Must-Eat Food in Bologna, Italy: Your Ultimate Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Bologna, you will be visiting the culinary capital of Italy. While uncovering Bologna’s numerous attractions, and hidden gems, take your time to enjoy the delicious food Bologna is famous for. Food in Bologna is perfect everywhere: both in the family-run trattorias and at the markets.
In this guide I’ve gathered:
- the dishes that define Bologna as the Italian food capital
- my favorite restaurants in Bologna
- recommendations on food tours and culinary classes in Bologna.
Learn where and what food to eat in Bologna, Italy!
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What are the Must-Eat Foods in Bologna?
Some of the foods you need to try in Bologna include tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, mortadella, and lasagna alla bolognese. Don’t forget to try tigelle and piadina, perfect for quick bites. To truly experience the best of Bologna’s food, seek out local spots where the recipes have been passed down for generations.
What is Tortellini and Why is it Famous?

If you’re exploring what to eat in Bologna Italy, you absolutely have to try tortellini. This traditional food in Bologna is famous for its small, ring-shaped pasta stuffed with a savory mix of meats and cheeses.
So, what’s the difference between tortellini and tortellini in brodo? It’s all about the preparation. While tortellini can be served with various sauces, tortellini in brodo is served in a rich, flavorful broth.
I remember my first bowl of tortellini in brodo at a cozy trattoria. It was in an unusually cold January day. The tortellini in brodo with the hot broth saved the day of sightseeing. Though tortellini in brodo can be a lifesaver on a cold day, don’t miss the chance to try it even in summer. You’ll regret it. Unless you want to have a reason to go to Bologna again 😊.
What is Tagliatelle al Ragù?

When you think of food in Bologna, one dish you can’t skip is tagliatelle al ragù. Tagliatelle al ragù is a pasta dish made with long, flat ribbons of egg pasta (tagliatelle) tossed in a slow-cooked meat sauce, famously known as ragù. Unlike the spaghetti Bolognese you might be familiar with, the traditional ragù in Bologna is rich, hearty, and clings perfectly to the fresh pasta.
If you’re looking for the best tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna, head to a family-run trattoria where the pasta is made fresh daily. Trust me, this dish alone is worth the trip to Bologna!
How is Lasagna Prepared in Bologna?

In Bologna, lasagna alla bolognese is prepared with layers of fresh spinach pasta. They give it a distinctive green tint. A rich mix of ragù and creamy béchamel sauce is added between the pasta layers. The slow-cooked meat sauce is characteristic of the traditional food in Bologna. You will be amazed by how the delicate pasta and robust sauce melt together.
Why Mortadella is a Must-Try in Bologna?

When it comes to what to eat in Bologna Italy, mortadella is a must. Mortadella is often referred to as “Bologna sausage” outside Italy. It is a smooth, flavorful pork sausage speckled with cubes of lard and sometimes pistachios.
It’s nothing like the processed versions you may have tried elsewhere. Authentic mortadella in Bologna is aromatic, silky, and melts in your mouth. Pick some up at the Quadrilatero Market.
What is Tigelle and How is it Served?

Tigelle, also known as crescentine, are small, round flatbreads. They are essential traditional food in Bologna and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.
Tigelle are typically served warm and split open to be filled with a variety of delicious toppings, like mortadella, prosciutto, or creamy cheeses. They’re also amazing with pesto Modenese—a savory spread made from lard, garlic, and rosemary. The combination of flavors in tigelle is unforgettable. And don’t forget to pair them with a glass of regional wine!
Piadina: Bologna’s Beloved Flatbread You Need to Try

If there is something that can be called street food in Bologna, it is piadina. Street food is not a thing in Bologna, nor it is in Italy. Italians worship the food. Meals are an opportunity for family and friends to gather, exchange stories, and enjoy life’s special moments together.
Piadina is a thin, soft flatbread. It is filled with mortadella, prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, or even arugula and cheese. The combination of the warm, crispy bread and the rich fillings is pure perfection.
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What Desserts Should You Not Miss in Bologna?

When considering what to eat in Bologna Italy, don’t overlook the desserts! My absolute favorite is gelato. The best gelato in Bologna is made fresh daily at artisan shops. Be sure to try torta di riso, a traditional rice cake that’s unique to the region of Emilia Romagna. I also couldn’t resist a few zuccherini with my coffee.
Where to Find the Best Gelato in Bologna?

Gelato in Bologna is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients with traditional methods. Unlike mass-produced ice cream, the best gelato in Bologna is crafted in small batches, resulting in a creamy texture and intense flavors. You can find all kinds of flavours: from classics like pistachio and hazelnut to innovative seasonal creations.
Look for places that label their gelato as “artigianale” (artisan-made). My personal gelato shop is Gelateria Gianni. It is easy to find – right beside the Two Towers of Bologna. I loved to get an ice cream and sit on the ledge under the portico in front and eat my ice cream while I watched the people around the Two Towers.
Torta di Riso: Bologna’s Sweet Secret You Need to Try

When it comes to traditional Italian desserts in Bologna, torta di riso is a highlight. Torta di riso is a rice cake, made with rice, milk, almonds, and hints of citrus flavor. This dessert is unique to Emilia-Romagna, so you won’t find it anywhere else.
For the best torta di riso, look for it in a local pasticceria.
Zeppole: Bologna’s Irresistible Fried Treat

Zeppoles are light and airy fried dough pastries often dusted with powdered sugar or filled with custard. While zeppole can be found almost in every region of Italy, Bologna’s bakeries put their own twist on it. Their crispy exterior paired with the soft, warm inside is unforgettable. You’ll be dreaming about it long after visiting Bologna!
What Drinks Pair Well with Bologna’s Food?
Pairing the right drink with your meal elevates the experience. Bologna’s rich dishes, like tagliatelle al ragù and lasagna alla bolognese, pair beautifully with red wines. For tigelle or mortadella, a white wine is an excellent choice.
Many Bologna restaurants will recommend their house wines. I love those house wines. They are a budget-friendly option to enjoy local wines from nearby vineyards.
Don’t forget to finish your meal with a shot of amaro or a sip of nocino, a walnut liqueur, for an authentic Bolognese dining experience!

What Wines are Popular in Bologna?
Emilia-Romagna is home to Sangiovese. a bold red wine with notes of cherry and spice. It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like lasagna alla bolognese and tagliatelle al ragù. For something lighter, try Lambrusco. It is a sparkling red wine that complements cured meats like mortadella.
If you prefer white, Pignoletto is a local wine with a crisp, refreshing flavor. It is often enjoyed as an aperitivo.
Whatever the meal, be sure to ask for regional wines when dining!

What is the Best Lambrusco to Try?
Lambrusco is a must-try in Bologna. This sparkling red wine comes in a range of styles, from sweet to dry. Lambrusco di Sorbara is known for its light, fruity flavor, and vibrant bubbles. Lambrusco Grasparossa is richer and slightly tannic.
Look for bottles labeled “secco” (dry) if you prefer a less sweet option.
How to Choose the Right Balsamic Vinegar?
Choosing the right balsamic vinegar is key for your culinary experience. Look for the traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale). It is aged in wooden barrels for years, giving it a rich flavor. Always check the label for the “DOP” designation, ensuring authenticity and high quality.
During my visit, I learned that lighter, younger vinegars are perfect for salads, while aged ones are ideal for drizzling over cheeses or desserts. For the best selection, visit a local market or a specialty shop in Bologna.
Where to Find the Best Restaurants in Bologna?

It is almost impossible to find a bad restaurant in Bologna. Start your food experience in the historic Quadrilatero Market, where you’ll find many authentic spots serving classics like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo. For a more intimate experience, head to the side streets of the Santo Stefano neighborhood, where family-run trattorias focus on traditional food in Bologna.
My favorite restaurant in Bologna is Va Mo Là. I like it for its ambiance, its friendly and welcoming staff, and, of course, the perfect food. Va Mo Là is easy to find. The restaurant is in Bologna city center, close to La Finestrella, one of Bologna’s hidden secrets.
As for the best pizza in Bologna, my recommendation is L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele at Piazza s. Martino.
Where to Eat in Bologna, Italy Late in the Evening?
If you arrive in Bologna late in the evening, which was exactly the case on one of my visits to the city, you may find most of the restaurants closing for the night. Most of the restaurants in Bologna seem to close around 10 pm. Both Va Mo Là and L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele are open until 11:30 pm. Near Bologna Central Train Station, Ristorante Masini is open until 11 pm.

Find out the most instagrammable spots in Bologna with their exact locations.
What Are the Best Markets for Local Food?
Visiting Bologna food markets is a must. The Quadrilatero Market is one of the best local food spots in Bologna. It offers everything from fresh pasta to mortadella and regional cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano. At Mercato delle Erbe you can find fresh produce, local wines, and ready-to-eat dishes in its food court. Don’t miss these markets if you want to taste and shop for the best of traditional food in Bologna!

How to Experience Bologna’s Culinary Scene?
Exploring Quadrilatero Market or Mercato delle Erbe is just one of the many free things you can do in Bologna. After trying tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, and mortadella, consider joining a pasta-making class or a guided food tour in Bologna. You’ll learn the secrets behind these traditional dishes. It’s the perfect way to complete your culinary adventure!
What is a Bologna Food Tour Like?
A Bologna food tour typically will take you to hidden gem restaurants, and family-run shops where you’ll sample traditional food in Bologna. You’ll get to taste everything from mortadella and Parmigiano Reggiano to tagliatelle al ragù and gelato, all while learning about the history and craftsmanship behind each dish. A food tour is a fun and delicious way to explore Bologna.

After researching the food tours in Bologna, I booked this one. It looked like a reasonably priced and thorough experience. In fact, the food tour exceeded my expectations.
We had breakfast, and tried homemade pasta, some cold cuts, and cheeses paired with wine, and gelato! We learned a lot about the culinary traditions of Bologna. The food tour was a fun and delicious way to explore Bologna.
Discover the best food tour in Bologna and book now to make the most of your visit!
Culinary Classes in Bologna: Learn to Cook Like a Local
Cooking classes in Bologna are hands-on experiences that teach you how to make traditional food in Bologna, like fresh tagliatelle al ragù, delicate tortellini, and even desserts like torta di riso.

During my cooking class, I learned how to make tortellini pasta. All by hand! And after that I prepared an authentic ragù! We started the class with mortadella, crescenta, and pignoletto while getting to know each other. We also learned how to make a Casoni spritz cocktail.
The cooking class in Bologna was not only fun but also gave me the skills and confidence to make homemade pasta at home.
Whether you’re a novice like me or a seasoned cook, the cooking classes in Bologna are the perfect way to get to know the city’s culinary traditions. Reserve now and secure your spot!
FAQ
Bologna is best known for tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, mortadella, and lasagna alla bolognese—all iconic dishes.
Bolognese cuisine is unique because it’s all about using fresh, high-quality local ingredients and traditional recipes passed down for generations.
You should try tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, lasagna alla bolognese, mortadella, and tigelle. These dishes are a must on any Bologna food itinerary.
My favorite restaurant in Bologna is Va Mo Là. I found the best pizza in L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele and the best gelato in Bologna – in Gelateria Gianni.
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Conclusion
Bologna is a food lover’s paradise. Dishes like tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, and mortadella define its culinary identity. Don’t miss local markets like the Quadrilatero Market or authentic trattorias to taste the best of traditional food in Bologna. Pair your meals with a glass of Lambrusco or Pignoletto, and you’ll understand why Bologna is the food capital of Italy.