Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Were ‘Absolutely Amazing’ and ‘Lovely’ Guests, Italian Restaurant Staff Says (Exclusive)

**Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Enjoy Culinary Delights in Bologna Ahead of Birthday Celebration**

Selena Gomez and music producer Benny Blanco recently celebrated a special occasion in Italy, dining together at the Trattoria della Santa in Bologna. Their visit took place on July 21, the day preceding Gomez’s 34th birthday, and has since drawn attention for both the couple’s charming presence and their appreciation for Italian cuisine.

According to Riccardo Lelli, the owner of Trattoria della Santa, the couple was a delight to host. In an interview translated by staff member Saria Ahmed, Lelli noted that their reservation was organised by a member of Blanco’s team just a few days before their arrival. Initially booked for a private table, the pair opted for an outdoor seating arrangement beneath the beautiful Portici di Bologna, taking in the serene atmosphere of the city centre.

Lelli described the couple as “absolutely amazing,” offering glowing praise for their character as patrons. “They were very lovely, good-hearted people,” he remarked, highlighting their enthusiasm for the food and service at the restaurant. Ahmed shared that Gomez maintained a more reserved approach during the meal, while Blanco was lively and engaged in discussions regarding the menu.

The culinary offerings at the Trattoria included a delightful array of traditional Italian dishes. The couple indulged in a selection that featured eggplant parmigiana, an arugula salad, tagliatelle with mushrooms, buffalo cheese ravioli, tortelloni with butter and sage, and the classic bolognese lasagna. Additionally, they sampled the house speciality, ‘Balanzoni’—a cream-filled pasta that is a signature dish of Bologna.

Lelli fondly recalled the moment when Blanco expressed his enjoyment of the meal by sharing it with his team members. As he noted, “He loved it so much that he got up to share with them.” The staff’s positive experiences with the couple further enriched the atmosphere of hospitality that the restaurant strives to uphold.

Candid moments from their dining experience were not without humour. Ahmed shared a light-hearted faux pas when she recommended a bottle of prosecco rather than additional glasses, realising halfway through that it may not have seemed necessary for such high-profile clientele. “I was just laughing with myself… It’s my job,” she recalled, exemplifying the friendly rapport they shared.

The reputation of Trattoria della Santa attracted Blanco, who mentioned that a friend had recommended the restaurant to him. Known in part for its connections within the Italian music industry, it has become a popular destination for local artists, which likely contributed to Blanco’s knowledge of this hidden gem.

In addition to their culinary delights, the couple took a moment for a photo, which was later shared on the restaurant’s Instagram account. Positively glowing, Gomez donned a beautiful white satin dress while Blanco showcased his signature streetwear style, flashing a peace sign in the image that captured their joyful dining experience.

The spontaneity of their trip is underscored by Blanco’s recent journey across the Atlantic by boat to visit Gomez, a choice made due to his fear of flying. He showcased this adventurous spirit in a TikTok video, capturing the moment as he sailed to reunite with Gomez, captioning it, “The things we do for love.”

As Gomez continues to work on her latest project, filming Hulu’s “Only Murders in the Building” in London, it is evident that her friendship with Blanco remains close. They recently shared warm moments on social media, further solidifying their camaraderie.

As the couple enjoyed their Italian retreat, staff members at the restaurant expressed gratitude for their visit, with Lelli sharing, “Thank you so much for eating with us ❤️ @selenagomez @itsbennyblanco.” Their delightful interplay during the meal has left a lasting impression, showcasing how even celebrities can share genuine, heartfelt moments over a delicious feast in Bologna.

Overall, Gomez and Blanco’s time in Bologna serves as a reminder of the sweetness of connections and the simple joys found in good food and good company. Whether through culinary experiences or friendships, it appears that both stars value the heartwarming moments that life offers.