Alongside pike in sauce, Gonzaga-style salad (a creation by Bartolomeo Stefano, the Gonzaga court chef and author of Arte di ben cucinare), and sbrisolona cake, pumpkin tortelli are among the culinary symbols of the Lombard and particularly Mantuan tradition. These dishes represent a cuisine of "princes and people," born during the banquets of the Gonzagas, who ruled as lords and later dukes of Mantua in the 1500s.
The first gastronomic evidence of pumpkin use in recipes and as a filling for stuffed pasta dates back to this period. Over time, these dishes spread elsewhere, albeit in different forms (think Ferrara’s cappellacci). The unique aspect of Mantuan pumpkin tortelli lies in their "sweet" filling. This includes Cappello del Prete pumpkin (a turban-shaped variety, said to be even more flavorful in drought seasons, as noted by the late Romano Tamani, co-founder of Ambasciata di Quistello), roasted in its skin and mashed. The filling also contains Grana Padano, amaretti, Mantuan mustard, and nutmeg. The pasta should be ultra-thin, and the traditional dressing is butter, sage, and a sprinkle of Grana.
Here are the best places to enjoy them in the city and province.
Where to eat pumpkin tortelli in Mantua
Due Cavallini
Trattoria. A historic, family-run trattoria where you can savor traditional Mantuan dishes. In a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor tables in an inner courtyard, the kitchen serves expertly crafted dishes such as pumpkin tortelli with house-made thin pasta, agnoli in broth, pressed maccheroncini with ragù, donkey stew, polenta with oven-baked shank, and mixed boiled meats. Mantuan sweets include sbrisolona and torta Elvezia (almond pastry filled with milk cream and sugar). A valid selection of cured meats and cheeses complements the menu. The wine cellar features Lambrusco and other regional choices.
Address: Via Salnitro, 5 - 0376 322084 - Facebook
Osteria dell'Oca
Trattoria. Perfect for a meal steeped in authentic tradition in a laid-back setting, Osteria dell'Oca is a staple in the city. The menu offers all the classics of local cuisine at fair prices, prepared with fresh ingredients and skill. Highlights include the Peccati di gola platter (€20), featuring salami, gras pistà (lard with sausage, parsley, and garlic), warm polenta, and pickled vegetables. Additional options include sorbir d'agnoli, pumpkin tortelli, donkey stew with polenta, and pike in sauce. Wines are thoughtfully selected to complement the dishes.
Address: Via Trieste, 10 - 0376 327171 - osteriadelloca.it
Osteria Regale
Trattoria. Just outside the city center, this elegant venue boasts a spacious, well-kept garden perfect for celebrations. The welcoming and attentive service accompanies dishes ranging from modern creations to traditional staples, such as pumpkin tortelli with alpine butter and sage (also available with sausage). Handmade pasta and unique desserts are highlights. The wine selection caters to all tastes and budgets. Comfortable rooms are available for extended stays.
Address: Via Leopoldo Pilla, 13 - 0376 1620477 - Instagram
Antica Osteria ai Ranari
Trattoria. One of the oldest establishments in the city, this unpretentious spot consistently delivers authentic Mantuan cuisine. The menu includes stewed snails on grilled bread, pumpkin tortelli with butter and sage, riso alla pilota, and regional cheeses and cured meats. The service is informal, and the wine and spirits selection is commendable.
Address: Via Trieste, 11 - 0376 328431 - ranari.it
Lo Scalco Grasso
Restaurant. A small and modern venue with a relaxed and welcoming ambiance, offering a well-curated menu that combines tradition with subtle creativity. Dishes range from pike in sauce and pumpkin tortelli with melted butter and sage to more inventive fare like squid-ink spaghetti with scallops and citrus. The wine list reflects the kitchen’s philosophy, and the attentive service completes the experience.
Address: Via Trieste, 55 - 349 3747958 - loscalcograsso.it
Where to eat pumpkin tortelli near Mantua
Dal Pescatore Santini
Restaurant. This family-run establishment is a pillar of Italian haute cuisine. Expect exceptional pumpkin tortelli with butter and parmesan, grilled eel, and Cappello del Prete beef with polenta. The wine list is vast, and the service is affectionate and leisurely. Comfortable rooms are available for those wishing to extend their stay.
Address: Loc. Runate, 15 - Canneto sull'Oglio - 0376 723001 - dalpescatore.com
Hostaria del Teatro
Restaurant. This intimate venue is led by Claudio and Elena, who personally oversee the dining room and kitchen. The menu includes classics like pumpkin tortelli and local desserts such as torta Elvezia. Wines are expertly chosen, and the service is warm.
Address: Via B. Ordanino, 5 - Castiglione delle Stiviere - 0376 670813 - hostariadelteatro.it
Da Pietro
Restaurant. Located in a historic building, this eatery blends tradition with creativity. Seasonal, organic ingredients shine in dishes like pumpkin tortelli with aged Grana Padano and fermented pumpkin seeds. The relaxed setting is ideal for savoring fine wines and expertly prepared dishes.
Address: Via Chiassi, 19 - Castiglione delle Stiviere - 0376 673718 - osteriadapietro.it
Hostaria Viola
Trattoria. Operated by the Viola family since 1909, this trattoria delivers traditional Mantuan cuisine with a modern twist. Dishes include pumpkin tortelli with butter and sage, riso alla pilota, and farmhouse desserts.
Address: Via G. Verdi, 32 - Castel Goffredo - 0376 670000 - hostariaviola.com
La Locanda delle Grazie
Trattoria. This charming spot champions Mantuan culinary traditions, offering dishes like pumpkin tortelli, pike in sauce, and stracotto al Lambrusco. A relaxed atmosphere and solid wine list enhance the experience.
Address: Via Pio X, 2 - Curtatone, Loc. Grazie - 0376 348038 - Facebook
L’Ambasciata
Restaurant. A landmark of Italian gastronomy, this restaurant preserves and reinterprets the culinary heritage of Mantuan countryside and Gonzaga courts. Standouts include pumpkin tortelli and duck with orange.
Address: P.tta Ambasciatori del Gusto, 1 - Quistello - 0376 619169 - ristorantelambasciata.eu
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