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Bottino
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Bottino
7.7
A Tuscan-leaning West Chelsea staple with a garden patio that anchors the experience as much as the food. Pastas and grilled meats are the move, and while the room can feel scene-y, the cooking remains focused on rustic comfort.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle bolognese, Grilled branzino, Ricotta-based crostini
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Garden patio plus Tuscan grill-and-pasta comfort.
Who should go: Chelsea diners who want pasta with a patio.
When to visit: Warm evenings for the garden seats.
What to order: Pappardelle bolognese, a grilled fish, and crostini.
Insider tip: Request the patio when booking—indoor tables feel tighter.
Bottino
8.6
A West Chelsea classic with an ivy-lined back garden that’s among the neighborhood’s best outdoor settings. The menu leans Italian-American with confident pasta work and thoughtful seasonal shifts. It’s a quiet, date-ready patio that rewards repeat visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck confit rigatoni, Burrata with seasonal vegetables, Tiramisu
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: A hidden garden patio behind a polished Italian kitchen.
Who should go: Couples and small groups chasing quiet outdoors.
When to visit: Warm evenings after the High Line.
What to order: Duck rigatoni, burrata starter, tiramisu.
Insider tip: Garden tables are the move—book ahead in peak season.
Bottino
8.1
A long-running Chelsea Italian favorite with a calm patio and a menu built for conversation—pastas that lean rustic, proteins handled cleanly, and a lunch vibe that never crowds you out. It’s the kind of place where deals get signed quietly and everyone leaves fed, not flattened.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pappardelle with lamb ragù, Burrata with seasonal vegetables, Roasted chicken panini
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Patio-friendly Italian lunch with steady execution year after year.
Who should go: Work lunches needing privacy and a relaxed tempo.
When to visit: Sunny weekday afternoons for patio seating.
What to order: Lamb ragù pappardelle, burrata, chicken panini.
Insider tip: Reserve the garden patio—it’s the quietest zone.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging during peak hours; valet service is not offered.
Dress code: Smart casual - jeans are fine but lean dressy for a polished look.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easily heard, but it's a calm atmosphere conducive to business talks.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple vegetarian-friendly options on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegan options available, typically more salad-based.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area for gluten-free dishes to ensure safety.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - The quiet, intimate patio creates a relaxed vibe perfect for getting to know someone, and the menu offers appealing yet not overly elaborate choices.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It's best to reserve, especially for lunch during weekdays or outdoor seating, as the patio is popular. Walk-ins are possible but may result in a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? While not a family-centric spot, Bottino is suitable for older kids who can enjoy the relaxed pace of a business lunch environment. It does not offer amenities specifically for young children.
Best For
Better for: Bottino excels at providing a tranquil, business-focused lunch environment where conversations can happen without distractions, especially on the patio.
Skip if: If you're seeking a more casual or family-oriented Italian restaurant, or prefer louder, bustling vibes, alternatives like L'Artusi or Carbone might be a better fit.