Sodini's Trattoria — Restaurant in San Francisco

Been coming to this place for close to thirty years. And, while I have been to other North Beach establishments (some still here, some long since shuttered), this is the one my friends and I choose most every time.

Sodini’s is as close as you can get to a traditional, East Coast-style, pasta-and-gravy type of place in North Beach. And I mean that in a good (if not great) way. It’s not the most expensive. It’s not the most sophisticated. But, when you are in the mood for a filling meal that is (still) relatively well-priced, this joint will likely appeal to you.

The vibe? Think of the smell of garlic and olive oil, mixed with dark wood and Italian kitsch on the walls. The owner is the consummate greeter, always ready with a smile and a handshake. The bartenders are experts at what they do and might (just might) surprise you with a limoncello, gratis, after a filling meal. The waitstaff are efficient and friendly. If you have the option, and your group is small, try to grab a seat at the bar for dinner. Otherwise, wait for a seat in the small, somewhat packed, dining room. Or, on a nice evening, one of the small tables or parklets outside. While the wait can be long, especially on weekends, it pays to remember you are smack dab in the middle of what is basically an Italian American tourism zone (you noticed the line of people down the block waiting for a slice of pizza, right?!?!).

After a long commute, or a stressful day, or both, walking into Sodini’s quickly makes everything wrong just melt away. Enjoyed my recent meal this past Friday. Already looking forward to my next visit. Recommended.

Oh, and the vague, nonsensical, or hyperbolic negative reviews? Ignore them. And the ones that knock stars for a lack of authenticity? It pays to consider exactly what you mean when you go out searching for authenticity (meaning: that claim is often an implicit critique of the person making the observation)....

The Bolognese was a pitiful, watery concoction, utterly devoid of the hearty, robust flavors that are the hallmark of this beloved dish. Instead, it resembled a bland, diluted soup, as if concocted by someone with a profound aversion to seasoning. The lasagne, which should be a layered masterpiece of savory delight, was a disgraceful heap of poorly assembled ingredients, tasting as though it had been cobbled together by an unskilled amateur. The chef, clearly lacking any passion or expertise in Italian cuisine, managed to transform these classic dishes into a culinary nightmare that would make any true Italian weep.

The experience was further marred by the waiting staff, whose rude and unprofessional behavior was as unpalatable as the food. Their demeanor was abrasive and dismissive, making us feel more like burdens than valued customers. It was as if they had been trained in the fine art of discourtesy, ensuring that any shred of enjoyment was thoroughly stamped out.

The wine selection was the final insult. A paltry assortment of mediocre options, each bottle seemed to embody the very essence of substandard quality that permeates this establishment. It was akin to being offered vinegar under the guise of fine wine. This pitiful excuse for a wine list was a fitting accompaniment to the dreadful meal and the deplorable service.

In conclusion, we will never return to this culinary disaster, and we implore others to steer clear. This restaurant is an affront to the noble tradition of Italian cuisine and an insult to anyone who values fine dining. The experience was akin to dining in a wasteland where flavors are left to die, and hospitality is a foreign concept. Avoid this place if you have any regard for your taste buds and...

As with anything, your experience may vary, this is ours.

Sodini's is a heritage spot in North Beach serving up Italian classics, not the latest trendy stuff.

Take a trip back in time and step into a neighborhood place where you can feel at home, like a friend, and not just a paying customer. Good service is one thing, but good service and being made to feel like you belong there are two different experiences.

This is old SF, full of character, and full of solid and delicious old school Italian food. The atmosphere and service elevated my food to five stars, because doesn't the environment (when good) elevate the entire dining experience?

What we had

Stuffed Gnocchi with mushroom and Gorgonzola sauce. OMG so good. If it were finished at the restaurant, I would take bread and wipe every remnant of sauce and lick it clean. Ok I wouldn't lick it in a restaurant though.

Lobster ravioli with pink sauce, another winner. Lobster carried in marscapone inside large ravioli was delicious.

Angel hair pasta with meat sauce, a simple classic you can just chow down on. Long simmered simple ingredient sauce, nothing off the charts, just a familiar taste that is comforting and clean. This is not fancy, just comfort food like you might have at home if you made batches of sauce simmered for many hours.

Calamari. They say for 2-3 people. Unless you're big eaters the portion was more like 4-5 small portions to enjoy before your meal but we're not big eaters so your mileage might vary. Lightly battered and served with zesty aioli and proper (imo) cocktail sauce with horseradish.

Our waitress was wonderful, didn't constantly check on us but was always available if...