Daily specials written on a blackboard, erbazzone (a savory pie), a cart of boiled meats: a small paradise for foodies with Bib Gourmand in Bagnolo di Romagna.
“Food is not just any commodity. It cannot be treated as such.” So reads the website of one of the most highly acclaimed restaurants by foodies and awarded by the Michelin Guide with the coveted Bib Gourmand. It goes on to say: “Respect for food means giving the right value to the land and the people who work it, to the farmers who are committed to caring for animals and the environment, to the artisans who have been transforming raw materials into quality food for centuries. Paying attention to good, genuine food is a historical, cultural, and philosophical value that puts people at the center and restores dignity to food.”
Words that represent a restaurant that has been around for over 50 years, never ceasing to put the excellence of Emilia and Reggio Emilia on a pedestal. Chef Nicolò in the kitchen, Gloria in the dining room and a long list of delicious dishes on the menu, with first courses starting at €10 and baskets of fried gnocchi at €4. In short, imagine a place where time seems to stand still, where authentic flavors and a warm welcome come together in a culinary experience to remember. This is what Trattoria da Probo offers, a true culinary gem in Bagnolo in Piano, a few kilometers from Reggio Emilia, where the current family has been running the restaurant since 2002.
A welcome that feels like home
From the moment you step inside Trattoria da Probo, you are enveloped in a warm, family atmosphere. The large square in front of the restaurant makes parking easy, and once inside, you are greeted by friendly, smiling staff. The setting is reminiscent of the trattorias of yesteryear: immaculate tablecloths on wooden tables create an authentic and comfortable atmosphere where every guest feels at ease. It is advisable to book, especially for lunch, as the restaurant is very popular, not only with those looking for a quick break, but also with those who want to enjoy a high-quality meal in peace.
A journey through traditional flavors
The real star at Probo is the cuisine, a celebration of local culinary traditions. Here, typical regional dishes are elevated to true works of gastronomic art. According to Michelin inspectors, the erbazzone (or “scarpasòun” in dialect) is a must-try, a savory pie with a rich and flavorful filling of spinach or Swiss chard, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, and plenty of Parmigiano Reggiano. But the temptation continues with fried gnocchi, aged cured meats, and fresh homemade pasta. And for true meat lovers, the cart of boiled and roasted meats is a triumph of flavors and aromas, a real experience not to be missed. Each dish is an expression of dedication to quality and respect for traditional recipes, making Da Probo a true “stronghold” of Emilian cuisine.
The finishing touch: desserts and recommendations from the inspector
No meal at Trattoria da Probo is complete without a visit to the dessert trolley, where each item costs around €5. The variety and deliciousness of the offerings are such that you will want to take the entire assortment home with you! Another valuable tip for customers is to pay attention to the dishes of the day, written on a blackboard and described by the staff. These dishes, which are often seasonal or based on what is available at the time, offer the opportunity to taste unique creations. A recent example? Delicious grilled lamb chops with roast potatoes, a true masterpiece of simplicity and flavor.
