When it comes to South Philadelphia and Italian restaurants, it’s safe to say that you’ve got a few options. However, with so many good ones to choose from, Italian eateries need to step above and beyond to establish distinction amongst this sea of gnocchi.
Mio Sogno, off Broad Street and Oregon Avenue, is a just a hop and a skip from the common destination of restaurant row. The family-owned establishment is a warm and inviting place with a small dining area downstairs and another on the second floor.
The intimacy and hospitality can be felt within moments of entering. The table next to us knew our server’s name (Jenni) and engaged in candid conversation with her. Jenni was accommodating and knowledgeable in every way, continually going the extra step without being asked.
The food is just as inviting as the service. Try the stuffed mushroom appetizer. It’s a huge, juicy Portobello generously stuffed with jumbo lump crab and served atop a spicy, fire roasted tomato sauce ($12). The house salad is colorfully decorated with various fresh vegetables and tossed in a tangy but light, citrus vinaigrette. Pizzas are also offered, with a special pie each evening. We did not partake but the special sounded delicious: a red pie with mozzarella and fresh ricotta cheese, prosciutto and peppers.
For entrees, try any of the specials—as they are all delicious. The lobster ravioli ($18) is topped with fresh chilled crab meat, and served in a creamy sauce infused with the flavor of shitake mushrooms. The buscatini ($18) is a lovely seafood/chicken combination, with tender breast of chicken tossed with large flavorful shrimp, roasted peppers, broccoli rabe, pancetta and tomato. It’s a very hearty dish, as is the pescatore ($18.5), which offers clams, mussels and calamari with pasta in a red or white sauce. The chicken special is also one to check out, as ours was cooked to perfection and overflowing with flavorful juices.
If your stomach is still growling, try the flourless chocolate cake ($7) or the deep-dish apple pie ($7) for desert. The pie arrives hot and can be served with either fresh whipped cream or scoop of ice cream. It’s a nice size and perfect to split with someone else at the table.
As indicated before, many Italian restaurants in the area qualify as good, but Mio Sogno manages to step up their game and place themselves in the exceptional category. Perfect for an anniversary or a quiet winter dining getaway, Mio Sogno will surely ease your mind and stomach.
Mio Sogno
2650 S. 15th St.
Philadelphia, PA 19145
215-467-0779
