Taste of Italy in Twickenham, Ristorante Sorrento Italian restaurant delivers excellence
- Politicals
- Nov 21, 2024
- 4 min read
Nestled in the heart of Twickenham, Ristorante Sorrento is more than just a restaurant. It’s a celebration of Italian culinary traditions brought to life with a modern twist. From the moment you step through the door, you’re embraced by a warm, family-friendly atmosphere that feels authentically Italian, with the inviting aroma of freshly baked lasagne and rich tomato sauces wafting through the air.
Run by owner Carmelo and his passionate team, Ristorante Sorrento is a gem that successfully combines fine dining with the comforting flavours of home-cooked meals. This was my first visit to this cosy yet sophisticated establishment, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional. With a menu that boasts fresh, high-quality ingredients and dishes crafted with love, this restaurant promises and delivers a dining experience to remember.
Warm and welcoming
The first thing you notice about Ristorante Sorrento is its charming, intimate setting. Seating around 60 guests, the restaurant is the perfect size to strike a balance between bustling energy and personal service. Soft lighting, rustic wooden furniture, and tasteful Italian decor create an inviting space that feels like an extension of Carmelo’s home. Families, couples, and groups of friends gather here, chatting and laughing over glasses of wine and hearty Italian fare. The team exudes warmth and attentiveness, ensuring that every guest feels special.
Starters
The meal began with three standout starters that showcased the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Tricolore
Vibrant and simple dish, perfectly balancing creamy buffalo mozzarella, ripe plum tomatoes, and silky avocado, all drizzled with olive oil. It’s a classic that Ristorante Sorrento executes with finesse, allowing each ingredient to shine in its natural glory.
Funghi Trifolati
A dish that brought comfort with every bite. The mushrooms, cooked in garlic, butter, white wine, and parsley, had a rich, earthy flavour that was perfectly enhanced by the hint of garlic. The butter and wine sauce clung to the mushrooms, creating a luxurious mouthfeel that left us eager for more.
Parmigiana
However, the star of the starters had to be the Parmigiana, a dish that epitomises the best of Italian cuisine. The layers of aubergine and courgette, paired with the smoky richness of mozzarella and a beautifully tangy tomato sauce, were baked to perfection. Every mouthful was a harmony of flavours and textures, with the smoky mozzarella providing the perfect counterpoint to the sweetness of the vegetables and the acidity of the tomatoes.
Main Course
For the main course, we opted for three signature dishes: Lasagne, Penne Amatriciana, and Napoletana. Each plate was a triumph in its own right, offering something unique yet quintessentially Italian.
Lasagne
The Lasagne was a comforting, indulgent masterpiece. Layers of pasta were generously slathered with rich Bolognese sauce, creamy bechamel, and gooey mozzarella, all topped with a golden layer of melted parmesan. It was everything you’d want in a lasagne – hearty, flavourful, and utterly satisfying. The portion was generous without being overwhelming, and the balance of flavours was spot on, with just the right amount of seasoning.
Penne Amatriciana
It was another standout dish. The pancetta added a smoky depth to the rich tomato sauce, while the cherry tomatoes provided bursts of sweetness. A subtle kick of chilli brought a pleasant heat to the dish, which was beautifully complemented by the al dente penne. It was a plate that spoke of the Italian countryside, rustic yet refined.
Pizza Napoletana
For something lighter but equally delicious, the Napoletana was a delight. Featuring San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, anchovies, oregano, and basil, this pizza was a celebration of simplicity. The anchovies added a salty umami hit that elevated the fresh flavours of the tomatoes and herbs, creating a dish that felt both wholesome and indulgent.
Sides
No Italian feast is complete without some well-chosen sides, and Ristorante Sorrento didn’t disappoint.
Sweet Potato
Fries were perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a delightful touch of sweetness that paired beautifully with the richer, savoury main dishes.
Rocket, Tomato & Parmesan Salad
It was light and refreshing, with the peppery rocket and juicy tomatoes balanced by the nutty, salty notes of shaved parmesan. These sides added texture and contrast to the meal, ensuring every bite was as enjoyable as the last.
Good service from start to finish
One of the highlights of dining at Ristorante Sorrento was the good service. From the moment we were seated, the staff demonstrated genuine warmth and attentiveness, always on hand to answer questions, recommend wine pairings, or simply check in to ensure we were having a great experience. Owner Carmelo himself made a point of greeting guests and ensuring everyone felt at home, a personal touch that elevated the overall dining experience.
Final thoughts, a must-visit for Italian food lovers
Ristorante Sorrento isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary experience that transports you to the heart of Italy. From the carefully crafted dishes to the welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service, every element of this dining experience reflects a dedication to quality and authenticity. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family celebration, or simply a fantastic meal, Ristorante Sorrento delivers on all fronts.
Owner Carmelo and his team have created something truly special in Twickenham, and it’s no surprise that this fine dining gem has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike. If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine or just great food in general, Ristorante Sorrento deserves a spot at the top of your must-visit list.