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Sorella
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sorella
8.4
A polished Polk Street room for modern Italian plates, house pastas, and a strong cocktail and wine program. It draws a stylish crowd and works for celebratory nights without going full white-tablecloth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e pepe, Seasonal crudo, Tagliatelle with ragù bianco
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Modern Italian flavors with cocktail bar energy on Polk.
Who should go: Stylish diners who love pasta and cocktails
When to visit: Book earlier seatings to avoid peak noise
What to order: Cacio e pepe; crudo; seasonal tagliatelle
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu amaros for a tailored digestivo flight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Polk can be very tight after 6pm; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most diners lean polished with button-downs or dresses.
Noise level: Moderate-to-lively; conversation is possible but expect a buzzy backdrop, especially late weekends.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—dinner only, so weekdays before 7pm usually seat smoothly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pasta and vegetable-forward plates are available each season.
Vegan options: Limited—typically 1–2 adaptable starters, but pastas are dairy-focused.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pasta is available on request, though prepared in the same kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—stylish but not stiff, with a lively room that keeps the vibe fun and engaging. It works especially well if you want pasta and cocktails without the formality of fine dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible but risky on weekends; the bar sometimes has open seats for walk-ins. Weeknights before 7pm are your best bet without a booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—the space is designed for adults and the vibe is cocktail-driven. Older teens may be fine if they enjoy pasta, but no special kids’ menu is offered.
Best For
Better for: Cocktail lovers and stylish groups will find more energy and polish here compared to traditional trattorias.
Skip if: If you want a quiet, family-friendly meal or a full white-tablecloth fine dining experience, better alternatives exist nearby.
Sorella
8.6
Casual Italian from the two-Michelin-star Acquerello team, delivering handmade pastas, cicchetti, and a lively dining room that still works with kids in tow. It’s a quality-first kitchen with approachable plates and attentive service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lasagna, Agnolotti del Plin, Meatballs (Cicchetti)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Acquerello technique in a relaxed room with shareable plates.
Who should go: Parents who still want chef-driven pasta
When to visit: 5:30–6:30pm for fastest seating
What to order: Lasagna, agnolotti del plin, meatballs
Insider tip: Nearby Old First Garage eases parking for strollers.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Old First Garage on Sacramento is the most reliable option; limited metered street parking fills fast after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most diners lean slightly dressy given the Acquerello connection.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; fine for family conversation but can feel bustling at peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; families should book ahead.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; the room is calmer during midday.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pasta and cicchetti options are fully vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited – 2–3 options with adjustments; staff is accommodating.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free pasta available upon request, though prepared in the same kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a casual but quality-driven Italian spot; the energy is upbeat rather than intimate, so better for easy conversation than a quiet, romantic night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible early on weekdays, but weekends fill quickly; families are strongly advised to reserve, especially if bringing children.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – kids are welcome and high chairs are available. Early seatings are best for families with younger children; staff is attentive to strollers and quick service requests.
Best For
Better for: More chef-driven pastas and elevated small plates than most family-friendly Italian spots nearby.
Skip if: If you want a quiet, romantic date-night atmosphere or strictly budget-friendly Italian, look elsewhere.