Chianti
Cafe Sorriso – Woodley Park, DC
At first glance, Cafe Sorriso in Woodley Park, not far from the Adams Morgan neighborhood in Washington, D.C., doesn`t look like much. Located under a consignment boutique and down the street from the Omni, it`s sort of a simple cafe in an area that contradicts itself. The quarkiness of Adams Morgan + the classy feeling that always accompanies an Italian restaurant works in Cafe Sorriso`s favor!
The decor appeared minimal upon first walking in, but I was surprised to find that the “little details” were anything but boring: spray-painted brick bar (multi-colored), brightly colored chairs that reminded me of the hues that are used in caribbean or beach neighborhoods, and large but simple light fixtures (see pics below).
I must confess, we only went for drinks – but we were happily surprised to find an array of Italian wines (I settled on a nice Chianti) by the glass and several cocktails native to Italy, such as a bellini and spritz.
The food menu included the usuals: gnocchi, ragu di carne, spaghetti carbonara. But there were some surprises thrown in there, such as homemade potato chips and organic cannellini bean hummus!
For dessert, they serve up fresh gelato and typical italian cookies (homemade) such as biscotti.
The atmosphere was chill and the service was great (the waitress gave us the happy hour prices, though we were 2 hours early). I`d recommend this as a great little lunch spot or even dinner with a friend. Not a place for romantic dates (lack of ambience) or for screaming children (too small of an area).
For more info, visit cafesorriso.com.
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