Romani

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Romani, Parma: Bib Gourmand Emilian cuisine near Parma

Romani: Emilian tradition, just outside Parma

Just a short drive from the city of Parma, in the quiet countryside of Vicomero di Torrile, Romani is a family-run restaurant where Emilian culinary tradition is both preserved and gently expanded. Chef Fabio Romani leads a kitchen that respects the classics while remaining curious about new flavours, drawing on ingredients from across Italy.

The restaurant describes its food as “genuine, tied to tradition but in love with novelty.” This approach has earned it a Michelin Bib Gourmand – an award that recognises good-quality, good-value cooking. It is a fitting nod to a place that delivers substance without pretence.

The menu is a tour of Parma’s greatest hits. Antipasti feature local cured meats: culatello di Zibello, prosciutto di Parma, salame di Felino, and spalla cotta di San Secondo, served warm. First courses stay close to home with anolini in brodo and tortelli d’erbetta, but also include seasonal offerings like gnocchetti in a leek and truffle cream. Secondi are built around beef and horse – tagliata, filetto, and Fiorentina – prepared either in the kitchen or on the grill. Desserts balance local staples like chocolate budino and zuppa inglese with fruit-based sweets and semifreddi.

The wine list is broad, spanning well-known Italian labels alongside lesser-known discoveries. The restaurant also operates a small bottega where guests can take home products from the region.

Set in a large, welcoming garden, Romani can accommodate up to 240 guests and is a popular choice for weddings and private events. It is open for lunch and dinner, with reduced hours in January and February.