Tortellini en Brodo in Bologna: A Twist of Fate at Sfoglia Rina

Inside Sfoglia Rina in Bologna

Bowl of Tortelloni at Sfoglia Rina

Gramini served at Sfolgia Rina

Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna, is one of those cities where food isn’t just important, it’s everything. For me, this region holds a permanent place in my heart (and stomach), largely because of tortellini en brodo in Bologna, a dish I could happily eat every single day. And honestly? I pretty much did.

Most trattorias in the city proudly serve it, which sounds like a dream until you’re faced with the impossible task of choosing where. In true modern fashion, I turned to my social media community for guidance. One recommendation stood out, coming from a trusted foodie friend who also happens to be a chef: Sfoglia Rina.

Sfoglia Rina is named after Rina, the nonna of the current owner, Lorenzo who began this legacy in 1963 as a small fresh-pasta spot just outside the city. In 2010, the family officially opened their Bologna location. Since then, the business has expanded beyond its pasta laboratory dedicated to preserving Rina’s treasured recipes, branching into baking and even offering hands-on pasta-making classes.

My GPS led the way, and once inside, I was immediately charmed. The space is warm and inviting, with multiple dining options: tables tucked into back rooms, counter seating up front, or the choice to grab something to go.

Each day, a handwritten menu appears on a blackboard, a quiet flex that signals just how committed they are to market-fresh ingredients. The offerings change weekly and seasonally, highlighting classic Bolognese dishes alongside thoughtful variations.

Given my not-so-fluent Italian, it felt oddly ironic that I was seated next to a small corner of Italian children’s books. Was this their subtle way of encouraging me to study? Possibly. I appreciated the optimism.

Then, just as I was mentally preparing myself for my beloved tortellini en brodo, fate intervened. Sfoglia Rina had run out of brodo. A tragedy, truly, but also Bologna, where good food waits for no one.

Luckily, pivoting here is easy. I opted instead for the tortelloni with butter and sage, along with gramini pasta with sausage. Both dishes were exceptional, rich, comforting, and flawlessly executed. Not surprising, considering the impeccable taste of the person who sent me there.

To drink, I chose Lambrusco, the local sparkling red wine from Emilia-Romagna. It’s versatile, food-friendly, and a perfect option if you’re still finding your footing in the wine world (speaking from experience).

And because this is Italy, dessert was non-negotiable. Both the cheesecake and the chocolate Torta della Nonna were light, airy, and indulgent without being heavy, the kind of ending every meal deserves.

If you find yourself in Bologna, do yourself a favor and eat at Sfoglia Rina. Even if your tortellini en brodo luck runs out... trust me, you’ll still leave very, very happy.