This guide first published in Oct 2023, is updated regularly, last update March 2026)
Hello there, it’s been a while since I shared a post about Bologna on the blog! I won’t go into a super detailed spiral as to why but I’ll get straight to the point: I am focusing more on my Substack (subscribe here).
I’m always active on Instagram and writing articles for external publications, as well as keeping busy with leading culinary experiences.
Our food tour guests tend to ask where to eat in Bologna, the best pasta in Bologna, best gelato in Bologna, where to get a drink in Bologna- so I thought I’d compile this handy cheat sheet with my top 3-5+ picks for each category plus links to my more extensively written guides on sites like Eater, Conde Nast Traveller and Vogue Magazine.
NB: This post is behind a one-time fee paywall and allows me to update this post regularly. Because this blog is free and i ad-free, I’ve selected pay-to-view posts to help keep this blog running.
Why pay for this when there are so many free guides on the site?
These cheat sheets take the worry out of your Bologna dining and drinking research. I have condensed my very comprehensive guides into an organized, ultimate favorite bests for food in Bologna, aperitivo in Bologna, the best gelato in Bologna plus wine bars and cafes so you don’t have to spend time researching and making decisions. Also included are agriturismi you can reach by taxi. Happy reading and thank you for supporting my work!
I’ve also added insider, award-winning recommendations for gelato in Bologna that aren’t published on any of my articles, for example.
If you’re finding it hard to decide how to strategize your Italy vacation and picking the best restaurants in cities like Bologna fit for your palate, consider arranging a travel consult with me. I get to know your tastes and make detailed personalized recommendations accordingly including hotel recommendations. My consults optimize your day by day itinerary as well as cultural activities/points of interest in between. Info and contact HERE
Already have your itinerary planned but looking for guided gourmet activities, consider booking a culinary walk in Bologna with one of my colleagues.
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