Sorellina is a gem set in the Boston dining crown. The restaurant is a treat for all senses; sight, sound, touch, smell and taste all mingle together to create an entirely enjoyable experience.

The design approach at the restaurant is minimalist. So many stores, restaurants and hotels aim for a minimalist scene, but come across feeling stark, cold and empty. Fortunately, the design team working on Sorellina got it just right.

The space, though almost entirely white, feels warm, comforting and inviting. Back-lit wine racks closed-in by chicken wire climb a few of the walls, offering a soft glow and unique feature to the space. Another wall features an art piece that is a photograph of what seems to be a Tuscan road, ripped into three equal parts and printed in large scale onto a (also back-lit) piece of glass. This feature adds to the intriguing space and reminds patrons of the restaurant’s Italian roots. Wonderfully selected transitional-style pendant lights hang sporadically through the place, keeping the high ceilings from getting lost and bringing the room to the perfect lighting level.

Music complimented the dinging experience exquisitely. The play-list was composed of modern music without drawing from the Top 40s list. Obviously a lot of thought went into the selection of the music so that it could best compliment the food and atmosphere. The volume was at a good level - heard over the din of patrons without drowning out conversations.

The dining room layout allows for ease of movement through the space. You do not feel like you are sharing dinner with the table next to you. The chairs, upholstered in white, are supportive and comfortable, and the tables are sized to accommodate both food and drink comfortably.

The service was perfect. The hostess didn’t even flinch when we changed our party from four to three. We were promptly seated, without having to wait for the last member of our party to arrive. Our server, Sara, immediately offered a cocktail while we settled in. She knew the entire menu and made excellent suggestions for wine pairings.

The meal was timed perfectly. We never felt rushed. The staff was truly superb and professional but still had the air of being laid back and easy going.

The food was divine. I started with an arugula salad - a simple, elegant delight. Only shaved Parmesan and black olives accompanied the fresh greens; and all was well-coated in a light, flavorful vinaigrette. Actually, the olives detracted a little from the dish.

A dinner partner started with tomato soup, which I sampled. It was seasoned simply, but well. The freshness of the tomatoes was one of the most prevalent flavors. My entree was bass over a Sardinian couscous with fresh summer vegetables. Each part was perfectly cooked - not over-seasoned, just amazing. And I had the chance to sample the duck and beef as well. While I certainly didn’t regret my choice at all, I would have been very happy if either the duck or beef had been my dinner.

For dessert, I had a custard dish, reminiscent of flan. It melted in my mouth; delicious, very light and not overly sweet.

Great food, beautiful space, wonderful staff and none of the pretension you find at many other high-end restaurants. Sorellina has been added to my A-List of restaurants in Boston.

Sorellina
1 Huntington Ave.
Boston, MA
Tel: (617) 412-4600
www.sorellinaboston.com

- Reviewed by Tarah Hyatt (tarah.hyatt@gmail.com)

Tarah Hyatt lives in Boston, MA. She grew up in Connecticut and originally came to Boston to attend the Wentworth Institute of Technology, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in interior design. She works at Boston University as an interior designer.