CONSIDERING it is rated as the number one restaurant in Bath on TripAdvisor, the difficulty of booking a table at Sotto Sotto is not particularly surprising.

Previous attempts were unsuccessful due to short notice, so I booked two months in advance for a table for two on a Friday evening – and even then the only time available was 6.30pm.

However Sotto Sotto was definitely worth the wait, the reputation the Italian restaurant has built up is more than deserved and it should certainly not be penalised for being in high demand.

Close to the famous Roman Baths, it is wonderfully atmospheric, in an underground cellar with stone walls and moody lighting.

We both started with Bruschetta (£3.75), with the classic dish of garlic and vine ripened tomatoes marinated with garlic and basil served on toasted Tuscan bread going down an absolute treat.

Pizza is a favourite of mine, so I was tempted to try one of the delicious sounding combinations but eventually decided on Pollo e salsiccia (£13.50), strips of chicken breast and Italian sausage sautéed in white wine with hot cherry peppers, garlic, rosemary and an aged balsamic vinegar.

It sounded great and tasted even better. The chicken was cooked perfectly, while the Italian sausage provided an ideal accompaniment to the dish. Being greedy, I added homemade hand cut chips for £2.50 – another good decision.

Emma went for Sotto Sotto’s freshly made lasagne (£10.25), with a side mixed salad for £2.95. She was very impressed with both dishes and having tasted the lasagne I could see why, with the flavoursome beef really hitting the spot.

We probably could have left it there – as we were both feeling pretty full – but we had waited for so long to get here we decided to go for dessert anyway.

We couldn’t fault either the Amaretto Disaronno and dark chocolate mousse or selection of handmade truffles (both £4.95).

The bill came to just over £60, including two rounds of drinks, very reasonable for three courses at such a highly regarded restaurant. We had a fantastic evening, with great food and service. Sotto Sotto is certainly not to be missed.

Where: 10 North Parade, Bath
Tel: 01225 330236
Web: www.sottosotto.co.uk

  • Open daily 12 noon-2.30pm, 5-10.30pm
  • Booking strongly recommended