When London gets dreary, Bottarga’s Mediterranean vibes are the perfect escape
It's a dreadfully dreary day in London and the biting winds and icy temps are making me reminisce on a Euro summer traipsing throughout the Med. Luckily, as if by fate, my calendar pings to remind me of a dinner reservation at the hottest spot in Chelsea – Bottarga – this evening.
It's slightly spitting and deathly cold but as I walk in the door I am greeted by a cosy candle-lit space that transports me miles away from chilly London.
From the team behind Notting Hill-fave Zephyr, Bottarga is a Greek-inspired escape in the heart of Chelsea. Walking in, there are little tables adorned with melting candles and a hum of chatter, the open kitchen opens the space.
The vibe
I'm greeted at the door by an incredibly friendly host, Peter, who quickly escorts me to my spot at the bar. The higgledy-piggledy display of glass bowls along the marble counter makes me feel like I'm visiting my childhood friend Yia Yias at her home. The open kitchen and the little tables and chairs feel homely and welcoming, yet still elevated.
The groups around me seem to be on date nights or girls' nights out, with gaggles of well-dressed young Londoners milling about as house beats blur in the background. The dim lights and flattering candlelight feel intimate and luxurious yet not overly stuffy like some other luxury restaurants.
To put it lightly, it's a vibe. Cool, sultry, trendy and inviting.
The food
As with most Greek food, the menu is designed for sharing. Our waiter suggests choosing six to nine dishes to fully experience it all. A quick glance reveals a focus on healthy oils, whole ingredients and proteins like fish and meat.
We dive in with cocktails — Chicama’s Pisco Sour and the Ambrosia Martini. One word: yum. The food arrives in perfect stages, starting with warm pita and a massive, delicious Spiced Feta and Red Pepper Spread. Next, the Mezze: Saganaki Tapioca Bites are a cheesy, nutty, slightly spicy-sweet wonder, while the Cecina cured beef with pickled peppers and roasted capsicum strikes a perfect balance.
The Bluefin Tuna follows — light, lemony, and fresh. But the standout? The Bottarga Orzo. Its delicate fishiness and umami-packed XO sauce leave us speechless. My partner and I still rave about it.
Charred Tenderstem Broccolini provides a welcome breather between heavier plates, while the Confit Rate Potatoes and lamb chops — melt-in-your-mouth tender and butter-seasoned without being overly rich — are pure magic.
We eye the next table’s Grilled Prawns, Whole Sea Bass, and Dry Aged Rib Eye with envy, but dessert calls. Bottarga insists it’s 'non-negotiable', so we indulge. While the Salted Caramel Tart is sold out, the Chocolate Burnt Cheesecake and Hazelnut Semifreddo more than deliver. The cheesecake is dangerously rich, more like mousse, while the semifreddo’s creamy nuttiness cuts through. Sadly, we can’t finish it all.
The verdict
Honestly, I’ve already booked a return trip. It’s the perfect date night spot, but I’m also excited to come back with the girls for a bottle of wine, or two, and as much Chocolate Burnt Cheesecake as I can handle.
It’s not cheap, but if you go in knowing it’s a luxury experience, it’s absolutely worth it. While service slowed a little toward the end as the place filled up, it wasn’t a dealbreaker.
So, if you’re hunting for the next ‘It spot’ to enjoy delicious Mediterranean food and escape London’s winter chill, Bottarga is well worth the visit. Trendy, intimate, and oh-so-Chelsea, it’s perfect for your next night out.
How to get there
Situated on the King's Rd. The nearest London Underground stations are Fulham Broadway, Sloane Square or South Kensington.
Want to enjoy a night out at Bottarga for yourself? Book now!
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