Bottino

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene
Inconspicuous Bottino is an ideal stop for a light lunch or full dinner while gallery-hopping through Chelsea. The space is clean and airy, with dark wood floors, whitewashed brick and a partially open kitchen. A small mahogany bar and cocktail tables sit near the entrance, while a tranquil, ivy-festooned garden waits out back. Service can vary from competent to distracted.

The Food
While the rustic Italian menu offers few epiphanies, it's hearty, well-executed and generally satisfying. Straightforward appetizers like grilled eggplant, an antipasto plate and a tomato and arugula salad with shaved pecorino are standouts. Main courses like roasted chicken with mashed potatoes and haricot verts, spaghetti with clams and a gutsy penne with speck also hit the mark.