Tag: Italian food

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Where to Buy and Indulge in Mortadella in Bologna

Bologna, the culinary heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is not only the birthplace of mortadella but also the best place to experience this iconic delicacy. Whether you’re looking to buy some of the finest mortadella or indulge in a unique mortadella experience, Bologna has you covered. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best spots to buy and enjoy mortadella in Bologna, as well as information on the must-visit Mortadella Please Festival in nearby Zola Predosa.

1. Salumeria Simoni

  • Address: Via Drapperie, 5/2a, Bologna
  • Description: Located in the bustling Quadrilatero market area, Salumeria Simoni is a historic deli known for its top-quality salumi, including mortadella. Established in 1960, it’s a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. The shop also offers creative mortadella-based sandwiches like the “Tortellino di pane,” making it a delightful stop for both shopping and snacking​(Do Bianchi).

2. Tamburini

  • Address: Via Caprarie, 1, Bologna
  • Description: A historic name in Bologna’s food scene, Tamburini has been around since 1860. This deli offers a wide selection of cured meats, including some of the best mortadella in the city. Alongside its famous fresh pasta, Tamburini is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience traditional Bolognese flavors​(Do Bianchi).

3. Mò Mortadella Lab

  • Address: Via de’ Monari, 1C, Bologna
  • Description: A modern and trendy spot, Mò Mortadella Lab is famous for its gourmet mortadella sandwiches. Known for its innovative approach, this eatery is popular among locals and tourists looking for a contemporary twist on this classic delicacy​(Do Bianchi).

4. La Baita Vecchia Malga

  • Address: Via Pescherie Vecchie, 3a, Bologna
  • Description: Located in the historic Mercato di Mezzo, La Baita Vecchia Malga offers a wide range of local delicacies, including mortadella. This shop is perfect for those looking to pair their purchase with other regional specialties while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere​(Do Bianchi).

5. Bruno e Franco – La Salumeria Bologna

  • Address: Via Guglielmo Oberdan, 16a, Bologna
  • Description: Established in 1985, Bruno e Franco is a beloved salumeria under the porticoes of Via Oberdan. It’s known for its wide selection of salumi, cheeses, and fresh pasta, making it a top choice for those looking to buy authentic mortadella and other traditional products​(Do Bianchi).

6. Mortadella Shop – Prodotti della Tradizione

  • Address: Viale Pietro Pietramellara, 61/E, Bologna
  • Description: Conveniently located near the train station, this shop offers a variety of traditional Bolognese products, with a focus on mortadella. It’s an excellent spot for a quick purchase or to grab a bite before exploring more of the city​(Do Bianchi).

7. ArtigianQuality

  • Address: Via Caduti di Cefalonia, 2b, Bologna
  • Description: Run by the Scapin family, ArtigianQuality is known for producing some of the best mortadella in Bologna. They offer two types: the traditional “Sette Chiese” and one made from Mora Romagnola pork. Their commitment to excellence makes this shop a top destination for mortadella connoisseurs​(bologna4you-english).

8. Ceccarelli Amedeo Gastronomia Bologna

  • Address: Via Pescherie Vecchie, 8a, Bologna
  • Description: Also located in the vibrant Mercato di Mezzo area, Ceccarelli Amedeo offers a variety of Italian food products with a strong emphasis on mortadella. It’s a great place to explore different flavors and pick up some gourmet treats​(Do Bianchi).

9. RoManzo (Zivieri)

  • Address: Mercato di Mezzo, Bologna
  • Description: Part of the famous Zivieri butcher’s group, RoManzo in Mercato di Mezzo offers some of the finest salumi, including mortadella. This shop is known for its high-quality meats and is a great place to buy or sample mortadella in a lively market setting​(Do Bianchi).

10. Mortadella Please Festival

  • Location: Zola Predosa, Bologna (about 12 km from Bologna city center)
  • Dates: October 11-13, 2024
  • Description: The Mortadella Please Festival is an annual celebration dedicated to mortadella, held in Zola Predosa, just outside Bologna. This three-day event features tastings, cooking demonstrations, and guided tours of mortadella production facilities like Alcisa and Felsineo. The festival is a must-visit for food enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy mortadella in its birthplace while participating in various culinary activities​(Mortadella Please,Emilia Romagna Turismo,Bologna Welcome).

How to Get to Zola Predosa for the Festival

  • By Train: Take a regional train from Bologna Centrale to Zola Predosa station (15-minute journey).
  • By Bus: Use the Line 94 bus from Bologna (approximately 30 minutes).
  • By Car: Zola Predosa is about a 20-minute drive from Bologna. Parking is typically available near the festival site, but arriving early is recommended​(Taste Bologna,Emilia Romagna Turismo).

This guide offers a complete look at where to buy, taste, and truly experience mortadella in Bologna, whether you’re browsing historic delis or attending the vibrant Mortadella Please Festival.

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Forget Parma Ham: In Bologna, Buy, Eat, and Visit Mortadella

When it comes to Italian cured meats, Parma ham, or prosciutto di Parma, often steals the limelight with its delicate flavor and international fame. However, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna lies another culinary treasure that deserves just as much attention, if not more: Mortadella di Bologna. This iconic pink-hued sausage, studded with white cubes of fat, is more than just a cold cut—it’s a symbol of Bologna’s rich gastronomic heritage. If you’re planning a trip to Bologna, here’s why you should make mortadella your priority, from buying and tasting to exploring its production.

The Origin and Significance of Mortadella

Mortadella has a storied history that dates back to the Renaissance. Originally a delicacy reserved for the nobility, its recipe has evolved over centuries. The term “mortadella” is believed to be derived from the Latin word mortarium, referring to the mortar and pestle that were once used to grind the meat​(

bologna4you-english). Today, mortadella is protected by the European Union’s Indicazione Geografica Protetta (IGP) status, ensuring that only products made in a specific manner and within designated areas can bear the name “Mortadella di Bologna”​(

bologna4you-english).

Where to Buy Mortadella in Bologna

Bologna is dotted with historic delis and markets where you can buy high-quality mortadella. Some of the must-visit spots include:

  • Salumeria Simoni: Located in the Quadrilatero area, this historic deli has been serving top-notch salumi since 1960. Simoni offers a variety of mortadella, including innovative sandwiches like the “Tortellino di pane,” a focaccia stuffed with mortadella​(Do Bianchi).
  • Tamburini: Another historic name in Bologna’s food scene, Tamburini has been around since 1860. Alongside its famous fresh pasta, the deli offers an extensive selection of cured meats, including some of the best mortadella in the city​(Do Bianchi).
  • Mò Mortadella Lab: For a modern take, visit Mò Mortadella Lab, a popular spot known for its gourmet mortadella sandwiches. This trendy eatery puts a creative spin on traditional mortadella, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike​(Do Bianchi).

Where to Eat Mortadella in Bologna

While you can enjoy mortadella in various forms—sliced thin in sandwiches, diced into cubes for antipasti, or even blended into a mousse—Bologna offers some unique experiences:

  • FICO Eataly World: At this expansive food theme park, you can not only buy and eat mortadella but also watch it being made. The Mortadella Bar at FICO offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, along with tastings of various mortadella-based dishes​(Wanderlog).
  • La Baita Vecchia Malga: Located in the bustling Mercato di Mezzo, this eatery is perfect for trying traditional mortadella alongside other regional specialties. Pair your meal with a glass of Lambrusco for the full Bolognese experience​(Do Bianchi).

Visiting Mortadella Production

For those deeply interested in the art of making mortadella, Bologna offers unique opportunities to witness the process firsthand:

  • Mortadella, Please Festival: Held annually in Zola Predosa, just outside Bologna, this festival is dedicated to celebrating mortadella. Visitors can enjoy tastings, cooking demonstrations, and guided tours of leading mortadella producers like Alcisa and Felsineo​(Bologna Welcome).
  • FICO Eataly World: As mentioned, FICO offers a more hands-on experience, where you can see how mortadella is produced in a recreated laboratory setting. This is a great option for families or anyone interested in the intricacies of food production​(Wanderlog).

Why Mortadella Deserves the Spotlight

While Parma ham is often lauded for its delicate, nuanced flavors, mortadella offers a different, equally compelling experience. Its rich, savory taste, complemented by the aromatic spices and creamy fat cubes, makes it a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Moreover, mortadella is deeply rooted in Bologna’s culinary culture, offering a more localized and authentic taste of the region.

Conclusion

So, the next time you find yourself in Bologna, set aside your usual prosciutto and immerse yourself in the world of mortadella. Whether you’re buying it from a historic deli, savoring it in a gourmet sandwich, or learning about its production, mortadella is more than just a sausage—it’s a taste of Bologna’s soul.

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Parmesan Cheese Tour Near Bologna or Modena

If you’re planning to immerse yourself in the world of Parmigiano Reggiano, the Parmigiano Reggiano Tour is a must-do experience, particularly if you’re visiting the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, near Modena or Bologna. This tour offers an in-depth look at how one of the world’s most famous cheeses is made, from the milking of cows to the aging of cheese wheels.

Overview of the Tour Experience

parmesan cheese Bologna

The Parmigiano Reggiano Tour is designed to give visitors a comprehensive understanding of the traditional cheese-making process. Typically, the tours start early in the morning to coincide with the production schedule. You’ll witness the transformation of milk into curds, and eventually, the formation of the iconic Parmigiano Reggiano wheels. These tours often include a visit to the maturation rooms, where the cheese is aged for up to 36 months.

Caseificio Bio Reggiani and Caseificio 4 Madonne are two popular dairies that offer these tours. At Caseificio Bio Reggiani, for instance, visitors are treated to a unique experience where they can see the cows that produce the milk used in the cheese-making process. This intimate look at the origins of Parmigiano Reggiano adds an extra layer of appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

San Pier Damiani

parmesan cheese near Modena

At San Pier Damiani, visitors can embark on a guided tour to explore the production of Parmigiano Reggiano. The Full Experience tour starts at 9 AM and lasts about 1.5 hours, covering all stages of cheese production. An alternative Experience tour, starting at 11 AM, skips the initial production stages. Additionally, a special tour on Wednesdays and Fridays includes a visit to the nearby Salumificio Aurora. Tours are available year-round by reservation and include tastings. Prices start at €25 per person.

Learn more and book your visit here.

Caseificio Saliceto

parmesan cheese tour Bologna

At Caseificio Saliceto, visitors can enjoy a guided tour that offers a deep dive into the production of Parmigiano Reggiano. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with an option to extend it by visiting the adjacent farm, adding another 30 minutes to the experience. The tour includes a look at the cheese-making process and aging rooms, followed by a tasting session where you can savor different stages of Parmigiano Reggiano alongside homemade ricotta and honey. Prices vary depending on the group size.

Learn more and book your visit here.

Caseificio Bio Reggiani

parmesan cheese near Modena or Bologna

Caseificio Bio Reggiani offers a guided tour for €20 per person, which will increase to €22 starting January 1, 2025. The tour includes visits to the stables, the cheese production area, brine tanks, and the aging warehouse. The experience culminates with a tasting of three different ages of Parmigiano Reggiano, ricotta with balsamic vinegar, caciotta, and Lambrusco wine. Tours are available in Italian, English, and French, and must be booked at least two days in advance.

Learn more and book your visit here.

Why This Tour is So Popular

parmesan cheese Modena and Parma

Parmigiano Reggiano is often called the “King of Cheeses,” and its production is deeply rooted in Italian culture. The appeal of these tours lies in the authenticity and tradition they represent. Unlike modern industrial food production, Parmigiano Reggiano is still made using age-old methods that have been passed down through generations.

Visitors are particularly drawn to the artisanal nature of the process. The chance to see how this iconic cheese is made, from start to finish, is a rare and enriching experience. Moreover, the opportunity to taste Parmigiano Reggiano at various stages of aging provides a sensory journey that is both educational and deeply satisfying.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Amazing and Educational Experience – A Must-Do in Italy!

Joseph C. | July 2024 “We had a wonderful time and learned a lot during our tour. Initially, we expected to join a larger group, but to our pleasant surprise, it was a private tour, allowing us the flexibility to linger, ask more questions, and take plenty of photos. Everything was informative, delicious, and simply wonderful. The price was a bit hefty, especially with kids, and it ended up being our most expensive activity. However, the personalized experience made it worth it.”

A Culinary Delight for Italian Food Lovers

STANsTrips | May 2024 “If you love Italian food, this tour is for you! My father and I had a fantastic time with Paolo, learning all about Parmigiano Reggiano, Balsamic Vinegar, and Prosciutto. The tastings were incredible, and the knowledge shared was top-notch. If you’re in Modena or Bologna, don’t miss out on this tour—it’s a must!”

A Fantastic Day Out in the Modenese Countryside

Jake K. | May 2024 “We had an extraordinary culinary and educational experience visiting various sites and learning about regional delicacies like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Modena/Parma, and Balsamic Vinegar. Our guide, Paolo, was incredibly knowledgeable, even down to the chemistry of the foods, and made sure we felt welcome throughout the tour. He also connected us with a local agriturismo for a memorable wine experience and lunch. Highly recommended!”

A Gourmet’s Delight – Come Hungry!

Christine L. | May 2024 “What an extraordinary experience! Paolo was incredibly well-informed about cheese, prosciutto, wine, and balsamic vinegar production. Be prepared to eat, because they feed you a lot of amazing food! I would recommend this tour to everyone!”

Highlight of Our Italy Trip!

Markus | May 2024 “Paolo was a fantastic host and tour guide, knowledgeable about everything and everywhere we visited. From the intricacies of cheese to the nuances of balsamic vinegar, this tour was the highlight of our entire trip. The experience was seamless and unforgettable.”

Testimonials and Visitor Experiences

The feedback from those who have participated in these tours is overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors highlight the educational value of the tours and the passion of the guides.

These testimonials underscore the profound impact that the Parmigiano Reggiano Tour has on visitors. It’s not just about seeing how cheese is made; it’s about connecting with the cultural heritage of Italy and gaining a deeper appreciation for one of its most famous exports.

What to Expect

During the tour, you’ll get to see the various stages of cheese production, including the stirring of curds in massive copper cauldrons, the pressing of the curds into molds, and the meticulous aging process. The tours typically conclude with a tasting session where you can sample Parmigiano Reggiano at different stages of aging—12 months, 24 months, and 36 months—each offering a distinct flavor profile】.

In addition to the cheese, some tours also include visits to local balsamic vinegar producers or prosciutto factories, providing a broader taste of the Emilia-Romagna region’s culinary offerings.

Final Thoughts

The Parmigiano Reggiano Tour is an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting Modena or Bologna. It offers a rare glimpse into the traditional methods of cheese-making and a chance to taste one of Italy’s most beloved cheeses in its place of origin. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply someone looking to experience the best of Italy, this tour will leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Parmigiano Reggiano.

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Best Pizzas in Modena.

Are you craving a mouthwatering pizza experience in Modena? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best pizzerias in town, where you can indulge in delicious, authentic Italian pizza. From thin and crispy crusts to fresh and flavorful toppings, these establishments are sure to satisfy your pizza cravings. Whether you’re a fan of classic Margherita or adventurous combinations, Modena’s pizza scene has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top pizzerias in Modena and discover the culinary delights that await you.

Pizzeria Ristorante Tramonti Modena.
Via Giardini, 333, 41124 Modena MO

If you are visiting Modena and want to try the best pizza in town, look no further than Pizzeria Ristorante Tramonti. The pizzas here are truly exceptional, and made with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are flavorful and plentiful.

The Margherita pizza is a must-try, with its simple yet perfect combination of fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil. The Quattro Stagioni is another favorite, topped with four different kinds of cheese, ham, mushrooms, and artichokes.

No matter what pizza you order, you will be absolutely amazed at the quality and flavor. Pizzeria Ristorante Tramonti is without a doubt the best pizza in Modena, and is an experience that you will not want to miss.

I DISSONANTI .. PIZZA E ALTRO.
Via Jacopo Berengario, 112, 41121 Modena MO

If you are looking for an amazing pizza experience in Modena, look no further than I Dissonanti. This pizzeria is located in the heart of the city, and offers a wide variety of delicious pizzas, as well as other Italian dishes.

The pizzas here are truly outstanding, and made with only the freshest and highest quality ingredients. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are flavorful and plentiful.

No matter what pizza you order, you will be absolutely amazed at the quality and flavor. I Dissonanti is without a doubt the best pizza in Modena, and is an experience that you will not want to miss.

Pizzeria del Viale 2.0.
 Viale A. Gramsci, 106, 41122 Modena MO

Pizzeria del Viale 2.0 is a great option for pizza in Modena. The restaurant is unassuming, but the pizzas are classic Neapolitan-style and really delicious. The calzones are also great, and the desserts are worth saving room for.

The service is friendly and efficient, and the prices are very reasonable. Pizzeria del Viale 2.0 is a great option for a casual meal, and is definitely one of the best pizzerias in Modena.

Giustospirito.
Via Bartolomeo Paganelli, 40, 41122 Modena MO

Pizza and burgers. Two words that, when combined, create culinary magic. And at Giustospirito in Modena, they do just that.

The pizzas here are some of the best I’ve ever had, with a thin and crispy crust that is loaded with flavor. The toppings are also incredibly fresh and tasty, and there is a great selection to choose from. The burgers are also mouth-wateringly good, and made with only the freshest ingredients.

In addition to the great food, Giustospirito also has a great ambiance. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends. And with a wide selection of beers on tap, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for the best pizza and burgers in Modena, look no further than Giustospirito.

Pinseria Tre Farine.
Piazza Roma, 5, 41121 Modena MO

Pinsa is a type of flatbread that is popular in Rome, and Pinseria Tre Farine is one of the best places to try it in Modena. The pinsas here are made with three different types of flour, and are truly unique and delicious. The toppings are also fresh and flavorful, and there is a great selection to choose from.

In addition to the great food, Pinseria Tre Farine also has a great ambiance. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy a meal with friends. And with a wide selection of beers on tap, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a truly unique and delicious pizza experience in Modena, look no further than Pinseria Tre Farine.

Al Grottino.
Via Del Taglio, 26, 41121 Modena MO

The fried pizza is something different and definitely worth a try. The dough is light and fluffy, and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. Overall Al Grottino is a great option for pizza in Modena. Located in central Modena, it’s the perfect place to stop for a quick and delicious meal. It has a TV for football so you don’t miss out, and is a lively place. The weekends may get crowded, so reserving in advance will help. The prices are reasonable, but keep in mind that there is a EUR 2 coperto.

In conclusion, Modena is a pizza lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of exceptional pizzerias to tantalize your taste buds. From Pizzeria Ristorante Tramonti’s exceptional ingredients to I Dissonanti’s diverse menu, each establishment offers its own unique take on this beloved Italian dish. Pizzeria del Viale 2.0 provides a casual and affordable option, while Giustospirito combines pizza and burgers for a truly satisfying experience. Pinseria Tre Farine introduces you to the world of pinsa, and Al Grottino tempts you with their delicious fried pizza. Whichever pizzeria you choose, you’re in for a treat. So, why wait? Embark on a culinary journey through Modena and savor the best pizzas this charming Italian city has to offer. Buon appetito!