"Modena's tradition in a bowl — Pomposa al Re Gras hand-rolls tortellini in broth and lasagne verdi, a Michelin-listed Emilian classic."
About Trattoria Pomposa al Re Gras
Trattoria Pomposa al Re Gras sits at Via Castel Maraldo 57, on the little Piazza della Pomposa beside the Romanesque church in the historic centre of Modena. It is a tribute to pure Emilian tradition — handmade egg pasta, a wood oven for the roasts and a deep list of local labels — and is recognised in the Michelin Guide for doing the classics properly rather than reinventing them. In summer, tables spill onto the small square.
For Modena's other traditional tables, compare the cash-only Trattoria Aldina above the market, the long-running Ristorante da Danilo and the historic Hosteria Giusti. Pomposa belongs to the city's Italian and fine-dining scene.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is built on fresh egg pasta. The standouts are the tortellini — served in a clear capon broth or in a cream of 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano — and the lasagne verdi, alongside Emilian mains such as tripe with bread croutons and wood-oven roast meats. The Lambrusco is the natural match, with the dry, food-friendly Grasparossa di Castelvetro the house recommendation. It is keenly priced for the quality — figure roughly €30 to €45 a head before wine, trattoria value rather than fine-dining spend.
The Room
The room is a proper Modenese trattoria: small, warm and unfussy, the kind of place built for long lunches and unhurried dinners over pasta and a carafe of Lambrusco. In summer the best seats are outside on Piazza della Pomposa, in the shadow of the medieval church. It is popular with locals and in-the-know visitors, so booking ahead is wise, especially at weekends and during the city's food-tourism season.
Best for a First Date
Handmade pasta, an easy room and gentle prices make Pomposa al Re Gras a relaxed first date or team lunch in Modena. The square-side tables and unhurried pace also suit a contented solo lunch.
Not for
Not for diners after a tasting-menu spectacle or a polished, formal room — this is a traditional Emilian trattoria built on pasta, value and warmth.
Frequently Asked
What is Trattoria Pomposa al Re Gras known for?
It is a Michelin Guide-listed Emilian trattoria in central Modena known for handmade egg pasta — especially tortellini in broth and lasagne verdi — wood-oven roasts and a strong Lambrusco list, all at trattoria prices.
What should I order?
The fresh pasta is the point: tortellini in capon broth or in 24-month Parmigiano cream, and the lasagne verdi, with a glass of Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro.
How much does it cost?
It is keenly priced for the quality — figure roughly €30 to €45 per person before wine, trattoria value rather than a fine-dining spend.
Where is the restaurant located?
At Via Castel Maraldo 57, on Piazza della Pomposa beside the Romanesque church in the historic centre of Modena.
Does it have a Michelin star?
No — it is listed and recommended in the Michelin Guide as a traditional Emilian trattoria, which is a recognition of quality and value rather than a star.
Do I need a reservation?
Booking ahead is wise, particularly at weekends and during Modena's busy food-tourism season; in summer the outdoor tables on the piazza go first.
Reserve a Table
Reserve at Trattoria Pomposa al Re Gras
Book ahead; outdoor piazza tables go first in summer.
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Practical Information
AddressVia Castel Maraldo 57, Piazza della Pomposa, Modena
NeighbourhoodPiazza della Pomposa, centro storico
CuisineItalian
Price~€30–€45 pp before wine
Dress CodeCasual
SeatingDining room and Piazza della Pomposa terrace
ReservationRecommended
