Pizzeria Botana

Pizzeria Botana, which has been operating since 1993, has long been an established name in Lahovče pri Cerklje na Gorenjskem. It has been remembered by many as a reliable spot for a family lunch or dinner, mainly due to the combination of a spacious parking lot, a large summer garden and extensive children's playgrounds , which is often of decisive importance for families with small children. However, recent guest experiences show two sides to this story, revealing both strong strengths and noticeable shortcomings.

Culinary offer: Between praise and criticism

When we leaf through the menu , we immediately notice its breadth. The offer ranges from more than twenty types of pizza to a variety of main courses , pasta, salads and desserts. It is the pizzas that have brought the restaurant its reputation in the past and that still often receive praise today. Satisfied guests highlight the good taste and the rich selection, which includes everything from classics to more innovative combinations, such as the "Kraljeva Botana" with truffle and king prawns. The offer of main courses is also varied, as it includes meat dishes, such as Vienna and veal steaks, and various seafood specialties, such as grilled squid and fried calamari.

However, there are serious differences of opinion when it comes to food quality. Several guests report negative experiences that fall far short of expectations. Dishes served in questionable condition are mentioned – from burnt vegetables and "rubbery" squid to a veal Vienna steak that is said to cause digestive problems. Some were also disappointed with the pizzas, which were once considered the pride of the establishment; complaints are leveled at the rubbery dough, lack of taste and the use of cheaper ingredients. There is also a suspicion that some dishes, such as the imperial roast (šmorn), are prepared in advance and simply reheated in the microwave, which is reflected in the final quality. This inconsistency in the preparation of dishes is one of the biggest drawbacks, as the visitor never knows whether he will receive an excellent meal or a deep disappointment.

Family-friendly environment as a key advantage

One area where Pizzeria Botana definitely stands out is its suitability for families. The large outdoor playground is a real attraction, allowing children to play carefree while parents can eat in peace. This factor is often what convinces many to decide to visit, as a restaurant with good playgrounds in Gorenjska is always a welcome choice. The spaciousness, both inside and in the covered summer garden, allows for comfortable accommodation even for larger groups, which is ideal for celebrations or meetings.

Service: From friendliness to complete arrogance

The most problematic and polarizing aspect of the Botana experience is undoubtedly the service. Guest opinions here are diametrically opposed. Some diners report an extremely positive experience, where friendly service was quick, and the staff was helpful and attentive. There are cases where the waiters themselves invited the family to a larger table to make them more comfortable. These guests left the place satisfied and feeling welcome.

On the other hand, there are a worrying number of reports of extremely unprofessional and unfriendly staff. Guests describe the waitresses as rude, arrogant and disinterested. Complaints include menus being thrown on the table, plates being pushed around and staff laughing loudly amongst themselves, creating an unpleasant atmosphere. One particularly notable incident was when a family on an empty terrace was forced to sit at a smaller table, which shows a lack of basic hospitality. This type of dining experience deters many from returning, regardless of the quality of the food. It seems that the attitude you receive depends on the staff’s daily routine or perhaps even their current mood, which introduces an element of risk into every visit.

Final Thought: An Institution with Two Faces

Pizzeria Botana is a restaurant that lives off its past glory and its exceptional location with excellent conditions for families. It offers an extensive menu where you can find very tasty food , especially if you opt for pizza. However, a visit is associated with a certain amount of uncertainty. While some guests are treated to excellent food and service, others leave disappointed by the poor quality of the food and, even worse, by the attitude of the staff that borders on rudeness. A potential guest must therefore ask themselves whether they are willing to risk a bad experience for the chance that everything will go smoothly and the children will enjoy the playgrounds. Botana remains a place with great potential, but is currently marred by great inconsistency in key areas of the catering offer.