Housed in the Hyatt Place London City East Hotel, Sotto Cucina is a modern Sicilian kitchen and bar by head chef Vittorio Meli (previously of Polpo). The menu features rustic Sicilian classics with a modern twist, such as saffron arancini, sardine rolls with parmesan and panna cotta with cardamom, rose water and pistachio.
Aside from the plant-filled, elegant main restaurant, there is also a private dining space called The Orangery. The space is decorated with velvet curtains and boasts an adjoining inner courtyard for daytime meetings and intimate dining events. The Galleria Room, meanwhile, is a semi-private space ideal for groups wanting to keep the buzz of the rest of the restaurant. Able to host up to 14 diners, this area showcases the work of London-based or London-born artists. For larger or more tailored events, the team are happy to adapt so enquire if you would like more information.
Begin your private meal at with a classic aperitivo like a negroni or Aperol spritz. Alternatively, choose from the carefully selected global wine list, featuring bottles from Italy, Spain, Portugal and further afield. There is a selection of snacks from the deli available, such as salame, confit artichoke, balsamic onions and sundried tomatoes, before you move on to hot dishes. You and your guests can expect more classics in the small plates department, such as aubergine parmigiana, arancini, meatballs and fritto misto.
Pasta-lovers can then choose from fresh crab linguine, wild boar pappardelle or spaghetti involtini, while those who can prefer pizza can opt for a vegetarian, capricciosa, marinara or sfiziosa (figs, prosciutto crudo, burrata and rocket). Aside from traditional grilled octopus, there is also onglet steak with fries, fish stew or mixed Mediterranean vegetables. Finish with authentic Sicilian cannoli or other sweet treats like panna cotta, almond cake and gelato.