The 10 Must-Try Traditional Dishes of Bologna

If you're visiting Bologna, you're stepping into a true food lover's paradise. Known as La Grassa ("The Fat One"), Bologna has a rich culinary heritage that goes beyond just pasta, and you have to taste try traditional dishes here! From hearty meat sauces to savory pastries, here's a guide to the 10 traditional Bolognese dishes you absolutely must try.

1. Tagliatelle al Ragù

Forget spaghetti Bolognese—real Bolognese sauce is served with fresh egg tagliatelle, not spaghetti. The ragù is slow-cooked with finely chopped meat, vegetables, wine, and just a touch of tomato. It’s the soul of Bolognese cuisine.

2. Tortellini in Brodo

These tiny, hand-folded pasta rings are typically filled with a mix of pork, mortadella, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Served in a rich capon or beef broth, this dish is a winter favorite and a holiday classic.

3. Lasagne alla Bolognese

Layered with fresh spinach pasta sheets, creamy béchamel, and traditional ragù, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Authentic Bolognese lasagna is green due to the spinach in the dough—don’t expect the tomato-heavy version you might know elsewhere.

4. Gramigna alla Salsiccia

A lesser-known but beloved local pasta dish, gramigna is a curly short pasta served with a savory sausage and cream sauce. It's rich, flavorful, and perfect with a glass of local red wine.

5. Cotoletta alla Bolognese

Unlike the Milanese version, Bologna’s breaded veal cutlet is topped with prosciutto crudo and Parmigiano, then lightly simmered in broth or tomato. It’s a decadent second course that locals adore.

6. Crescentine (or Tigelle) with Cured Meats

These small round flatbreads are served warm and filled with mortadella, salami, coppa, and soft cheeses. Add a touch of "cunza", a seasoned lard spread, for the full experience.

7. Mortadella di Bologna

The iconic pink cold cut that inspired the American "bologna" sausage. But don’t be fooled—the original is made with high-quality pork and subtle spices. Try it freshly sliced or cubed as an appetizer.

8. Friggione

A traditional side dish or condiment made with slowly stewed onions and tomatoes, often served with meats or crescentine. Sweet, tangy, and full of flavor, it’s a true Bolognese comfort food.

9. Balanzoni

These green tortelloni-like pasta are filled with a mix of ricotta, spinach, and mortadella, and often served with butter and sage. Named after a character in the Commedia dell’Arte, they’re both fun and delicious.

10. Zuppa Inglese

Despite the name (“English Soup”), this dessert is thoroughly Italian. It’s a layered trifle with sponge cake soaked in Alchermes liqueur, custard, and chocolate cream. A colorful and satisfying end to any meal.

Final Tip: Pair with Local Wines

Don't forget to pair your meals with local wines like Pignoletto, Lambrusco, or Sangiovese. They complement the richness of Bolognese cuisine beautifully.

Bologna isn’t just a city—it’s a way of eating. So come hungry, and let your taste buds explore one of Italy’s most delicious culinary traditions.