There's a new addition to High Street Kensington, as the latest restaurant from Emerald Hospitality, Bottega 35, opened its doors in September on the site of former local favourite Zuaya. Inspired by Tuscany, the opening brings a menu of hand-rolled pasta, wood-fired grills, an impressive Italian wine selection and indulgent desserts.
The interior feels like stepping into a Tuscan farmhouse; think lime washed walls, linen curtains, and simple yet striking decor and furniture. It's comforting and homely, with window tables and a cosy little nook downstairs with velvet banquettes; the perfect spot for a date. We popped in for lunch one Sunday, enjoying the convivial atmosphere.
The menu is full of generous, hearty dishes, including plenty of pasta of course. Starters include a delicious burrata with ricotta and pistachio and a proper vittello tonnato; a firm holiday favourite which never seems as good elsewhere, until now. The melanzane parmigiana looked delicious, but we restrainsed ourselves ready for the pasta.
You'll find classics on the menu like papardelle ragu and a beef lasagne, a seafood tagliolini and creamy pumpkin and sage risotto, along with a great spaghetti carbonara, but the real showstopped is the mafaldine with black truffle, mixed within their parmesan wheel. A lovely little dose of theatre which, unlike some other glitzy Italians in London we shan't mention, actually does deliver on taste. If you've room for a secondi, tuck into a chicken milanese or some hearty house meatballs with tomato stew, even a fish course such as the pan-fried seabass.
We however preferred to save space for the dolce; the cannoli are most excellent, though the pistachio cheesecake really ought to be renamed given it's very much a chocolate cheesecake with pistachio crumbs. Nevertheless tasty, but not quite what was expected.
In an area full of restaurants, Bottega 35 is a deliciously authentic addition.
Bottega 35, 35 Kensington High Street, London W8
