At the bottom of an alley off Piazza Maggiore, this unassuming place—known to locals as simply "Da Gianni"—is all about hearty traditional food. The usual starters are on hand—including a tasty tortellini in brodo—in addition to daily specials; bollito misto (mixed boiled meat) is a fine option here, and the cotechino con puré di patate (pork sausage with mashed potatoes) is elevated to sublimity by the accompanying salsa verde. The two unadorned rooms are usually crowded both at lunch and dinner.

While strolling the streets of Bologna, this characterful restaurant can be found right on the path between Piazza Maggiore and the Torre degli Asinelli. At Trattoria Gianni customers can enjoy tasty local food presented with modern plating presentation, all while in a rustic setting surrounded by a warm environment and friendly staff.

Un’autentica trattoria bolognese, dall’atmosfera accogliente, tra tovagliati bianchi e apparecchiati semplici, dove ritrovare quella piacevole aria familiare. Un menu che sa di tradizione, raccogliendo le migliori materie prime per la realizzazione di piatti gustosi, da assaporare con pupille e papille. Un’attenzione speciale ai piatti a base di carne, dalla cotoletta alla bolognese al gran bollito e al coniglio da abbinare a contorni caserecci, preparati con cura e amore dalla cucina di Gianni.

051 22 04 81 (a wonderfully friendly, comfortable restaurant with outstanding Bolognese food - no printed menu, you just choose from the selections of the day and I’m still dreaming of a celery and parmesand salad I had here. It’s fun to go with a small group so you can try lots of stuff. And save room for the endless desserts and grappa afterwards!)

This street was once famous for its key and lock makers - the very patrons who frequented Trattoria Gianni when it opened in the 1950s. In the decades that followed, its neighbours and patrons may have changed, but this restaurant has not. The interiors, all vaults and low arches with very thick walls, are unadorned and unfussy.

Reasons for Excellence: This charming family-run trattoria is adored for its authentic offerings, particularly its renowned Parmigiano-Reggiano and delectable prosciutto dishes. The warm, cozy atmosphere, combined with friendly service, makes it an ideal setting for enjoying traditional flavors that define the region.

In planning my trip, a number of foodie blogs recommended Trattoria da Gianni as a local restaurant to taste Bologna’s famous foods. So I obviously made a reservation (or had Dan do so, since his last name is Italian!).