“Stefino Bio: The Pioneering Force of Organic and Vegan Gelato Revolution in Bologna”

Stefino Bio is a fully organic and vegan gelateria in Bologna, founded by Stefano Marcotulli with a straightforward premise: make artisan gelato without dairy, eggs, or artificial additives, using ingredients sourced from organic and fair-trade suppliers. It has built a strong local following — not primarily among vegans, but among anyone who pays attention to what goes into their food. The gelato stands on its own merits rather than relying on the novelty of being vegan.

The Gelato

Every flavour at Stefino Bio is made without cream or eggs. The base uses plant-based alternatives — typically rice or oat — which produce a lighter, cleaner texture than conventional gelato. The result is noticeably different from dairy gelato but not a poor substitute: it is a distinct product with its own character.

Ingredients are sourced with care: almonds from Sicily, hazelnuts from Piedmont, organic cocoa, and seasonal fruit from local suppliers where possible. The flavour range mixes familiar Italian classics with less conventional choices — turmeric, cardamom, and matcha appear alongside nocciola, cioccolato, and fruit sorbets. The rotating menu changes with the season and ingredient availability.

See where the food actually comes from.
The Emilia Delizia food tour takes you inside working Parmigiano, balsamic, and ham producers — rated 4.9 stars on TripAdvisor.

Practical Information

• Address: Via Castiglione 51, Bologna
• Neighbourhood: Close to the Two Towers and the university district — a natural stop on any walk through the historic centre
• All gelato is vegan and organic — no separate vegan menu needed
• Gluten-free options: Available — confirm at the counter for the current selection
• What to order: Nocciola, seasonal fruit sorbets, and whichever unusual flavour is on that day are reliable starting points

Stefino Bio in Bologna’s Gelato Landscape

Bologna has a high standard for artisan gelato — it is home to the Carpigiani Gelato Museum and the Carpigiani Gelato University, the institution that has trained professional gelato makers from over 100 countries. In this context, Stefino Bio fits naturally: it is not a compromise version of gelato for people with dietary restrictions, but a serious artisan product that happens to be entirely plant-based.

For visitors exploring the best gelato in Bologna, Stefino Bio is worth including regardless of dietary preferences. Its location near the Two Towers makes it an easy stop on the standard route through the historic centre.