Last visit: October 2024
My rating (for Bolognese readers): 6/10
My rating (for out-of-town readers): 7/10
Reason: Good for a first approach to Bolognese cuisine
Price: €€/€€€€
Phone: +39 051 644 7760
Bologna, the “Fat One,” is renowned for its traditional cuisine and restaurants that truly highlight the region's authentic flavors. Among the countless options in a city increasingly turning into a Disneyland for food lovers, Trattoria Casa Mia has gained a certain reputation over the years for its homely atmosphere and dishes that recall true Emilian tradition.
I have visited Trattoria Casa Mia five or six times in recent years, the most recent being in October 2024.
Atmosphere and Location: A Peaceful Corner in the Heart of Bologna
Trattoria Casa Mia is strategically located in Bologna on Via Saragozza, just steps away from the historic center but removed from the tourist bustle. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, characterized by rustic decor reminiscent of old Bolognese taverns. The walls are adorned with historical photos and thoughtful details, creating an intimate, homely environment that’s ideal for those seeking an authentic experience. The simple table layout allows guests to enjoy their meals in peace, making the trattoria a perfect spot for both romantic dinners and gatherings with friends.
Traditional Bolognese Cuisine: A Journey Through Emilia-Romagna’s Flavors
Trattoria Casa Mia mainly offers traditional Bolognese dishes, such as tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini in brodo, prepared with strict adherence to tradition but with occasional modern nods to Italian cuisine. Every dish is carefully crafted using fresh, quality ingredients, often sourced from local producers.
Starters: Genuine Flavors to Begin Well
To start, there’s a selection of appetizers that includes local cold cuts like Bologna’s famed mortadella and typical cheeses, accompanied by warm crescentine. The portions are generous, perfect for sharing and for beginning to explore Emilia’s rich flavors.
During my most recent visit, my dining companions and I opted for a lighter meal, so I’ll be reviewing only this experience, as we didn’t sample the main dishes that I have enjoyed on previous visits.
The eggplant and burrata tower with basil sauce (photo below) is an interesting creation; the eggplant was tasty and well-cooked, the burrata fresh, and the basil sauce aromatic. However, it lacked cohesion—something that would give the dish a unique quality beyond the sum of its individual ingredients.
The beef tartare with Parmesan shavings was excellent; this dish has gained popularity in Bologna over the past decade and is often made with mediocre-quality meat. However, Casa Mia’s version stood out, offering top-notch quality both in the choice of ingredients and in the preparation, which achieved a balanced mix of savory and acidic notes.
First Courses: Fresh Pasta as Tradition Demands
The first courses at Trattoria Casa Mia are a true homage to Bolognese tradition. The tagliatelle al ragù, made with homemade fresh pasta and minimal innovation, are an excellent starting point for those exploring Bolognese cuisine for the first time. The ragù is dense and flavorful, the result of a long cooking process that enhances both the meat and the aromatic base. The tortellini in brodo, another must-try at this trattoria, are handmade and served in a well-crafted broth. The lasagne alla bolognese also deserve a special mention.
While neither the tagliatelle nor the tortellini are the best you’ll find in the city, they are certainly well above average (I won’t comment on the lasagne, as it’s been too long since I last tried them).
Main Courses: Tradition and Creativity on the Plate
For main courses, the trattoria offers meat dishes that reflect Emilia’s rural heritage. Among the most popular choices are the castrato and the braised beef with polenta.
The castrato is good—no complaints; it’s made with quality ingredients and cooked well.
The braised beef, however, is a bit disappointing. When I order braised beef, I expect something buttery that melts in the mouth, filling the palate with rich aromas. At Casa Mia, what they serve is indeed a well-cooked slice of meat, but it’s not as tender as one might hope; it’s flavorful, but in my opinion, a good braised beef should be something else entirely.
Service and Hospitality: Bolognese Warmth in the Spotlight
The staff at Trattoria Casa Mia is friendly and always ready to recommend daily specials or adjust dishes to meet customers’ needs. The attention to customer care is evident in every detail, from the explanation of dishes to the willingness to accommodate special requests. Service is prompt without feeling rushed, allowing guests to enjoy their meal at a relaxed pace. Even during busier times, the atmosphere remains calm, making the experience all the more enjoyable.
Prices
The prices are in line with those of other Bolognese trattorias. It’s possible to enjoy a full meal, including an appetizer, first course, main course, and dessert, without any surprises on the final bill.
Conclusion: Why Choose Trattoria Casa Mia in Bologna
Here, I distinguish my rating between local Bolognese diners and out-of-town visitors.
For Bolognese locals, who are accustomed to high standards in both cuisine and dining experiences, Trattoria Casa Mia lacks that “magical ingredient” to truly stand out and elicit excitement from patrons, which is why I rated it a 6; the dishes are generally well-prepared, but there is, as noted, an absence of surprise.
For those unfamiliar with Bolognese cuisine and looking for an introductory experience, Casa Mia offers a welcoming atmosphere under the beautiful porticoes of Via Saragozza, making it an ideal setting for a first taste of Bolognese culinary culture. For this category of visitors, not yet accustomed to Bologna's renowned culinary traditions, Casa Mia is a strong starting point.
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