As an Italian language teacher, my students often ask me, "Where should we eat when we visit Italy?" Whether it's for a weekend trip or a longer holiday, finding the best places to eat is always a top priority. Bologna, known as the food capital of Italy, is one of their favourite destinations, and for good reason! With its rich food traditions and incredible dishes, it’s a must-visit for any food lover.
To help you out, I've put together this guide to my favourite places to eat in Bologna’s city centre. And if you want to make your foodie experience even better, learning a bit of Italian will go a long way! Why not join one of my Italian classes at learnitalianmanchester.co.uk before you jet off to Bologna? You'll be able to order like a local and make the most of your trip!
Bologna, known as "La Grassa" (The Fat One) for its rich culinary tradition, offers a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, especially in the historical city centre. From handmade pasta to local wines, this city will treat your taste buds to something special.
In this food guide to Bologna City Centre, I’ve gathered some of my favourite spots, where you can experience true Bolognese cuisine.
Now, without further ado, here’s my curated guide to Bologna’s best places to eat:
Where to Eat in Bologna - My List of Go To Places
Sfoglia Rina
Via Castiglione, 5/b, 40124 Bologna
www.sfogliarina.it
If you're a fan of fresh, handmade pasta, then Sfoglia Rina is a must-visit. This charming restaurant specialises in traditional Bolognese pasta dishes, made daily on-site. Located just a short stroll from Piazza Maggiore, Sfoglia Rina offers a casual, welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy high-quality, authentic food at reasonable prices.
Their tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo are top picks, but don’t overlook their rotating menu of seasonal specials, which highlight the best local ingredients. What makes Sfoglia Rina extra special is the option to buy fresh pasta to take home, so you can recreate the Bolognese magic in your own kitchen.
Be sure to arrive early or book ahead as this place is very popular with both locals and tourists alike!
Trattoria Anna Maria
Via delle Belle Arti, 17/A, 40126 Bologna
www.trattoriaannamaria.com
If you want to experience a true taste of Bolognese food tradition, Trattoria Anna Maria is a must-visit and deserves a place on your list of where to eat in Bologna. This family-run trattoria has been serving up authentic dishes for over 40 years, and it's the go-to spot for handmade pasta. Their tortellini in brodo (tortellini in broth) and tagliatelle al ragù (classic Bolognese sauce) are simply divine. The atmosphere is homely, with walls adorned in framed pictures and warm lighting, giving you a real sense of traditional Italian hospitality. Booking is recommended as it's often packed with both locals and visitors.
Trattoria di Via Serra
Via Luigi Serra, 9/B, 40129 Bologna
www.trattoriadiviaserra.it
A little outside the main centre but well worth the short walk, Trattoria di Via Serra is another gem. Here, you’ll find dishes prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. It’s the perfect place if you want to try something both comforting and innovative. Their lasagne alla bolognese is fantastic, with layers of rich ragù and delicate, thin pasta sheets. Make sure you leave room for dessert – the torta di riso (rice cake) is a local favourite. The trattoria has a cosy, rustic feel, and the owners are known for their warm hospitality.
Casamerlò
Via Augusto Righi, 15/b, 40126 Bologna
www.casamerlo.it
For those deciding where to eat in Bologna, who are looking for a modern twist on traditional dishes, Casamerlò is the place to be. Located just a stone's throw from Piazza Maggiore, this charming restaurant combines Bolognese classics with a contemporary flair. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, perfect for an evening out after a day of exploring. One standout dish is their Gramigna con salsiccia, a corkscrew-shaped pasta paired with savoury sausage. The restaurant’s wine list is excellent too, offering a great selection of local wines to complement your meal.
Where to eat in Bologna - more places to visit
Mercato di Mezzo
Via Clavature, 12, 40124 Bologna
www.mercatodimezzo.com
For a more casual, food market experience, head to Mercato di Mezzo. Located in the heart of Bologna’s Quadrilatero district, this vibrant market is ideal if you want to try a little bit of everything. From freshly made pasta to charcuterie and local wines, the market stalls offer a wide variety of Bolognese delicacies. Take your time strolling through and stop for a glass of Lambrusco (the famous sparkling red wine) and a plate of mortadella. It’s a great spot for a relaxed lunch or an aperitivo before dinner.
Osteria dell’Orsa
Via Mentana, 1, 40126 Bologna
www.osteriadellorsa.com
This student-friendly osteria is a Bologna institution. Famous for its hearty, affordable meals and lively atmosphere, Osteria dell'Orsa is where locals, students, and tourists alike come for a simple, delicious meal. Their ragù alla bolognese served with fresh tagliatelle is a classic choice, but don’t overlook their polpette (meatballs) or vegetarian options like lasagne verdi (green lasagne). It’s an unpretentious spot with communal tables and a real sense of energy – perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Caffè Terzi
Via Guglielmo Oberdan, 10/d, 40126 Bologna
www.caffeterzibologna.com
For a cute spot to enjoy a mortadella sandwich, you can’t go wrong with Caffè Terzi. When thinking about where to eat in Bologna, this might not be top of some peoples food guides, but it's definitely worth a visit. This lovely little café in the heart of Bologna is a local favourite, known for its top-notch coffee and simple, delicious food. Their panino con mortadella (mortadella sandwich) is a must-try, with soft bread and thin slices of the famous mortadella. It's the perfect light lunch.
Caffè Terzi is popular not just because of the great food but also for its cosy, relaxed atmosphere. Locals often stop by for a quick espresso and a bite to eat, making it a great spot to soak in the local vibe. The staff are super friendly, and the café itself has a warm, welcoming feel – the perfect place to take a break from exploring the city.
Try pairing your mortadella sandwich with one of their excellent coffees for a true taste of Bologna!
La Drogheria della Rosa
Via Cartoleria, 10, 40124 Bologna
www.ladrogheriadellarosa.it
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, La Drogheria della Rosa is a unique and charming place that combines history with great food. Once a pharmacy, it’s now a rustic osteria where owner Emanuele Addone serves up classic Bolognese dishes with a personal touch. There’s no menu – instead, Emanuele will come to your table and explain the day’s specials. Be sure to try their tortelloni burro e salvia (large tortellini with butter and sage). The atmosphere is quirky and intimate, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the experience.
Where to eat in Bologna - A Culinary Journey Awaits!
Bologna's food scene is a feast for the senses, blending tradition and innovation in every bite. These restaurants and trattorias are just a taste of what the city has to offer. Whether you're diving into a plate of freshly made tagliatelle or savouring a glass of local wine, each meal will tell a story of the region's rich culinary heritage.
I hope you've enjoyed this guide on where to eat in Bologna. Remember, speaking a little Italian can go a long way when it comes to navigating menus and ordering food in Italy. If you’d like to feel more confident with your Italian before you head off to Bologna, why not join one of my Online Italian classes at learnitalianmanchester.co.uk. Understanding the language will enhance your experience and make those foodie moments even more enjoyable.