"With a menu that focuses on fresh daily ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces with age old family recipes, Sophia is a charming restaurant near the Spanish Steps in Rome. Named after the family’s Jack Russell Terrier, Sophia provides an intimate atmosphere making this the perfect spot for a date or a quiet, relaxing meal on your own. The hardwood floors and warm wall color provide an inviting, homey feel, while the archways between seating areas pay homage to ancient Roman architecture. I dined at Sophia for lunch during my last afternoon in Rome, and couldn’t have been more delighted in the quality of the meal, the service, and the overall experience at the restaurant. Obviously a popular spot whether day or night, the restaurant was busy but I was treated as if I was the only customer they had to attend to. I never felt rushed, and the entire staff treated me like I was family. I started with an appetizer of seared red mullet, served with ricotta cheese and a confit of cherry tomatoes. The fresh garden taste of the tomatoes mixed perfectly with the creamy ricotta and mild flavor of the fish. No lunch in Rome is complete without a pasta course, and Sophia’s did not disappoint. I opted for the orecchiette with clams, cherry tomatoes and jalapeno green peppers. Light, fresh and flavorful, the pasta was homemade and delicious and the jalapenos added the right amount of heat. For my main course, I chose swordfish, covered in panko and citrus and served with a chives, dill, and puttanesca sauce. Absolutely incredible. Probably the best cooked swordfish I’ve ever had – crisped outside, meaty and flaky inside and the sauce was perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs. I just had to try dessert, and decided on a decadent cheesecake with raspberries and red currants. Sweet, tart, and creamy. The best way to end my stay in Rome – highly recommended!"
