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.