Sabatino’s Sausage Company- A little piece of Italy in Newport Beach

Hidden behind the Newport Harbor Shipyard and nestled among the homes of Lido Isle lies Sabatino’s Sausage Company — a fine dining establishment that looks more like a home than a restaurant.

So it came as no surprise that once I set foot in the door, I felt like I was home with my own Italian family. With twinkle lights sprinkled among the trees on the outside patio and the orchestral sounds of Italian music playing from the speakers, Sabatino’s is the perfect place for an intimate evening whether you’re out with family or that special someone.

Aside from the outer decor, my attention was immediately drawn to the Sabatino’s staff. Waiters and waitresses bustled about laughing, joking, humming harmonious tunes, all while paying close attention to each and every guest.

The service was impeccable.

Only minutes into sitting down, we were greeted by a friendly waitress who explained that our waiter would be with us shortly.

We were approached moments later by Omar, a gentleman with an Italian accent, a bright smile, and a special knowledge of the Sabatino’s menu. He brought us the minestrone soup to start, and at my mention of being gluten intolerant, explained that his chefs could prepare almost any dish with gluten-free pasta. As someone who has struggled with finding gluten-conscious Italian restaurants, hearing that Sabatino’s offers gluten-free Italian food was enough to make me an instant enthusiast.

The minestrone was a blend of savory and sweet: succulent vegetables, including crushed tomatoes, and a mingling of fresh herbs and garlic. As Omar took our order, he explained that while all of Sabatino’s dishes are delicious, the Italian sausage is the restaurant’s specialty and a well-known crowd-pleaser.

He recommended the baked mostaccioli — a pasta dish (prepared with gluten-free pasta upon my request) served under a blanket of marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese with Sabatino’s world-renowned Italian sausage peppered on top. One bite and I was immediately reminded of the home-made Italian meals that I used to make with my family.

The sausage was savory, smoky, and the perfect fusion of Sabatino’s special spices and flavors. A meal of price-worthy portions, it didn’t take too long for me to eat every last bite.

After a long day of work, errands, or weekend festivities, nothing sounds better than a hearty, home-cooked meal with the ones, or one, you love.

The best feature of Sabatino’s is not its romantic ambiance, but its familiar, homely, and charming atmosphere.

I found myself lingering long after the meal was over — enjoying the simplistic sophistication of the patio, listening to the delicate buzz of satisfied customers, and planning my next visit to Newport Beach’s little piece of Italy.