Bottega...aka.... what a stint on Top Chef will do to fill a restaurant

[MSK]

We attempted to visit Bottega on a weekend night a few months after it's opening. The early reviews had been mixed (especially for poor service). We walked in to find a sparsely populated dining room so, with so many stellar establishments within walking distance, we decided to go elsewhere.

Fast forward passed a Top Chef Masters season. The menu at Ad Hoc the evening of our reservation did not strike our fancy so we decided to give Bottega a shot. An 8:45 res. was the earliest available on a Fri. evening. We arrived to standing room only at the bar......this place was hoppin'.

I was a bit worried when we first arrived. Here's my pet peeve...........When you walk in at 8:42 for an 8:45 and the hostess says "We will be seating you closer to the time of your reservation." I was ready to get in fighting mode.

But.............the wait was not that long and everyone from that point forward was solicitous and friendly. Everyone from the hostess who seated us (different gal), waitstaff, wine steward and bussers had an attention to detail, asked the right questions and offered great suggestions. Our meal was well paced and our privacy was respected.

We wished to share many dishes to collect as many flavors as possible and each dish was delivered one at a time. We do this often and it's amazing how many restaurants can't get this right.

We started with Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad marcona almonds, sieved egg, pecorino, whole citrus vinaigrette. I often make this at home but it never occurred to me to serve it uncooked. This dish was fresh and crunchy and nutty with a hint of lemon. MMMM good.

The grilled octopus app. was cooked perfectly........ just to the bite, not chewy at all.

The Pappardelle Bolognese and Braised Short Ribs with smokey jus were just what the Dr. ordered on a foggy and cold winter night. Each is a dish that often done but not always done well. The pasta had just the right bite and a sauce where the individual flavors stood out. The beef just fell apart on the plate and was not too fatty. Smokey au-jus set this dish above others we've tried.

No deep chocolate desert. Boo hoo. The apple turnover/ice cream was not overly memorable.

All in all, a great night. We will return to try the other menu items were were considering.

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Bottega
6525 Washington Street Suite A9, Yountville, CA 94599