What is in season in Bologna. and what to order when the market changes.
Spring
Spring in Bologna means asparagus from April (white and green from the Po valley), fava beans with Pecorino, the first cherries from Vignola by mid-May, plus the local strawberries and the year's first tortelloni di erbette in the trattorias.
Summer
Summer in Bologna runs on peaches and apricots from Romagna and Vignola, melons from Modena, the year's tomatoes from the Po valley, plus the granita-and-brioche tradition at the gelaterie and the long aperitivo at the porticoed terraces.
Autumn
Autumn in Bologna is white truffle season from Acqualagna and Savigno (October to November), porcini from the Apennines, new oil from Brisighella, the new vintage Lambrusco and the year's first chestnuts and game from the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines.
Winter
Winter in Bologna means tortellini in brodo on Christmas Day, the certosino di Bologna at every pasticceria, mostarda di Cremona at every salumeria, plus radicchio from Treviso, slow-cooked stracotto with polenta and the local persimmons (cachi).
Seasonal in Bologna, FAQ
When is the best time to eat in Bologna?
Peak food season in Bologna is year-round.
What time do people eat in Bologna?
Local dining hours: lunch around 12:30, dinner from 19:30.
How does tipping work in Bologna?
service is typically included; small extra is welcome but not expected.
What is the one dish to try in Bologna?
Ask the next local you meet what they would order. Bologna rewards trust.