Trattoria Anna Maria sits on Via delle Belle Arti 17/A, a few minutes’ walk from the university quarter. It opened in 1985 and has not changed much since — the walls are covered in framed photographs of Italian celebrities who have eaten here (Sophia Loren, Marcello Mastroianni, Lucio Dalla), and the tables are packed close together in the way that discourages whispering and encourages eating.
Every pasta dish is handmade. The menu is short and entirely traditional: tortellini, tagliatelle, tortelloni, lasagne, and a handful of meat secondi. This is not a place for innovation — it is a place for doing the classics properly.
What I Ordered
Tortellini in brodo di cappone. Capon broth, not chicken — richer, more savoury, the way it is traditionally made for Sunday lunch. The portion was generous. The tortellini were good, though not the best I have had in Bologna. If you want to compare, try also Da Cesari or Diana.
Roast pork shin. This was the surprise. Despite Anna Maria being famous for its pasta, the meat dishes were excellent — well prepared, properly seasoned, served with a small portion of baked potatoes that was the right side for a heavy main.
Zuppa inglese and tiramisu. Both traditional, both generous portions, both good. Not the reason to come here, but a solid finish to the meal.
Prices and Value
First and second courses range from €11 to €15. For a restaurant this central and this well-known, that is reasonable. The quality-to-price ratio is good — you are paying for handmade pasta and proper Bolognese dishes, not for the location or the decor.
Practical Information
Address: Via delle Belle Arti 17/A, Bologna
Hours: Lunch and dinner, closed Mondays
Reservations: Recommended, especially for dinner and weekends — the dining room fills up
Getting there: 10-minute walk from Piazza Maggiore, heading northeast toward the university quarter
If you want to explore more of what makes Bolognese food special beyond the restaurants, our Foodies’ Delight food tour visits Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and Parma ham producers in a single day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trattoria Anna Maria worth visiting in Bologna?
Yes, if you want a genuine traditional Bolognese meal in a no-frills setting. It is not the cheapest option and not the most refined, but the handmade pasta and meat dishes are consistently good. It was rated among the best restaurants for lasagne in the world by Taste Atlas.
Do I need a reservation at Trattoria Anna Maria?
Strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. The dining room is not large and the restaurant is well-known among both locals and tourists. Lunchtime on weekdays is usually easier to get a table without booking.
What should I order at Trattoria Anna Maria?
The tortellini in brodo di cappone (capon broth) is the signature dish. The tagliatelle al ragù and lasagne are also excellent. For secondi, the roast pork and game dishes (rabbit, guinea fowl) are worth trying — the kitchen is stronger on meat than you might expect from a pasta-focused restaurant.
How much does a meal at Trattoria Anna Maria cost?
First and second courses range from €11 to €15 each. With a dessert and house wine, expect to spend around €30–40 per person. For the quality and central location, this is reasonable by Bologna standards.
Where is Trattoria Anna Maria located?
Via delle Belle Arti 17/A, in Bologna’s university quarter. It is about a 10-minute walk northeast from Piazza Maggiore, on a street known for its galleries and the Pinacoteca Nazionale.
Discover more from Emilia Delizia
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.