Trattoria Aldina: the hidden home of Modena’s tradition

Are you looking for an authentic Italian food experience in Modena?

Trattoria Aldina is the place to go! This historic trattoria, located in the heart of the city, offers a glimpse into the rich culinary tradition of Emilia-Romagna, serving some of the best tortellini Modena has to offer.

Let’s dive into the story behind Trattoria Aldina, explore what’s on the menu, and discover why it’s a must-visit during your Modena day trip.

The history of Trattoria Aldina

The history of Trattoria Aldina spans over a century, beginning at the end of the 19th century when the space was known as Le Tre Zucchette, a venue exclusively for men.

Why only men?
Because the neighboring building housed a brothel, making it a popular gathering spot for food and socializing.

By the 1950s, the space had transformed into ENAL (Ente Nazionale Assistenza ai Lavoratori), a workers' canteen where laborers could enjoy hearty, affordable meals.

On Sundays, although the canteen was officially closed, it became an improvised dance hall (balera), where locals gathered to dance and spend time together.

In the 1970s, Aldina took over the restaurant, giving it the name it still bears today.

However, her management was short-lived—just 6 or 7 years—before the business was passed on to a family from the Apennine mountains.

For over 30 years, this family continued the tradition, with a rezdora (a skilled Emilia-Romagna cook) maintaining the authenticity of the recipes that define the trattoria.

In 2009, the current owners, Gianluca and Gaetano, took over the trattoria.
They have stayed true to its culinary roots, ensuring the dishes remain as authentic as they were generations ago.

Despite the changes in management over the years, one thing has never changed: the kitchen.

What to eat at Trattoria Aldina

The menu at Trattoria Aldina is a love letter to traditional Modena pasta dishes and regional flavors.

Every dish is prepared with fresh, local ingredients, many of which you can find at the nearby Mercato Albinelli, a historic food market that’s worth a visit on its own.

If you’re unsure where to start, here are the highlights:

Pasta in Modena: tortellini, lasagne e gramigna

• Tortellini in brodo
  This is the quintessential Modena dish. Perfectly shaped parcels of pasta filled with pork, Parmigiano Reggiano, and nutmeg are served in a clear, flavorful broth.
• Classic green lasagne with meat and béchamel
  Layers of spinach pasta alternate with a rich meat ragù and creamy béchamel sauce. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish for very special occasions.
• Gramigna with cream and sausage
  A lesser-known but equally delicious dish, gramigna is a curly pasta served with a creamy sauce and crumbled sausage. It’s a must-try for anyone seeking authentic Modenese flavors.

Secondi: traditional main dishes

At Trattoria Aldina, the secondi (main courses) are as steeped in tradition as the pasta dishes. Here are some of the highlights:

• Pork filet with Balsamic vinegar
  A tender pork filet cooked to perfection and topped with Modena’s balsamic vinegar, offering a balance of sweet and savory flavors.
• Mixed boiled meat with red and green sauce
  A classic Modenese dish featuring a variety of boiled meats served with flavorful salsa verde (a green parsley-based sauce).
• Stewed tripe and beans
  A hearty and rustic dish made with tender tripe slow-cooked with beans in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a comforting option that reflects the humble yet delicious roots of Modena’s cuisine.

Pair any of these secondi with a glass of Lambrusco, the region’s sparkling red wine, to round out your meal.

Tips and practical info

• No reservations: at Trattoria Aldina, they don’t accept reservations.
  My advice? Arrive as early as possible to secure a table.
  If the trattoria is full when you arrive, don’t worry!
  Simply ask to be added to the waitlist, and they’ll call you as soon as a table is ready.
  The service here is very efficient, so you likely won’t have to wait long.
• How to get there: Trattoria Aldina is centrally located near Modena’s main attractions. It’s just a short walk from the Modena Cathedral.
• Payment options: Aldina accepts both cash and card payments. Not all credit cards will work, so it's always better to have some cash with you.

Why you should visit Trattoria Aldina

Visiting Trattoria Aldina is more than just a meal—it’s an opportunity to connect with Modena’s culinary heritage.

The trattoria’s focus on simple, local ingredients and traditional recipes makes it a must-visit for food lovers.

While you’re in the area, why not immerse yourself even further in Modena’s gastronomic culture?

Consider joining our Modena food tour to discover hidden gems like Aldina, taste authentic balsamic vinegar, and explore the best family shops.