3 Best Restaurants in Bologna, Emilia–Romagna

This former fruit and vegetable market, established in medieval times and transformed into a covered market after unification, has now morphed into a fancy gourmet food hall. Various outlets offer quality Bolognesi classics plus some innovations, including tortellini, gnocchi, and tortelloni at DeGusto Coop; focaccia from Bologna Food Company; panini, pasta, and cold cuts at L'Antica Bottega; and fried fish and quirky fish hamburgers at Pescheria del Pavaglione.

The pastaio (pasta-maker) tradition in this bright honeycomb tiled pasta shop and casual restaurant—which often has a line around the block—started in 1963 in a town about 9½ km (6 miles) southwest of Bologna. There, Rina De Franceschi rolled sfoglia (dough) following family recipes. Take a seat at one of the communal wooden tables, write your order on the paper and wait for regional specialties like tortellini in brodo and tagliatelle al ragù (pasta with meat sauce) or a vegetarian take on a classic, like mezzelune rose ripiene di ceci, kale, e noci (red half-moon-shape pasta filled with garbanzo beans, kale, and hazelnuts). There's also a small selection of regional wines by the glass or bottle and desserts such as crostate (pies) to finish the meal. The last orders are taken at 8 pm and diners may enjoy their meals until 9 pm, making this spot ideal for lunch or an early dinner.

Two small rooms inside plus kegs and bar stools outside make up this lively, packed little spot. The overwhelming plate of affettati misti is crammed with top-quality local cured meats and succulent cheeses, and the adjacent salumeria offers many wonderful items to take away. At lunchtime, office workers swarm to the "self-service tavola calda" for simple but remarkably tasty primi and secondi. In the evening, Tamburini stays open as a wine bar with a vast array of selections by the glass and the bottle.