Set below ground level and hidden beneath the cobbled streets of Bath, Sotto Sotto reflects the meaning of its name accurately. Translating to ‘underneath’, this discreet Italian restaurant is located in the cellar of a traditional Bath residence and is barely noticeable from the streets above.
Sotto Sotto’s outer facade reflects the typical architecture found throughout the city. However, walk down the steps and into the restaurant and you are met with an enchanting and low lit interior, oozing with warmth and capturing the essence of a true Italian cavern.
Although not noticeable, it is clear that word of mouth has spread, as the arched rooms were packed with people. With its beautiful bare stone walls, vaulted ceilings and the sound of happy voices echoing throughout, Sotto Sotto welcomes you before you have even been greeted.
We were lead to a cosy table nestled in the corner of the room. The enthusiastic waiter presented us with the menu and two glasses of chilled Chardonnay, leaving us to dwell for a while taking in the extensive choice of dishes. Although the restaurant was unique and unexpected at first, the menu was representative of your usual Italian; pastas, pizzas and bruchettas were the main focus, with ice creams and tiramisu to follow.
Our shared starter of marinated king prawns served on Tuscan bread (£6.75) was appetising yet not outstanding. The size and presentation was impressive, however the taste uninspiring.
For our main course we opted for linguine tossed with prawns, sun-dried tomatoes, anchovies, black olives, capers, garlic and olive oil (£7,95) and a fillet of fresh sea bass wrapped in smoked parma ham and sautéed with white wine, cherry tomatoes and asparagus (£16,95); luckily our faith was restored as this dish did not disappoint, every flavour was apparent, every ingredient fresh and every mouthful satisfying.
Feeling content, we pondered over the dessert menu for some time and succumbed to a shared panna cotta (£4.49) which was light and delicate and enjoyed a glass of dessert wine to compliment.
Romantic, magical and atmospheric, Sotto Sotto is a true dining experience and we would willingly go back. With welcoming staff and good quality food, there is no reason not to like this place. The menu was less impressive than the building itself, but for those looking for a relaxing and affordable restaurant with a difference, Sotto Sotto is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Main Dining Room
Hallway to Dining Room
Pantry Secrets 