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Il Sogno Osteria
Categories: Restaurants Italian Restaurants Mediterranean Italian, Mediterranean
200 E Grayson StSte 100
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 223-3900
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 7:30 am - 10 am
Tue-Sun 11:30 am - 2 pm
Tue-Sun 6 pm - 9:30 pm
Sat 8:30 am - 10 am
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Dressy
- Price Range:
-
$$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- No
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Classy, Upscale
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Theresa H. said: "I've been going to Shisha for years. The addition of a patio in the last year ish has been nice. No more sitting on wobbly chairs out on a dirt patch! The food is good, cheap and fast. They are open late for the after club crowd.…" read more »
84 reviews for Il Sogno Osteria
Review Highlights
"Oh yea, don't forget the nutella tart, UNBELIEVABLE."
(in 14 reviews)
"The antipasti bar is unlike anything I have ever seen."
(in 8 reviews)
"One of my favorite menu items are the coddled eggs."
(in 4 reviews)
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84 reviews in English
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Review from Michele R.
Bend, OR
2/8/2012 5 photos
If you have but one meal to eat in San Antonio, go here. If you have two meals to eat in San Antonio, go back here.
That's my husband's and my advice based on a splendid lunch that included fantabulous food, stellar service and artful ambiance.
This was the finest dining experience of our recent month long vacation, one of the most memorable of all restaurant meals we have ever had and a great value considering cost for the experience.
That's the bottom line. Here are the details:
KITCHEN: As we walked in we could see into the open kitchen were Chef Andrew Weissman was making gnocchi. He is an accomplished chef and unlike restaurants where the celebrity chef name is simply appended to the marquis, at Il Sogno Weissman is often in the kitchen. Bravo!
AMBIANCE: We felt enveloped by the artful space. The perfect blend of funky and elegant for the old Pearl Brewery complex setting is what we first noticed, complete with the perfect jazz mix on the sound system, and wonderful aromas of great food.
SERVICE: But what will made us feel "ahhhh...some" was the stellar service. Perhaps the best service we have ever had in a restaurant of any kind. So it is worth saying that it was provided by Mario. (Roll the "r".)
From first greeting, when he brought by Il Sogno's signature tray of thinly sliced citrus from which to choose to add to our water, through answering questions on wine and food, through service of each course, this was consummately professional and warm service. Mario's enthusiasm piqued our appetites. Ask to sit in his area of the restaurant and your experience will be even better as you enjoy the fantabulous food.
FOOD: This is Italian cooking in the finest form.
The meal started with delicious complimentary foccacia and white bean puree.
Our starter of a split of a house spinach salad was lovely for fresh flavors and could have served three as starter course.
We choose two entrees. One, a shellfish risotto that had incredible depth of flavor from shrimp stock, was cooked to perfect al dente and creamy texture and with generous portion of perfectly cooked shellfish.. We also had a pasta arrabiata with calamari, again "perfecto". Thanks to top notch coordination between kitchen and server, these arrived at the table nice and hot
Panna cotta is one of our favorite desserts, we have eaten a lot of it over the years, and the Il Sogno panna cotta, this just set, barely sweet delight, was absolutely the best we have ever had.
WINE: The wine list here is Italian centric and extensive for by the bottle and glass options, including varietals that are harder to find by the glass (at least in our part of the country), like Arneis and Aglianico. Glass prices can be steep, around $15, but we found that to be true all over Texas during our visit. Pours are generous. Wine is first poured, at the table, from bottle into individual carafes and from carafe to glass over the course of the meal.
ESPRESSO: If you are an espresso fan, you should order it here. Served hot and with a little brutti ma buoni (ugly but good) cookie on the saucer.
VALUE: This has a reputation as a spendy restaurant, but that is very much in the control of the diner at lunch service. At about $80 (before tax or gratuity) we thought this was a great value for a really priceless experience and food choices as described above. But had we elected to split one of their pizzas and and stuck to soft beverages, we could kept the total around $20.
ACCESSIBILITY: For diners who have mobility issues - and we met a lot of vets in San Antonio who do as there is a military hospital there - it is worth sharing that Il Sogno has ample parking in the associated lot, including accessible parking. The restaurant is on one floor, although when tables are full it might path of travel to seating tight. The ladies loo is on the first floor, and accessible. The gents loo is on the second floor (there is an elevator up) and it was accessible too.
RESERVATIONS?: The concierge at our hotel told us Il Sogno did not take reservations. But we think they may in fact do that these days. If you're going for dinner or the early evening antipasta bar, and they take reservations that would be wise given the well earned popularity of this remarkable place.
A TIP: They're open for breakfast too!Listed in: Neighborhood Envy, Now THAT'S Italian, Most MmmMemorable Meals
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Review from eliza b.
1/16/2012
I've been so pleasantly surprised by the dishes here! Of all of the Zagat-esqe restaurants I've been to in SA, this is one who truly delivers! From service, to delivery of food, presence, and taste, this is hands down one of the truly great 5 star deserving restaurants in the Alamo city!
Out of everything I've eaten, the ratatouille still stands as my all time favorite! Try it, you won't be disappointed! -
Review from Edgardo G.
San Antonio, TX
12/6/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I've been going to Il Sogno since it first opened and have been a fan all this time. The service is great and consistent. I kick off every friday morning with a latte and as a coffee snob, they make the best latte outside of my own home:) I especially love that every regular cup of coffee is pressed. My favorite item on their breakfast menu are the coddled eggs. yum. But I continually try their frittatas and omelettes and they are always amazing.
Oh, and at breakfast they bring you complimentary nutella!
Their dinner menu has some great items but I especially enjoy the pizzas. ALL OF THEM. Give each a try.
Best seat in the house: Sit at the bar! Best seat in the entire restaurant. It may get a bit crowded at dinner time but well worth it when you see the chef cooking up some delicious food!
One last bit of advice, this is not a restaurant for big groups or bday parties. They will do their best to accommodate but this is really for parties 1-4. They will not join tables. -
Review from Garrett H.
San Antonio, TX
1/31/2012
I have no reservations about saying this is some of the best food I've ever had. Great food, fantastic staff and an intimate atmosphere, there's really nothing not to love about this place. I recently took a friend here and instead of ordering off the menu we asked the waiter to prepare us a 3 course meal. The waiter didn't balk, was thankful for us putting our trust in him and delivered an outstanding experience to us.
I've now been here twice and received the same fantastic service both times. I also have to say that them having a sommelier is amazing! Both times we've asked for recommendations and have been recommended delicious choices of wine. The best thing about his recommendations was that they were some of the cheaper options!
Will DEFINITELY be back! -
Review from Cynda R.
San Antonio, TX
1/31/2012
This is probably my favorite restaurant in San Antonio. The food is consistently amazing. I take foodie friends from out of town to Il Sogno when I want to show that San Antonio has world class food. The mushroom pizza and the anti pasti are to die for. There is also a great Italian wine selection. Try a Brunello. A great place for people watching.
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Review from Surrella M.
San Antonio, TX
1/28/2012
This is my favorite restaurant in San Antonio. A true find. The food, the service, the atmosphere-- EVERYTHING is perfect. Pricey, but worth every penny!! Don't forgot to make a reservation!
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Review from Giancarlo G.
San Antonio, TX
Updated - 12/3/2011
Wow is all I can say! The entire meal was terrific! The service was great and the wine was excellent! Here is what was had:
Carpene Malvolti Prosecco
Cheese course w/ La Tur, A Borolo rubbed percorino and a cheese made with truffle
Prosciutto and olive pizza w/ a fried egg
What looked like Tagliatelle w/ Meatballs and pancetta
This amazing Botrytized Arneis from Peidmont
and a really good Barbera/Pinot Noir blend
I wish I knew the names of the dishes and wines I had, but you'll see them on the menu. Awesome restaurant, great experience, can't wait to try new things on the menu!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/11/2011
I love Dough, but the pizza here might have topped it. Try the spinach, ham and potato pizza with a… Read more »
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Review from Max H.
New Braunfels, TX
1/26/2012
Made a last minute decision to go (Tuesday 1/17/12). Had my brother and nephew from Seattle in town and was showing around Riverwalk and Alamo, etc. I had not been as I have been peeved about AW closing Le Reve. Was not a "regular" there, just too expensive, but we enjoy fine food and could not see how it could be topped.
Well, it's not Le Reve, but it's running well up there! As we weren't devoting the evening to dining, we only had the pulled pork for the appetizer. It's NOT southern pork BBQ, it IS excellent in it's own right! I was able to get a small piece of the skin and wanted more, but AW renders most out and sends to one of the other restaurants. A shame!!! Andrew, save some of that stuff for the REAL pork lovers out there!!!!
I had the venison, my brother had the short ribs and my nephew had the duck. All three were as good as it gets. Cooked and seasoned to perfection. No desserts.
Service was very good and timely (Thanks, Reuben) Even a short chat with favorite server from Le Reve (Fabian) and a grudging tip of the hat to AW, admitting why I had not been sooner, but assuring I WOULD be back.
Those who complain about service in one of the most popular places in Texas need to chill! Especially if they are going on weekends, and with open seating. What does one expect??? If you want your fix, go mid week! And pricing is certainly higher than the local BBQ house you may be used to, but you get what you pay for. To have a top quality meal, from one of the best chef's in America? Come on!!! It's not a prix fixe!!!
Save that swine skin! -
Review from Melissa M.
San Antonio, TX
11/15/2011
It is hard to get 5 stars out of me, but Il Sogno deserved 10 stars.
I went here for my anniversary. It was romantic inside with low lighting. The wine list is extensive. I settled for a sparkling white, my fiance a red. We ordered anti-pasta that included a shaved fennel and green apple salad, roasted red peppers in anchovy paste, and these bacon laced potato bites that I would have directly injected into my veins if possible.
I had the Osso Bucco. The bone marrow was delicious and the meat cooked perfectly. The Parmesan risotto was fantastic. I have had a lot of risottos. Most of them have not been done correctly. This one, however, magic.
The service is fantastic here. The wait staff is knowledgeable and attentive. The prices are decent and I will be coming back often, that is for sure. -
Review from Richard W.
Helotes, TX
1/2/2012
Weissman makes food that makes me happy. Il Sogno is currently the best restaurant in San Antonio in my opinion.
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Review from Heather H.
Leon Valley, TX
10/15/2011
One special Saturday afternoon activity that my daughter and I enjoy doing a lot is going to the Pearl Brewery farmers market and then going to Il Sogno for a wonderful lunch. The second you walk in you're asked to choose between a beautifully arranged plate of oranges, grapefruits, and limes to enhance your ice water. Grapefruit is amazing. Who knew!?
The food is very good. I have gotten the antipasto plate where u can enjoy 3+ personal selections of their calamari, hummus, and other Italian sides!
Their homemade pastas are fabulous and the openness of their kitchen makes everything so accessible. -
Review from John H.
8/10/2011
I was really excited to go here for dinner. Sadly, this place may be a victim of the hype and high expectations generated by so much positive buzz.
The service made me uncomfortable. That's something I've never said before - I felt that I was being lead to certain dishes while ordering. As in stated what I wanted, the waiter said I would be happier with something else. I'm all about restaurants that have programs or flights, but if you're not satisfied with it, why have it on the menu? I wound up with the tagliatelle with pork ragu, which was pretty mediocre. Given the description and hard sell towards it, the execution was certainly lacking.
To add to it, the service was focused on greasing squeaky wheels. There were plenty of larger parites demanding constant attention and they got it. We had lots of empty glasses and a long wait for a bottle of wine.
I really want to like this place and get the experience others have talked so much about, but I can be underwhelmed for a lot less money at more comfortable locations. -
Review from Annalise P.
Austin, TX
8/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
I wish I could give this place 3.5 stars, but 4 stars will do.
We made reservations for 6 and were seated promptly, and met our amazing server (who's name I can't remember of course). He was kind, hospitable, and really spent the time to explain every single item on the menu and give suggestions.
We went with the meat plate and we were unfortunately disappointed in the meat. Both of the salumi choices we were given lacked flavor and we didn't even end up eating them but the prosciutto was tasty, buttery, and the accompaniments (pickled figs, olives and an amazing bread) were the saving grace of the dish.
We had already ordered the margherita pizza despite being ready to burst (and we're splitting everything here between 2 people..) we shared a slice and fell in love. This pizza was delicious, had a perfectly crispy crust, fresh basil, fresh mozzarella and perfectly seasoned.
The meal was overall pretty good- while I did feel a bit rushed while eating my meal, and I think that was more of an issue that all the other customers seemed to be rushing through their meals, I will not be returning for charcuterie. However, this is a great option for champagne & pizza which should really become a staple in my diet. -
Review from Allison L.
Dallas, TX
8/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
Wowza! You wanna talk about delicious food? This was amazing.
After hitting up the awesome farmers market, my girlfriend (with her baby in the Bjorn) and myself decided it was time for lunch. She had suggested this place insisting I would enjoy. Upon entering the host right off the bat won me over, "2 1/2 for lunch?" Teehee
We sat in a lovely corner booth/table and it was decided I would enjoy a nice glass of Pinot Grigio for such a hot day, a beautiful recommendation from our server. The menu looked amazing, crazy good options. We were brought out this fresh foccacia bread with a balsamic sauce I wanted to pour all over me. We got this delicious salad with fresh avocado chunks, red bell peppers, candied pecans, blue cheese and a lovely light vinaigrette dressing. We also ordered the pick any 3 anti pasta's, which are made fresh daily. The curried cauliflower, fresh goat cheese with tomatoes and basil and this crouton salad. Don't ask....just delicious. Served on a tray with crackers. Mmmmhmmm.
Everything was just amazing, the flavors were so well thought out and oh so satisfying. I wasn't stuffed or overly gross afterward. Our waiter was fantastic and I just felt like if I sat there all day it would have been no problem. I also loved the fabulous open kitchen where you watch the chefs/cooks prep and make everything from scratch!
Next time we're going for dinner....there I said it. Write that down.Listed in: San Antone
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Review from Katy S.
San Antonio, TX
12/13/2011
Absolutely delish! From the roasted cailiflower to the tiamisu- I was in love. The handkerchief pasta with boar was to die for!! What more can I say? Can't wait to go back!
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Review from Kelly D.
Los Angeles, CA
8/30/2011
I'll start by saying that my boyfriend has been to Il Sogno numerous times and had been taunting me with going there for ages. My expectations were high based on his love of it.
Here's what I thought...
The Good:
-The Appetizers are AMAZING and should not be missed.
-The Nutella desert is divine.
-The Short Ribs were delicious (we didn't order them... but the woman next to us did and offered us a taste! Yum.)
-The Sommelier was GREAT... really informative, friendly and knew his wines. We were very happy with our Red (almost a Rose... wish I could remember the name...)
-Loved that we could see that Mr. Weissman was in the kitchen cooking!
-Ambience is really cool
The Not as Good (but not bad, just not as good!):
-The pastas were not served hot. No steam coming off the dish at all... I was shocked (but my bf said he likes the place too much to say anything! ha ha... so I sucked it up and didn't mention it to our waiter) I found it surprising though, especially since the chef was there on Saturday night.
-The pastas we had were not spectacular tasting either and I was sort of expecting to be blown away... especially after the wonderful intense flavors at the apps bar.
-The waiter was ok. Not amazing. I expected a bit more formal service at this restaurant (like the Sommelier).
In conclusion:
-We will go back... I'm certain it was just an off night for the pastas and I'm totally willing to give it another chance based on everything else being so lovely. -
Review from Angie K.
7/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
Amazing dinner!
Went here with some faculty members at my school and another fellow student, Caroline L, while at a conference in San Antonio. The concierge at our hotel recommended this place, and we were all completely wowed!
It took us some time to get seated, but they accommodated us during our wait by giving us tables outside on the patio. We had a bottle of wine while waiting.
We eventually got a table for dinner, and it was definitely worth the wait! We started off with two large plates of antipasti, which included a cold seafood salad, roasted red peppers in anchovy sauce, and a cold fennel salad. I don't quite remember what others were on the table, but they were all delicious and a great starter.
We also got the cheese plate. There were some cheeses that were a bit too bitter for my taste, but I did love the brie. Since brie is one of my favorite cheeses, the quality of brie will "make or break" the cheese plate... and it definitely made the cut!
The focaccia bread with a garlic hummus (?) was on the house, and the bread and hummus were fantastic. Apparently, all of their breads/pastas are homemade. I guiltily kept eating this before my entree came, because I just couldn't help it.
My entree was the pasta with mussels and shrimp, with a light cream sauce. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the cream sauce was of the perfect consistency -- not too thick, not too watery. I'm always skeptical of seafood pastas (especially with clams and/or mussels) because the water that drains out of them tends to dilute the sauce. Fortunately, that wasn't a problem this time!
As full as I was, we just couldn't say no to dessert. The nutella tart was basically like a souffle, and was served with a scoop of cold vanilla bean ice cream. The tiramisu wasn't anything unique, though -- I'd order it if you like tiramisu, but it's nothing out of the ordinary.
Service was great -- they were always attentive, never rushed us (although we stayed quite late), and even gave the head of our table a complimentary glass of dessert wine.
Worth a visit if you're ever in San Antonio! The best meal that I had during my visit there. -
Review from Monica S.
San Antonio, TX
9/10/2011
Amazing!! I love how the table is decorated with breadsticks shaped like tree branches. Plus, the food was really good. The nutella dessert is to
die for!! It will change your life :)
The only reason for 4 star instead of 5 is the wait staff. Maybe because were were at one of only 3 tables, but they stood in the corner and stared at us. Took away from the experience a little. -
Review from Bob C.
San Antonio, TX
12/15/2011
My wife and I were there with five others. The meal and service were good, but not exceptional, considering how expensive the meal was.
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Review from Clayton H.
San Antonio, TX
3/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I can't begin this review without first thanking Mario for top-notch service. He was extremely helpful, attentive, and very patient with us as first timers.
Il Sogno is the perfect lunch spot. We over-ordered a bit, but couldn't help it after reviewing the menu. At Mario's advice, we experienced the antipasti bar. I can't remember the exact names, but our three selections were the cannellini hummus, the cold seafood salad (shrimp, calamari, mussels), and the house cured salmon. They were all outstanding, especially with thinly sliced house croutons. They also served focaccia bread with a roasted garlic bulb (thank you!) as well as some oil and balsamic.
I'm quite sure I didn't need anything else, but I couldn't pass on the free range wild boar pizza. A bit different, but outstanding. Perfect blend of flavors on a thin, crispy crust. My wife had a sliced steak salad that was excellent, as well.
I can't wait to return. I'll probably be ordering the lamb ragout or anything with truffled fries. -
Review from Claudia C.
San Antonio, TX
2/16/2011
il Sogno,
You might not know how to pronounce the name of the place-- BUT GO! Oh my goodness this place is heaven on earth! Budget, and try EVERYTHING! Have five courses, you work hard! You deserve it!
They not only serve their Margherita pizzaat market price, which means that which ever time you order it-- that's how much you pay. You go at 7:00, and order at 7:35 youre pizza will ring up $7.35, you can thank me later!
If you go, be sure to ask for Ernie-- he is a delight!!!
ENJOY!!! -
Review from Seth O.
San Antonio, TX
10/10/2011
Absolutely amazing!! Wild boar and mashed potatoes like none other! Pizza and salad awesome as well! Must come here again and well worth the price. Above average price but not bad at all. Lots of options and great food!
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Review from Bronwyn W.
San Antonio, TX
7/31/2011 ROTD 11/23/2011
We FINALLY made it to this place for a special event dinner. I'd heard it was special and didn't want to waste my first visit on just any night. We got there just as it opened, having heard that they didn't accept reservations. Turns out they do now, so I felt pretty glad to get a table despite not having one.
The service throughout the evening was very attentive. The ambiance very laid back, but still upscale, which lends to a range of formality of attire with the diners. There were these "sticks"on the table as decoration I thought, but as I watched others, I figured out were homemade breadsticks and a nice touch. We were greeted with glasses of prosecco for the occasion--free of charge.
We very much enjoyed the coursed meal and encouragement to share plates (without a split fee). We passed on what looked like a fabulous antipasto bar and dove straight into the market price margherita pizza. What a treat! The cheese could have been slightly better distributed,but the flavors were outstanding regardless. Next up was a cheesy gnocchi dish with peccorino that was made with semolina. The texture came out almost like a polenta which was surprising and very delish. We split a salad with pecans, mixed greens, peppers, and a lovely dressing that was all perfectly balanced. We chose a pasta dish with shrimp and a saffron sauce for the next course and were quite pleased with the combination of flavors and the light, but flavorful sauce. The housemade pasta was tender and a very interesting shape I'd not seen before. The Nutella tart for dessert was to die for--I can see why it was such a big hit at Le Reve. The vanilla ice cream was a great paring to the warm tart. Yet another use of one of the best spreads known to mankind.
Il Sogno is definitely in the conversation when talking best restaurants in town. The prices are very affordable for the quality as well. With the improved seating due to reservations, I can easily see myself back here for a less formal dinner and will certainly head to the antipasto bar next visit. -
Review from Victoria A.
Helotes, TX
1/23/2011
Let the naysayers say nay, but I liked Il Sogno. I dined at lunch with one companion. We were seated immediately, as it was early, around 11:45 on a Thursday. As soon as we were comfortable, we were presented with a tray of sliced citrus from which to choose for our waters - a very nice touch.
Seating is tight in some areas of the room, but not too tight. If you want to pick up conversation with your neighbor, it's certainly easy - and we did meet some nice folks in there! But if you want to have a private conversation, that's still possible.
Appetizers were displayed on a table in a common area, and if you're not sure what to order, you can see what you'll be getting, and you order 3 or 5 choices. We had the marinated cheese (mozzarella and goat), a fennel & apple salad and roasted vegetables. The most memorable was the fennel & apple salad since it was unique and not too heavy before a meal. I believe it's a must have if it's on the menu when you go. We were also presented with a thick foccacia with olives and rosemary, and it was delightful! If you eat all of it, they don't hesitate to bring more.
Although the apps were delivered in a timely fashion, our main dishes arrived long before we were finished with them. Not that I mind, but for a restaurant of this stature, I'd expect timing to be impeccable. This is the reason for four stars instead of five.
I had a butternut squash-filled ravioli, which came in a cream sauce and was finished with just a tiny bit of crushed cookie. This may sound strange, but what a flavor burst! I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were just enough on the plate to fill me without being too much. My companion had a pasta with eggplant and pine nuts, absolutely delicious, generously portioned. A little too generous, but hey - who's going to complain about having THAT leftover?
Our dessert orders were taken and the dishes cleared with much better timing than the main course. I had the Nutella tart based all of the rave reviews and was glad I did. My companion ordered a chocolate dessert with a jello-like consistency (forgot its name), and it was interesting but not something we'd want again. The waiter, in fact, was honest and admitted that it was his least favorite of all of their desserts, but we tried it anyway.
It took a pretty long time to get our check, again, timing being the only reason for four stars instead of five. All in all, I highly recommend Il Sogno and will return. -
Review from Frank H.
San Antonio, TX
1/27/2011
I'm not going to lie. I am not in love with San Antonio, but I loved this restaurant. We came to enjoy a special meal and a special meal we did receive.
Our waiter Steven recommended a baby spinach salad with avocado and roasted garlic dressing. The wife had a shrimp risotto (sounds plain but it's not) and I had a fresh pasta saffron infused cream sauce with mussels and shrimp.
The risotto tasted divine with a slight brininess yet creamy and sweet. The pasta clean and subtle creamy and paired well with the seafood.
I wish I could have tried some of the anti pasta and cheese cart but there is only so much one can experience in one sitting.
For dessert, we had a souffle-like nutella tart. It was extremely rich and creamy like a chocolate dessert should be.
The vibe is metropolitan but not pretentious. Prices are very reasonable for the quality of the food.
This place is definitely a treat and I will go again. -
Review from Liz L.
San Antonio, TX
9/3/2011
The nutella tart is to die for. Hands down one of my favorite desserts ever!!
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Review from Charles G.
San Antonio, TX
1/14/2011 66 Check-ins Here
I know people love this place for lunch and dinner and one afternoon or evening, I'll eventually head here for those meals. But I can tell you their breakfast is divine. Yes, I said divine.
For starters, they offer a good variety of coffee drinks including a french press which has always been excellent. I've tried one of their fresh juices, the orange juice. It wasn't anything beyond what I expected but freshly squeezed is always better. One day I'll venture for the grapefruit or be real adventurous and try the carrot.
One of my favorite menu items are the coddled eggs. This was my first experience with that style of egg and aesthetically, it did take some getting used to for me. The egg is cooked with truffle and garlic oil and some other herbs. The dish comes with the eggs, applewood smoked bacon, rosemary potatoes and house-made toast. I'm usually a pancake guy but this is a meal I could happily eat once a week.
However, just as of a few days ago, they changed their menu! The coddled eggs are still offered but they no longer have their eggs and sausage plate, but they added a few new items that I got to try on my next visit.
A pleasant surprise when I walked in was seeing the owner, who told me that my favorite was no longer available but we had to try the croissants his pastry chef had been working on and were now ready to be offered. OK, I guess I have been there quite a few times for breakfast if he knew my favorite. Yes, I felt special.
The croissants are not an obnoxious size but just right. The butter flavor was intense, making them perfect alone. I felt I ruined it a bit by adding some raspberry preserves, but finally came up with what I felt was a good ratio of flavor. Now it was on to the new plates on the menu.
First was the frittata of the day, today's was ham and spinach. I've never tasted a fluffier egg. I've never eaten a cloud but imagine that is what it would taste like. So airy and light yet filled with flavor along with generous amounts of ham and just the right amount of spinach to provide flavor but not overpower. Along with the frittata came the rosemary potatoes, which at times can have a bit more sea salt than I prefer, but I'm not a big salt eater. Also, bacon and their panini-grilled house toast.
My wife tried another new item, their cranberry-walnut french toast, which came with fresh berries and their bacon. The french toast was very flavorful and sweet even without adding any of the maple syrup but the small cup was perfect for dipping when you require an extra hit of sweetness.
This is one of those places that makes me feel like I'm not in downtown San Antonio but takes me away on a mini-food vacation. Always impressed and blown away. -
Review from Sharon V.
After our tour of the art museum, we walked to the very end of the riverwalk to dine at this restaurant. It had just been advertised in the Food & Wine magazine so I wanted to try it. Plus, the locals were also raving and praising Chef Weissman on this restaurant so we couldn't pass it up.
We arrived right at 6pm without reservations and were immediately seated. I think arriving earlier is key because by the time of our departure, there was several groups waiting for tables. The restaurant is relatively small so I can see the wait being pretty long and after reading a few of the reviews....it seems this can surely be the case.
The modern italian restaurant is not grand, the tables are close together and in general, everything is really tight. It's a pretty open kitchen and you can see all the happenings from your table. There are a few bar seats up front but they don't look too comfortable.
After reviewing the menu, we decided on the following:
--Complimentary roasted garlic with olive focaccia bread... Loved both!
--Antipasta 3 items - we selected the fennel and cucumber salad, the mixed seafood and the mozzarella and olive mix. All were so good. Their homemade mozzarella is very good. Don't skip the anti-pasta , you get to pick the dishes that are laid out by the kitchen and even though they're small plates, the reviews are right - you don't want to miss these!
--Tomato and spinach Pizza - my husband ordered this and he thought this was average. I took a few bites and I have to agree. There was hardly any flavor but I suggested he spread the roasted garlic on it and it actually was much better. I would NOT recommend this dish.
--Lobster, shrimp and mushroom raviolli. This dish was flavored pretty well but it came with A (yes one) spear of asparagus cut in pieces and roasted cherry tomatoes and I couldve used more of each. Also, it didn't have a sauce but it had a small amount of a reduction that was just not enough. Eating the raviolis by themselves got old so I ended up leaving two lone raviolis behind in a sauce-less, dry bowl.
--Tirimisu - Nice and light and a must have. So delicious!
The service here is great but we did feel that they rushed you through each course. I'm sure they wanted to turn the tables quickly but I didn't appreciated feeling rushed. I'd be willing to come back and try other things on the menu but I won't necessarily rush back next time i'm in town. -
Review from melody c.
San Antonio, TX
9/10/2011
We had date night here last Friday and it was an amazing experience. We made a reservation during dinner, so we were seated immediately. The restaraunt was packed and quite small, so it gets loud. Even those issues are not enough to warrant less than a five star review. The service was great, we never had to ask for a refill or anything else. We started with the margherita pizza and it was delicious. For entrees we had the shrimp risotto and the short ribs. Both were outstanding, we were saying how fantastic they were when another short rib entree was brought to our table. The chef was not pleased with the size of the entree that was sent out, so he sent another to compensate. We really appreciated the gesture, even though the first one was enough to satiate my fiancee. Overall, an incredible experience.
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Review from Paul C.
Houston, TX
3/18/2011
This new place near the old Pearl Brewery did not disappoint. We started with three apps off of their antipasti bar. We especially enjoyed the seafood mix and fennel/green apple mix.
For dinner I had the osso buco over risotto. It was perfectly done. My wife had the lamb ragu with cous cous. She said it was delicious. Everyone at our table enjoyed entrees as well. Desserts were so-so and small.
Corkage fee of $25 was a little high, but fair. Just be warned. -
Review from Erk B.
San Antonio, TX
Great experience. The service was very attentive even though the restaurant was full. Both inside and outside seating is available, but I recommend sitting at the bar. It only has four seats, but looks into the kitchen. They appear make everything from scratch and by hand. It's fun to see them work.
The meal was great, a twist on a meal I've had before, but the twist made it excellent. Gnocchi and shrimp in tomato and curry sauce. Very flavorful and original. For dessert, they offer several chocolate options. They also have a great cheese menu.
I will return as the experience and meal were great. -
Review from Joleen Q.
8/18/2010
This might be my new favorite restaurant. I'm from California and this was an awesome restaurant to visit. It's classy, the decoration is beautiful/modern, the food was to die for, and the service was amazing.
There are twig/breadsticks on the table and a cool bottle chandelier. We had a party of 5 people and we shared 2 of the small Antipastis. It's a good selection to taste unique foods such as octopus salad, beet salad, etc. I had the gnocchi which was delicious and almost like a gratin. My favorite was the nutella tart which was almost like a chocolate lava cake that oozed nutella. YUM! It's definitely a date place! -
Review from Paula R.
San Antonio, TX
9/25/2010
After getting my hair cut at the Aveda school and shopping the Pearl Farmers Market, we were sitting in the car trying to decide where to have lunch (hubby, our two girls and I). Finally deciding that pizza sounded good, we google-searched local pizza eateries. I knew we were parked in front of a "fancy restaurant", but didn't know what Il Sogno was. So I got out, looked at the menu, saw pizza, so we went in. Very good choice.
We sat outside, weather was hot, but we were in the shade, under an umbrella and there was a nice breeze. (and a few flies, but we were outside...Texas has bugs). The inside was very formal looking, and the waiters were very professional and did a great job taking care of us continuously.
We decided on a simple margherita pizza, which was a good choice. (we have picky kids, so trying something too new or different was out of the question - yes, even zucchini on the pizza was too much for our little one's pickiness and happiness). So, first came the bread - some with olives, which my oldest enjoyed. Youngest loved the regular bread, hubby was impressed with the flavored garlic. Nice touch that they brought fresh citrus slices to add to our waters.
Pizza was nice - pretty light, fresh tasting, great for a Saturday lunch on the patio! Again, our littlest likes the simple things, and she loved the pizza. The rest of us were also happy with our lunch.
They had a daily special of pan seared halibut w/ veggies, which sounded really good, and looked really good (they had it at the table next to us).
We would've had dessert (especially since our pizza was very inexpensive), but we had to leave for a birthday party.
I would definitely go there again, maybe with just the hubby this time so we can try something new. Stop by if you're at the Farmer's Market - it's right off the back breezeway. -
Review from Sarah H.
San Antonio, TX
I have been to Il Sogno three times and have yet to be disappointed by the food. The pizzas are cooked to perfection and the toppings work perfectly together, I am sad the stuffed tomatoes didnt last on the menu, but loved getting fresh foccacia with an awesome white bean dip as a freebie to start a tasty lunch. The only complaint I have is the almost robotic waitstaff who even after I said I was ready to order insisted I hear the specials (awkward). If the servers could relax just a little bit there would be absolutely nothing I could complain about, best pizza in San Antonio!!
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Review from Douglas W.
New York, NY
4/4/2011 1 Check-in Here
It all comes down to execution. This place could have and should have risen to the occasion, but it was actually quite a disappointment for a place whose name suggests an association with Le Reve. My father was visiting town so we decided to give this place a try, but many things went wrong.
First was the service that had a few minor and somewhat forgivable problems but which ultimately resorted to blaming the kitchen for a mistake, and which I found to be a bit unprofessional for a restaurant charging $30+ for an entree. Then there was the menu. Virtually all the main dishes came with starches, despite the existence of a separate section on the menu for pasta. If one wanted to begin with one of their "primi" and then move on to a traditional main course, one would be entering an insulin coma by the end of the meal. Finally, there was the execution, which is the most important aspect of any restaurant. My father ordered the osso bucco and I ordered beef short ribs. His osso bucco was over-salted, and my beef short ribs were under-salted. His osso bucco came with "Parmesan risotto" that I did not find to have much personality or boldness, and my short ribs came with a few stray pieces of boiled gnocchi that were quite hard -- almost as if there was no potato in them at all. The portions were enormous and the food was quite heavy. This was a real disappointment, particularly for a place that charges, with wine and primi, upwards of $70 per person.
I'm going to give you a second chance, Il Sogno, but you're lucky you're even getting 3 stars. At these prices, there isn't much room for mistakes, unprofessionalism and poorly planned menus. I realize that this isn't France and Il Sogno isn't Maison Troisgros, but it should have done so much better. I hope my next visit will be. -
Review from Jonathan M.
San Antonio, TX
9/25/2010
I could go on for a while about how glad I am that Andrew Weissman opened two affordable places to enjoy his excellent, thoughtful fare. The servers have always been very pro and not chatty or smarmy. The antipasti are delectable, the salads substantial and balanced, and the entrées nuthin but classy. But I just had to write a review about breakfast, specifically the coddled eggs, silky and perfect, with bacon, potatoes, and a nice, coarse toast. I almost feel guilty cutting it all up and mashing it into my tasy breakfast. I know I ain't *supposed to* have it every day, but a man can dream, can't he? Their coffee is just right, with some fancy sugar options -- it's just a civilized sort of breakfast service not available much in SA, to my knowledge.
Some folks say they've found the service at Il Sogno slow, and a friend of mine did not think much of the pizza margherita (it was kinda large for a lunch portion, but I simply can't see using that particular pie as one's touchstone for a fine-dining joint; might as well ask for a burger). But for my money, Il Sogno is a go-to for food that makes you go mmmmmmmm. -
Review from Siobhan K.
San Antonio, TX
10/29/2011
Disclaimer: I'm part Italian, from New York where there are true italian restaurants, can cook well myself, and have been to Italy numerous times. Stating that, this place is fantastic! Although it is a small restaurant, the decor is lovely and I like the way the breadsticks are used to decorate the table. The food itself is wonderful and if offers both northern and southern styles of Italian cuisine. During one of our dinners here, the waiter informed me that all the produce there is fresh and purchased from local farmers. Very good wine selection and the sommelier is extremely helpful. Try the seafood salad and the beet and goat cheese ravioli. Do not leave without trying the tiramesu.
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Review from Perky L.
San Antonio, TX
6/20/2011 1 Check-in Here
Have been there innumerable times and enjoyed exceptional service and food each and every time. SA doesn't have a sophisticated culinary scene, but this restaurant is a welcomed outlier for those of us transplants who are accustomed to Tier 1 cities' dining. Love the antipasti and the wine selection is superb. Excellent ambiance.
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Review from Ingrid M.
1/15/2010
I am writing to you on a very disappointed note. Il Sogno fell short of my expectations. It was not the dream which the name promies to be, and if it was, i will make sure it is not a recurring one.
Allow me to get the service aspect out of the way. It is not that the service was bad, but rather that the service was almost non-existent. We saw our server a handful of times in the long while we were there. I remember his name because I kept thinking to myself 'Where the hell is (insert name here)?" I refered to him as "The Wanderer" since he would wander away for 20 minutes at a time. It took about half an hour to put in our order. We finished the bottle of wine before the meal got to the table. One thing is to have a relaxed dinner, another thing is to have a delayed one. The food took an unnecessarily long time to get there. However, I must say all of our entrees were fabulous.
The braised rabbit with gnocchi, the cod in a light saffron broth, and the wild boar ragu on soft polenta were on point. The three were presented very simply and tasted amazing. Desserts were another story. Although presented in a very impressive and artistic manner, their taste was lacking that dessert punch, except for the nutella tart which was very good. The "ice cream" that came with it was superfluous; it tasted like nothing in particular and it was slightly creamy and cold-I supposed that is why they called it ice cream. They should leave it out next time. The tiramisu was nothing out of the ordinary. I have had so much better in much simple places (e.g. Wimberley, TX).
Bottom line: Il Sogno got one out of three things right. Although the main dishes were excellent, the service and dessert fell short. Like the presentation of the desserts, the presentation of the restaurant (beautifully decorated and cozy) gives a false hope to those who are expecting so much more. It is amazing what word of mouth can do for a place. Unfortunately, what I have read and heard from Il Sogno led me to believe that this place was going to provide me with an unforgettable dining experience. It was unforgettable alright, just not in a good way. -
Review from Jillian L.
Destin, FL
6/14/2010 4 photos
I am torned when writing this review. Although I appreciate Andrew Weissman's attempt on bringing fine food scene to San Antonio, Il Sogno is just not up to par when comparing it with other fine Italian restaurants in most of the metropolitan areas.
We were there on a Sunday evening and had no problem getting seated right a way. The service was decent but could be better. I was really looking forward to trying the Spaghetti in Squid Ink Sauce that so many reviewers raved about, but was disappointed to find that they were out of fish and no longer served the squid ink spaghetti. We had the 5 serving antipasti, crawfish risotto and the boar polenta with a side of grilled eggplant. Both of the entrees were way too salty, and the antipasti and eggplant were lovely but nothing spectacular. The desserts were just okay and not memorable.
Overall, Il Sogno's performance is like the Sex and the City II movie, got all the hypes, but I wouldn't want to waste my $10/ticket to see it in the movie theater. However, I will Netflix it when the DVD comes out. If you crave for some pasta/home-made pizza and stuck in San Antonio without a vacation coming up, Il Sogno is your best bet.
