What diners say
Synthesized from 36 Google reviews · tap an aspect for the detail
Diners consistently praise the authentic Barese cuisine, especially the iconic Spaghetti all'Assassina and orecchiette, served in generous portions with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The warm, attentive service and cozy, traditional atmosphere create a welcoming experience that many consider a must-visit in Bari. A minor recurring note is that the restaurant can be busy, so reservations are recommended, and a few guests found the pricing slightly high for the portions.
Spaghetti all'Assassina
This signature dish is a highlight for most diners, who describe it as perfectly spicy, crispy, and flavorful, with a unique char that is expertly executed. Many consider it a must-try and praise its authentic preparation, though a few note that the level of char can vary.
Other pasta dishes
Orecchiette with ragù and other local pasta dishes are frequently praised for their rich, authentic flavors and generous portions. Diners often recommend these as excellent alternatives or complements to the Spaghetti all'Assassina.
Service
Staff are described as friendly, attentive, and helpful, with many reviewers highlighting specific waiters for their excellent service and warm demeanor. The service is often noted as a key part of the enjoyable experience.
Atmosphere
The restaurant has a traditional, old-style charm that feels authentic and welcoming, with a lively yet cozy ambiance. Many appreciate that it attracts local clientele, adding to the genuine Barese experience.
Value
Most diners find the food reasonably priced for the quality and portion sizes, with several noting it offers good value. A few mention that prices are slightly higher than expected, but overall satisfaction remains high.
Reservations and wait times
The restaurant is popular and can get busy, especially during peak hours, so making a reservation is recommended. Some diners experienced a short wait or confusion with bookings, but service is generally efficient once seated.
Most-loved dishes
AI summary of what 7 dish mentions say about the food
The onion calzone emerges as the star, a savory, golden parcel praised for its rich, molten heart. Overall, the food at Al Sorso Preferito delivers a warm, rustic Italian embrace that feels both indulgent and comforting.
“I'm here with Chef Vincenzo, the king of Assassina. This dish was born right here, and I've been making it for 50 years. I started making this spaghetti when I was 9 years old — 9 years old, because I lost my father early and had to go to work to help my family. A drop of basil, a drop of extra virgin olive oil... that's it.”
“I'm cooking the spaghetti with olive oil, garlic, and chili pepper. Once the garlic is golden, I add the tomato sauce. I let it sit and stir occasionally until it dries out and gets that crunchiness. Look how it's getting crispy! This is the real 'R of the Sassina' — perfect.”
What creators say
4 creators have covered Al Sorso Preferito. Most active: So Hungry Italy
Shorts 2
Videos 2
- So Hungry ItalyLoved
Spaghetti all'ASSASSINA was born here.The chef has been making this pasta for 50 years! · @ 1:16
Al Sorso Preferito in Bari is renowned for its 'Assassin's Spaghetti' and other traditional Apulian dishes, prepared with passion by a chef with 50 years of experience.
Dishes mentioned
Assassin's spaghetti
This is the legendary dish that was born here — the chef has been making it for 50 years. They boil the spaghetti briefly, then finish cooking it entirely in the tomato sauce with garlic and chili peppers. The key is that you keep mixing until all the water evaporates, which gives the pasta a crunchy texture. You can actually see the crunchiness on the plate. The chef calls himself the king of assassin's spaghetti, and honestly, it lives up to the hype.
- Rice, potatoes and mussels
- Stuffed Mussels in Tomato Sauce
Orecchiette Pasta with Cima di Rapa
This is a classic Bari-style pasta with turnip tops. They use the tender parts of the chicory — the stems are too hard, so those go into another dish. They also use salted anchovies for this pasta: they remove the bones and soak them in water to remove the salt. Then they cook it with olive oil, garlic, breadcrumbs, and pepper. The anchovies, olive oil, and garlic make the pasta incredibly flavorful.
- Braised tripe in tomato sauce
- So Hungry ItalyLoved
Riso,patate e Cozze | Al Sorso Preferito · @ 0:45
Al Sorso Preferito serves the classic Bari dish Riso, Patate e Cozze, prepared with layers of vegetables, mussels, rice, and cheese.
Dishes mentioned
Riso, Patate e Cozze
This is the legendary Riso, Patate e Cozze. We layer potatoes, zucchini, onion, extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper, and cheese on the bottom, then put the mussels in the center, cover everything with rice, more cheese, and finally grated bread on top. The water will come during cooking. It's a classic Bari dish.
