Osteria dal Nonno

Winding along the gentle slopes of the Bolognese hills, Osteria dal Nonno is an essential stop for a pastoral escape just minutes from the centre of Bologna: a rustic atmosphere and warm welcome, priceless views over vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, and homestyle cooking, where regional flavours and traditional delicacies are prepared fresh in-house day after day, just as local tradition — and “grandad” — demands. It is a place that radiates that long-sought family warmth, inviting you to settle into the simple, comforting flavours of childhood across sweet and savoury delights.

Among Bologna’s oldest historic addresses, Osteria dal Nonno is the realised dream of the Natali family, who have delighted diners since 1901 in a warm, informal setting with that deeply comforting feeling of home. A small rustic dining room opens out onto a spacious terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside: here, long wooden tables and benches, large parasols and branded place mats provide the backdrop to a genuinely delicious meal shaped by the Emilia region and its authentic culinary traditions.

Let yourself be won over by a simple, honest menu: warm crescentine and tigelle served with fragrant cured meats, vegetables in oil, pickles, cheeses, salads and the essential pestata di lardo. Fresh homemade lasagne arrives at your table straight from the oven, and if you want local character in your wine choice too, simply explore the curated selection of local bottles, including classic Lambrusco Amabile or Grasparossa, for an authentic regional feast. Dulcis in fundo, there are ice creams, sorbets, semifreddo with amaretti and mascarpone, and the famous pinza, a delightful tart made with apple jam and grape must that is impossible to resist.

A place suspended in time where you can (re)discover the pleasure of lingering around the table, immersed in the aromas, flavours and colours of cooking that tells a century-old story, woven of traditions handed down from generation to generation. Take a break from the clamour of the city and head towards Osteria dal Nonno: waiting to welcome you are the vibrant tones of the lush hillside scenery and impeccable Bolognese savoir-faire.