It’s a hustle to make it in the NYC food scene as an independent restaurant owner, especially when you’re not backed by the majors like MSG and Danny Meyer. But that’s exactly what Rita Sodi and Jody Williams have done with their mini-empire of restaurants. This is an ode to one of their best, if only for that million-layer lasagna.

Atmosphere

All due respect to the restaurants that have graced the corner Bleeker street location, but finally there’s a spot worthy of the garden that comes with the restaurant. I always like the original location of I Sodi because of the food and the local NYC crowd. However the original space was never anything to write home about. It was pretty basic and it was food that led the experience, not the design or atmosphere.

In the new-ish location at the corner of Bleeker and Grove, not much is different in terms of decor. It’s all pretty utilitarian indoors, though a much larger space than the original. The difference is that there’s more natural light and it’s airier than the original as far as indoor space goes. The same effortlessly New York crowd though fills the tables each night. Now though there’s a garden space that inspires you to brunch on the weekends. It’s still the crowd that frequents the restaurant and food that create the atmosphere at I Sodi.

Food

If you didn’t get the message on the description of the atmosphere, food is the draw at I Sodi. Named after the owner Rita Sodi, the food creates one of the most authentic simple Tuscan restaurants in NYC. I Sodi, whether in its NYC location or if it was in Florence, does justice to Tuscan food. The lasagna, with with a meat or vegetarian artichoke version, is a gazillion thin layers of noodles with a perfectly thin layer of sauce or meat between each. We jumped ahead to lasagna but they have a classic charcuterie and cheese plate that’s so Tuscan it hurts.

Of course there’s rabbit porchetta and that dreamy pappardelle al limone. This is also one of the few places that you don’t have room for dessert, but you do. They’ve been serving the semifreddo and wanna cotta for ages, and it’s for a reason. Also in an age where wine lists are overpriced and unwhelming, I Sodi is that neighborhood spot where you can still get good value.

Service

If you don’t treat your customers right, they don’t come back in NYC. In the case of I Sodi, service is one of the pillars that has kept it open for for over 15 years. And they’re still packing it in every night. The service at I Sodi is everything you want out of your neighborhood joint. Unpretentious, welcoming and uncomplicated. The team is friendly enough no matter who you are, and they make people feel welcome. I Sodi is the art of simple Tuscan hospitality at its best.

Overall: 7.9/10

This is where I come when I want a neighborhood experience and want to know exactly what to expect. I Sodi is also a case where a location move made it even more enjoyable to come to the restaurant.

Other Articles You’ll Like

Top Women Winemakers 
Where to Meet Your Sig Other in NYC 
The Commerce Inn Returns 

FAQs

Q: Where is I Sodi located:

A: I Sodi is located in the West Village at 314 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014.

Q: What are I Sodi’s hours of operation?

A: I Sodi is open as follows:

Q: Does I Sodi take reservations?

A: Yes, I Sodi takes reservations on Resy which are highly recommended unless you’re coming very early or late. Even then it’s not a guarantee to get a seat.