Trattoria Caffé del Rosso – Bologna, Italy

There is certainly no shortage of pasta at Trattoria Caffè del Rosso…

Keeping History Alive

Welcome to Trattoria Caffé del Rosso. Located right near the center of Bologna, the Trattoria was established in 1860. I had a chance to sit down with the owner (who has not been the proprietor since the restaurant’s inception), who told me a few interesting things about ‘Del Rosso’.

Back in the day, it began as a bar/cafe. Throughout the years it adopted a kitchen, then slowly but surely it morphed into a pizzeria. In the past 60 years or so it has became a trattoria, and only a trattoria. In 2017 new ownership took over, and since then things have changed for the better. The new management make efforts to give their clientele the highest quality that they can provide. Not only that, but they have changed the wine selection, the menu and have taken on over 25 employees. The owner stresses that their doors are open to everyone, tourists and locals alike.

Pasta, pasta, pasta!

You’re probably wondering about the food, and so was I. When I was presented with one of the most incredible presentations of pasta ever, I couldn’t wait to dig in. The Tagliattele al Ragu is the most popular dish requested at the Trattoria, but the lasagna is their pride and joy.

While I didn’t order the lasagna that day, I did taste just about every other dish they had the menu it would seem. From Pappardelle with sausage (a personal favorite) to gramigna, all their pastas were great. The stinco di maiale (ham hock) with patate al forno is also a dish I would recommend trying. And for dessert? Glad you’re still hungry. The mascarpone cream with chocolate bits on top is definitely something not to miss. And if you’re a wine lover like me, for sure you should try the Le Viole which is native to the region.

The location is ideal since you are right near the center of the city, and after lunch or dinner you can do some shopping, visit museums or take a leisurely stroll around Bologna. Just make sure when you visit Trattoria Caffè del Rosso you tell them Lisa sent you!