Food establishments have been known in Bologna since the Middle Ages. In 300 the city had more than 150 restaurants and 50 hotels. Bologna today offers a wide range of dining options, from the best restaurants to small family-run eateries in the suburbs. The best restaurants in the centre are in the suburbs, so be sure to take your time and visit the "countryside" restaurants to taste the difference. Feedback on the forums about visiting these family-run and cosy establishments will give you an extra incentive to take a trip to the outskirts of Bologna.
Bologna has the largest number of restaurants offering traditional cuisine, but you can also find Portuguese, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Latin American and Oriental restaurants in the city. There is also a Russian restaurant Matrioshka.
Among the inexpensive restaurants are Trattoria dal Biassanot, Casa Monica, I Matti Della Polenta, Da Vito. Here you will be able to enjoy simple, hearty and traditional Italian cuisine.
Bologna not only knows how to eat heartily, it also has a sweet tooth. To visit without tasting the city's famous ice cream is an unforgivable sin. For the best gelato shops, check out Seorbetterias Castiglione, Stefino and Gelatauro. And if you're a fan of unusual sweets, the pasticheria of Gino Fabbri awaits you.
Prices in Bologna restaurants depend on several factors - the proximity to the historic centre, the level of the establishment and the time of visit. The average bill at a budget restaurant at lunchtime is around EUR 15 to 20 per person. A dinner at a country family restaurant can cost the same. A dinner at a luxury restaurant will cost you many times as much.
If you're trying to save money, you can safely eat in small cafes or fast food outlets, where prices are much lower, but the quality of food remains high enough. It is also worth noting that during religious holidays many popular establishments may not be open.
One more thing: to try the famous dish "spaghetti bolognese" in Bologna restaurants you should order Tagliatelle al ragu or Ragu alla bolognese.
