La Fatica - Antica Osteria — Restaurant in Bologna

The food was and atmosphere was great. My only comment was the tipping policy. I was asked whether I tip by card or cash which is and I chose by card.

Unlike North America, as a guest, tipping is treated like a private matter between me and the terminal where I input the percentage I deem appropriate, however, in this case I have to tell the staff in person. In the context of service industry, I do not think this conversation should have happened in the first place.

This results in error and miscommunication, when I said 7%, he repeated saying 20%, and I repeated 7%. My only error is that I agreed to 7 Euros because I had a moment of confusion and just wanted to leave asap, because I thought he mentioned 7%. Hence getting charged more than 20% of the total price of the food. I think this mistake shouldn’t have happened if guests were given a choice privately to decide, instead having verbal communication that can result in error.

The average of tipping in Berlin is 7% because in Europe tip percentage is inclusive of tax and not before tax, hence 7% instead the usual 20% in USA). It’s just very awkward to hear someone speaking 20% first before I could even decide myself. It’s just a careless service for this reason.

Lastly, in USA there’s a reason to tip servers because their income is based on tips, but I do not think Italy labour law is the same like USA and this entire transaction was really awkward, when prompted verbally by staff with specific percentage value.

I don’t mind if people personally want to tip or not, that is the matter of their own to decide. I’m posting this review only to warn those that can be surprised by verbally asked to be tipped. Which even in North America, people don’t ask in such direct manner and with the percentage stated by the staff first. Just because tipping culture is prominent in North America doesn’t mean it has the same meaning in Europe. Labour law and taxation system differs...

La Fatica - Antica Osteria in Bologna: A Culinary Symphony Conducted by Sam the Maestro

In the heart of Bologna, nestled amidst ancient cobblestone streets and timeworn architecture, lies a culinary gem that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you humming with satisfaction. I'm talking about La Fatica - Antica Osteria, a symphony of flavours orchestrated by the friendly and charismatic maestro, Sam.

From the moment you step through the doors, you're enveloped in an atmosphere of rustic charm and warmth. The air is filled with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces, a promise of the culinary delights that await.

And what delights they are! My journey began with the Tuna Tartar, a delicate dance of textures and flavours. The tuna, fresh and vibrant, was gently caressed by a symphony of citrus, avocado, and a hint of olive oil, each note harmonizing with the next to create a culinary concerto.

The main course, Pasta with Porcini Mushrooms and Truffle, was a veritable aria of umami. The pasta, cooked to al dente perfection, provided a canvas for the earthy depth of the porcini mushrooms and the intoxicating fragrance of the truffle. Each forkful was a revelation, a culinary masterpiece that left me wanting more.

But the true star of the show was Sam, our waiter and conductor of this culinary symphony. With his infectious smile, warm demeanour, and genuine passion for food, Sam made us feel like honoured guests in his home. His recommendations were spot on, his knowledge of the menu encyclopedic, and his enthusiasm for each dish contagious.

La Fatica - Antica Osteria is more than just a restaurant; it's an experience, a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more. And if you're lucky enough to be guided by Sam, the friendly maestro, your dining experience will be nothing short of a...

The food is good. The service is excellent professional and friendly. The atmosphere cozy with dim lights & candles. Wooden benches with no cushions No issues what so ever during our dining experience. I a removing 1 star because I find some of the items on the menu too expensive ( exaggerated prices on some dishes ) although some other dishes were reasonably priced & the wooden benches had no cushion a bit uncomfortable to sit on Note to the owner: A thank you massage to pass to your young waitress She was so attentive, friendly and extremely professional ( which is very rare in italy) If there is an award for the best waitress in Italy … she would be the one most...