Maria
Also located near the university, but slightly more upscale and family-style, is Trattoria Ana Maria. This trattoria has been around for over 30 years and the walls have interesting stories to tell as it’s covered in photos and cards from friends, celebrities and politicians. Trattoria Ana Maria is known for traditional Bolognese food. I recommend ordering the lasagna verde, and zuppa inglese for dessert.
Address: Via delle Belle Arti, 17/A, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy | trattoriannamaria.com
Osteria dei Grifoni
Tucked away on a quiet street in the middle of a neighborhood, this is the type of place where locals go for weeknight meal. It’s quaint, almost cellar-like, and the other diners might strike up a conversation to ask how you found their neighborhood osteria. The menu is simple, rustic. The pasta – amazing. Wine selection is primarily local. Address: Via de’ Griffoni, 5/2a, 40123 Bologna BO, Italy | osteriadeigrifoni.it
Ristorante Osteria La Traviata
Another local favorite that serves fresh, handmade pasta. Can one really ever eat too pasta in Italy? I don’t think so. This restaurant focuses on incorporating seasonal ingredients into the menu, things like porcini mushrooms or white truffles. The ossobuco is amazing and the desserts are a must.
Address: Via Urbana, 5, 40123 Bologna BO, Italy | ristorantelatraviatabologna.it
Al Sangiovese
This restaurant was actually recommended by fellow food travelers Tommy and Meg. Al Sangiovese is located on the outskirts of the historic city center. The menu offers a pretty extensive list of traditional Bolognese food. Try the passatelli, a regional pasta made with bread crumbs, eggs, and grated Pargmigiano Reggiano cheese. Order passatelli in brodo (in broth), or with butter and sage. Address: Vicolo del Falcone, 2, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy | alsangiovese.com
La Bottega di Via Montegrappa 13
This is a great place to go for an aperitivo (kind of like Italian happy hour) and fresh cut local meats and cheeses. Or get a simple glass of wine and plate of handmade pasta. The owner, Elisabetta, also offers pasta making classes by reservation. Address: Via Monte Grappa, 13, 40121 Bologna BO, Italy | facebook.com/BottegaMontegrappa
Pizzeria Due Torri
f you’re in the mood for a quick bite and huge slice of pizza, look no further than Pizzeria Due Torri. Even though near a tourist attraction (the main towers), they serve surprisingly amazing pizza with fresh ingredients and really large slices for about a euro for a single slice. Address: Str. Maggiore, 3, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy | pizzeriaduetorribologna.it
WHERE TO GET THE BEST GELATO IN BOLOGNA
Are you ready for dessert? I can’t talk about Bologna food without mentioning GELATO! The very first commercial gelato machine was made in Bologna in 1927. And, three of the top seven gelataria’s of Italy are located in Bologna. Many Bolognese even consider Bologna the capitol of gelato. But as you’ll discover when visiting Italy, that title is always up for debate.
One thing is for sure, Bologna has some damn good artisanal gelato. Here’s a list of Bologna’s best artisanal gelatarias.
La Sorbetteria Castiglione
A short walk just outside the city center (and underneath one of Bologna’s original city gates) is a local favorite – La Sorbetteria Castiglione. If you go on a weekend, expect there to be a wait. This award-winning gelataria is known for flavors like Dolce EMMA (fresh ricotta and caramelized fig). La Sorbetteria Castiglione also has a few diet-friendly flavors too such as gelato made with organic rice milk and low sugar fruit sorbetto. Address: Via Castiglione, 44 d/e, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy | lasorbetteria.it
La Torinese
Located right in the heart of historic downtown Bologna near Piazza Maggiore, this is the oldest continually running gelataria in Bologna. They offer artisanal flavors like honey and rosemary, or lactose-free buffalo milk. The honey and rosemary gelato was definitely one of my favorites, and I confess, I may have had more than one! Address: Piazza Re Enzo, 1/C, Bologna BO, Italy | latorinese1888.com
Cremeria Santo Stefano
One of the best gelataria’s in Bologna, Cremeria Santo Stefano was awarded the coveted “Tre Coni” or “Three Cones” award from the Italian culinary guide, Gambero Rosso. It’s a little bit of a walk, but definitely worth it! My favorite fwas the Cremea Quick walk near the 7 churches. Address: Via Santo Stefano, 70/c, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy | Facebook.com/CremeriaSantoStefano
Cremeria Cavour
Tucked away behind Basilica di San Petronio near the luxury mall, Galleria Cavour, is another local favorite — Cremeria Cavour. There always seems to be a line here, but the wait is worth it. Grab a piccolo cone of your favorite flavor and sit in the small park across the street and talk to the locals there. Address: Piazza Camillo Benso Conte di Cavour, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy | cremeriacavour.it
Gelateria Islanda
If you plan on making the pilgrimage up the 3.8 kilometers climb to the Sanctuary of San Luca, plan to make a stop at this gelataria which is located right near the start of the famous hill-ascending Portico di San Luca. Known for their vegan line of handmade gelato flavors, my favorite here was their seasonal bright and floral lavender gelato and the Crema Bolognese. Address: Via Saragozza, 65, 40123 Bologna BO, Italy | gelateriaislanda.it
BOLOGNA FOOD MARKETS
When visiting Bologna, one of the top food cities in the world, you simply must walk through some of the markets. I have them listed in order here in order from oldest to newest.
The “Quadrilatero”
The Quadrilatero covers and entire city block (from Via Farini, to Via Castiglione, to Via Rizzoli, to Piazza Maggiore) where in mideval times all the butchers, fisherman bakeries, and produce stands were located. Today, you’ll find most of the action along Via Pescherie Vecchie amid the same historic architecture which makes it feel like a step back in time. Arrive early before the crowds, grab a cornetto at Caffè del Mercato, and take stroll through the market stalls and shops.
Mercato di Mezzo
Right inside the Quadrilatero and accessible from Via Pescherie Vecchie mentioned above, is Bologna’s very first indoor market – Mercato de Mezzo. It includes three floors packed with food stalls, including a brewery! Take a walk through and look at everything before deciding on what to eat. I suggest sharing a few plates with friends to try a variety of different traditional Italian dishes. | BolognaWelcome.com
Rachelle and Monica making pasta in Bologna.
Mercato Delle Erbe
This indoor market historically only used to sell vegetables, but now offers meats, cheeses, olives and a food court too. When the weather is nice, you’ll also find tables set up outside in the small courtyard behind the market. While you’re here, be sure to also check out the famous pasta shop, Le Sfogline. | mercatodelleerbe.eu
FICO Eataly World
FICO is brand new, modern, and is one of the largest food halls in the world. I’d consider it sort of an Italian food playground or museum, featuring artisinal foods from every region in Italy. Located just a short drive outside of Bologna’s city center and is easily accessible by taxi or by bus. Check out our complete guide to FICO Eataly World to find out more.
PASTA CLASSES IN BOLOGNA
If you feel inspired by all the delicious food in Bologna and want to learn how to make fresh handmade pasta, learn more about Bolognese cuisine, or even how to make gelato, here’s where you can take a cooking class during your visit.
Le Sfogline
Sisters Monica and Daniella are legendary for their homemade pasta and have been getting media attention around the world, including a recent feature in the Netflix series, Ugly Delicious. I had the opportunity to take a pasta making class with Monica one summer and it was some of the most fun I’ve ever had in a kitchen. Le Sfogline (which, incidentally, is the name given to those who prepare handmade pasta) offer pasta lessons in summer. Definitely call in advance to book. | lesfogline.it
FICO
If there is anything in Italian cooking you want to learn, you can learn how to do it at FICO. From pasta, gelato, chocolate, cheese, and bakery treats, they have on average 25 different classes offered throughout the week. Be sure to check FICO’s educational calendar and book in advance. | eatalyworld.it
La Bottega Di Via Montegrappa
La Bottega offers pasta making classes in the quaintest of shops. It’s also a great place for an apperativo and fresh cut meats and cheeses. Call ahead to book or contact them on their La Bottega Facebook page.
THINGS TO DO IN BOLOGNA (BESIDES EAT)
I mentioned Bologna’s foodie nickname above, so here’s a little history behind it. As the capitol of the Emilia Romagna region, Bologna has earned three nicknames throughout history. La Dotta, which means ‘the learned one’ – for Bologna’s university which is the oldest in the world. La Rossa, which means ‘the red one’ – for the terra cotta rooftops throughout the city. And the third nickname, La Grassa, or “The Fat One,” for Bologna’s legendary cuisine.
Overall Bologna is a great mix of not just food, but culture and history too. Here are a few ways you can work up an appetite in-between meals.
The Two Towers
During Medieval times, Bologna was a city of stone skyscrapers. Over 100 towers made up the skyline! And modern day historians speculate they were built by rich families wanting a higher view than their neighbor.
Artwork Credit: “Medieval Bologna” by Toni Pecoraro
Only a couple of towers are still standing today. The two most famous of those, Garisenda and Asinelli, are the symbol of Bologna. You can climb up to the top of Asinelli for a great view of the city. And the 498 steps is a great way to burn off all the hearty pasta you’ll be consuming. You can purchase tickets to climb the tower at the Bologna Welcome Center in Piazza Maggiore. (Also, one of the pizza places I mentioned above is right under these towers) | duetorribologna.com
Sanctuary de San Luca
Religious devotees (as well as fitness aficionados) climb the 3.8 km under 666 portico arches — the longest stretch of porticoes in the world — up to Basilica San Luca. Some say the number of arches and the way the path winds up the hill like a snake represents the Madonna overcoming the devil.
Whether you go for religion, fitness, or just as a tourist, it’s a pilgrimage worth the view. Once you arrive at Sanctuary de San Luca, you can climb up to the attic for more panoramic view of historic Bologna. And if walking up is not your thing, take a taxi or ride the San Luca Express train. | sanlucabo.org
Archiginnasio of Bologna
Originally a part of the University of Bologna, the Archignnasio of Bologna is fascinating to walk through. It houses the Archiginnasio Municipal Library and as well as the Anatomical Theatre. The library is stunning and houses antique and rare books, and the theatre was built in 1636 to teach anatomy lectures for the growing field of medicine in the fifteenth century. | archiginnasio.it
Ancient Churches
Of course, because it’s Italy, there are grand churches with breathtaking architecture to visit. The biggest, Basilica di San Petronio, sits right along Piazza Maggiore and offers guided tours. What I found most fascinating about Basilica di San Petronio is that there is a meridian line that measures the day of the year. And it is one of the largest astronomical instruments in the world. Giovani Cassini installed the meridian line in 1655 while he was teaching astronomy at the university.
There’s also Cattedrale Metropolitana di San Pietro which will occasionally open its bell tower for visitors to climb; and the Basilica of Santo Stefano, also known as the Seven Churches.
WHERE TO STAY IN BOLOGNA
Hotel Corona D’oro — For a small, luxury, boutique hotel stay in the city center, but on a quiet street, I recommend Hotel Cornoa D’oro. It is located right next to the famous Caffe Terzi, a perfect place for your morning coffee. Address: | hco.it
Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni — When it comes to location, you really can’t get any closer to the center of town than being on Via dell’Indipendenza . This is a bigger hotel on a main street in the city center and walking distance to just about everything you’d want to see and do. Address: Via dell’Indipendenza, 8, 40121 Bologna BO, Italy | grandhotelmajestic.duetorrihotels.com
Halldis — Live like a local and stay in an apartment in the center of town with Halldis. The best part about and apartment stay is that you can cook up some of your delicious market finds in the kitchen. Hallids has different sized apartments available, from studios to thee and four bedrooms. | Halldis.com
View from our Halldis apartment.
HOW TO GET TO BOLOGNA
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport – BLQ is an international airport close to the city of Bologna. However, flying from the United States you will likely have a connection in Rome or Milan, in which case you would also have the option to take the train into Bologna from either of those two cities.
Train from Milan – Taking the traain from Milan Airport to Bologna is quite easy and cost effective. There is a small train that shuttles between the airport and Milian Central Station, Malpensa Express. It runs about every half hour and you can purchase your tickets right there at the airport. From Milan Central, FrecciaRossa 1OOO is a high speed train that will take you all the way to Bologna Central. One thing I have to mention about Italy’s train stations, they’ve changed a lot since the first time I visited! They make it very easy for tourists to navigate as most stations now have signage and announcements in both English and Italian. It’s a fun way to travel. | trenitalia.com
TAKING A TAXI
American ride-share companies don’t operate in Bologna (yet). But there is a local taxi app you can download and it is just as easy to use. Download the app called “TaxiClick easy.” We used it to easily order an early morning ride to the AirPort and the experience was seamless.
BOLOGNA PHOTO GALLERY
Here are some of our favorite photos from trips to Bologna to give you a feeling for the city.
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Updated 2020.
I love Italian food! Amazing post!
Thanks! And me too! Everything seems more delicious in Italy. 🙂
Thank you for the article! Very interesting blog. The photos are just wonderful. On the Internet, there are not enough detailed guides about where you can stay and eat deliciously.
Without a doubt one of the most underrated food cities in the world!!! We’ve been to Bologna 3 times and keep finding new spots to check out. Judging from this post, looks like we can add a few more to check out.
I so agree! Part of me wants to shout it from the rooftops … and another part of me wants to keep it a secret. LOL!
I really enjoyed this article. I love the bit about markets and cooking classes! I honestly never thought about going to a coming class while on vacation but I will now. Thanks so much for the beautiful pics and recommendations.
I wasn’t sure where to Italy fly in October, as tickets are in this time super cheap. Thinking between Pescara and Catania, but now have another option and favorite destinations. Thanks a lot 😀
I love Italian food! Amazing post! <3
Great !
I want to eat all these things Nyammm.
Thank you for sharing such a useful information here
Very Nice food. I Really liked it.
Excellent post, Rachelle, and loads of beautiful photos. I have been a couple of years ago in Bologna and it’s a culinary paradise. One question: did you have a good negroni somewhere in Bologna? I plan to return to Bologna soon and since you wrote such an amazing post I thought of asking for your recommendation 🙂
Oooh! Good question! I love a good gin, but mostly ordered gin and tonics while I was there. I’d say most bars in Bologna will make a good negroni. Le Stanze is pretty good, great atmosphere too. Even though it seems touristy, I actually had some pretty decent drinks (and wines too!) at all the cafes and bars in Piazza Maggiore. And there’s a little cafe, it will look like a healthy place with a juice bar, on Via degli Orefici that made amazing gin and tonics. They’re not online, so I can’t give you any other information other than the street name. LOL! It’s a pretty short street, though, so you’ll see them I’m sure. Enjoy Bologna!
Thank you for your answer, Rachelle! I wrote everything done, so I will try to visit La Stanze and search for that pre-digital cafe at Via Degli Orefici 🙂 Sorry for my belated reply, didn’t get a notification that you replied.
All the best,
George
The pictures are wonderful!
I should think about taking breaks regularly and enjoying those tasty sweets
These are very delicious foods that you have mentioned, I just can’t wait to taste them. In my bucket list italy is the second travel destination in next month. I am really excited to check this foods out.
Very nice post! That’s a great website I have visited, thank you for your essentials words. Give a billion thumbs to you
Very nice post! That’s a great website I have visited, thank you for your essentials words. Give a billion thumbs to you
Thanks for tips. I love pasta and everything Italy offers. Your little guide will help me when I get to Bologna!
Very nice post!
That’s a great website I have visited.
Thanks for sharing with us.
Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide! ?