When you think of iconic Italian cities, you likely think of places like Rome, Venice, and Milan. But you should also spare a thought for Bologna, the capital of Italy’s northern Emilia-Romagna region. The city, which is known for its distinctive architecture, picturesque porticoes, and fascinating culture and history, welcomed more than 1.4 million visitors in 2022. It’s a substantial amount, but it pales in comparison to Rome, which played host to around 35 million visitors in 2023.
But Bologna, which is also sometimes referred to as the “red city” because of its terracotta buildings, has much to offer. It is home to one of the oldest universities in the world, as well as the Medieval Two Towers, the impressive central Piazza Maggiore, and the iconic basilica: the Sanctuary of San Luca.
Pexels
It’s also hard to beat this city’s reputation for food. Bologna’s culinary scene is renowned. In fact, in 2022, the readers of Conde Nast Traveller voted it as the city with the “best food in the world.” This is unsurprising when you consider that everything from parmesan to lasagna to tortellini can be traced back to Emilia-Romagna.
Many of Bologna’s food offerings are laden with meat and cheese, but if you’re on the hunt for a plant-based meal, you won’t be disappointed.
What food is Bologna famous for?
One of the most famous dishes to come out of Bologna is tagliatelle al ragu (you’ve likely tried its spin-off spaghetti bolognese, which is more commonly eaten outside of Italy in places such as the UK, Australia, and the US). Tagliatelle el ragu is simple; it consists of two key parts, the pasta (the tagliatelle, of course) and the ragu, which is often made with pork or veal.
Kite Hill
Tortellini is another iconic Bolognese dish, which often consists of small, ring-shaped pasta filled with meat or cheese and topped with parmesan. In fact, most meals in Bologna are topped with parmesan.
You can, of course, also find all of the broader Italian classics in Bologna. There’s plenty of pizza, bruschetta, gnocchi, and gelato to be found around almost every corner of the city’s iconic red streets. And you can also find vegan food, too, if you know where to look. Find some of our go-to restaurant recommendations below.
Where to find vegan food in Bologna
Heading to Bologna? These plant-based restaurants are worth a visit.
Botanica Lab
1 Botanica Lab
Situated just around the corner from the famous Piazza Maggiore, Botanica Lab is one of the most popular plant-based establishments in all of Bologna. There, you can feast on traditional pasta dishes, meaty plant-based steak fillets, burgers, poke bowls, and so much more. “This place is a must if you are looking for vegan Italian food in bologna,” says one reviewer for the international restaurant guide HappyCow. “I highly recommend making a reservation as the place seems to be always packed.”
Find IT HERE
Flower Burger
2 Flower Burger
Most of Italy’s major cities, including Rome, Milan, Turin, and, of course, Bologna, are home to a Flower Burger. The plant-based fast-food chain specializes in colorful, unique burgers made from whole food ingredients like eggplant, mushrooms, and red cabbage. It’s the place to go if you want to fill up on a tasty, quick lunch in between sightseeing.
Find IT HERE
Zem Bistro
3 Zem Bistro
If comfort food is calling your name, head to Zem Bistro for a range of nourishing, satisfying vegan options like pumpkin burgers, chickpea nuggets, and lentil sausages. You can also grab a plate of traditional tortellini, too. “After 20 years I finally managed to eat tortellini with cream,” reads one Trip Advisor review of the restaurant. “Delicious, like everything else.”
Find It HERE
Fram Cafe
4 Fram Cafe
When you’re in the mood for a relaxing sit down and a pastry, head to Fram Cafe. The small eatery specializes in vegan cakes, brioche, cookies, and more, which you can wash down with a delicious Italian coffee. “Cozy atmosphere, good lunch, good pastries,” reads one HappyCow review. “Calm and lovely.”
Find IT HERE
UNO Caffé Olistico
5 UNO Caffé Olistico
This small organic eatery is actually vegetarian, but it serves plenty of vegan options, including hearty, comforting gnocchi, pasta with ragu, and lighter options like muffins and croissants. “Don’t walk to visit this place. Run,” urges one HappyCow reviewer. “Friendly staff, perfect organic food, good seats. All that you need.”
Find It HERE
For more plant-based stories like this, read:
JUMP TO ... Latest News | Recipes | Guides | Health | Shop
Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
