Typical Bolognese tavern with handmade pasta; about EUR 30-40 (~$34.50-$46) per person.
Da Cesari is a trattoria at Via de' Carbonesi 8, in the historic centre of Bologna, a few minutes on foot from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers. It presents itself as a typical Bolognese tavern in the Emilia-Romagna tradition, built around handmade pasta and a wine list that features bottles from the Umberto Cesari winery. The cooking sticks to the classic repertoire of the region rather than reinterpreting it, which makes the restaurant a straightforward introduction to local food for first-time visitors to Italy's Emilia-Romagna region.
The dishes most associated with the kitchen are fresh handmade pasta, tagliatelle al ragu and tortelloni di ricotta. Tagliatelle al ragu is the emblematic dish of Bologna, and the version served here follows the slow-cooked meat sauce tradition rather than any spaghetti-style variant. Tortelloni filled with ricotta are typically served with butter and sage or a simple tomato sauce, depending on the season and the menu of the day.
The dining room has the character of a traditional tavern: informal, convivial and aimed at diners who want a full meal rather than a quick snack. Dress is casual, and noise levels tend to rise at the busiest dinner hours. Average spend is about EUR 30-40 per person for a meal with wine, which places it in the mid-price band for central Bologna.
Wine is a notable part of the offer, with the Umberto Cesari labels from the Romagna side of the region available alongside other regional wines. Visitors who prefer to pair pasta with local Sangiovese or Albana can usually find a suitable glass or bottle.
Reservations are required according to the venue's own information, and can be made by phone on +39 051 237710 or by email. Booking a few days ahead is sensible for weekend dinners, and further ahead during trade-fair weeks and the autumn food season, when Bologna fills with visitors. Service runs for lunch from about 12:30PM to 2:30PM and for dinner from about 7:30PM to 11:00PM, though the weekly closing day should be confirmed before visiting.
| Price | $$ |
|---|---|
| Hours | Lunch 12:30PM-2:30PM and dinner 7:30PM-11:00PM (confirm closing day) |
| Reservations | Reservations required; phone +39 051 23 77 10 or email info@da-cesari.it |
| Address | Via de' Carbonesi 8, 40123 Bologna |
Signature dishes
- Fresh handmade pasta
- Tagliatelle al ragu
- Tortelloni di ricotta
Good to know
- Known for
- Handmade pasta and wines from the Umberto Cesari winery
Location
Via de' Carbonesi 8, 40123 Bologna
44.4932, 11.3440 View on map
Highlights
- Handmade fresh pasta in the Bolognese tavern tradition
- Tagliatelle al ragu, the city's emblematic dish
- Tortelloni di ricotta as a lighter filled-pasta option
- Wines from the Umberto Cesari winery on the list
Tips for visiting
- Reserve by phone on +39 051 237710 or by email; reservations are required.
- Budget about EUR 30-40 per person for pasta, wine and a main course.
- Confirm the weekly closing day before visiting, as it is not clearly published.
- Lunch is served about 12:30PM-2:30PM; dinner starts around 7:30PM, in line with local habits.
- Ask for a wine pairing from the Umberto Cesari range to match the pasta course.
When to visit
Dinner is the busiest and most atmospheric service; weekday lunch is calmer. Autumn and spring are comfortable seasons for a full pasta meal.
Accessibility
Da Cesari is in a historic central street, where older buildings often have steps or narrow entrances. Wheelchair access has not been confirmed, so visitors with mobility needs should phone ahead.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to book Da Cesari in advance?
Yes, reservations are required according to the restaurant. Booking can be done by phone on +39 051 237710 or by email, ideally a few days ahead for weekend dinners.
How much does a meal at Da Cesari cost?
A meal typically costs about EUR 30-40 per person, depending on wine and the number of courses ordered.
What is Da Cesari known for?
The kitchen is known for fresh handmade pasta such as tagliatelle al ragu and tortelloni di ricotta, served alongside wines from the Umberto Cesari winery.