The darling of the media, film, and fashion communities (yes, that was Scorsese…and Valentino, you're looking tan!), this classic restaurant on Piazza del Popolo is not only an "in-crowd" dinner destination but makes a convenient shopping-spree lunch spot. The expansive pedestrian piazza offers prime people-watching real estate, and tables inside are perfectly spaced for table hopping and lots of two-cheek kissing. As the name promises, the cooking adheres to the hearty tradition of Bologna. Start with a plate of buttery, sweet San Daniele prosciutto with melon, then move on to the traditional egg pastas of Emilia-Romagna, with delicious homemade tortellini in brodo (in broth) -- the ultimate central Italian comfort food -- and fresh pastas in creamy sauces. Second plates include the famous Bolognese bollito misto, a steaming tray of an assortment of boiled meats (some recognizable, some indecipherable) served with a tangy, herby green sauce. Among the desserts, try the dolce della mamma (a concoction of gelato, zabaglione, and chocolate sauce) and the fruit-shape gelato. And get ready for your close-up.

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