Starters at Trattoria Leonida in Bologna
Something for Every Taste: Appetizers in Bologna
Trattoria Leonida's appetizers celebrate Bologna's food culture with a selection of cured meats and specialties made with carefully selected ingredients. Among the highlights are Mortadella di Bologna, Prosciutto di Parma, Salame Gentile and traditional salsiccia passita, products that have long been staples of Emilia's cuisine.
Alongside the classics, we offer dishes such as chicken breast with balsamic vinegar, roast beef, goose breast with chives and fresh salmon with pink peppercorns—ideal for those looking to start their meal with balanced, refined flavors. Every dish is prepared with particular care given to the freshness of the ingredients and the quality of the produce.
A wide selection to start every lunch or dinner
One of the defining features of Trattoria Leonida’s starters is the use of fresh, seasonal produce. Ingredient availability is checked daily so we can serve dishes that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
The menu also features cheese and vegetable dishes, including cheese pie, vegetable pie and goat cheese with arugula, as well as salads combining local ingredients such as bresaola and artichokes, porcini mushrooms with celery and Grana Padano, or Caesar’s mushroom with fennel and Grana Padano. There is something to suit those who enjoy traditional flavors and those looking for lighter dishes.
A wide selection to start every lunch or dinner
Our appetizer menu is designed to complement the Bolognese dishes that follow, creating a complete dining experience. Choose from cured meats, meat dishes, cheeses, vegetables and salads, with options to suit every occasion.
Our specialties include:
- cured sausage;
- mortadella from Bologna;
- salame gentile;
- Prosciutto di Parma;
- chicken breast with balsamic vinegar;
- roast beef with balsamic vinegar;
- fresh salmon with pink peppercorns;
- goose breast with chives;
- cheese tart;
- vegetable tart;
- goat cheese with arugula;
- bresaola and artichoke salad;
- porcini, celery and Grana Padano salad;
- ovoli mushroom, fennel and Grana Padano salad.
FAQ
What appetizers does Trattoria Leonida serve?
The menu features traditional Emilia-Romagna cured meats, meat dishes, cheeses, vegetables and salads made with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Are the starters at Trattoria Leonida made with local produce?
The selection focuses on quality produce and many specialties from the Emilia region, such as Bologna mortadella and Parma ham.
Are vegetarian starters available?
Yes, the menu also features vegetable- and cheese-based dishes, such as savoury tarts, goat's cheese with rocket and salads.
Do the appetizers change with the seasons?
Some dishes may vary depending on the availability of seasonal ingredients, while always maintaining the highest quality.
Can the starters be paired with wines from the wine list?
Yes, our starters can be paired with wines from our wine list, selected to complement the flavours of each dish.












