Osteria Porta Castello

This was outstanding. The vibe, the hosts, the food, everything. First, Bazzano is off the beaten path. It's between Bologna and Modena. It's a charming little town, wealthy and epic. The hosts are a husband and wife who make stellar food. We felt like we were dining in their living room. And, that's exactly the type of experience one should strive for in Italy. Here, we ate food that was real. Home cooked, lovingly prepared and always served with love. I asked the host for a wine list and he smiled and pointed to his forehead and said, "I am the wine list, what do you like?" We had a nest of thin pasta with an egg on top and cream, Outstanding desserts and the best tasting burrata we've eaten. All in all, the drive out to the Osteria Porta Castello was well worth it. It ranked in our top 5 meals during our long two weeks exploring Italia.

- Timothy Rose -

Great food and a nice atmosphere.It is a family operated restaurant, which you can feel and taste. The food is made with love and passion! Would definitely go there again soon

- N. Ahrens -

First time traveler in Bozzano and I came across Osteria Porta Castelló where I was immediately introduced to Giacomo, the proprietor. He was nothing short of cordial, welcoming, and enthusiastic about having a Westerner that doesn't speak Italian dining in his establishment. Being alone, he even joined me for conversation and a glass of wine in between attending tables, he being one of few in the are that speak english. Osteria very much has a feel of home with locally sourced ingredients, a welcoming atmosphere, and joyful conversation all around you. The adjacent Palazzo had live music with playing and dancing adults and children, people walking thier dogs, and a true community feel. Osteria Porta Castelló is a real gem with a retro feel that makes you feel as if you're dining at a friend or relative's home. I highly encourage everyone that is in the area to stop in and enjoy the wonderful food, enormous wine selection, and friendly atmosphere Giacomo genuinely pushes for. Regarding the food, I had the best ravioli I've ever had! Prosciutto and cheese stuffed in handmade pasta topped with a cream sauce, honey beads, and truffle shavings. In a word, magnífico!! Fortunately I will get to return on business in the future, so I will be sure to return to say hello and dine again! Grazie mille Giacomo! I look forward to my next visit!!

- Jake Pitman -

Loved it, very kind owner, and the food was something special. Highly recommend. He and his wife really have something amazing here.

- Tjeerd S. Ritmeester -

Definitely a Slow Food place. Terrific food, lovely couple running the place. We loved every bite. I had the sformatino di melanzane and tagliolini con zucchine, my husband classic tagliatelle al ragù and Salsiccia. You’ll need to have a bit of time, but it’s worth the wait. Awesome grappa as well. We’ll come back for sure

- Andrea Pospischil -