Focus city: Bologna
In Episode 3 of CNN's "Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy", Stanley doesn't focus completely on a city but travels the Emilia-Romagna region extensively showing us the unique environment that has created this areas food traditions.
Stanley's Visits on the map in blue
1. Caseificio Rosola - The love affair with cheese continues in Italy with Stanley taking us to one of the many great parmigiano cheese producers in the region. There’s a theme starting here. Time.
2. Casa Maria Luigi - Stanley's friend, Massimo Bottura, adapts to cooking in a pandemic and gives us a glorious ricotta cheese recipe. It left Stanley stunned and the rest of us ready to recreate it ourselves.
3. Salumeria Simoni Stanley sheds light on a great lunch option. Purchasing mortadella by the gram, they bring it and fresh bread to a classic wine bar and indulge. Simple, but the quality makes it spectacular.
4. Simoni Laboratorio - Simoni’s restaurant right around the corner from the Salumeria. Proscuitto, made from the proper pig, with time, makes all the difference.
5. Giuseppe Giusti - As with parmigiano and prosciutto, time is an essential ingredient in balsamic vinegar. The Giusti family has spent generations perfecting this staple of the region.
6. Casa Artusi - Amid the historical backdrop of Pellegrino Artusi, Stanley treats us to some secrets to the art of bolognese ragù. Put away the tomatoes and take notes.
7. Osteria Io e Simone - Stanley gives us a wonderful glimpse of the coastal town of Rimini. We learn how strozzapreti came to be and that cappelletti needs only a bowl of broth to be enjoyed.
More to explore on the map in red
In the region
1. Mercato Albinelli - Central Market in Modena. Full of regional options for lunch and to take away. Extraordinary. Open until 3:00 pm Monday-Saturday. Saturday reopens 4:30-7:30
2. Antica Corte Pallavicina - This place is pure Emilia-Romagna bliss. Stop by for the unpretentious Michelin stared restaurant, check out the culatello museum or stay for days in one of the 11 simply elegant guest rooms.
3. Ferrari Museums - Closed now, but it will reopen! If this can be part of your trip -make it happen.
4. Osteria di Rubbiara. - Acetaia Pedroni is a family run producer of balsamic vinegar with a classic tavern dating back to 1862. An intimate, personal place to experience the tradition of balsamic vinegar production and enjoy an afternoon meal.
5. Ristorante L'Arcimboldo in Bologna
Stylish restaurant situated close to the Central Station. This simply elegant space offers quality traditional dishes.