Burratina and Pecaminosa (All photos: Bottega Mediterranea)
What started as a simple neighbourhood Italian café and grocer by Piedmontese chef-business owner Riccardo Ferrarotti is now quite the enterprise. From its flagship in Bukit Ceylon, KL, Bottega is now into its 12th year and has two new outlets: in Penang (at the cool Muntri Street area) and Petaling Jaya. The latter, occupying an expansive two shoplots in Taman Megah and a stone’s throw from the buzzy new Megah Rise Mall, is fast becoming a hit with residents, many of whom can be seen bringing their pooches along for a weekend meal or quick cuppa (Bottega is famously pet-friendly).
First, stroll through the main deli area where you may allow your eyes to be tempted by a wide range of Mediterranean comestibles, from imported pasta to truffle spreads, DIY paella kits and olive oils, and, best of all, a chilled display selling a range of cheeses and charcuterie, before sitting down in a no-frills setting. The wait staff are friendly and enthusiastic and will make every dining party, from the young family with baby and toddler in tow, to the hip group dressed head to toe in Lululemon and with Fido peeping out from the Louis Vuitton monogram pet carrier, feel welcome.
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Given how hot the weather has been, start light and refreshing with orders of Zucchini (RM26), featuring simple rolled-up vegetable ribbons flecked with cheese, olive oil and lemon juice and topped with anchovies, cozze or mussels in white wine sauce as well as the perennial favourite of burratina (RM40). Pastas are popular with the Pasta con Polpette (RM29), studded with meatballs and peas, a hit with young and old alike. But perhaps it is the pizzas, loaded with toppings and made using a deliciously chewy, just-right dough, that deserve applause. You’d want to order at least a few varieties to try. If in doubt, go for the Pecaminosa (RM40), starring pancetta, marinated sardines and pumpkin! Save room for something icy and cold to finish. Alas, the pistachio gelato was not available but, thankfully, the vanilla and dark chocolate (all priced at RM12 each) were. Oh, for those who truly want a taste of la dolce vita, Bottega PJ is currently offering a deal of three glasses of wine or spritzer for RM60 between 4pm and 8pm.
Bottega Mediterranea, 15, Jalan SS 24/8, Taman Megah, PJ. Mon-Sat, 11.15am-10.30pm. Call +603 7886 2254 for reservations.
This article first appeared on June 26, 2023 in The Edge Malaysia.
