Bologna is a city where food is a way of life, blending time-honored recipes with fresh, modern twists. From traditional trattorias to trendy farm-to-table eateries, the city offers a wide range of places to eat that showcase the best local flavors. Whether you’re craving classic dishes like tortellini or tagliatelle, or something more innovative, these 10 spots are must-visit destinations for anyone looking to taste the real Bologna.
Hungry for more? Don’t miss our Bologna travel guide and famous foods you need to try in Emilia-Romagna.
Trattoria Da Me
Trattoria Da Me is truly a family affair. Since 1937, two siblings and their respective partners have run this cozy trattoria, with their grandchildren now continuing the tradition. The menu offers unique twists on classic dishes, such as cheese served as gelato and rustic ravioli filled with ricotta but accented by ginger, lemon and anchovies. They honor their nonna with hearty meatballs and peas while riffing on her classics, like passatelli (breadcrumb and Parmigiano “noodles” passed through a ricer) served in a brothy cod ragù.
The menu features traditional cuisine, fantastic pastas, and the cotoletta alla Bolognese (breaded veal cutlet) which earned the trattoria a spot on Alessandro Borghese’s “Quattro Ristoranti” TV show.
Salumeria Simoni
Located in the heart of the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s oldest outdoor market, Salumeria Simoni is a great place to try a selection of quality cured meats from the region. A historic deli that dates back to 1960, this salumeria has perfected the art of l’apericena — a hearty aperitivo that can also be considered dinner.
What to order? Try the “Royal Charcuterie and Cheese” which includes a selection of cured meats, cheese and bread, or the “Parmigiano Reggiano Tasting” where you can savor a variety of aged cheeses with balsamic vinegar from Modena. You won’t regret it!
Ahimè
Ahimè, a trendy farm-to-table restaurant, frequently updates its menu so it’s always worth dropping in to see what’s cooking. The offerings evolve based on the seasonal produce from their garden and the small producers they partner with. Vegetables take center stage here (even in desserts) but don’t miss the decadent meat dishes, either. Dishes aren’t divided into courses here, so we recommend ordering one of everything and sharing. You can sit at a communal table or at a counter watching the chefs in the kitchen.
Trattoria Paradisino
Just 7 km outside the bustling city center, Trattoria Paradisino invites you to “paradise” through a water-green gate and a vintage sign. Established in the 1950s along the then-navigable Reno River, the restaurant-turned-inn remains a popular spot for fishing and escaping the city. Summer is the most magical time to visit when you can enjoy a quiet lunch in the sunny, blooming garden.
Must order? Fried frogs! When in Bologna, you should definitely try this river delicacy.
Indegno La Crescentina 2.0
This street food concept, dedicated to crescentine (Bologna’s beloved fried dough snack), is perfect for a quick break while exploring the city. Traditionally, the dough squares puff up when deep-fried, allowing you to tear them apart and slather them with fresh cheese and mortadella slices. However, the trio of founders has reimagined the crescentina by shallow-flash-frying them to create a fluffier, more fragrant mini-flatbread. These can be folded and stuffed, making for a convenient handheld snack or lunch on the go.
At Indegno La Crescentina 2.0 you’ll find classic flavor combinations — like quality-sourced prosciutto and mortadella with fresh, spreadable squacquerone cheese — along with inventive recipes involving snails, Modenese lard pesto or Sardinian porchetta.
Cremeria La Vecchia Stalla
When you visit Bologna, a proper gelato is a must, especially in spring or summer. The key to choosing the right gelateria? Pay attention to the color of the pistachio gelato. If it’s vivid green, it’s often a sign of an overpriced tourist trap. Italians take immense pride in their pistachios, particularly those from Bronte, and a muted, muddy green is the most reliable indicator of quality. Vecchia Stalla exemplifies this perfectly. Every flavor showcases the earthy hues of its natural ingredients, and their subdued green pistachio is a creamy revelation.
Trattoria Collegio di Spagna
Trattoria Collegio di Spagna is a real hidden gem in the center of Bologna. Small and unassuming, this restaurant serves classics that are as delicious as they are dependable. But what truly sets this place apart is the combination of quality and affordability, making it one of the best budget-friendly dining spots in the city.
Order the tigelle and crescentine. These fried dough circles and squares arrive at the table fragrant and piping hot. The filled version is also really tasty, thanks to the high quality soft squacquerone cheese used for their filling. This trattoria is ideal to visit in summer, as it’s not overly touristy. You’ll enjoy an authentic local atmosphere.
Forno Brisa
With a motto like “fanculo la dieta” (fuck diets), Forno Brisa is the go-to spot for your carb fix. This independent bakery prides itself on slow, wild fermentation, ancient grains, and a supportive work culture. It’s the perfect place to experience Bologna’s bread artistry, third-wave coffee, savory breakfast pastries, and even vegan cakes. If you’re craving a slice, Brisa also serves highly digestible Roman-style pizza al taglio with toppings like ’nduja and burrata, anchovies or classic tomato. Pair your pizza with craft wines by the glass or grab a bottle to take home. This is definitely one of the best bakeries in Bologna!
