Bologna Via Cucina

I’ve eaten at some of the best Italian restaurants from hidden gems in New York to Carbone’s in Vegas to a few highly rated places in South Florida. I came here for my birthday and I wasn’t sure what to expect as I’ve never eaten in Rochester before. We were greeted by the staff opening the door for us. I dressed up however the restaurant doesn’t seem to have a dress code. Once you step inside, the atmosphere was a bit unsuspecting and the space is smaller/cozy. We were taken care of immediately. And the staff was super friendly. I asked for a custom order of spicy penne (my favorite from carbone is the spicy rig) and I ordered the traverse city chicken and I was pleasantly surprised. It’s easily a 10/10 dish. It will seriously blow your mind with how unique it is. The sauce has a savory umami, salty, and sweet (cherries) flavor profile and the chicken was cooked perfect. I’ve never had anything like it and can’t stop thinking about it. Highly recommend this place with an open mind. Overall I would give this place a 4.5/5 stars. We ordered 3 entrees and 2 5 oz wine and the total was around $80 for 2 people. We’ll be back!

I've been here more than five times, each time I try something different and nothing is ever below standard, the service is incredible and the food is delicious... thank you

What a quaint little restaurant. Nestled in the heart of downtown Rochester hills you'll find Bologna Via Cucina. We celebrated my father's birthday here and had a group of just under 20. We notified them ahead of time and they set us up in the back room. The party was a surprise and the staff were fully into it and so helpful. Even though we had a large party the waitstaff was so attentive. The fresh bread could have easily been my meal it was so delicious but alas my lasagna showed up and outshined the bread. Unfortunately (actually fortunately) the portion was so large I wasn't able to finish. Although suddenly I found room for dessert. We had a taste off and although all were good, the cheesecake won out. The atmosphere is lively hip casual up front where the bar is and alitte more subdued in the rear for a more laid-back experience. Everything was wonderful all around but I feel I need to give one more shout out to the staff, I wish I remembered our waitresses name as she was top tier. I happily recommend.

I truly believe this is one of the best spots in Rochester/Rochester Hills. Incredible food from appetizers to dessert, as well as a stunning atmosphere and an incredible staff that always has smiles on their face. The owner and his family are some of the best people I know. If you had to try one thing here, I would recommend the carbonara americano, but why try one thing when you could try everything! The family at bolognas makes this place very special and one of a kind. Do yourself a favor and see for yourself!

The service was spectacular. Emily, the manager was great. I have a gluten allergy and have been looking for the best gluten free dough. I think I have found it. This GF dough was by far the best ever. The reason I didn’t give five stars over all is due to the saltiness of the sauce. The sauce was heavy on the salt. I will come again, but next time I will request either a different sauce (if that’s an option) or just ask for light sauce. The layout of the restaurant was interesting, but I would definitely come again.

We have had nothing but positive experiences at Bologna’s. It is a more casual environment, with terrific ambiance and service. It has an upbeat vibe. Isabella, is hands down, the best server. Always smiling and hustles, remembering everything you ask for. Service like hers is rare these days. I’ll take a more casual venue with great food and service, over a high end venue with sub par service any day.

I really enjoyed the space, the service is amazing and the bartenders are great. I liked that the place is small and pretty cozy. On the dishes side, the pizza had a little bit more of salt than usual and the lasagna got a little bit toasted on one end.