We booked a table in the evening as that was the only slot online but decided to turn up early, as we wanted to try and get an earlier seating. We were welcomed and informed, politely, that we could wait for a seat to be available. We ordered drinks and sat at the entrance. It felt a tad awkward, and a little unwelcoming, when we ordered drinks and I had to ask the waitress to take our empty glasses away. I also noticed her swapping sly glances with the bartender. Then another green-haired waitress barged in and DEMANDED she have water now or else the world would crumble around her. Not exactly the environment I would expect of a restaurant asking these prices. It was as if they could express these things because we two customers weren't worth being polite around nor toward.
We got a seat. Our waiter was Lucky, who was doing his utmost to make us feel welcomed. Unfortunately, the table was not good. As soon as we sat down we were almost shoulder-to-shoulder with other customers. The restaurant is themed as an old wine cellar/bunker. I'm sure these dingey corners feels chique and novel to some but as just people who wanted a good experience, it felt cramped.
Somebody promptly came to ask for what we wanted to eat after 4 minutes I would say. We had only decided on starters at that point but they rushed us to have mains decided too. It certainly wasn't the relaxed experience I would expect from a restaurant of this pricing and alleged reverence.
Anyway, the mains came. My partner's steak was very nice, melt-in-the-mouth, best part of the meal as he puts it. Unfortunately my linguine, that I had felt rushed to order, wasn't up to the same standard. The seasoning was below standard. The prawns were crunchy and not flavourful. I wasn't exactly wowed. I've been to (wonderful) pubs that had better linguine.
It didn't help that Lucky felt the need to drop in and comment on my not eating of the prawns in my linguine. I felt like a level of respect toward the customer had been broached. As a customer spending this amount of money I felt like I deserved to have my own opinion of my meal. If I didn't want to eat the rest of it, for whatever reason, that should be up to me.
Anyway, we were each given the lychee shot that every customer is afforded. Fine. And then promptly left.
We got home and £150 had felt wasted and grieved on both sides, and it felt especially bad as this was supposed to be our big finale to our trip to Bath. It was not a...
Read moreI recently celebrated someone’s birthday at Sotto Sotto in Bath, and it was absolutely fantastic! This was my second time visiting, and once again, I was really impressed with everything. It truly feels like you’ve been transported to an authentic Italian restaurant. The atmosphere, the food, and the whole vibe made us feel like we were dining in Italy.
The food was amazing. Every dish was full of flavor, and you can really tell it’s made with the best ingredients. The pasta was delicious, the sauces were perfect, and the sparkling wine was spot on. It’s clear that everything is prepared with love and care to give you that true Italian experience.
The service was also top-notch. The waiter "Lucky" was very kind and had an Italian spirit, he was so friendly and really made us feel special. He knew the menu well and gave great recommendations, which made the meal even better.
One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll need a reservation, as they can only accommodate a small number of people at a time due to space I believe.?! (max 5 per reservation if you go in a group). But it’s worth it for the intimate, personal experience you get.
What really stood out to me, though, was the attention to detail. At the end of our night, the staff even helped us get our coats on, which I thought was such a nice and rare touch — especially in restaurants in the UK! It’s the little things like this that really make you feel valued as a guest. It definitely made me feel like I was in an authentic Italian restaurant.
The prices were also very reasonable, especially considering the quality of food and service. For what you get, it’s definitely good value.
At the end of our meal, they even treated us to a complimentary shot, something like limoncello, which was a lovely touch and a great way to finish off the night.
Overall, if you’re looking for a cozy, authentic Italian place in Bath, I highly recommend Sotto Sotto. It’s definitely a spot I’ll keep...
Read moreT I N A. T U R N E R
Need we say anymore.
We have only visited Italy (Rome) once, and as anyone else who's visited this beautiful country (and city) will probably tell you, the food and service here are out of this world.
Well Sotto Sotto you have taken Italian fine dining to another level.
We are just lost for words, the food, the service, the venue, the atmosphere, the staff, the whole experience was second to none.
This restaurant truly is a gem. Situated in a "basement" dwelling opposite the beautiful Parade Gardens. Please don't be misled by the term "basement" as this is exactly how the dining room eminates it's ambient beautiful character and charm. The venue is gorgeously converted, romanticly lit, secluded, seductive and just stunning.
The food.......delicious, beautiful, amazing, gorgeous, magnificent. You get the picture, not enough adjectives to describe. Simple menu choices, excellent ingredients, complimentary combinations and all executed to the peak of absolute perfection.
The staff......friendly, attentive, accomodating and helpful. The customer on the next table (clearly a foodie) asked detailed questions regarding the menu and portion sizes to which the waitress answered faultlessly, without hesitation and to the customers complete satisfaction.
The prices and portions.....Extremely good value for the excellent quality of food provided. This restaurant does NOT offer ridiculously expensive dishes for tiny portions that you don't know whether to eat or frame
If you are a fan of Italian food, or even if you are not, please, DO NOT visit Bath without visiting Sotto Sotto, you will not be disappointed.
Yes, the venue may be small, but this is exactly how the character and atmosphere are generated. Advanced booking is absolutely essential.
Cannot recommend this restaurant highly enough
This really was the best dining experiences we have ever had.
GRAZIE...
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