Review: Sotto

I know, I know. I’ve never been to Sotto. One of Cincinnati’s best restaurants. Not that I need to defend myself, but I do have my reasons.
First, BK and I don’t often go out for expensive meals. We spend a lot of money going out to eat, yes, but we don’t usually have a meal that will easily cost us three money signs worth of dollars (see also: $$$ on Yelp). Second, I’ve never been one to love Italian food. Third, in the couple of times I’ve tried making reservations in the past (like, for birthdays and anniversaries; I wouldn’t be silly enough to try going there on or around Valentine’s Day), I’ve not been able to, so I’ve never been very pressed to try it.
Enter Monthiversary Meal Vol. 6 (six months, guys!) at Sotto.
A few weeks ago we were discussing options for this meal, which we wanted to make a little more special than the others (six months, guys!). I threw out the idea of Sotto, checked reservation options — table for two at 5:15pm on a Wednesday — and, thus, we decided sort of on a whim to finally make it happen. Yes, 5:15 is early, but we both work in the Central Business District and it was perfect for a post-work meal. Also, we eat dinner like we’re grandparents nearly every day anyway. Wins all around.
I’d perused the menu many times in the past and, to be completely honest, I still have no idea what 75% of that stuff is. But I’d heard about how great the Short Rib Ravioli (Short Rib Cappellacci) and Ricotta Doughnuts with Three Sauces were, so I knew I had to have them. We also got the Goat Cheese and Hazelnut Honey Bruschetta to start and BK ordered Gnocchi Alla Romana.