Bottega 35 is a refined neighbourhood Italian in Kensington offering quietly elegant plates, warm candlelight, and understated charm.
The Ambience
There’s a softness to this part of Kensington in the evening. The street is wide and calm, though the restaurant itself hums gently with couples, families, and the occasional solo diner lingering over wine al fresco. Inside, candlelight casts a warm glow across ecru walls and crisp linen. Minimalist artwork and subtle details lend a gentle Mediterranean charm to the space. The team are friendly, if slightly tentative, revealing a place still finding its rhythm, but any awkwardness dissolves as the evening progresses.
The Food
A glass of sparkling wine and a bowl of firm, well-brined green olives open the meal, clean and briny. The melanzana alla parmigiana arrives hot from the oven, served as delicate rolls of aubergine rather than a baked slab, with no breadcrumbs and a lighter, almost refined character. Rich with tomato and cheese but never heavy, it suits the autumn chill perfectly.
We’re warned the truffle pasta is “too big,” and take the hint, opting for the carbonara instead. It is a faithful interpretation; creamy without being cloying, and threaded with balanced slivers of guanciale. The lamb chops are a highlight: well-seasoned, carefully cooked, and tender enough to yield without resistance. Yet it’s the side of cannellini beans that steal the show. They are silky, laced with herbs and could hold their own as a main with crusty bread. The interplay of textures and warmth between the two is quietly memorable. Portions are generous and we skip dessert satisfied.
The Verdict
Bottega 35 is a welcome addition to the neighbourhood, offering classic Italian cooking done with sincerity and care. The gentle hospitality, and the food, especially those beans, make it a place to return to when the air turns cooler and people crave dishes with comfort in mind.
The Details
Bottega 35, 35 Gloucester Road, London SW7 4QT
Website: bottega35.co.uk
Open daily for lunch and dinner