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Bologna

ExAequo Bottega del Mondo

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Why it matters: run by the ExAequo social cooperative since 1993, this is Bologna’s original fair-trade shop, stocking food, crafts and textiles from producer cooperatives that are paid fair prices. The cooperative also runs education and awareness projects on ethical consumption across the city. It’s two minutes from the Two Towers and the smart stop for souvenirs that do some good – think artisan chocolate, coffee and handmade gifts. Ask the staff about the producers; every product has a story.

Le Serre dei Giardini Margherita

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Why it matters: Bologna’s abandoned municipal greenhouses in the Giardini Margherita were regenerated by the Kilowatt work cooperative into a community hub – coworking, a kids’ program, a community-run garden and the Serra Madre cultural space, opened in 2024, all run as a social enterprise. For visitors it’s the loveliest pit stop in the city’s biggest park: grab a drink at the kiosk, wander the garden, or catch an open-air concert or talk during the KW Summer festival. Come on a warm evening, when half the neighborhood shows up.

Bar Senza Nome

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Why it matters: opened in 2012 by Alfonso Marrazzo and Sara Longhi, this is Italy’s first bar owned and run by deaf people, and Italian sign language is the house language. Wall charts teach you the LIS signs for your drink, or you can order by pointing to the paper slips at the bar – no one is left out. It’s also simply a great Via Belvedere hangout: cheap spritzes, art exhibitions, book presentations and DJ sets. Come at aperitivo hour and learn to sign ‘grazie’ before you leave.

Sette Tavoli

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A tiny, traditional Bolognese trattoria whose name means seven tables, serving handmade pasta and regional classics in a snug, unfussy room. Book ahead, as those few tables fill fast.

L’Emporio

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A warm little wine-and-deli emporium in central Bologna where the owner pours good local wine alongside homemade tigelle sandwiches and generous meat-and-cheese boards. A lovely, low-key aperitivo stop.

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