Bottega del Vino

WTF?

I assume its expense accounts (we were seated next to a table of attorneys, later joined by their client, celebrating some BIG deal) that keeps this place open, with its convenient midtown location and trophy filled wine list. It certainly isn't the food.

Went here last night with some family and thankfully I wasn't paying. The best part of the meal was the wine. A 1998 Barbaresco, a "steal" at $200. There wasn't much for less than that on the list. I had a half portion of one of their signature appetizers to start, Tortellini della Bottega tortellini filled with beef and prosciutto dusted with porcini mushroom powder. Under-sauced and under-seasoned. For a main course, I had a "rack" of lamb with chestnuts. This came overdone (I should have sent it back but didn't), in a classic catering hall presentation. It was a small piece of lamb, sitting atop passable but useless mashed potatoes with a carrot and 3 chestnuts sitting in a tasteless sauce. For almost 40 dollars. Really?

Dessert was ok. A pretty good Tiramisu and a tasty but pathetic looking souffle. It barely rose up the full height of its diminutive ramekin.

The service was good.

You have to take an elevator to get to the bathroom.

You don't need to go here.