Dear American friends, welcome to Bologna, a city that combines history, culture and, above all, an incredible culinary tradition. Here, among the famous porticoes and ancient towers, you will discover flavors that will make you fall in love with Italy even more.
Pasta Bolognese is a classic revisited
First of all, forget any preconceived ideas about “spaghetti Bolognese”. In Bologna, ragù is served with homemade tagliatelle, not spaghetti! This is a lesson I quickly learned: in Italy, pasta and its sauce are a perfect and inseparable marriage.
Mortadella and Lambrusco are a combination not to be missed
Mortadella, the pride of Bologna, is something completely different from what you might find in American supermarkets. Try a sandwich with fresh mortadella in one of the historic delicatessens in the centre. And for drinking? A glass of sparkling and slightly cold Lambrusco. It's the perfect combination.
Middle Market a sensorial experience
Don't miss the Mercato di Mezzo, in the heart of the city. It is a labyrinth of flavours, colors and smells. Here, among stalls selling cheeses, hams and fresh bread, you can savor the true soul of Bologna.
Ice cream is a sweet temptation
Bologna is also famous for its artisanal ice cream. Forget about your diet for a moment and treat yourself to an ice cream – or two!
Practical advice
Do you want to experience Bologna like a local? Avoid tourist restaurants and look for those small taverns hidden in the streets. Here you can enjoy authentic dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.