An Italian Hamlet in CP

Named after an Idyllic coastal town in Italy, this restaurant welcomes you with a cute blue Vespa & a smiling Maitre D’. Another lip-smacking establishment with the Genius Chef Neeraj Tyagi as the mastermind, this restaurant alone had upped the gastronomy at the slightly tired Shangri-La in New Delhi. Neighbours with Grappa, their Lounge Sorrento has a buzz, a beautifully-curated menu that servers in suspenders & chinos, a fantastic cheese collection but most importantly, Italian food in a never seen before avatar.

What I really enjoy about dining here is that basic pasta varieties like Spaghetti & Penne don’t even make an appearance on the menu; they are represented by exciting alternate shapes like Casarecce & Stozzapreti. The Mozzarella-on-wheels is sure shot hit because of its theatric value. A little-known secret which for me is the highlight, is their Ciccheti menu. Ciccheti is basically an Italian concept that resembles the close by Spanish Tapas. Light small portions that enable you to sample numerous different dishes, I feel it’s a much better way to enjoy a restaurant like this instead of just being stuck with one main. 

The mains are good too but the salads, the bruschetta & the baked entrees take the cake here. 

Pairing some of these Tapas-style dishes with their extensive cheese selection and a hearty broth makes a fantastic meal. Earlier, La Piazza was the only name synonymous with good Italian food in the city but now, Sorrento has come into the market & has proved to be a stiff competition, complete with an Italian chef. Sorrento has robust flavours, fresh produce & a lively space. The only let down is the pizza that for me could be slightly thinner & crispier.