Gluten-Free Bologna: Where to Eat Safely & What to Avoid

Bologna is a dream destination for foodies, and that doesn’t change just because you follow a gluten-free diet. With its rich culinary traditions and deep pride in handmade pasta and baked goods, the cuisine of Bologna might seem challenging for those with celiac disease at first glance.

Yet the demand for gluten-free dishes has found its way into the cultural bone marrow of Bologna, with chefs responding at all levels. From carefully crafted gluten-free tagliatelle to dedicated bakeries and modern trattorias, you’ll find tons of great gluten-free options on a Bologna food tour.

Gluten-Free Dining in Bologna, Italy

Gluten-free dining in Bologna is easier than you might think. This is thanks in large part to Italy’s strong awareness of coeliac disease and gluten sensitivity. Today many Bolognese restaurants and cafes are familiar with the term senza glutine and take dietary needs seriously.

Most clearly label gluten-free options right on the menu. You’ll also appreciate how well-informed staff are about cross-contamination and safe preparation. There’s even an AIC (Associazione Italiana Celiachia) app, which lists certified gluten-free restaurants, bakeries, and shops throughout Bologna and the rest of Italy.

Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in Bologna

Bologna has many great restaurants with gluten-free menu items and specialty dishes that are prepared with strict cross-contamination protocols to give you an authentic taste of the city’s proud cuisine.

Pappare’ Bologna

Just steps from Bologna’s Piazza Maggiore and the iconic Two Towers, Pappare’ is a cozy, modern café with an artsy vibe and plenty of gluten-free options. The laid-back, stylish ambiance makes it a great place to recharge between sightseeing.

Their menu is clearly marked, and they practice strict gluten-free cross-contamination protocols. I appreciate their seasonal brunch dishes, smoothie bowls, and salads that feature fresh local ingredients. However, I really love the gluten-free tiramisu that features robust, complex chocolate and coffee flavors that are indistinguishable from a typical gluten version.

Pappare’ Bologna (€€) – Via De’ Giudei, 2d, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy. 

Il Veliero

Located near Porta Castiglione and Bologna’s city gardens, Il Veliero specializes in gluten-free pizza. Their gluten-free menu items have even been certified by the AIC (Associazione Italiana Celiachia). The ambiance is relaxed, and the dining room has a playful nautical theme.

When I’m in the mood for a crispy, thin-crust pizza in Bologna, this is my go-to pizzeria. They offer a wide variety of toppings to let you come up with your own favorite combinations. The crust is exceptionally crisp, and I loved how its flavor played with the sweetness of the sauce made from in-season tomatoes.

Il Veliero (€€) – Via Milazzo, 11/A, 40121 Bologna BO, Italy.

Trattoria di Via Serra

Photo credit: Trattoria di Via Serra

Near Bologna’s Centrale train station, Trattoria di Via Serra is beloved for its farm-to-table philosophy. The ambiance is warm and reflects the owner’s passion for locally sourced ingredients as well as accommodating the dietary needs of their guests.

One of the things I appreciate about this trattoria is that they are happy to prepare gluten-free pasta on request. Their emphasis on local, organic ingredients and hearty, traditional flavors really gives a taste of the terroir of Bologna’s agriculture.

Trattoria di Via Serra (€€) – Via Luigi Serra, 9b, 40129 Bologna BO, Italy.

Gluten-Free Bakeries, Gelaterias & Cafés

Bologna also celebrates a wide range of cafes, bakeries, and gelato shops that offer gluten-free items in their everyday lineup.

Caffè Terzi

Photo credit: Caffè Terzi

In the heart of Bologna’s historic city center, Caffè Terzi is a specialty coffee shop where you can also indulge in gluten-free pastries and small bites. The ambiance is elegant, with classic décor.

I was impressed by their meticulous coffee brewing techniques that truly reflect Italian coffee culture. I found the light, nutty flavors of their gluten-free almond cake paired beautifully with an expertly pulled espresso.

Caffè Terzi (€€) – Via Guglielmo Oberdan, 10d, 40126 Bologna BO, Italy.

Pasticceria Laganà

Located near Bologna’s Centrale train station, Pasticceria Laganà is a beloved pastry shop with a wide selection of gluten-free sweets. You’ll appreciate their airy, elegant interior and friendly counter service.

All their gluten-free items are clearly marked and safely prepared using strict cross-contamination protocol. I loved the crunch of their gluten-free almond biscotti. Yet I think the real gems on the menu are the fruit tarts, made with fresh seasonal fruits, and the torta di riso rice cakes.

Pasticceria Laganà (€€) – Via Santo Stefano, 112, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy.

Il Gelatauro

Photo credit: Il Gelatauro

Il Gelatauro is a charming, artisanal gelateria tucked away near Via San Vitale. They’re known for their commitment to natural ingredients and creative flavors. I also like the cozy, vintage-style interior that speaks to a bygone era, and many of their gelati are naturally gluten-free and clearly labeled.

Some of their signature gelato flavors include ricotta with fig jam and Sicilian pistachio. However, it was their Modica chocolate gelato that made me weak in the knees. It had a richness and complexity of flavor that you usually only find in a high-end chocolate shop.  

Il Gelatauro (€) – Via Santo Stefano, 112, 40125 Bologna BO, Italy.

Ordering & Shopping Gluten-Free in Bologna

There are a few key phrases to know that will make it easier to order and shop for gluten-free food in Bologna.

Saying “Sono celiaco” will explain to staff and servers that you have coeliac disease.

Asking for “senza glutine” tells your server that you only want items that have no gluten.

When reading labels, watch for terms like amido modificato (modified starch), addensanti (thickeners), and stabilizzanti (stabilizers).

You can find gluten-free groceries at supermarkets like Coop, NaturaSi, and organic bio shops. These stores often stock breads, pastas, snacks, and desserts that are gluten-free and clearly labeled.

You’ll appreciate how clearly labeled “senza glutine” products are in Italy. Look for trusted brands like Schar, Nutrifree, or Piaceri Mediterranei to make safe, delicious choices for your stay.

Final Thoughts & Recommendations

Eating gluten-free food in Bologna is absolutely doable with the right preparation and a little local know-how. You can enjoy the authentic flavors of Emilia-Romagna by planning ahead and exploring a variety of AIC-certified restaurants and bakeries. 

I think you’ll find most places are welcoming and knowledgeable about gluten sensitivity, making it easier to relax and savor your meals. Download the AIC app, ask questions when ordering, and don’t hesitate to try regional specialties adapted for gluten-free diets. With some thoughtful choices, your culinary journey in Bologna can be just as satisfying and safe.

Sources:

Caffè Terzi. (n.d.). Caffè Terzi di Bologna. http://www.caffeterzi.it/

Gelatauro. (n.d.). Gelatauro – Gelato Artigianale a Bologna. https://gelatauro.com/

Il Veliero Pizzeria Ristorante. (n.d.). Il Veliero Pizzeria Ristorante. http://www.ilvelieropizzeriaristorante.com/

Pappa Reale. (n.d.). Pappa Reale – Pasticceria, caffetteria e gelateria a Bologna. http://www.pappa-reale.it/

Pasticceria Laganà. (n.d.). Pasticceria Laganà – Bologna. http://www.pasticcerialagana.it/

Trattoria di Via Serra. (n.d.). Trattoria di Via Serra. http://www.trattoriadiviaserra.it/

Eating Europe. (n.d.). Bologna food tours. https://www.eatingeurope.com/bologna/

Eating Europe. (2022, March 25). Bologna food guide: What to eat in Bologna, Italy. https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/bologna-food/