Thursday, October 12, 2023

Trattoria Sofia

Finally got a chance to try Trattoria Sofia.
The place is very poshly decorated.

You're greeted by a fountain.  Funny thing, when the place is packed, people kept tripping over those little lanterns on the ground.


I got an Arnold Palmer, a bit decorated for iced tea.

We of course have to start with some apps.

This is Suppli al telefono - It's a ball of cheese croquette that's deep fried.  It has some pine nut, mozarella, topped with more cheese and some pesto based sauce at the bottom.  Not exactly pesto because it's more Ranch-like consistency.  It's call the al telefono because when you pull it apart, it's like telephone lines that are stretchy and drooping.

Wood roasted beet, pear and balsamic and labneh salad.  To my surprise, this was very delicious, light and easy going.


That night's special was Seafood Pasta, it has mussel, shrimp, squid on a light tomato based sauce.  It was pretty good, not too heavy, good mix and fresh seafood.



Got a Coffee Gelato Affagato.

The espresso shot is in the little carafe. And it comes with a biscuit and it's great for dipping.

Couple of things to keep in mind.  First, for sure to make a reservation.  But for some reason, despite having one in the books, they were still had us wait for 10 mins.  Not sure if they were running behind or the clients eating slow.  But the weird thing was that when I asked to check out the garden area the reaction was a little taken aback.  Given then, they were going to seat us right by the door between the dining room and the garden which means it's the highest traffic.  Given many guests has yet to check in they could've been a little more thoughtful when seating guests.  

Second, they do not have complimentary parking.  It is $6, so bring change.  That said, if you're lucky enough to park on the street, congratulations, you should also buy a lotto ticket too.  Between this restraint and Loro right next door, the parking on the street is scarce.  Not only that please be courteous to the neighbors who live there.  They need to be able to get in and out as well.   So pay attention to the street signs. 

The crowd is interesting.  The earlier batch are families and friends hours.  Later is more likely date night or a girls night out kinda place.  The vibe is different and we see it transition during our time there.  Was the food good?  Yes, it was, some unique stuff but not so superb that I have to return.  Service was tough, our server was running around and while professional, it's not exactly the brand of attentive.  For the price of the meal, it don't think it's super exceptional both in food and service. 

Trattoria Sofia
911 W. 11th Street
Houston, TX 77008
713-804-0429

 

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