Food in Bologna

I have already mentioned some of Bolognese dishes we have had since arriving here, but I want to describe the amount of food we are being served and what makes them all special. Italian cuisine is very region specific and each region believes that they are the best - so true! First of all, most meals are pretty much in courses regardless if you want it served that way or not. Our chefs, hosts, or even just our friends have been dishing up the meals for us - this is very dangerous because the portions are ridiculous. Don’t try saying that you do not want anything or that you want a small amount, because this will cause the exact opposite reaction - double portions and more dishes hidden away in the kitchen will appear without hesitation. After about the second or third course, you are typically asked - why you no eat?!? This is too funny, because my plate has been wiped clean of food with my third piece of fresh bread. After about 3 bottles of wine and many laughs, our bellies are full and someone announces the main course is about to be served - no joke! I think it is important to note that Italians take their meals very seriously. In fact these meals can typically last 2+ hours before you even get to desert and coffee. Here is a typical timeline for dinner: Apertivo - Antipasti with vino - Primi with vino - Secondi with vino - Contorni with vino - Dolce with vino - Caffe - Digestivo - Roll yourself home…

True story - at Silvio, a restaurant in Bologna, just prior to our desert course, our Server looks at us with a big grin and proudly states, “the Apocalypse is coming.” We all look at each and laugh and then feel a little worried. Within minutes we had 8 untouched various deserts on our table. When I say “untouched” I literally mean entire cake, pie, vat of gelato, tray of panna cotta, pitcher of chocolate sauce, tray of fruit, and on and on and on…
Amazingly, I’m getting hungry just by typing this…time to go find some food - Ciao!