SoNapa Grille — Restaurant in New Smyrna Beach

Last night I dined with my family at this SoNapa Grille, which I did adore, Not so much anymore I’m sad to say. Money isn’t a option when I dine out. What matters is service, presentation, flavor, ambiance. To give you an exact amount that I spent $473.00, before the tip. Raven was our server, reservation for ten, eight of us attended but I digress. I purposely picked and advised all my family this is the perfect place for us to have a wonderful dinner and catch up. 1. I specifically asked for 2 orders of bacon wrapped scollops, we received only 1 order. 2. I specifically asked for a specific bottle of red wine I selected to be at the table before the entrees so it could breathe, didn’t happen. Two orders of the baby back ribs were prepared horribly. I personally enjoy a charred Pittsburgh style steak every now and then but when ribs come out charred and have the consistency of leather and the only flavor you can taste is the over charred (might as well say burnt flavor) that’s a BIG NO for me, as well as the other individuals that ordered this entree for their dinner. The three appetizers we did receive, Korean ribs, cauliflower bites and THE order of bacon wrapped scollops all delicious, presentation ehh. My vesper martini was delicious just needed that twist of lemon to take to the top. Another member of the party ordered a couple of berry adult beverages and enjoyed them so that was nice. The bottle of wine I ordered came AFTER my entree, which my entree: the steak medallions, cooked perfectly but presentation was not there at all. I was informed by Raven himself that he didn’t bring the bottle that I requested because another member in the party requested a glass of what red wine he wanted, well that’s fine and dandy bring what they requested but why would he disregard what I ordered? When a patron has to ask TWICE for water when the water pitchers should always be filled regardless if asked or not I have to question the service again. Oh and the individual that came up and rudely interrupted our conversation and bluntly belted out “ I hear there was a problem with an order of the ribs”, NO SIR! If your representing a well known establishment and you present your presence to a large table or any table you politely bring yourself to the head of the table and introduce yourself. Whomever that was should definitely learn some table side manners. Raven, this will be the last time you wait on me, and it will be a long time before I come back or bring anyone else to this restaurant. I work hard, I play even harder, I worked in the restaurant industry for over twenty two years from Florida to Seattle, I do know a thing or two about dining out, I may not be the smartest person but I also know when I’m being rushed, Napa Grille isn’t a turn and burn type of restaurant, I end this review with it least the cheesecake was flavorful and presented nicely, and we still managed to tip...

After reading glowing reviews, we decided to try SoNapa Grille in New Smyrna Beach. The atmosphere was lovely—inviting and cozy. Initially, we were seated in a very noisy area, so we asked to be moved to a quieter spot. Although the staff member assisting us needed to get "permission" to reseat us (despite several open tables), they ultimately accommodated our request and moved us to a much more peaceful, private table, which we appreciated.

The food was good, though not quite as exceptional as I had hoped based on the reviews. That said, the staff was very accommodating of my gluten allergy, which I greatly appreciated.

Our server, Ian, was friendly and eager to help, though he wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about gluten-free options. To his credit, he brought over another server who was extremely helpful and well-informed.

I ordered margaritas, which were just okay—disappointingly watery, especially given the price. I’ve had far better elsewhere. Prices overall were on the higher side, which I expected, but I also anticipated a higher standard in terms of flavor and presentation.

We’d heard rave reviews about the donut bread pudding, so my husband gave it a try. Being gluten-free, I couldn’t taste it myself. He said it was good, but not outstanding—more like eating a muffin with a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, and chopped pecans. It didn’t have the texture or richness you’d expect from a classic bread pudding, and he was surprised it didn’t come with a rum sauce. He said he wouldn’t order it again.

I had the flourless chocolate cake, which came with a scoop of ice cream. It was very good—rich, dense, and chocolatey—exactly what you’d expect from a flourless chocolate dessert. I’d definitely order it again, especially since it appeared to be the only gluten-free dessert option on the menu.

Overall, SoNapa Grille is a very nice restaurant, but the food didn’t quite live up to the hype or the price point. We’ll likely return, though with more modest expectations. Next time, we might stick to the flatbreads—I've heard great things, and they offer a gluten-free crust— and pair it with a glass of wine and maybe a dessert.

$150 for two entrées (filet medallions and chicken marsala with steamed spinach), two margaritas, and two desserts felt steep given the overall experience. Still, the ambiance and service were strong points, and I’m willing to give it another shot with a simpler...

We visited So Napa Grille earlier this week. Had read very favorable reviews and were looking forward to a special evening. There was a line of patrons waiting to enter — one of whom practically ran over me in her haste to reach the bar for happy hour. We did not have a reservation and the hostess was not inclined to accommodate us. At first she indicated there were no tables available outdoors — and then another employee appeared and pointed one out to her. While we weren’t thrilled, we agreed to be seated at a high-top. In spite of this poor first impression, we wanted to stay because we had read such good reviews. Unfortunately it was unseasonably chilly so I returned to the hostess to ask if there was a well-distanced spot indoors. Again — the only table available was a high top — and the offer was delivered in such a way to communicate to me that I was an annoyance and someone she hoped would go elsewhere. When I asked about other options, she begrudgingly took us to a booth in the corner. We were very pleased with the spot. Our server, Barrett (sp?) appeared, reviewed the menu and took our drink order. He was very pleasant and engaging. Moments later he returned with the beverages and took our dinner order. The salads arrived in record time — and the entrees followed too soon after. The entrees were excellent — we recommend both the snowy grouper and the sea scallops. Barrett stopped by to ensure we were satisfied and when our plates were empty, delivered the check. It’s unusual, in my experience, for a server to fail to suggest coffee or dessert — but there was no suggestion. Perhaps someone directed Barrett to turn the table? It seemed clear to us that we were occupying a table they had hoped to keep open for someone else. So - in a nutshell — the food was very good, the service underwhelming and it’s expensive. No need to return...