Great place for my daughter's wedding rehearsal. TY
nina
Best restaurant in Rochester! Food is always fresh and delicious! I love it here
Matt
I’ve eaten at some of the best Italian restaurants from hidden gems in New York to Carbone’s in Vegas to a few highly rated places in South Florida.
I came here for my birthday and I wasn’t sure what to expect as I’ve never eaten in Rochester before. We were greeted by the staff opening the door for us. I dressed up however the restaurant doesn’t seem to have a dress code. Once you step inside, the atmosphere was a bit unsuspecting and the space is smaller/cozy.
We were taken care of immediately. And the staff was super friendly.
I asked for a custom order of spicy penne (my favorite from carbone is the spicy rig) and I ordered the traverse city chicken and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s easily a 10/10 dish. It will seriously blow your mind with how unique it is. The sauce has a savory umami, salty, and sweet (cherries) flavor profile and the chicken was cooked perfect. I’ve never had anything like it and can’t stop thinking about it.
Highly recommend this place with an open mind. Overall I would give this place a 4.5/5 stars. We ordered 3 entrees and 2 5 oz wine and the total was around $80 for 2 people.
We’ll be back!
Cheri
The service was spectacular. Emily, the manager was great. I have a gluten allergy and have been looking for the best gluten free dough. I think I have found it. This GF dough was by far the best ever. The reason I didn’t give five stars over all is due to the saltiness of the sauce. The sauce was heavy on the salt. I will come again, but next time I will request either a different sauce (if that’s an option) or just ask for light sauce. The layout of the restaurant was interesting, but I would definitely come again.
Wayne C.
Service is exceptional here. Staff really goes the extra mile.
Mike Shaheen
Excellent food, delicious italian food, great experience. Only compliant would be the canolli was a little odd tasting for authentic italian for my wife and I.
I truly believe this is one of the best spots in Rochester/Rochester Hills. Incredible food from appetizers to dessert, as well as a stunning atmosphere and an incredible staff that always has smiles on their face. The owner and his family are some of the best people I know. If you had to try one thing here, I would recommend the carbonara americano, but why try one thing when you could try everything! The family at bolognas makes this place very special and one of a kind. Do yourself a favor and see for yourself!
Vegetarian options: They have incredible items like the caprese, bruschetta, eggplant Parmesan, Andrea pizza (personal favorite) and MUCH more. If nothing tickles your fancy, you can always create your own pasta that fits a vegetarian diet and hits the spot!
Dietary restrictions: A personal friend is allergic to both dairy and gluten, and has no trouble creating a delicious pasta that fits her needs!
Parking: Downtown Rochester always has issues with parking, but luckily there is a garage 30 seconds walking from the back door and plenty of parking available behind the restaurant as well. If you look in the right places downtown, the are some free spots as well!
Kid-friendliness: There are kids cups and smaller portions of pasta and pizzas just for kids.
Wheelchair accessibility: There is a handicap restroom on the first floor and access from the Main Street. There are stairs, but only in the back that lead to the other restrooms. The staff is always eager to help any guest with walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cannoli, Limoncello Cake, Wedding Soup, Caesar Salad, Carbonara, Tiramisu, Nonna'a Meatball Trio, Traverse City Chicken
SpidersInMyBed
What a quaint little restaurant. Nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester hills you'll find Bologna Via Cucina. We celebrated my father's birthday here and had a group of just under 20. We notified them ahead of time and they set us up in the back room. The party was a surprise and the staff were fully into it and so helpful. Even though we had a large party the waitstaff was so attentive. The fresh bread could have easily been my meal it was so delicious but alas my lasagna showed up and outshined the bread. Unfortunately (actually fortunately) the portion was so large I wasn't able to finish. Although suddenly I found room for dessert. We had a taste off and although all were good, the cheesecake won out. The atmosphere is lively hip casual up front where the bar is and alitte more subdued in the rear for a more laid-back experience. Everything was wonderful all around but I feel I need to give one more shout out to the staff, I wish I remembered our waitresses name as she was top tier. I happily recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Trey Simon
A cherished Gem of downtown Rochester. I have never once been disappointed. My wife and I love our date nights here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Nonna'a Meatball Trio, Traverse City Chicken, Pollo Alla Joey
Elizabeth (The_Lizard)
I wish I had pictures, and I've only ever done carryout, but man, this is the best food within 5 miles of me.
1) Price - The prices are completely fair. I'm always happy to pay more for excellent food. 2) Food&Menu - The menu options are fantastic. I found this place initially when I was craving Italian wedding soup one day. I didn't have the materials on hand to make it myself, so after a quick google search, I found Bologna. Tried the soup and bread and WOW. It was Perfect! Since then I've tried (and fell in love with) the lasagna and gnocchi. The cannoli is wonderful. Not too sweet as it should be and a great shell. All the food makes it back to my house still tasting great. I love that the menu has a bigger plate option for sharing, because me and my husband love the same foods. Never seen that before but it works well for me. 3) Authenticity - I personally feel this is the most authentic and wholesome tasting Italian food I've ever had at a restaurant. Literally no competition. And after at least 5 visits, the consistency is exceptional. Told my Italian coworker about this place who was born in Italy, has visited a few times, and who's mother is from there. When she was in town recently, he took her there, and they were both pleased, impressed, and would dine there again. 4) Service - Have yet to dine here, but the service has always been great for take out. Not too much chit chat, staff seems focused at work, but they are kind and quick enough. 5) Atmosphere - in the front of the building, it seems tight, but the painting and brickwork are wonderful. Tight space in the front for waiting. Tried the back the other day, much more open, but seemed a little dark for my liking. Maybe some lamps at the tables to brighten it up subtly would be inviting. The pull up spot for drive up carryout is convenient for sure, but it's right next to the outdoor dining spot. Would be nice to have a little more privacy out there than to have a car pulled right up, potentially watching me eat. That back alley isn't the most visually appealing for outdoor dining.
All in all, no malicious intent, just some fond critiques to watch this place improve beyond my current standards. Love love love you Bologna!
The food was excellent. We actually loved everything we ordered. The appetizers, the pizza, the pasta - absolutely amazing! Our server - Jamie, was very nice and took care of us constantly. We will be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Todd & Linda P
Bartender is great
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rachel Kaleel
I don’t know that I’ve ever had a better Italian meal. Definitely made with love. Exceptional service, staff, food was just absolutely mind blowing. So sad i never knew about this little gem sooner. I can’t wait to try the whole menu
Great place for my daughter's wedding rehearsal. TY
Best restaurant in Rochester! Food is always fresh and delicious! I love it here
I’ve eaten at some of the best Italian restaurants from hidden gems in New York to Carbone’s in Vegas to a few highly rated places in South Florida.
I came here for my birthday and I wasn’t sure what to expect as I’ve never eaten in Rochester before. We were greeted by the staff opening the door for us. I dressed up however the restaurant doesn’t seem to have a dress code. Once you step inside, the atmosphere was a bit unsuspecting and the space is smaller/cozy.
We were taken care of immediately. And the staff was super friendly.
I asked for a custom order of spicy penne (my favorite from carbone is the spicy rig) and I ordered the traverse city chicken and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s easily a 10/10 dish. It will seriously blow your mind with how unique it is. The sauce has a savory umami, salty, and sweet (cherries) flavor profile and the chicken was cooked perfect. I’ve never had anything like it and can’t stop thinking about it.
Highly recommend this place with an open mind. Overall I would give this place a 4.5/5 stars. We ordered 3 entrees and 2 5 oz wine and the total was around $80 for 2 people.
We’ll be back!
The service was spectacular. Emily, the manager was great. I have a gluten allergy and have been looking for the best gluten free dough. I think I have found it. This GF dough was by far the best ever. The reason I didn’t give five stars over all is due to the saltiness of the sauce. The sauce was heavy on the salt. I will come again, but next time I will request either a different sauce (if that’s an option) or just ask for light sauce. The layout of the restaurant was interesting, but I would definitely come again.
Service is exceptional here. Staff really goes the extra mile.
Excellent food, delicious italian food, great experience. Only compliant would be the canolli was a little odd tasting for authentic italian for my wife and I.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Soup, Tuscan Pesto Shrimp, Wedding Soup, Tiramisu
I truly believe this is one of the best spots in Rochester/Rochester Hills. Incredible food from appetizers to dessert, as well as a stunning atmosphere and an incredible staff that always has smiles on their face. The owner and his family are some of the best people I know. If you had to try one thing here, I would recommend the carbonara americano, but why try one thing when you could try everything! The family at bolognas makes this place very special and one of a kind. Do yourself a favor and see for yourself!
Vegetarian options: They have incredible items like the caprese, bruschetta, eggplant Parmesan, Andrea pizza (personal favorite) and MUCH more. If nothing tickles your fancy, you can always create your own pasta that fits a vegetarian diet and hits the spot!
Dietary restrictions: A personal friend is allergic to both dairy and gluten, and has no trouble creating a delicious pasta that fits her needs!
Parking: Downtown Rochester always has issues with parking, but luckily there is a garage 30 seconds walking from the back door and plenty of parking available behind the restaurant as well. If you look in the right places downtown, the are some free spots as well!
Kid-friendliness: There are kids cups and smaller portions of pasta and pizzas just for kids.
Wheelchair accessibility: There is a handicap restroom on the first floor and access from the Main Street. There are stairs, but only in the back that lead to the other restrooms. The staff is always eager to help any guest with walkers, wheelchairs, or other mobility aids.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Cannoli, Limoncello Cake, Wedding Soup, Caesar Salad, Carbonara, Tiramisu, Nonna'a Meatball Trio, Traverse City Chicken
What a quaint little restaurant. Nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester hills you'll find Bologna Via Cucina. We celebrated my father's birthday here and had a group of just under 20. We notified them ahead of time and they set us up in the back room. The party was a surprise and the staff were fully into it and so helpful. Even though we had a large party the waitstaff was so attentive. The fresh bread could have easily been my meal it was so delicious but alas my lasagna showed up and outshined the bread. Unfortunately (actually fortunately) the portion was so large I wasn't able to finish. Although suddenly I found room for dessert. We had a taste off and although all were good, the cheesecake won out. The atmosphere is lively hip casual up front where the bar is and alitte more subdued in the rear for a more laid-back experience. Everything was wonderful all around but I feel I need to give one more shout out to the staff, I wish I remembered our waitresses name as she was top tier.
I happily recommend.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A cherished Gem of downtown Rochester. I have never once been disappointed. My wife and I love our date nights here.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Nonna'a Meatball Trio, Traverse City Chicken, Pollo Alla Joey
I wish I had pictures, and I've only ever done carryout, but man, this is the best food within 5 miles of me.
1) Price - The prices are completely fair. I'm always happy to pay more for excellent food.
2) Food&Menu - The menu options are fantastic. I found this place initially when I was craving Italian wedding soup one day. I didn't have the materials on hand to make it myself, so after a quick google search, I found Bologna. Tried the soup and bread and WOW. It was Perfect! Since then I've tried (and fell in love with) the lasagna and gnocchi. The cannoli is wonderful. Not too sweet as it should be and a great shell.
All the food makes it back to my house still tasting great. I love that the menu has a bigger plate option for sharing, because me and my husband love the same foods. Never seen that before but it works well for me.
3) Authenticity - I personally feel this is the most authentic and wholesome tasting Italian food I've ever had at a restaurant. Literally no competition. And after at least 5 visits, the consistency is exceptional. Told my Italian coworker about this place who was born in Italy, has visited a few times, and who's mother is from there. When she was in town recently, he took her there, and they were both pleased, impressed, and would dine there again.
4) Service - Have yet to dine here, but the service has always been great for take out. Not too much chit chat, staff seems focused at work, but they are kind and quick enough.
5) Atmosphere - in the front of the building, it seems tight, but the painting and brickwork are wonderful. Tight space in the front for waiting. Tried the back the other day, much more open, but seemed a little dark for my liking. Maybe some lamps at the tables to brighten it up subtly would be inviting. The pull up spot for drive up carryout is convenient for sure, but it's right next to the outdoor dining spot. Would be nice to have a little more privacy out there than to have a car pulled right up, potentially watching me eat. That back alley isn't the most visually appealing for outdoor dining.
All in all, no malicious intent, just some fond critiques to watch this place improve beyond my current standards. Love love love you Bologna!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Wedding Soup
Restaurantji Recommends
The food was excellent. We actually loved everything we ordered. The appetizers, the pizza, the pasta - absolutely amazing! Our server - Jamie, was very nice and took care of us constantly. We will be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Bartender is great
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
I don’t know that I’ve ever had a better Italian meal. Definitely made with love. Exceptional service, staff, food was just absolutely mind blowing. So sad i never knew about this little gem sooner. I can’t wait to try the whole menu
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Limoncello Cake, Nonna'a Meatball Trio
Everything was fantastic. Will definitely be back.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The new beautiful Octopus artwork is as amazing as the food!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Soup, Calamari, Nonna'a Meatball Trio
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