What They Say
‘Bottega 35 is inspired by Italian artisanal craftsmanship, with a stylish design inspired by a Tuscan country home. The menu features fresh, organic ingredients in homemade pasta and perfectly grilled dishes, paired with wines from across Italy and classic house cocktails.’
The Style
Clay pots, twinkling lights and bare brick soften the space at Bottega 35, striking that elusive balance between rustic trattoria and polished Kensington elegance. Crisp white tablecloths sit against cool stone floors; outside, a charming terrace promises languid, rosé-fuelled afternoons when the sun decides to show up.
There’s something deliciously nostalgic about it. It’s reminiscent of those old-school Soho Italians, once the preserve of the creative set in the 80s. Only here, the edges feel sharpened, the lighting more flattering, the crowd unmistakably Kensington.
The Food
We began, as one should, with arancini. The impeccably crisp outer shell gave way to creamy, molten rice within, which I dipped gluttonously into an additional creamy sauce. It was deeply savoury and deeply satisfying. A goat’s cheese and tomato salad accompanied this, the cheese impossibly smooth against the bright acidity of tomatoes, all cradled in a cocoon of fresh lettuce. The dish was simple, fresh and delicious, and exactly what we wanted to wet our appetites before the carb-heavy main event.
The pièce de résistance arrived with a flourish – truffle pasta tossed tableside in a monumental wheel of parmigiana. The pasta (very al dente) emerged glossed in molten cheese and crowned with generous slices of fresh truffle. It was decadent without being overwrought.
The ragu was reassuringly homely – not aggressively meaty, but balanced and deeply comforting. The sort of plate that would earn a quiet nod of approval from even the most discerning Italian friend.
Sides of garlicky spinach and fine, crisp fries added salty indulgence – though for me, maybe a little too much salt.
Dessert felt unapologetically indulgent as well. Firstly, we had a pistachio cheesecake, which was unexpectedly savoury and beautifully set. My guest was a huge fan of this dish, as it wasn’t overly sweet. Next was a tiramisu, assembled before us, once again with ceremony. I watched as the waiter dipped the biscuits into fresh coffee and poured the mascarpone sauce over them. I was sceptical – surely the biscuits need time to soften? – but the freshness of the espresso and mascarpone won me over within seconds.
The Drink
There was no other option, in my mind, other than to go for the chilled Prosecco and a textbook Negroni (with every variation you could want available) to start. To top it off, we followed with a rich, structured red that felt entirely at home beside the ragu.
In a Nutshell
A polished take on traditional Italian in the heart of Kensington – ideal for long, low-lit dinners; unpretentious and quietly fabulous.
The Details
Bottega 35, 35 Kensington High Street, London, W8 5BA
Open 12pm to midnight
