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Recommended Reviews - Sofia
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I've been here a couple times and just realized he name pays homage to Sofia Lauren ( despite all of the decor lol ). Very good drinks , excellent service and solid Italian food . Highly recommended- you won't be disappointed
Came for a group dinner and was happily surprised! Love the family style option for the table. Pastas were all perfectly prepared and portions were ideal for sharing. Top faves were the pesto and vodka house made pastas. Also tried the sardine app (a standout!), the bread was a great texture and served warm. The whipped ricotta--also a crowd pleaser! Service was attentive even on a busy night. Can't wait to be back!
I had dinner at Sofia last night with a party of three and our bill came out to around $400 after tip. Before getting into it, I want to acknowledge that this is a family style concept. That's clearly communicated when you're greeted, so naturally it sets the expectation for shareable portions. We started with the ricotta and meatballs. Overall, portions felt on the smaller side, but the ricotta, especially at $18, was honestly a bit shocking in size. When we asked about it, a server jokingly said "inflation." I get it, but still. The two guys I dined with come here often and were actually the ones pointing out that portions have seemed to shrink. For mains, we each ordered a pasta. One was a server recommended agnolotti with crab, corn, and roe. It was decent, but the broth felt a bit too loose and could've used more depth and richness. That said, the crab portion was generous, the pesto was great, and the red sauce pasta was solid. We also ordered two pizzas, hands down the highlight of the meal. Easily the best thing we had. One small but off putting detail, the red pepper flakes were served in an open jar rather than a shaker. It made me question how many hands had been in it, especially since it appeared to have been reused from another table. Not the most sanitary presentation. Dessert was a strong finish. Panna cotta, tiramisu, and olive oil cake were all fresh and delicious. Drinks included a cocktail for me and beers plus an espresso martini for the table, all fine. Service wise, things started okay but felt rushed toward the end. We even mentioned we were still picking at food and what seemed to be a manager still cleared plates from the table. The tables themselves are also very small, which doesn't help when you're doing family style dining. Our server appeared to be training someone but never introduced them, which made things feel a bit awkward. Also, when resetting silverware, it felt rushed and a little careless, almost tossed onto the table rather than placed. Overall, the experience was good but not great. The food had its highlights, but portion sizes versus price and some service missteps held it back. 6/10, and honestly it reminded me why I hadn't felt the urge to come back before.
Arriving late into NoLa on a cold Sunday night and my buddy and I wanted to grab a quick dinner but most of the NoLa resturants I had marked were closing at 9pm. Sofia was open til 10pm so we popped in there around 8:30pm. Glad we did, as we were one of the last parties taken as they decided to close a little early. We split a pizza called The Spicy ($24) which was absolutely great. We almost got the marghareta and I wish we would have since the crust and cheese were perfect it really didn't even need any toppings. We wanted a protein so split the short rib pasta ($30) which we were a little less than impressed with. Again, the noodles were excellent but the dish just seemed to be a saucy mess overall. Didn't love the unexpected 4% kitchen appreciation fee on my check but I will say the service was good and I'd come back here regardless.
I only gave this place a 4-star review because the pasta was bland for my taste and the complimentary birthday dessert was soooo dry, I could've been eating chalk with icing for less sugar :/ anyways, everything else that hit the table was firrrrreeeee! That shrimp toast is an absolute must! The bread was sooooo soft and delicious! The shrimp was so perfect, and ghe little garnishment on the top was a nice touch. It was great and I will be back for that appetizer specifically! The pizza was also really good! It does have a bunch of crust, but it's soft and not tough like some dough can be. Unfortunately, they pesto pasta was missing something (other than protein lol). It was missing a flavor (other than pesto). I couldn't eat much of it. Also, they gave me a complimentary birthday cake and lit the candle! It was such a nice gesture! I hate to admit it, but that cake wasn't good at all. But hey, it was free! They have ice cream from Creole Creamery on their dessert menu, and you get two scoops. The ice cream, of course, was really good. As for decor, this place is a beautiful spot to celebrate any occasion or to have a nice dinner. I'll definitely be back! Especially because they waiter was super attentive and friendly! My glass of water barely got low before she brought me another glass. She went above and beyond! I can't remember her name though...smh
Solid Italian spot. Visited this place once when it opened years ago, and again this week. It has definitely improved! Everything we had tasted well, from the kale salad to the mushroom pizza (sub red sauce base!) to the two plates of pasta we sampled. Everything is served family style, so be prepared to share!
A very delicious Italian restaurant! There is nothing but perfection at this restaurant. Sitting at the bar was great as we could see the chef preparing the food and watching the pizza come out of the oven. What a well oiled machine this place is. Their food was fresh, hot, and tasted absolutely spectacular. Their pizza is to die for. The alla vodka was flavorful, spicy, and just had the right amount of heat. Their kale and beet salad was so good, I think it was the best salad I have eaten at an Italian restaurant. The service staff was extremely friendly and very attentive. We were happy with our overall experience here. We also had a couple glasses of wine that were excellent. Definitely recommend this restaurant if you're looking for good quality, Italian food. Very beautiful restaurant and the vibe is great. We will return again.
I actually haven't stopped thinking about this experience since I dined in two weeks ago. I can't believe it's taken me so long to get here. It's a very chic & intimate setting. You have the choice of inside or outside dining. Had reservations so there was no wait to be seated. The service was amazing. The house ricotta was divine! The Arrabbiata pasta was delicious. The Bianco pizza was delicious. All washed down with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc. 10/10 experience & can't wait to visit again.
Sophia's was by FAR my favorite restaurant in my trip to New Orleans. It's a nice break from the classic creole foods! We ordered 3 dishes for 2 and still had some left overs! Ambiance and decor are great especially with the large pizza oven in the corner! What we ordered: - Margarita Pizza (5/5) - a thin crust simple but well done pizza! It was great but just not a stand out compared to the other items. - Kale Beet Salad (6/5) - INSANELY GOOD salad oh my goodness!! I don't even love beets but I think I do now? The kale was soft, shredded well, cheese was shaved thin and beets were soft. The apple dressing was also DELICIOUS! Highly recommend. - Pesto Pasta (6/5) - ALSO DELICIOUS! I love a good pesto and this did NOT disappoint! It's nutty, rich, and herby. The pasta shape is fun and carries all that cheese and sauce so well. I will 100% recommend my friends to come to Sophia and will return when I'm back in NOLA.
I had the beet salad, a GF pizza and a GF pasta and everything was delicious and well cooked. Highly recommend the short rib pasta dish!
Really enjoyed the food and vibes here. My only regret is not having time to eat here again during my visity to New Orleans! Next time. Note that it's walking distance from the convention center on a street with cool establishments to peek in to on the way. Also note, a seat at the bar in the back allows you a view of the chefs making pizza from scratch. The restaurant has a Sofia Lauren theme although I forget what connection the owners have to her. Anyway, try the shrimp! (See pic.)
This is the type of place where you want to come back and try everything on the menu because of the quality and flavor in each dish. I had the Ricotta and the Agnolotti. Hands down one of my favorite meals in NOLA so far. I dream about the Ricotta with honey and foccacia. I sat at the bar and I loved sitting near the kitchen where I could watch them make the pizzas. The staff were super attentive and friendly.
Outstanding service! I came here with a large party during Mardi Gras and our waiter was super attentive with excellent communication. Our riders were taken and received very promptly. The food was good, I would recommend the Bianca pizza. The touch of rosemary is outstanding and definitely makes the pizza. All the other was good was just okay to me. The focaccia that comes with the ricotta is outstanding but the ricotta itself was bland in my opinion. A few people at my table ordered the vodka pasta and gave it a 10/10 though.
11 months ago
Loved my experience! We came for a work dinner and they were very accommodating. Our server, Tyberius, was very nice and managed us really well (a very lively bunch). They determined a pre fixe menu for us, which for a group of 25, I'm sure made it easier for them as well. It was served family style and I thought this really was genius from a planning standpoint. Liked didn't love the cucumber e Pepe drink, was happy but switched to wine. All of the food I ate was delicious!!! Restaurant itself is very cute. There's bar seating and a patio when the weather is nice. We were visiting for work, though I'd recommend this to friends for sure. read more
5 months ago
5 months ago
Had a excellent time dining at Sofia while vacationing in New Orleans. We started off with the bread dish, the recommendation of our server . It was soo so good , we decide to get the Ragu pasta and the Spec pizza. The Ragu pasta was by far , the better entrée option. Sofia had a fun late night vibe. Service was amazing. Our server was super knowledgeable and even gave us city recommendations for other types of food options. We will definitely be back! It's definitely worth the visit. read more
2 years ago
Oh wow. Where to start? Visiting for a conference and decided to check out places nearby. Stumbled upon this gem and fell in love. Ambiance is cozy, service was on point and the food was divine! The crab risotto I still dream about- creamy and luxurious. So good. The pasta was filling and full of flavor and a good kick to it! My coworker got a cocktail and raved about it. Would be a great date spot or after work and just relax and unwind from The day spot. I can't remember the name of the dessert I got as I asked the host to surprise me with his favorite- but I did add a picture- it was fantastic. Can't wait to come back and explore the rest of the menu. read more
8 months ago
I went here with my work friends and found the food, service, and environment all wonderful. We shared a Margherita pizza, the fungi pizza, and a pasta, which was very delicious. We also tried a new dessert that actually was released that day, some type of pistachio cake with yogurt, which was surprisingly pleasant. Our waiter Marvin was a true delight, and I would definitely recommend this place to anybody visiting and in the mood for some Italian food. read more
8 months ago
Definitely recommend this spot. Make a reservation for this and don't miss it. I will be back again asap. The bread appetizer was a wow factor. Best bread I've ever eaten. We ordered a few different dishes and all of them were phenomenal. read more
5 months ago
Food was delicious as always. The kale salad is so fresh and tasty with chunks of yellow squash, slices of tangy beets, and added hazelnuts for crunch... all topped with grated Parmesan! The alla vodka pasta is perfectly Al dente with great portion sizes. Love their aperol spritz. Service is consistently good and the menu changes seasonally. The ambience is light and bright with fun photos of Sofia Loren throughout. Sofia is truly one of our neighborhood go-to's! read more
1 year ago
For Italian, go to Sofia. On our first night on a six-day-trip to New Orleans, we walked into Sofia on a Friday evening around 8 p.m. and got a table for four on their outdoor patio. Service was attentive and kind and the food was amazing. To feed four, we ordered the meatballs (for our seven-year-old daughter), the crispy potatoes, bruschetta, and picante pizza, and the pizza with blackberries on it. Everything was full of flavor, but the pizzas stole the show with its unique ingredient combo and hot, chewy crust. We also enjoyed the cocktails. The cocktail with pear puree was balanced and refreshing on a warm evening. Our glasses were also kept full with cold water. Compared to Washington, D.C. prices, our meal and drinks cost less. read more
10 months ago
We thought the food and drink were all . Such a lovely dinner and the family style serving was great too! Everything we ordered made us say "this is the best X I ever had" read more
11 months ago
We went at night to eat and when you walk in it's a warm lively atmosphere with music playing. The service was not that attentive when we first walked in especially for not being that busy, but throughout the meal it was okay. We were seated, and we ordered the ricotta, vodka pasta, and pizza. The ricotta was a perfect harmony between sweet and savory. Perfect appetizer and kept me grabbing for more. As for the vodka pasta my first impression is that the presentation is nice, and when you take a bite you're hit with a kick of spice. Besides it being spicy, it did not have much going on in flavor. It needed salt, and more seasoning. Otherwise it was just kind of a spicy and bland. As for the pizza it was good. It was thin crust and cooked in the large fire stove in the back of the store. It is really pretty, and hard to miss. It came hot, and was cooked perfectly. read more
1 year ago
What an amazing Sunday brunch spot! Out waitress was fully of good energy and make the day fun! And the bottomless mimosas didn't hurt either! They offered the choice of cranberry or orange for the finish! Food was delicious. We started off with an order of three meatballs (Polpette) which consisted of a mixture of pork, brisket, amatriciana, and Parmesan cheeee. Then we went family style and shared the Ricotta Appetizer Platter. A very unexpected surprise with this dish. I highly recommend both of these appetizers! For the next course, we had the Crab Cake Benedict and the Cinnamon Waffle. And to top off for ambiance ... there was a DJ! Music was fun but was just loud enough to hear without interference with table conversations. Will definitely return to try more of their menu. read more
I couldn't even get a good picture of my pasta before eating it all up!! Took my self on a nice solo date and I had to go with the Alla Vodka pasta and a refreshing glass of Lambrusco. Date night, girls night, or solo night -- Sofia is always a good idea! read more
6 months ago
I've experienced repeatedly horrible customer service with a condescending attitude - details below . . . . I arrived for lunch 20 minutes before their advertised (on the door) 3 PM closing-time (to prepare for dinner) - waiters were still taking orders from tables (some recently seated) - so, I clearly was in time to be seated. After waiting over 5 minutes at the abandoned hostess stand, a lady walked up to me and said that they were still serving, but I would have to sit at the bar, which I said I could not because I needed a chair with a back and noted there were lots of empty tables and, again, waiters were still taking orders from recently seated diners and, according to the clock, they were still open as advertised - I said I knew what I wanted and could order immediately upon being seated or, if needed, right there and then -- she said she'd have to ask the manager about not sitting at the bar and then left. The manager appeared five minutes later (pushing us closer to 3:00 PM through no fault of mine) and told me (before I could utter a word) that the restaurant "was closed to prepare for dinner" (it was still before 3PM mind you) with a wildly condescending smile on her face while wholly avoiding eye contact with me (she was putting up menus) - I told her (actually, mostly to the back of her head) that I was confused because I not only arrived in time as advertised on their door and had waited now for almost 10 minutes, but it was still before 3PM -- I'd been made to wait, waiters were still taking orders, and her employee had just told me they were open - I tried to explain that I could order quickly, but I was told I had to sit at the bar, which I could not do because I needed a chair with a back -- she continued the condescending smile while avoiding eye contact, refused to speak to me, and walked away. I note that this is not the first wildly bad customer-service experience (full of apparent lies) I have had there. The first was over Mardi Gras a couple of months ago. We were seated outside, because we were told nothing was available inside despite seeing a couple of empty tables --- after the third person harrassed us by walking up to our outside table (immediately next to the door mind you) begging for food and/or money, I asked the waiter if it would be okay to sit at one of the empty tables I saw inside. He said he would ask - then, about 20 minutes (and more harrassment) later when he did/had not responded (though having visited the table since), I asked again and was told (after he again asked the same manager), that there were "no tables." Hot on the heels of that obvious lie, two separate sets of diners walked in off of the street and said to the same hostess (within earshot of me) that they "had no reservations" and wanted to be seated and then were seated at the empty tables I'd just requested. I then asked the hostess why we had been refused one of those tables when I indicated that I would gladly pay and tip the waiter outside and then they could just bring the food we had ordered to the new table inside and I also gladly would pay and tip the waiter inside - to avoid being harassed multiple times by people begging for food and money in front of their front door mind you. I got the same condescending smile with no eye contact. So, I will never darken the door of this place again. I suggest you do not either based on my experiences. And, if you do, I hope you are treated better than I was - TWICE. This place has good food, but it's not cheap, and there are lots of places with good food that hopefully will not treat you like they treated me on more than one occasion for simply asking for something not out of the ordinary and apparently available. read more
1 year ago
The food at Sofia is exceptional! Sitting at the bar, we enjoyed the U10 Scallops with olive puttanesca. It was very tasty and cooked perfectly. Even better was the red snapper with capers in a great lemon sauce. The food here is 5-Star good! Unfortunately, the service we received at the bar was not even close to five stars. Our bartender was more preoccupied in talking to an acquaintance also sitting at the bar. It was difficult getting her attention to order wine and then had to remind her we hadn't received it many minutes later. Another bartender, Michael, who was friendly with a wide smile, came over to help us a couple of times which we were very grateful for. read more
3 months ago
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1 year ago
I really did not expect to find this gem of a place in the middle of my NOLA adventures but Beli recommended it to me and I thought it was worth trying out. Happy to say I was pleasantly surprised and loved the food. The whipped ricotta and alla vodka pasta are must get items if you go here. The flavors and textures of the two really stood out as my whole family made a point to mention how good the two dishes were. The pizza we got was alright but was primarily overshadowed by the other dishes. We were sat in this outer covered seating area that was minimally set up. But from walking into the restaurant to use the bathroom, the inside looked really nice and looked like a nice place to grab some food and drinks with friends and family. read more
I know. We're in NOLA, and we're at an Italian restaurant? Well, YES! Sofia Loren (hubby's first crush) was a friend of the owner's parents, so the artwork makes sense. North by Northwest (one of my hubby's favorite movies) was playing on the TV while we were dining. Service was incredible. Pasta and pizza was out of this world. I gave 5 starts because of the ambiance, nostalgia, and amazing food. We highly recommend!!! read more
The pasta here was SO delicious that we considered coming back here for every single meal while we were in NOLA for the weekend. The staff were all so friendly and welcoming (shoutout to Ashton and Beaux for amazing service and great recos). Starting off with drinks and apps: we got the honorable mention porron, which was fun and engaging. Came out to about 5 drinks-- not very strong, but still tasty. Also tried the fiesta italiano and loved it. Got bruschetta without the pine nuts (they are very accommodating for allergies/ dietary restrictions)-- that focaccia is heavenly! Highly recommend. For our mains, we got the piccante/ spicy pizza, and substituted broccolini instead of pepperoni. Has an awesome little kick to it and very flavorful. Last but certainly not least, the alla vodka. I will be dreaming about the pasta and its vodka sauce for months to come!! Wish we had room for dessert, as that looked amazing too. My #1 New Orleans reco!! read more
We came here on New Year's Eve with two travel weary hungry kids and no reservation. They were able to seat us immediately (which was a surprise). The kids got the Margherita pizza and liked it so much they got a second. We got the risotto, Brussels sprouts, and mista salad. All very good. Service friendly and fast! Would highly recommend. read more
I decided after eating such fantastic New Orleans food with goodbyes to MoPho and Maypop closing both yesterday and fabulous oysters, I would just have a gluten-free pizza. I read the recommendations and decided that I would walk to Sofia that is in the CBD. I thought it was just a pizza joint and had no idea that it was a fine dining Italian restaurant that serves pizza as well as other wonderful dishes. I got there without a reservation at 9 o'clock and I had to wait a half hour just to sit at the bar. The restaurant has beautiful artwork and above the main dining room a pop art picture of Sophia Loren, which I did not connect until later after I saw the picture that this restaurant was in homage to Sophia perhaps with a different spelling. The baseline for all pizza is a Pizza Margarita and I ordered the gluten-free one along with a wonderful cocktail. The bar servers, Jolie and Alice, were wonderful and indulged my gluten intolerance and story telling. The pizza was great and I was forced (untrue) to try the Panne cotta dessert. This was sublime. This is not a pizza joint but a marvelous restaurant that does have GF pizza and pasta. Grazie Mille, Sofia. read more
1 year ago
Sofia is beautiful with really tasty food! Casey was a wonderful server!! For an appetizer we ordered meatballs which had a great flavor and texture, but could have been hotter. We also some bread that isn't mentioned on the menu but was super delicious and piping hot from the pizza oven. The pesto pasta, with the addition of shrimp is one of the best dishes I've ever tried. The zepoles were also light and custardy! I cant wait to go back. read more
1 year ago
My favorite restaurant. Never had a bad dish. This was green goddess pasta with shrimp. Forgot name of pizza. Of course paired with espresso martinis. read more
9 months ago
Reservations at Sofia are strongly encouraged -- and with good reason (there was a bit of a wait, while I was in town). Despite not calling in advance, my colleague and I were seated within 30 minutes. This place is vibe-y. The decor unsurprisingly featured many eras and pictures of Sofia Loran. I'd describe the atmosphere as moody, yet vibrant - it's dim in there and quite rambunctious - but it's just what I'd expect. We tried the margherita and salsiccia pizzas. Both were decently sized (and very shareable!) The margherita was fairly standard. The garlic confit was very rich on the salsiccia - which while enjoyable in the first few slices, quickly became a bit much. I was a tad bit disappointed with how quickly the pizza became soggy though. If I were to come back, I'd switch up the items we ordered (esp since it's intended to be shared family style). read more
3 years ago
Sundays are for brunch !! We took a while to try to find a good brunch that had great food and we decided on Sofia. Best choice by far! 1. Amazing food 2. Great Service 3. Fresh food that is NOT deep fried 4. Perfect drinks We loved it so much that we can't wait to have it next time we are in town read more
1 year ago
Will always go back for the food, haven't had a bad thing there! This Time I tried the Squid ink pasta with shrimp - delicious but spicy, would probably get the chili flakes on the side next time. 10/10 meal otherwise! read more
8 months ago
3 years ago
My uber driver recommended Sofia to us so we made it our sunday brunch. We got seated shortly on a game day sunday, so we were very pleased. Starting the breakfast potatoes, those were sooo good. Super garlicky, some parmesan, and they were so crispy. Also got the meatballs, which unfortunately were a bit cold inside. For mains I think we got most of the pasta, the carbonara was my favorite, I got a perfectly poached egg on top. It wasn't too dense either. The alla vodka was probably my second favorite. Desserts slayed as well, and I think it's hard to make a Good single serve tiramisu, so I was impressed. My only warning is, if you come on the weekend for brunch they have two 'DJ's inside playing tiktok's greatest hits... so be aware. I think it's an interesting choice, they definitely didn't fit the vibe. I would come back on a weekday night and try their pizza! read more
5 months ago
1 year ago
The Food!!! As a celiac this can be a struggle, I have been to GF restaurants all over the US, NYC, LA, Dallas, you name it... this was the best. The GF pasta was superior. We shared the wedge and the flavors of pickled and spicy onions and v tomatoes with the Gorgonzola was unmatched. Seriously the best wedge I've had anywhere. read more
5 months ago
More info about Sofia
516 Julia St
New Orleans, LA 70130
Warehouse District
Directions
(504) 322-3216
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https://www.sofianola.com
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Ask the Community - Sofia
Is there BYOB or Corkage?
Do they still have outdoor tables? *clarifying* - please say when you were there. Need info for 2023. Thanks yelpers!
I didn’t see any tables outside. No one was being waited on outside the night I went.
What kind of gluten free crust do they use? It is dairy free also?
Do I need to book a table for 6 or could we walk in?
You should definitely book a reservation or go very early. They fill up quickly!
Is there a corkage and if so, how much is it?
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