Movie posters and antiques contribute to the slightly faux-chic in this simple, pleasant place run by the same people that run Trattoria Corrieri. There’s a terrace in summer, which helps. Tortelli (of all kinds) are a sure thing — the tortelli di erbetta (pasta stuffed with ricotta and herbs) are recommended. Nice chicken breast in parmesan and prosciutto, a unique if simple Emilian concoction. Be careful with the website: The volume will blow you out of your seat, a common enough occurrence in Italy. Booking ahead is a must. — Corinna Amendola
Good traditional food in casual setting. Here, you'll find fine prosciutto and culatello (euphemistically called "the heart" of the ham).Tortelloni are plump with pureed pumpkin or erbetta (wild greens). Pork or wild boar is a good bet. The local lambrusco is a must, a full-bodied smoky-tasting violet-hued fizzy wine much like what the locals residents eat at home. Closed August 7-21. — Judy Edelhoff
Major Credit Cards
Strada Farnese, 74, Parma, IT-PR Map
Tel. 0521.968.870
Closed Mondays
La Filoma
Risotto mantecato.
Hustle-bustle hubbie Bruno runs the floor while his almost alarmingly extroverted wife Marzia works magic in cucina. She has been running restaurants for over 40 years (as she’s all too happy to tell you), and her delightful dishes are the proof. The risotto mantecato con tartufo e "veste" di culatello is extraordinary. No lunch on Wednesday. — Aaron Maines
Major Credit Cards
Borgo 20 Marzo 15, Parma, IT-PR Map
Tel. 0521.206.181
Closed Tuesdays
Parizzi
Tiny taste.
Though it's been around since 1946, recent reinvention has made it more stylish and Michelin-worthy. That's not necessarily a prize of itself, but the place has definitely reawakened. With reawakening comes fusion and minimalism, which is the smaller-portion downside (and the price rise). Well worth it are tortellini di fagiano (green pasta with a filling of pheasant) and stracotto (simmered beef). The chocolate cake (tortino al cioccolato has hot chocolate and grappa. Closed in August. — David Amory
Major Credit Cards
Via Repubblica, 71, Parma, IT-PR Map
Tel. 0521.285.952
Closed Mondays
Trattoria Corrieri
The traditional look.
Hams hang from the ceilings of this old-school osteria. When it’s packed (often on weekends) it can be off-putting: Best for Parma veterans. Otherwise you can get an interesting meal that ranges from the delighful (gnocchi con gorgonzola e noci; blue cheese and walnuts) the to the unusual (vecchia di cavallo; horse meat). Risotto alla Parmigiana is abundant, as is the stinco. Tortelli are filled with ricotta, pumpkin (zucca), potatoes or ricotta and beet leaves (erbette). — Corinna Amendola
Not far from the Tardini Stadium. Go for controfiletto Robespierre, which is beef with rughetta and pink pepper. It’s both satisfying and filling. Ducato is versatile. It works for lunch or dinner, deal-closing or romance. Other delights: Strozzapreti con pasta di salame (minced pork). There’s a soufflé of zucchini and basil known as sformatino di zucchine e basilico, ideal for non-meat folk (that along with tortelli d'erbetta, ricotta, beet leaves and parmigiano. — Corinna Amendola
Major Credit Cards
Via Nicolò Paganini, 5, Parma, IT-PR Map
Tel. 0521.486.730
Closed Tuesdays
