Ristorante Diana

Ristorante Diana is a historic restaurant at Via dell'Indipendenza 24, on the main axis running north from Piazza Maggiore in the centre of Bologna, Emilia-Romagna. It has been open since the 1920s and is known as a keeper of traditional Bolognese cooking, serving the dishes of the city's classic repertoire in a dining room that has retained its early twentieth-century character. For visitors who want the old-school version of Bolognese dining, with trolleys, set routines and formal service, it is one of the better-known addresses on the street.

The signature dishes follow the canon. Tortellini in brodo, the small stuffed pasta served in a clear broth, is the traditional starter. Tagliatelle al ragu is the other staple, and cotoletta alla bolognese, a veal cutlet topped with ham and Parmigiano Reggiano, represents the richer main courses. The dish most associated with the restaurant is the bollito misto, a selection of boiled meats carved from a trolley at the table and served with sauces such as salsa verde, a ceremony that has become emblematic of classic Emilian restaurants.

The dining room is calmer and more formal than a typical trattoria. Tables are dressed, service is attentive, and the noise level is moderate. Smart casual clothing is the norm, and the setting suits a celebratory dinner or a lunch that is meant to be unhurried. The beverage list focuses on Emilia-Romagna wines, with Sangiovese di Romagna, Lambrusco and Pignoletto the natural pairings for pasta in broth and boiled meats.

A meal costs about EUR 40-50 (roughly $46-$57.50) per person, placing Diana at the upper end of the traditional Bolognese options rather than the bargain end. Bologna Welcome lists daily service from 12:15 PM to 2:30 PM and 7:15 PM to 10:30 PM, though the weekly closing day should be confirmed before visiting. Reservations are advised and can be made by phone on +39 051 231302. A booking a few days in advance is sensible for dinner, and further ahead for weekends, holidays and trade-fair periods when the city's hotels and restaurants fill.