The colorful little bungalow catches my eye before I even realize it’s my destination: Sorellina Pasta Co. at The Plaza. Kristiana Perini’s year-old shop focuses on fresh, handmade pasta (a contender for the best pasta in Charlotte), flavorful sauces, and prepared dishes designed to make weeknight meals feel a little more special.
The Plaza really fits a business like Perini’s. Walkable and centrally located near Plaza Midwood, Villa Heights, and Plaza Hills, the neighborhood has become home to a growing collection of independent businesses. Inside Sorellina, an open prep kitchen allows guests to watch the team baking sourdough focaccia, hand-pulling noodles, and assembling the shop’s popular lasagna al ragù.
It’s the kind of place where you can pick up dinner, a bottle of wine, and dessert in one stop. Or, grab a prepared meal for someone who could use a little extra support.
Perini is heavily involved in the day-to-day operations, splitting her time between the kitchen and the front of the shop. Her love of food began with an appreciation for shared meals and the memories they create.
“I love meals that bring you back to a place or a memory,” she said. “That’s the kind of food we are cooking here.”
After a career that included catering, pastry work, and time in a Michelin-starred restaurant, Perini envisioned a concept that would allow her to continue cooking while creating a more sustainable lifestyle.
A Family Effort to Make the Best Pasta in Charlotte
One of the biggest inspirations behind Sorellina was her own mother, who worked long hours but still managed to put home-cooked meals on the table.
“Looking back, I really loved spending that time with my family as a kid,” Perini said. “I wanted to create a kitchen that did the cooking for you.”
The concept’s family roots run deep. Sorellina translates to “little sister,” a nod to Perini’s place within her own family. When the shop first opened, her parents rolled up their sleeves to help. They made pasta, built tiramisu, washed dishes, and tackled whatever else needed to be done.
While some menu staples remain, offerings change weekly based on availability and seasonality. Guests can purchase fresh pasta and pair it with sauces like the customer-favorite sun-dried tomato cream sauce. Alternatively, choose from prepared dishes including lasagna, meatballs in sugo, baked ziti, and seasonal vegetable sides.
The Art of the Weekday Meal
Quality ingredients are central to the operation. In fact, Perini sources local and organic products whenever possible. For example, this includes Carolina-grown flour used in the shop’s sourdough focaccia. Additionally, it includes locally roasted coffee incorporated into the tiramisu.
“Seasonality is a big factor when you’re using local produce,” she said. “When the peaches and heirloom tomatoes are just right, there is nothing quite like it.”
In conclusion, in an age of endless takeout and delivery options, Sorellina offers something a little different: restaurant-quality meals that are ready for home. Thoughtfully prepared and rooted in community, it’s a neighborhood shop built for sharing, gathering, and making everyday meals feel more meaningful.
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