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As a university town, Bologna has long been known for its busy nightlife. By as early as 1300, it was said to have 150 taverns, and most of the city's current 200-plus pubs and bars are frequented by students and young adults—with the university area forming the hub. The pedestrian zone on Via del Pratello, lined with plenty of bars, also has a hopping nightlife scene, as does Via delle Moline, with its cutting-edge cafés and bars. A more upscale, low-key evening experience can be had at one of Bologna's many wine bars, where the food is often substantial enough to constitute dinner.
Rub shoulders with artsy celebs, locals, and visitors who dine while listening to intimate jazz, funk, rock, and pop artists from Italy and beyond. It can be a special, intimate place to see legends like Luca Carboni, Tullio de Piscopo, Nicola Conte, Suzanne Vega, Lisa Stansfield, Billy Cobham, and Roy Ayers.
Although "osteria" in an establishment's name suggests that food will be served, such is not the case here. This place is all about drinking wine; the entrance door has warnings such as "He who doesn't drink will please stay outside." It's been around since 1465, and locals pack in, bearing food from outside to accompany the wine.
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