SoNapa Grille

After reading glowing reviews, we decided to try SoNapa Grille in New Smyrna Beach. The atmosphere was lovely—inviting and cozy. Initially, we were seated in a very noisy area, so we asked to be moved to a quieter spot. Although the staff member assisting us needed to get "permission" to reseat us (despite several open tables), they ultimately accommodated our request and moved us to a much more peaceful, private table, which we appreciated. The food was good, though not quite as exceptional as I had hoped based on the reviews. That said, the staff was very accommodating of my gluten allergy, which I greatly appreciated. Our server, Ian, was friendly and eager to help, though he wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about gluten-free options. To his credit, he brought over another server who was extremely helpful and well-informed. I ordered margaritas, which were just okay—disappointingly watery, especially given the price. I’ve had far better elsewhere. Prices overall were on the higher side, which I expected, but I also anticipated a higher standard in terms of flavor and presentation. We’d heard rave reviews about the donut bread pudding, so my husband gave it a try. Being gluten-free, I couldn’t taste it myself. He said it was good, but not outstanding—more like eating a muffin with a scoop of ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, and chopped pecans. It didn’t have the texture or richness you’d expect from a classic bread pudding, and he was surprised it didn’t come with a rum sauce. He said he wouldn’t order it again. I had the flourless chocolate cake, which came with a scoop of ice cream. It was very good—rich, dense, and chocolatey—exactly what you’d expect from a flourless chocolate dessert. I’d definitely order it again, especially since it appeared to be the only gluten-free dessert option on the menu. Overall, SoNapa Grille is a very nice restaurant, but the food didn’t quite live up to the hype or the price point. We’ll likely return, though with more modest expectations. Next time, we might stick to the flatbreads—I've heard great things, and they offer a gluten-free crust— and pair it with a glass of wine and maybe a dessert. $150 for two entrées (filet medallions and chicken marsala with steamed spinach), two margaritas, and two desserts felt steep given the overall experience. Still, the ambiance and service were strong points, and I’m willing to give it another shot with a simpler order next time.

We choose our restaurants carefully as I am Celiac and require gluten-free options and my wife has mobility issues. This establishment proved to be outstanding on top of having knowledgeable and attentive waitstaff and beautiful decor. We sat in one of a few booths but they also have outside seating, High tables, and a very nice bar. The beef madelions and the Pork Chop were great entrees but the winner was GF Lobster Bisque soup, so hard to find GF soups! Do make reservations early to get a booth and parking seems to be very limited until we found we could park in the lot next door.

Great GF options. Clear mark on the menu