La Bottegara — Restaurant in Bassano del Grappa

Friendly welcome and an interesting menu. Unfortunately, the dishes did not meet our expectations – the flavors and presentation were below average considering the descriptions and prices. The millefoglie with pumpkin (14€) was very basic. The risotto with asparagus, scampi and coffee (36€/2 persons) lacked depth of flavor. The cod dish (€13) promised much more than what was actually served (three small code balls, nine cubes of guanciale, and three cuttlefish chips). As soon as the main dishes were cleared, the dessert menu was placed on the table without any explanation. Five minutes later, we were asked what we wanted. A bit more personal attention would have been appreciated. Service was too quick, giving the impression we needed to vacate the table. A positive note: the owner was friendly and the homemade herbal liqueur was excellent. Overall, the value for money was disappointing, though, we...

Sensational food and service. We truly had a great experience: we tried a local wine made from an indigenous grape variety called Vespaiola. Baccalà mantecato was exceptional and delicate, sign it was done at perfection. The carbonara was divine - literally “Come Dio Comanda” (they told us they learned the tricks from their Roman friends). Tiramisu was great too, but we were so impressed by their cannoli with sweet polenta crust, filled with whipped cream made from a local family which recipe has over 100 years. We finished with a hazelnut and cacao...

This gem of a restaurant was recommended to us by some local friends. Everything was absolutely delicious. The carbonara with guanciale was superb as was the orrechiette. The house made amaro botanico was the best I've ever had as was the tiramisu. We speak very little Italian, but everyone was accommodating.

Highly highly recommended if you're a local or you're a tourist out of your element in this...