La Bottega

Set on a charming corner site with an inviting hedge-trimmed alfresco area, this smart deli/café (the name means ‘shop’) sets out its stall for foreign & home-grown businessmen, South Ken socialites & the area’s Italian contingent, who come here to catch up over some food or read the papers with a drink. Inside, the shelves are packed with Italian essentials – from pasta & olive oil to grissini & biscotti – while counters display bowls of glistening homemade pesto, various types of lasagne & salads, plus cakes & tarts. Sit at one of the reclaimed tables & watch the Italian baristas flirt with the waitresses, or take to the artificial turf outside & sip a properly frothy coffee.