Mercato di Mezzo food market in Bologna: a complete guide

The Mercato di Mezzo is one of Bologna's most iconic culinary destinations, located in the heart of the historic center near Piazza Maggiore.

Since the Middle Ages, this vibrant space has been a hub of commerce and culture, blending tradition with modern flavors.

A brief history of Mercato di Mezzo

The origins of Mercato di Mezzo date back to the 12th century when it was known as Forum Medii, situated between Piazza Maggiore and Porta Ravegnana.

In the 15th century, it served as a grain market, and after Italian unification, it became Bologna's first covered market.

Following a major renovation in 2014, it was transformed into a modern gastronomic hub, celebrating both history and innovation.

What is Mercato di Mezzo?

Mercato di Mezzo (the Middle Market) is an indoor food market inside the Quadrilatero area in Bologna.

With this name, you can both refer to the whole Middle Ages food market (also called Quadrilatero), or the renovated food hall set inside that area.

In this post, I focus on the second one.

Read a full post about Quadrilatero and the best food markets in Bologna.

Spread across three levels, Mercato di Mezzo offers a variety of culinary delights:

• Ground floor: food stalls selling meat, fish, cheese, pasta, pastries, and wine.
• First floor: a pizzeria serving high-quality local ingredient-based pizzas.
• Basement: a craft brewery located in a charming vaulted space, perfect for enjoying local beers.

Where to eat and drink at Mercato di Mezzo

Mercato di Mezzo is the right place if you're looking for street food in Bologna.

For a fast snack try the takeaway cones of fried fish at Pescheria Pavaglione.

On the first floor, which can be accessed by a panoramic lift, you find a pizzeria by Rosso Pomodoro.
A clock shows the hours of resting of their dough.

The basement is dedicated to the craft brewery Baladin, the microbrewery opened by the cult brewer Teo Musso.
​It's the place to get good hamburgers and original salads. Hidden in the basement it's less crowded than others.

Why visit Mercato di Mezzo

Whether you like it or not the renovation, Mercato di Mezzo is an authentic old market with a new life.

During our food tour in Bologna, we pass and stop in this market because some local producers offer hidden food that is hard to find elsewhere.

So if you know where to look, it's worth it.

Opening hours and practical information