In 1995, he opened Osteria Francescana in his hometown of Modena, Italy. Over the years, he expanded his culinary ventures, creating the Francescana Family, which includes Franceschetta58, Cavallino, Gucci Osteria in Florence, and the guesthouse Casa Maria Luigia, home to Acetaia Maria Luigia and Al Gatto Verde. His international projects include Torno Subito in Dubai, Singapore, and Miami, as well as Gucci Osteria in Beverly Hills, Tokyo, and Seoul.

In 2015, Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore, founded Food for Soul, a non-profit organization focused on reducing food waste and combating social isolation. Deeply committed to humanitarian and environmental causes, Bottura continues to innovate with a focus on sustainability and cultural impact. Casa Maria Luigia remains a testament to his dedication, blending culinary excellence with community engagement.