Offering an authentic taste of Italian café culture, La Bottega Milanese has come a long way since it opened its first bijou premises in Leeds back in 2009. This speciality coffee house embodies eveything that’s to be coveted about the Milanese lifestyle, from the city’s famous food and drink to its sophisticated style and sociable vibe. And, like a real Italian espresso bar, it’s there to see you through the day with coffee and morning pastries from 7:30am, followed by lunchtime foccacias and post-work aperitivo.
Now, La Bottega Milanese in York is celebrating its first summer in the city with some exciting additions to its menu. As summer begins, the doors of its elegant spot on New Street will be open, lending it the European feel that comes with al fresco dining. Alongside tasty toasted sandwiches, the café serves charcuterie boards filled with delicious cured meats, cheeses and accompaniments. These are perfect for grazing and can be paired with a glass of wine from its rotating selection, or a classic Italian cocktail such as an Aperol
Spritz, Espresso Martini or Negroni.
The café’s mantra is ‘if it’s not from Italy it’s from Yorkshire’. While its cakes and fine meats are imported, the bread and fresh produce it uses are both baked and sourced locally. La Bottega Milanese’s house coffee blend – a 100% speciality grade, ethically sourced Arabica named ‘La Classica’ – is also roasted in Yorkshire. It can be savoured hot or chilled in a wide range of styles, including as a sweet Spanish latte. A refreshing iced matcha is another popular choice here.
The team at La Bottega Milanese are always dreaming up creative seasonal specials. They recently celebrated York Chocolate Festival with a creamy Milanese-style hot chocolate and over Easter they filled hot cross buns with their delicious soft serve ice cream, which can also be enjoyed with sauces including caramel, nutella, pistachio and white chocolate. If you aren’t able to jet off to Italy this summer, this really is the next best thing.
