Is there anywhere better to sample food in Bologna than Mercato delle Erbe? This hugely popular market has certainly become a tourist favorite, but it’s been feeding locals for more than 100 years.
While the market has undergone plenty of transitions, it has remained a hub for quality products, local shopping experiences, and sit-down dining. Whenever I stroll around this market, I can’t help but be captivated by the blend of retro charm and contemporary flair!
To ensure you have all the essential information before your visit, I’ve crafted this guide to Mercato delle Erbe, including the most popular stalls and vendors you can’t miss.
History and Legacy of the Market
Photo credit: Marco Delvecchio licensed under Attribution 2.0 Generic
The market’s history is rather extensive, having been constructed in 1910. At the time, Mercato delle Erbe was built to house the somewhat disorganized stalls that had previously lined the nearby streets.
It stood as a thriving spot for locals to stock up on fresh foods for decades until it was bombed during the Second World War. However, it didn’t stay closed for too long and was renovated and modernized throughout the 1950s.
These days, despite competition from supermarkets, Mercato delle Erbe continues to withstand the test of time. In addition to the wide selection of local produce, the market now also boasts a slew of casual restaurants and bars.
What You’ll Find: Products and Shopping at Mercato delle Erbe
Before you set off on your market exploration, it’s a good idea to know what to expect during your visit.
Mercato delle Erbe has an ever-growing assortment of products, with the likes of cured meats, fresh cheeses, homemade pasta, regional wines, and quality seafood being some of the most popular. You’ll find many classic Italian goods here, as well as Bologna specialties like Parmigiano Reggiano, mortadella, and balsamic vinegar.
If you want to secure the tastiest fare, follow the lead of locals and stick to seasonal produce, such as stone fruits in the summer and leafy greens in the winter.
Best Food Spots Inside the Market
Banco 32
Photo credit: Banco 32
If you’re not convinced you can find restaurant-quality fare within the confines of a market, I think a visit to Banco 32 will quickly change your mind! This place is especially famous for its tapas-style seafood, and I highly recommend trying their sharing platter.
A group of us tucked into a mix of briny sardines and crisp oysters, but the mild and succulent prawns were the stand-outs for me.
Noi
Photo credit: Noi
Noi has all the features of a typical Bolognese restaurant, including simple wooden tables, wine-filled shelves, and a cozy vibe. The standard of the food here was incredible, and I loved the combination of local and national flavors.
You have to try their pillowy crescentine bread, and I suggest following it up with tagliatelle al ragù. This dish’s rich, robust flavors taste even better with a glass of oaky chianti.
Vini e Sapuri
Photo credit: Vini e Sapuri
Vini e Sapuri is best known as a wine bar and shop, and while that’s reason enough to visit, they also prepare some superb food. Despite how busy it was when I arrived around lunchtime, I was lucky enough to secure a seat in their compact dining area.
I started off with a glass of sangiovese, and its high tannins and cherry notes were a lovely match for the bruschetta platter I ordered. My favorite was the tangy stracciatella offering topped with smokey mortadella and bright pistachio pesto.
Sfarinà
Photo credit: Sfarinà
Sfarinà is Mercato delle Erbe’s most sought-after piadina spot, with a lengthy menu of filling combinations based on local and regional produce. I came here for an early lunch just after the staff had set up for the day, meaning I managed to avoid the midday rush.
On this occasion, I wanted something spicy. As such, I opted for the fluffy piadina stuffed with fiery ventricina salami, tart sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy fior di latte. Each ingredient tasted so fresh and flavorful, and I contemplated returning for a second helping!
Vero Gelato
Photo credit: Vero Gelato
Mercato delle Erbe isn’t all about traditional restaurants, and there are plenty of other memorable gastronomic experiences to be had here. Vero Gelato is one such example, as this vintage-inspired ice cream shop whips up some dreamy gelato from natural ingredients.
I don’t think there was a single flavor I didn’t have my eye on, but the server suggested trying the salted pistachio. It had the earthy, slightly sweet undertones of a typical serving of pistachio gelato, but its savory notes give it a more balanced flavor profile.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Opening hours: Stalls selling fresh food and artisanal products are open every Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm. Hot food is available between 12:00 pm and 3:30 pm and 6:00 pm to 12:00 am from Monday to Saturday and from 12:00 pm to 3:30 pm every Sunday.
- Address: Via Ugo Bassi, 25, 40121 Bologna BO, Italy
- How to get there: Mercato delle Erbe is less than 10 minutes on foot from Piazza Maggiore. From the Piazza, turn right onto Piazza del Nettuno before making a left to continue along Via Ugo Bassi for 350 meters until you spot the market on your right. Several bus lines also serve the bus stop outside the entrance, including 21, 39, 81, 89, 97, and 98.
- Payment methods: Although many vendors accept cards, it’s always advisable to bring cash, including some small notes.
- Accessibility: Mercato delle Erbe is easy to navigate and is generally suitable for most age groups. However, it can get quite congested at times, so visitors with reduced mobility may prefer to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Final Thoughts: Is Mercato delle Erbe Worth Visiting?
Mercato delle Erbe is one of Bologna’s most sought-after culinary hotspots. It’s a must-visit whether you’re hoping to secure foodie-themed souvenirs, pick up some flavorful picnic supplies, or feast on some local delicacies. For the ultimate gastronomic experience, pair your visit with a Bologna food tour!
Sources:
Dunn, K. (2024, November 29). A guide to Bologna food: Top dishes and where to try them. Eating Europe. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/blog/bologna-food/
Mercato delle Erbe. (n.d.). Mercato delle Erbe. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from http://www.mercatodelleerbe.eu/
Banco 32. (n.d.). Banco 32. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from http://www.banco32.it/index.php?l=1
Noi – Cantina Bentivoglio. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from http://noi.cantinabentivoglio.it/
Vini e Sapuri. (n.d.). Vini e Sapuri. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.viniesapuri.com/
Sfarinà. (n.d.). Sfarinà. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.sfarina.it/
Vero Gelateria. (n.d.). Vero Gelateria. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://verogelateria.com/
Eating Europe. (n.d.). Bologna Food Tours. Retrieved April 13, 2025, from https://www.eatingeurope.com/bologna/
- Mon-Sat
- 3.5 Hours
- Small Group
