Restaurant Review: Trattoria della Santa
Bologna is known for many things like its medieval historic center, the university scene and worldwide, the food! It is famous for mortadella, bolognese sauce and tortellini. WhenI come to Bologna, there is one place that is on my list: Trattoria della Santa, located on Via Urbana, 7/F (around a 30 min walk from the train station). They open for lunch and dinner and you must book a table in advance - just a phone call, and they speak English so no need to panic.
What I really like about this place is that it lets the food speak for itself. The restaurant itself is simple - no crazy decor or overblown dining concepts. The signage is basic. The menu is straightforward and the staff is friendly and well informed. The place hosts Italians and tourists with equal warmth. They know what they do best. What do I like to eat here? My favorites from past visits below:
Antipasti/Starters: the mixed charcuterie plate with crescentine (fried bread) and squacquerone cheese. This is a meal in itself but easily split for two - three as a starter. Once you try the mortadella here, you will be a touch ruined to cold cuts stateside.
Primi/First Course: Tortellini is the star of the pasta show in Bologna and the choices here are all amazing. My go to is the tortellini with gorgonzola and walnuts. The sauce has a slight kick from the gorgonzola, and the crispy walnuts provide the perfect counterpoint to hand made pasta that is both delicate and fluffy. This dish can be split between two diners, and strategically if you want to go for another course - absolutely necessary! Alternatively, the tortellini in brodo is simple elegance. A rich elegant broth is the only backdrop needed to fully showcase the mastery of the pasta. It always hits the right spot. Seeking an origin story? Tagliatelle al ragu is everything you need to know about a properly done meat sauce. Does not get better than this. Really.
Secondo/Second Course: At this point you will be full. Sip a bit more wine and let that But you will fight the good fight - thankfully these courses can also be shared. The beef filet with porcini mushrooms (when in season) is amazing and also the green pepper sauce is a solid second choice. Cotolletta alla bolognese is a thinly breaded and fried veal cutlet paired with a thin slice of ham and parmesan sauce. Delicious. And again, I recommend sharing if possible!
Dessert: I have to be honest, I have never made it to dessert. Too full.
Wine List: they have a full selection and make great recommendations.
So next time you are in Bologna, take some time and come to Trattoria della Santa. It is not just pasta. This meal is an experience that will simply devestate your standards. It is that good. And for that, you will have to come back again. I certainly can’t wait to.