Wow...we had heard for years how terrific the food at Sole was but hadn't ventured until last week. It was nothing less than FABULOUS. So impressed with the waitstaff too, who were so knowledgeable about the expansive menu! But the food was to die for great and we will be coming back. Loved the cozy atmosphere in the room past the bar...the light was low and it just created the nicest, warm and inviting atmosphere. My husband had Nantucket scallops that were very sweet and delicious, my daughter had salmon that I will order next, and I had stuff flounder that was the best anywhere...it had large chucks of shrimp and scallops and the fish was so fresh and delicious. All in all a terrific place for dinner (or lunch, as I hear the prices are a bit less then), and a nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)
Jade R.
Quick overview: Service: booo!! Food: Good, not Great. Recommendations: Cherry Peppered Squid Awkward service, but good food. The 3 stars are primarily due to the weird service we had. He was rushed when speaking, asked for food orders before our drinks came (Who does that??!), lacked knowledge on items/drinks, forgot to put our food in the system... Apps: Cherry Peppered Squid - perfectly fried, not chewy at all!! Only wish there was some dipping sauce with it.. Firecracker Roll - meh, pass. I was so intrigued with the fried sweet potato, but if you are a die-hard sushi fan, this is so not for you... With that said, check out who is in charge of the roll station.. the night we went, it was a 25 year old white female... That doesn't ring sushi to me! Clams Casino- it was the first time i've tried them, so I can't accurately judge. Not something I'd order again though... seemed soggy. Dinner: Sweet Chili Glazed Mahi Mahi - the rice, wasn't as coconut-y as I would have liked, but hey, I still ate it all.. And the fish was perfectly cooked. Blackened Tuna Steak Sashimi - I love tuna steak sashimi. If you're looking for just a protein packed dish, this is it. It's two whopping portions of tuna steak and a dime size about of seaweed salad. Both were really fresh, nothing of a "wow" factor. Overall, I would come back to give this another shot, since a lot of the yelpers seem to love it.
(3)
Kel S.
Went back for a second try... and wow. My expectations were exceeded. Amazing oysters, one of the best lobster bisques I have ever had. We were a party of 16 and were taken care of with ease. Everyone sitting in proximity of me was jealous and rightfully so. I have never seen so much lobster meat in bisque before in MY ENTIRE LIFE. An entire, in-tact claw was in my cup of soup. The drinks I tried were great (Pomegranate Cosmo and Lime Ricky). The seared tuna was also good, but it was too much food having shared appetizers. It also arrived as 3 steaks. I would suggest making it 2 steaks or slicing it into thin strips so it doesn't appear to be just "hunks of meat" on the plate. Everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their entrees as well. Overall, very well done SP!!!
(4)
Nicholas C.
I was disappointed, very disappointed. I've been here several times for family's sake, but the last visit was the final straw. A review just had to be made. Despite all of past declining visits and the last FOH service, I'll just concentrate on the food on this one (Keep in mind that I'm a chef who has also worked in seafood). The sourdough rolls- Reheated improperly, fully toasting half of the rolls and melting the butter. That was a surprise when I opened one of them spilling liquid butter on myself (luckily, my napkin was on my lap). It's annoying when you have crumbs flying everywhere because your dinner knife isn't made to cut toasted bread. Although complimentary, the proofing and scoring was laughable. The smoked appetizer. The blue fish was severely over-smoked and all you could taste was the wood. Don't get me wrong, hickory's great, but you mind as well smoke cheap anchovies & sardines (yes, blue fish are cheap too, but are a pain to ship farther inland) and call it a day if you're going to remove of the fish's flavour. The wine list- I only found one Spanish wine for this seafood restaurant. Go hire a certified higher level sommelier for a day and redo that wine menu. Yes, you have a couple great bottles and for some reason Wine Spectator praises you, but a good number of those labels on the list are available in most packeys, making your list dull and uninspiring. Despite the bore, I do appreciate that you only marked up one of the labels about 300% (most restaurants do at least 400%) from the individual retail price. Clam Chowder- Was it supposed to be that watery? That under seasoned? Your potatoes were over cooked by the way (potatoes can be tricky sometimes, so it's not too bad). Entree- Plate was warm, but you can tell that it sat under the heat lamp for way too long. There was a significant layer of film on top of my sauce and everything was cold to lukewarm. Nothing was seasoned and the prep/line cook did not (or forgot to) season the water before cooking the linguine I requested, making the pasta bland too (quick tip: if you didn't season the water, add a bit of oil and a considerable amount of salt in a hot pan, and toss the pasta in it). The haddock was sadly over done as well. By the way, do you guys use Sysco for your frozen lobster claws? Those looked awfully familiar. The vegetables were also over done except for the zucchini, but those were ice cold and under seasoned. BoH- I'm almost certain your line cooks have their own bathroom (or they should), and that they shouldn't be going to the ones meant for costumers. Oh, and coworkers should probably off their aprons before going in. Dessert- Flourless Chocolate Cake- I know this is silly, but you need to re-teach whoever plates your dessert how to handle slices. The flavour was okay, but the execution had plenty of room for improvement. Sole, you used to be well-known, what happened? This made me want to bust out of retirement just to yell at kick your BoH staff.
(1)
Christian P.
This place is one of the only reliably good restaurants in town. Problem is, everyone knows it. Ever experience traffic in downtown New Delhi? That's how I feel when I'm here. Packed, loud as hell, the crushing closeness of strangers and the lingering smell of fish. It's anarchy. And a reservation doesn't necessarily mean you'll actually get a table at the "reserved" time. It may mean you wait 20 minutes less than some other poor fool. But the food and service is great, so we cope with it.
(4)
Amy A.
What a terrible experience tonight. Have been here several times in the past and had decent meals and good overall experience. After tonight, I will not be going back. There were 6 in my reservation... 6 very good friends (40's and 50's) who hang out all the time and wanted to have dinner here for one of my our birthdays. We ended up at a very small table for 6 in a middle room. And next to us was a table of 8 or 10 "men" who were having a bachelor party. Who sticks a bachelor party right smack in the middle of the restaurant where most people are looking for a quiet evening with friends???The drinks were certainly flowing at their table! They proceeded to get louder and louder with each drink. Did I mention we were not sitting at the bar? The bar (which was jam packed) was quieter than the very small middle room they jammed us in with the bachelor party. When one if us made a comment to the waitress, we were told she has two small children at home so she guessed she was used to noise. We decided it was time to go after a wine glass shattered at their table. When one of us complained to the manager at the front on our way out, he tried to blow him off and say they can't predict how people will act. True, but when decent people come in for a quiet meal and get shoved in with the loud and obnoxious riff raff, we complain and are basically told "too bad", you can be sure the decent people won't be back.
(1)
Victor V.
Great seafood in a classy atmosphere! We went over for lunch (on our way from Maine to NY, Sole is conveniently located not too far from the highway) and enjoyed both daily specials and from the main menu. Definately a place to come back for a (formal) dinner when we're around!
(5)
Toni M.
Great $6 Happy Hour menu 4-6:30 Monday - Friday. All bar menu items $6 and $6 Vodka drinks. You can't get a better meal for $6. The food is great, the bartenders are friendly and attentive, the bar area is HUGE with really big comfy booths, and atmosphere is great. Sushi, tacos, crab sliders, oysters (6 for $6), sauteed mussels, clam chowder, the menu goes on and on. On weekends they have a late night menu after 11pm Get here early or you won't get a seat!
Love the Sole Proprietor....We do Happy Hour often and it is always a wonderful experience...The food is great with chefs making your entree right in front of you. The staff and bartender are treating you like first class and fulfilling all of your need....The bartender MARK is the best!!!! He makes us feel so welcome and the service is impeccable!!!! If you have a chance to go to the Sole's Happy Hour or just to dine, please do, It is always a Fabulous time at the Sole!
(5)
Veronica F.
Crab Fest - my darling, how I've missed you. Really excellent food, great service, and worth the price.
(4)
Rui W.
This place is very nice, I feel bad I didn't find this place earlier. Compare to Sole, I think Legal Seafood is both over priced and over cooked. I went to Sole with my wife, mother and bro. With a doz of oysters to start, four entrees (Sicilian Swordfish, Jamaican Jerk Bluefish, BBQ Idaho Trout & Seared Scallops, Thai Curry Seafood Pasta) and two deserts, total bill was ~$120. The portions are large and tastes are delicious. BTW, clam chowder and Seafood chowder that came with the entree are rich in flavor as well. Be sure to make reservation on weekend night or the wait would be 30+ min.
(5)
Sean J.
Go here for the late night menu! On weekends after 11pm they have a special late night menu in the bar area. Everything is 50% off and you can stuff you face with oysters for nothing. Great spot to hit with a group after the bars! My one complaint was the service. Our waiter seemed very over-worked and was not too friendly.
(4)
J D.
ok, I was prepared to be disappointed. I was ready to snub this place - but damn, didn't they execute on everything wonderfully here. The place was jam packed, the bar too - but I was able to get a drink and settle in. Once seated, things moved along at the right pace, quick enough for us to enjoy the menu, sip drinks and take the place in - and get down to the food. Everything brought to the table was prepared really really well, things looked good, tasted great made the evening a real success cuisine wise. The service was top notch, friendly and attentive. Thanks for wowing me - and yes, I will be back.
(4)
Jason M.
This place was a joke.. Been wanting to go here for almost 5 years, finally had an excuse to go. It started as soon as we walked in, we had to find some one never mind being greeted, we were sat right away as we had a reservation. We ordered apps, ONE came out promptly, the others took over 25 minutes after the first app was already eaten, I had to ask where the rest of the food was.. then about another 20 min after that our food came.. took almost an hour to get our food. I got the King Salmon and my wife got the new your strip. Steak was cooked the way she wanted it no complaints for her. My Salmon was good minus the fact I almost choked on the 6 bones I found in it, it came with these little crab cakes.. they SUCKED!! all filler and they were over cooked, just junk I didn't even eat them ( or finnish the salmon.. All wasted). Our waitress sucked so bad, she forgot my 10 dollar side dish.. I didnt even want to waste my breath complaining I just wanted her to come back so i could pay and leave. 100 bucks later and almost 3 hours we left. what a joke, screw this place, Ill never go back. 111 is my only option for the "high end Worcester trio". I would not recommend this place to anyone.. Anyone that thinks this place is good is just a yuppy with money to spend at a place like this. Hell I can get a better a piece of fish at olive garden, and better service too! I feel so ripped off after eating here..
(1)
Amanda Z.
My husband and I went to this establishment for our anniversary. We have heard good things and were interested to try this restaurant out. It was so busy even with reservations we had to wait a little bit but not too long. We were seated in the back with in a line of open tables that were tight in between booth tables. Being a busy restaurant there was constant traffic surrounding me that we had to ask to switch to a booth. The food was delicious and the waitress was very sweet. and accommodating. I enjoyed the meal but the environment was loud and tight.
(3)
Brian M.
after a recommendation from a coworker I decided to drive out after work. I had a crab cake app and a bowl of seafood chowder. The crab cake was tiny, the crab tasted a little old, it was quite spicy too. The seafood chowder tasted very fishy without much else for flavor. One piece of clam was inedible it was so chewy and foul tasting. The place left me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling unsatisfied. The Wachusetts County Ale was great, the servers were ok but not terribly friendly. Maybe I visited the wrong time of year, but the haddock I had at the Holidy Inn I would take over that chowder any day.
(2)
Amnon S.
My family and I were on a trip for Presidents Week. We were all in the mood for sushi; so, we decided to look for a place to eat. While we were looking we stumbled across a place called "Sole Proprietor." We sat down at a comfortable, elegant, beautiful table. We ordered food; such as the "Tuna Crunch", the Ora King Salmon, the Cagin Trout, and the Shrimp California Roll. Plus, for the kids we ordered spaghetti from an out-of-this-World kids menu. It came with crayons and a lot of space to draw . Everything was simply divine!!!! We enjoyed every moment and they had amazing service!!!! After we thought it couldn't get any better; well, let's just say it did. Desert was delicious. All we asked for was a Chocolate Tulip cup. It was Heaven. Also, they have lots of free parking space!!!! All-In-all it was GREAT!
(5)
A Z.
Best Fish place in Central Mass very good lunch specials. friendly staff. good as well for larger parties
(5)
Pierre T.
Cannot go wrong with The Sole. Everytime we dine here the food is fresh and tasty. We were here last Sunday and arrived just as they were opening. Got seated quickly service was great. The waitress overheard my Mom talking about a smaller portion and suggested a lunch menu item for her instead. I would recommend this place to anyone seeking fresh quality seafood.
(5)
Rich W.
I took a date here b/c I've heard so many good things. Other then that fluorescent sign outside, everything was great! The service was excellent! I think our waiter's name was Joe, he was very nice, very willing to recommend dishes, and was phenomenal. The decor and ambience I thought looked very neat. Considering it was a seafood place the decor was very fitting. It gives you the vibe like you are on a sailboat or fishing vessel w/o the stench! The food was great, everything was cooked well and we didn't have to wait that long. We ordered some tapas and had the clam chowder, the caesar salad, some sushi, and other smaller dishes which were very good. I highly recommend this place to anybody who is looking to take a date here, or looking for a nice place for dinner on Friday night. It is a little on the expensive side, but I have no problem paying for quality.
(4)
Omar Z.
This is a traditional New England fish house. If it were any place else, kudos would be flying off the shelf for the perfectly cooked fish, but here it is necessary for three stars. And they take some baby steps towards four: 1) Creativity. A lobster stir fry done with a whole lobster leaves you feeling a bit heavy with a disproportionate amount of pasta. Appreciative for the effort and presentation though. 2) Elegance of flavor. Cherrystones on the half shell are well selected and served with finely chopped red onion in addition to the more standard horse radish. 3) Hitting on the standards: A solid selection of raw oysters, chowders (the clam one being a tad too potatoey), and interestingly enough for a traditional New England fish house: Sushi. And the bread rolls were nice and soft. 4) Variety of fresh fish. The Ocean Catfish being heavily sold was almost worthy of the hype in texture but far from it in flavor. Disappointingly few preparations, though. 5) Great, professional waitstaff. If you've ever compared Boston television local news to any other news show in the country, you can begin to understand and appreciate good, serious New England service. Two servers per table here. 6) Proportions: Uber large. It's fine dining in a working class city. Fill 'em up. Those four filets of sole seemed a bit excessive though, even given the Restaurant's name. This place has a fine reputation, and actually, it had been on our list for years! But, know that this is not the type of place that really goes the extra mile to dazzle your buds. It just does a solid, and more than workmanlike job at giving you a well cooked seafood meal which you will find memorable in some way or another. And it works well in the community, setting up all the right elements and a few "stretch goals" for a special family occasion. Happy Birthday, Mom. Thanks, Dad! We loved it. Looking forward to the next one. Love, OZ.
(4)
Serena's Mom W.
My absolute favorite restaurant! My husband introduced this place to me when we were dating (about 10 years ago) and it hasnt lost its touch for amazing food and service. When we lived in West Roxbury and Somerville and we craved the Sole, we got in the car for a well worth mini road trip. We are completely psyched now that we just moved to the area. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! **Excuse my review as it will be all over the place. The happiness of this place makes my head spin in a good way** My husband usually gets the Shogun Sushi Platter, which I am pretty sure is meant for a party of two or three - but he usually lays waste to it because it is so good! The sushi, albeit Americanized in that the pieces are so large, tastes amazing. Fresh fish and presentation is top notch. I usually order something like scallops with jasmine rice and the seasonal vegetable or like to try the specials...of course, only after I enjoy an app of fresh Jumbo shrimp and a cocktail. Each meal comes with a choice of soup or salad. The clam chowder is awesome but I highly recommend the seafood chowder. The blend of the different seafood is perfect - not overpowering. Shortly after you arrive, someone from your wait-team will bring over piping hot rolls - soooo goood. Hmmmmm...goood *Homer Simpson* I say wait-team because each table has a main waiter and that waiter has someone who will help them tend to your table. Its really great - you never feel bombarded with "how is everything?" and you are never left parched hoping your server will come back so you can order the next drink. The reason they do this, I believe, is they are very busy all the time. Having the double-team action allows them to continue to give the best service possible to their patrons, no matter how many people are in the restaurant. AND you are never, ever rushed along. I should also back up and address my comment about the restaurant being busy. It is a busy and popular place but I dont believe I have ever had to wait longer than 30 minutes (if that). And if you do have a wait, the atmosphere is just right for you to grab a drink at the bar while you wait for your table. And the meal is worth the wait any day. By the time my husband and I finish eating a roll, soup or salad, an app, and dinner and maybe an adult beverage or two we are so full of deliciousness we are not quite sure how we will manage to remove ourselves from the table to our car. BUT THEN - the waitperson will say that one word that will dangle in front of you and you cannot pass up the offer because everything to this point has been perfect - Hmmmmm DESSERT! The desserts are all fantastic - you really cant go wrong. A few years ago I decided I needed to be careful when I went out to dinner because I am such a foodie and tend to over indulge. The great thing about this place is that it IS totally possible to eat healthy feeling like you had a feast with no guilt. The menu is quite large offering any type of eater many options - including those who dont eat fish. For those who dont eat seafood - have no fear, they have a good amount of alternative dishes you can choose from. My brother in law only eats chicken (seriously) and he had an amazing statler chicken with wonderful veggies and sides to compliment. He was very happy. When we go with family or for special occassions we like to make a reservation for a table - otherwise, its the bar area for us. Reservations are recommended, especially over holidays weeks and on the weekend. The price is right for the service and probably the best meal of your life. ! I could go on - but I wont...just go and try it!
(5)
Greg N.
Extremely overrated. For the prices I expect above average food. The meals are extremely average. The sushi is not good at all. Borderline awful. I can probably eat my bodyweight in food in one sitting, but the four times I have had the sushi from here I wasn't able to finish the roll. The only things I spend my money one now are the bar kettles which are decent, but more importantly served until 130am which is the real draw. Outside of not wanting to cook and wanting something besides pizza at 1230am, I would never go here.
(2)
Dan K.
Went for dinner on 12-30 with family that was in town. They sat us early for our 6:30 reservation and the service was great until a large party showed at a table near us, and then it fell apart. The food was great, but the service level you would expect at $25/plate was not there for the 2nd half of the meal. We ended up not having desert or coffee (because we had to basically ask them for those menus) Not sure if I'll go back, just based on how the service was.
(3)
Michael V.
The Sole is one of the best restaurants in Worcester. The parking lot is huge, decor is nice, service is good, and they serve good food. One of my favorites is the blackened tuna sashimi. Don't think twice just order it!!!
(4)
Zoe D.
Everything tastes wonderful and the plates are designed with brilliance. The lobster meat in the lobster ravioli melts in your mouth, and all the sushi rolls are flavorful, fresh, and tender. A full bar offering plenty of beers on tap and all the wine and mixers you want. The bar menu is great to order several items and share with a date. A great place for a date or to celebrate!
(5)
Sally Y.
Came here for an interview dinner and was pleasantly surprised. So far the best interview dinner I have been at. One of the people at the table compared it to Legal Seafoods, but cheaper, and I'd have to agree. I'll admit I didn't try to the shellfish which is what I often opt for at Legals, but I got the Maple Glazed Salmon which came with butternut squash ravioli and tomato basil soup. The tomato basil soup was delicious as was the salmon which was perfectly cooked. Although I was very full, we got dessert - the terrine seemed to be everyone's favorite. And, even though we were all stuffed, everyone commented on the fragrant smells coming from the sushi bar/kitchen on the way out.
(4)
Nicholas R.
I love this place. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. I really love the sushi, particularly the Fire Cracker (?) sushi.... it's delicious! I've never had a bad meal here and the waitstaff has always been courteous and professional.
(5)
Lesley D.
This restaurant is like Legal Seafoods with a smaller, more homey feel. Fresh, flavorful seafood paired with gourmet inspired flavors and sides, with a warm and social atmosphere and the prices to go with it. Definitely get reservations or you'll be waiting forever, depending on the day/time. There's a bar in the front which can be pretty noisy, but after you pass through there, there's a lovely dining area. I doubt that anything on this menu would be even remotely mediocre, but then again I'm kind of a sucker for seafood.
(5)
Lynne H.
We were very impressed by our evening at the Sole Proprietor. Every thing we ordered was delicious. The service was great. We had two waiters that worked together as a team. It was very busy for a Saturday night but we were called to our table faster then expected. We recommend the clam chowder, the fish taco's and Sushi combo. To bad I was to stuffed for dessert. Extra credit for the hot sour dough rolls we were served. Definitely will go back again real soon!
(4)
Amy ..
At first, I must admit I was a little annoyed to be sitting in traffic on the Xway *then* the Pike, driving to Worcester, and planning to pay $60 for slabs of raw fish... however, it *was* for a friend's birthday, so I sucked it up and moved on. My, oh my, was I pleasantly surprised. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect as I hadn't heard that Worcester was a crown jewel of fine cuisine or anything, but this place was a standout. The decor wasn't anything to write home about... if anything, they're trying a bit too hard. Yep, pretty sure you're still in a Worcester neighborhood, next to a triple decker and across from a laundromat. The waitstaff were attentive, smart and knowledgeable... for our table of about 20 they provided a rotating staff of four. I did get that "I feel like I'm being stalked by the waiter" safari feeling every once in awhile, but they were really just lurking to make sure everyone was happy I suppose. The wine list was stellar. The wines were fairly priced (but most, rats, still out of my price range...darn student loans) and they offered a good selection. They had an 05 Chardonnay from Frog's Leap in Napa which I couldn't resist and turned out to pair wonderfully with my equally exquisite....get this, Ginger Cranberry-Raspberry Swordfish. I know, sounds too sweet or something. It was, however, the perfect touch of spice, sweet and tang. Simply awesome! They desserts looked out of this world as well although I didn't indulge. Raw bar ranges from $2.50 each. Sushi ranges $11.99 per plate (around 6-8 pieces per plate) My recommendation...try the Firecracker...awesome! Apps are $5.99 and up Entrees $15.99 or so and up... includes a couple of chicken and steak dishes, but fish is their specialty. (My friend had chicken and wasn't impressed) Entrees include salad...get the house dressing! Desserts are $6.99 and up Extensive wine, bar, cordial selection Overall, a nice surprise... a diamond in the rough of Worcester one might say :)
(5)
Janice T.
Who knew? This place has EXCELLENT sushi. The rolls are pretty tasty and they serve them with real butter. A must visit if you are every in Worcester.
(5)
Cooper M.
Enjoyable meal here with my 'rents. Now I do not like seafood. I can enjoy small doses of sushi but the rest is just blah tasting texture. However, tonight's meal was very pleasant. Spicy tuna sushi app was yummy. Mom though the ginger was the best she has ever had. Then my main trout dish was good and dessert was as well. Nothing that spectacular and my vino had a little bug in it but warm rolls and cute, kind waitstaff make it all good.
(4)
Tux P.
The best seafood in central Mass, imho. Great food, excellent bar, and a good wine list. The only thing that prevents this place from getting 5 stars is the price. The sushi is good, but I think the raw bar, the superb fresh fish selection, and the desserts make this place shine. Keep your eyes open for the yearly Crab Festival too! Dungeness Crab rocks!
(4)
Eva B.
It is a nice restaurant, a little bit price up but it definitely worths it. I had steam lobster here for 2 times, it's pretty good and fresh. My husband had scallop and he loves it very much. Good place to go when you have something to celebrate. If you decide to go in holiday, don't forget to make reservation!
(4)
Jules P.
Underwhelming atmosphere, staff were sort of all over the place. Good fish, but that doesn't counterbalance the weaknesses that pop up on other parts of the menu.
(3)
P S.
Great about half the time. The quality varies, I have had some great meals, but have been disappointed by quite a few. I was amazed to watch a mouse run around the feet of customers without being spotted.
(3)
Frank G.
I lived across the street from this place for three years. Needless to say, I've gone many, many times and I can't recall ever being disappointed. The food is great and the drinks are great. It's actually a really fun place late at night, besides serving as a top-quality seafood restaurant.
(5)
B L.
We have consistently had excellent service, superb food and very satisfying experiences every time we have visited Sole Proprietor over a dozen and a half years. OUTSTANDING.
(5)
Noa O.
nice Clam chowder, sea food and also Whoopie pie!!
(4)
Elisa T.
Excellent seafood restaurant, best in Worcester. Great deals during their Lobster fest. Love their (bread) rolls, and their sushi rolls are really good too. The service is always friendly and attentive. I would recommend making reservations, as there always seems to be a wait without one. If you go during the summer, you can also see Buster, the world's largest inflatable crab.
(4)
Dorian G.
Legal what? You'll completely forget about that other seafood restaurant once you've dined at the Sole. It is a bit noisy and some menu items are a bit pricey, but they make up for those 2 small downfalls in creativity and flavor. The portions are massive as well. My favorite is the swordfish au poivre (light on the poivre, please!). Simple yet the flavors are better than any other swordfish dish I've ever had. The clam chowder is outstanding and they have a raw bar AND a sushi bar! P.S. Don't forget to make reservations if you planning on visiting on a weekend! You can easily wind up waiting an hour for a table, and the bar gets crowded quickly.
(5)
Ashley P.
So on my first visit to Worcester, my friend suggested we eat here for dinner. What a great choice! I had a sushi roll, called the "Sole Roll" which was delicious and very fresh. The portions were large for the money and the food was amazing. I had the surf and turf, and while the shrimp was a little boring, the steak and scallops were phenominal. My friend had the fish and chips which she loves and has gotten on many other occassions. While the food was good, I can't rave enough about the drinks! Not only were the cosmos tastey and well made, they were only $5! You can't beat that. And my friend got a "skinny mojito" which was less than 100 calories while still packing a punch in the liquor department. Service was amazing, and the host even apologized for the 30 seoncds we had to wait for our table. I would suggest that you make a reservation on a Friday or Saturday night because it looked pretty busy. I will be back!
(4)
William G.
My first time,my wife's second time,eating at this restaurant.Reservations for 6:30p.m. arrived on time,and were seated promptly.Ordered cocktails,and crab stuffed portabello mushrooms for an appetizer.The Cocktails were great,the stuffed mushroom was OK.I had a Pear and walnut salad,with bleu cheese,and cranberries.It was very good.For entrees, my wife had the Alaskan Halibut,with sugar snap peas,and roasted potatoes.It was very good.I had the "Blackened" fresh Idaho Rainbow Trout,with sweet potato,bacon Hash,and candied red onion slaw. The trout was very good,not too spicy,and the Hash was to "die for",although there was way to much hash ,and not enough of the delicious slaw.I had a second cocktail,and it was much "weaker" than the first one,and the server took my wife's drink,before she was finished (a real no no).When confronted about it,she did get my wife more of the drink,and said that she was very sorry.For dessert,we split the Chocolate terrine with two sauces.It was exceptional.All in all it ,was a very nice dining experience,and despite a no no,the server's were exceptional.We will not wait another four years to go back.Entree's are a little pricy,but the drinks,appetizer,and desserts are very reasonable.
(4)
Anna B.
OMG the food here is amazing! I am not the biggest fan of seafood, but the Sole has changed my mind. Their lobster ravioli is great, he sushi is fresh and tasty, and their clab sliders are absolutely DIVINE!
(5)
Melanie F.
we had a fairly decent time - the seafood quality was a bit of a let down. My Mahi-Mahi was a bit gamey and the mussels were not very good- pretty inedible actually. The Seafood pasta my husband had was delicious. They were extremely busy and the service was excellent.
(3)
Kathryn S.
I have been going for years. Better than legal seafood at least in price and also have a very large menu which changes frequently. Go in July when they have Crab Month and Buster the crab - huge blow up crab up on the roof. Their hot dinner rolls are killer good. Fish always fresh and tasty. Staff professional and service is good. Always crowded, and a bit loud, so go early or make reservations. The bar is also a hot spot - always packed, great bartenders. Easily my favorite restaurant in Worcester.
(5)
Mark C.
Been going here on and off for years. Good food, great drinks. The bar is ***LOUD*** and can be very crowed after work - between 7-9. The trick is to show up at 9:30 and have kettle meals at the bar.
(4)
Joe P.
I have never had a bad meal here. This place has the best seafood dishes in the area, and quite frankly, the best I have ever had. Everything is good here. The service isn't fantastic, which is the only reason it doesn't get 5 stars. The food itself does though.
(4)
Mary c.
This is the place to take a date or coworkers in the Worcester area. Attentive service, great food selection. It's on the pricey side but you get what you pay for here. ;)
(5)
Bethany B.
So happy birthday to me as we strolled into the Sole at 5 pm tonight. We knew that they offered their Bar Menu items for $5 (M-F 4pm-7pm). Living on one income w/ 2 kids has led us to search out the values where we can. Jeff had the Ketel One vodka martini on the rocks while mine was straight up. I forgot how much kick a real martini had. Each were $5 since they were the special drink of the evening. I started with 4 Wellfleet oysters while DH had the chowder. The oysters were perfect and their house cocktail sauce is a nice touch. The chowder was thick and had a heavy taste of bacon -- but not in a bad way. Nice chunks of clams and 'tatoes too. Keeping it light he had the shrimp w/ tomatoes over pasta in a light garlic white wine sauce. I chose the Dragon Maki roll. We both couldn't believe what great portions we got for price. We had tandem waitstaff (Jamol and Sarah). Very nice and just attentive enough . So 2 satiated people w/ a nice buzz for only $35 before tip? We promised each other that we'd return this week for more good grub!
(5)
Judd S.
A loyal customer of the Sole for years. My friends and I would go here for sushi, dessert, and drinks late at night when we were students at nearby WPI. My tip for you, go late. Get the late night Kettle Menu. Get some drinks, some appropriately priced sushi and just sit there with friends for hours. You won't be disappointed. It's the only business in Worcester I truly miss. I wish I could pick the whole place up and move it to Boston.
(4)
Jason A.
Great menu, seasonal specialties, and great service. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and I always try something new from the specials. The best tip I can give is to go there during lunch, the entrees are ~$9-10 and the portions are very generous! Going there for dinner is still my favorite, but the best bargain is during lunch!
(5)
Jennifer P.
again, like the chophouse, this restaurant surprised me that this is the best worcester has to offer. i think i did end up getting the wrong thing (why does this always happen to me??) in that my food buddy's dish was much better than mine. i got a salmon that was overcooked and slathered in hoisin sauce which was way too strong and salty. it was weird too eating fish with a sauce that is usually used in pho. the steamed vegetables were tasteless and could have been more tender. the highlight was the yummy cocktail i started with (named worcester drink or something like that).
(2)
kathy s.
a bit pricey but sooo good
(4)
Crystal N.
The lobster bisque was the best. Our waitress, Amelia, was the sweetest person - the restaurant is lucky to have her be a part of their team. She was so patient with us because we took light years to decide on what we wanted, provided our party with the best service and made sure all of our glasses were full throughout our entire meal. My boyfriend and his brother were adamant about offering her a job to handle their customer service department! Unfortunately, Amelia would have to relocate to California so the guys didn't get to propose the idea to her, lol. We ordered 4lbs (2lbs per plate) of the stuffed lobster. The lobster was topped with scallops and the scallops were lightly battered and cooked to perfection. The hard shell lobsters were delicious, meaty and fresh. I was looking forward to the Ora King Salmon plate but it was a big let down. The salmon was overcooked and wasn't worth what previous reviews have hyped it up to be. I recommend sticking to the lobster dishes here at the Sole Proprietor. The fresh oysters here were great. It came with several sauces, some seemed to be house special sauces that complimented the oysters really well. The Sole Proprietor would be a great place for a date or birthday dinner - the ambiance was really nice and Amelia, our waitress was seriously, Boston's angel.
(4)
Warren L.
We were here last night, August 11th, 2015. Normally restaurants need to make excuses for bad service during Worcester Restaurant week. No need here. Everything, and I mean everything from service, to food, to the kitchen, to the room was over the top. If I had a 6 star option that I could only use once a year, I would have awarded it here. Recently we went to one of this restaurants sisters, 111 Chop House, and I ordered the steak. The steak here tasted better, was cooked correctly, and didn't take 45 minutes. (I don't eat seafood.) Honestly, I can't come up with any negative. Highly recommend for special occasions. This is the best restaurant in Worcester in my opinion (and remember, I don't eat seafood.)
(5)
Nicole L.
Really the only thing that is bad about this place is that the prices are high. The reality is who cares. Service and food are worth it. We had Amy and Nicole wait on us. Service was prompt and fabulous. Glasses were not empty before they were refilled. Food was awesome. We are here at restaurant week. The shrimp app was spicy but perfect. House salad was boring but as expected. The haddock Newburg was very tasty. Hubby had the NY strip. Cooked to perfection. Black tie for dessert was huge and he said it was great. There are multiple cuts of meat and chicken plates that are made to order so ask if you are not into seafood.
(5)
Kim S.
After being stuck in HOURS of traffic on our way back from NYC, my friend and I decided to make a pit stop for dinner. We visited on a Thursday night and the parking lot was full. I asked the hostess if there was a private event going on and she responded that it was their typical night. I guess they are a super busy establishment. We started off with a round of drinks before ordering dinner. Warm crusty rolls were brought to our table. There were too many apps that looked intriguing so I made a meal out of apps in lieu of a standard dinner. I started off with the lobster bisque that was OUT OF THIS WORLD! It has got to be the best lobster bisque in my life! There were huge lobster chunks and the consistency was on point. I'm a huge fan of fish tacos but it was only on the appetizer menu. I went ahead and ordered the fried white fish tacos with chipotle aioli. The three fish tacos was a steal at only $9.95. It was a meal within itself. The tacos were pretty good with large chunks of fried fish. The combination of fig, onion, walnut and balsamic vinaigrette in the goat cheese cake was amazing. It was sweet and salty. The toasted sliced baguettes were crispy and fresh. I thought there was more bread than cheese though. All my choices were amazing. My friend also recommended their sushi maki rolls and said they were great. He strongly recommended the "Tiger Eye" which is battered, fried and topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Sounds right up my alley. The rest of the group stuck with traditional entrees from the dinner menu. My friend raved about the Tuna Steak Barcelona which is a seared tuna steak stuffed with feta cheese and sun dried tomatoes. The meal was fantastic and if I am ever back in the area, Id definitely stop in. Great food, great service! Kudos to my friend for the recommendation !
(4)
Bey F.
This restaurant has forever been a popular meeting place for professionals. The staff are great, it is always lively, I really enjoy the location of the restaurant, but the food is really a disappointment. I suggest an updated menu.
(3)
Bryan N.
I came here for my birthday dinner with my girlfriend and I must say I was a happy birthday boy! I love seafood and this place is a haven for seafood lovers. Luckily, we came here during restaurant week, so I had a chance to order from the prefixe menu to try a 3 course meal. I ended up going with the grilled shrimp skewers w mango salsa, clam chowder, and the haddock topped w lobster in Newbury sauce. Everything was pretty delicious, however I wasn't super impressed with the haddock. I would come back, but probably try some of their other fresh seafood menu options. I really like the ambience of the Sole Proprietor. Our waitress, Tori, was awesome and on top of everything; I was impressed.
(4)
Chris L.
Recently went here with my family and my nephew visiting from Arizona...he loves to get seafood when he comes out to the area... The evening started off well, with a great waitress, good drinks and great company....however it all turned a little strange when a mouse or rat (not sure as it moved pretty fast....but it was big) Bolted right by us, under our table, and then right into the main dining area...under some of the booths. A few of the wait staff saw it, as did a party that was just leaving....we grabbed our waitress right away and made her aware of the situation. One of the management staff came over a little while later and said that sometimes, patrons enter into the garden thinking it is a smoking area, and they leave the door open and that allows the rodents to come in... I am not buying it...while we did get comp'd for dessert..I have to say...mouse or no mouse....the food was really bland....my sister ordered salmon/lobster special and it was cold and it was a mission to find the lobster. I had the same Salmon dish and mine was warm, not hot, but it also had next to no taste and was slightly over cooked....which with salmon just kind of dries it out. Mine had about 3 pieces of lobster, and were hard to find..but they were there. My wife had shrimp, and those were over cooked and very tough...which left alot to be desired on flavor. Best part of the meal was the Sushi, which was great...but the main courses left alot to be desired. I was truly disappointed....
(2)
Nicole L.
After reading many reviews about The Sole Proprietor, I wasn't sure it would live up to my expectations; however, it did more than just live up to its acclaim!! The food was incredible! The coconut shrimp, crab cakes, and clams casino were a perfect starting point for the meal. Because there were five of us dining I was able to taste the Tempura Soft Shell Crab, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Rare Tuna Steak, and Blackened Haddock!! All of the dishes were incredibly different, but SO delicious! We also loved our server, Randy!! Very attentive with a great personality! If you are in Worcester for any reason at all, definitely dine here!
(5)
Hannah K.
I wish I could give 3.5 stars. This place is GOOD, it's just not GREAT. Came here for my birthday and they had a special Sunday prix fixe menu that we all ordered from (not sure if that promotion is still applicable). Our salads and soups were good, our appetizers were incredible (I had mussels in a coconut curry sauce that completely made the meal) and the entrees were just OK. I honestly don't even remember what I had, no one was that impressed with their entrees. But I remember the fabulous mussels so I think your experience is going to depend a lot on ordering the right thing.
(3)
Timothy J.
Never had a bad meal here. Great food. The oysters are always the freshest you can get. Great drinks. Spend the dough
(4)
Chad B.
Chad's eSCAPE Review. Service (+). They are always well staffed and the staff is very friendly. They are quick to offer seats at the bar and will come find patrons once their tables are ready. Cost (+). The restaurant is fairly pricy but this rating is on value not pure cost. The freshness, taste and variety is well worth what is charged. Atmosphere (+). It is appropriately decorated and boasts a very large bar area near the entrance. There are multiple seating areas that gives a different/view and perspective each time you return. Palate (+). The clam chowder, the raw bar, the bisque, the oysters, the fish are all amazing in flavor, spicing and freshness. It is very difficult in making just a single selection. (I didn't order all these during one setting, I am a repeat patron!!) Everything Else (+). I travel extensively both domestically and abroad and this is probably one of my favorite seafood fare restaurants. I have added this restaurant as a stop during long business trips even if it is hours out of my travel path. It is important to know that this place fills up very quick. If you prefer a more private dining experience, I recommend getting there about 430-500PM. If you are coming later, I strongly recommend reservations. Parking can be tricky. Remember, there is probably a reason all the people are coming here!!
(5)
Paul M.
The Sole Proprietor - Worcester MA On the outside, it has a warm feel to it and although I usually prefer meats or Lobstah, there was something about the look of this place that screams; "try the fish"... Nicely decorated with what appeared to be several rooms you get a sense that this is going to be good. The hostess busy on the phone greets you with a smile and immediately acknowledges your presence with a polite "I'll be right with you"... I like this place! And just like their sister restaurant I visited the other night, you have two servers at your disposal. Soon after seating, they serve you nice warm rolls. I would have liked to see the butter served in its own individual dish as it is in most fine restaurants as opposed to the gold colored packets but hey... There are bigger problems in life... I'll deal... I started with a hearty crock of rich and creamy Bisque... Nicely presented with large chunks of fresh Lobstah meat protruding from the top.. A bit on the thick side but flavorful none the less... Next up... The field greens, tomatoes, croutons and crumbled Bleu Cheese dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette... The Ora King Salmon will change everything you think you know about Salmon... Raised in the pristine waters of New Zealand's Marlborough Sound, this is by far the best tasting Salmon you will ever have the pleasure of consuming! It has a wonderful buttery taste and although the menu said herbed rice, mine was served over a bed of mashed potatoes garnished with chunks of crab meat, asparagus and drizzled with hollandaise sauce. Simply amazing... Mere words cannot convey how truly good this is... For dessert... Apple Brown Betty... Warm cinnamon apples topped with a brown sugar crumb, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You'd better get a towel for this one ;-) Over the top! From the ambiance, impeccable service, pace at which the food was served, presentation and flavour..., this place rocks! They earned every one of their 5 stars with me tonight! Highly... Highly recommended... In short..., you will love it! Wow
(5)
Laura D.
I ordered the North Atlantic salmon grilled and opted for spinach (steamed) and broccoli as sides and a salad as a first course. The salad wasn't anything special--1 tomato, 1 piece of cucumber, some lettuce--a bit sad looking. The fish was a large portion (2 meals) and nicely grilled, although not very flavorful. Both the broccoli and spinach were bland as well. I tried some of my sisters sweet potato mash, which I would recommend more. While the food wasn't phenomenal (especially for the steep prices), our server (Amy Lynne?) was very sweet and helpful!
(2)
Jimmy M.
I was heading to a pizza place across the street and stumbled across this place. They had a huge parking lot so I figured I would just go eat here. The interior was very nice and the service was very friendly. I ordered the salmon with asparagus, calm chowder, cherry oyster and the apple crumble with ice cream. The cherry oyster was amazing. It tasted fresh, chewy and I could taste the saltyness. The salmon was cooked perfectly. It pretty much melted in my mouth with the crispy skin on the outside. It was done really well because I didn't have any burnt taste. The claim chowder was somewhat light. It really didn't have a strong taste and not much claim meat. I could have done without the claim chowder. The apple crumble was ok. The apples and the ice cream were good but the breading was too much. Overall not bad. It sacked that they put me alone in the corner with all other tables open but I guess that's to the only table for 1? I would have like to be put in a booth so I can people watch lol.
(4)
Laura S.
Everything was absolutely excellent - we will be back for the next special occasion! My husband and I selected this to celebrate our 3 year anniversary based on the reviews on OpenTable, and it exceeded our expectations. The service was attentive, charming, friendly and helpful. We knew we wanted to try the lobster chowder and a crab dish, and the waitress recommended one that was delicious - crab wrapped in a clever shaved cucumber "dish". It was fresh and playful. The lobster chowder was so rich and buttery with huge lobster pieces, yum! I ordered a margarita (which was also very good) and the king crab legs - pricey, but amazing. I would order it again. At the very end of the meal the server even brought out a special dessert plate with "happy anniversary" written in chocolate with strawberries and whipped cream... It was so thoughtful and lovely. I really enjoyed that extra touch.
(5)
Julia M.
My boyfriend took me there for Valentine's Day. We got there at 2:30pm and had to wait 30 minutes. Not complaining. Just shows you that the place was hopping at 2:30 in the afternoon. We had the smoked seafood plate for an appetizer and that was fantastic. Then I had the Ora King Salmon Oscar. That is the best salmon I have ever eaten! My boyfriend had the seafood saute. Excellent as well. The desserts are well executed and interesting. But, go for the fresh seafood. I want to return for the swordfish steaks. I saw a couple of them go by on platters and they looked really great!
(4)
David R.
I love this restaurant! Friendly staff, amazing food, and great prices. I'm addicted to their salmon dinner with garlic spinach and sweet mashed potatoes. I get take out all the time - and I'm always happy with my meal. They even write draw pictures and write positive messages like "Made with Extra Love!" on the takeout bag!
(5)
Sandor K.
Really good place for some fresh catch! Casual and elegant all in one! You wouldn't expect sushi rolls, but they have them - and they are divine! love the surf and turf roll! The Haddock with Lobster Newburg was mouth watering! Selection of craft beers on tap as well!
(5)
Lisa E.
Oh dear. First day of Buster was a bomb. Dijon crab stuffed flounder was a blanket of horseradish over a mild fish. The crab looked like it was there but I couldn't taste it. What did dijon have to do with anything either? People. I love your restaurant. Rethink this dish. Or call it horseradish flounder. The cheesecake was fantastic.
(2)
Nancy H.
Best seafood restaurant that I have ever been to. High class waitstaff, classy decor, and overall well prepared food. I have tried multiple of their specialty cocktails and they are all great. I loved the mojito! For appetizers, we tried a few and their sushi was what stuck out most. DELISH! all of our entrees were wonderful, both steak and seafood. Although our bill was hefty, it was well worth the price. We will definitely be returning on our next special occasion.
(5)
Jo H.
One of our most favorite places to dine in Worchester. Fresh. Clean food. Friendly service, exceptional service. If you want a great meal and fine dining this is the place to go.
(4)
Nathaniel L.
I always expect a solid meal and enjoyable dining experience at the Sole Proprietor. The service and food has been above average when I visit. The menu is pretty extensive and offers a variety of seafood options. The dining area and atmosphere is really nice as well.
(4)
Jackie F.
Something has happened to the food at this fine establishment. It has been a few years since we last dined here! The food was okay but nothing to write home about! The service was outstanding but the soup was tasteless, the fish dishes were so so! Maybe just a bad day for the Chef! Too bad as this was once a go back to place!
(3)
Adam R.
Sat in the bar area. We had two servers that were on point, service was snappy and friendly, even though the place was swamped. I started with oysters on the half, the vinaigrette they served with them perfect. I followed it with crab and corn chowder, which was somewhat bland and lacking much crab flavor. Entree was the Grilled Swordfish Colcannon. Perfectly cooked sword, with that crispy skin crust, topped with a sundried tomato tapenade, served over kale mixed with mash potatoes and sprinkled with pancetta. That was on point. A damn good plate. My accomplice had some sort of deep fried sushi roll that was pretty tasty as well. I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Patrick K.
This has been my favorite restaurant in Worcester for over twenty-five years. A terrific menu -- a wide range of selections. Fantastic seafood. Great drinks. Best atmosphere in Worcester. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Cynthia P.
I have always loved this place & eaten there for years but had the worst meal in June. Ordered steamers; they were not cooked to order & were cold. The drawn butter was mixed with oil & was disgusting. Sent them back expecting freshly steamed clams but all they seemed to do was microwave the original steamers. Totally lost my appetite. The waitress & manager apologized & took it off the bill but I will never go there for dinner again.
(1)
Abbie K.
My first time there it was real busy but there's a reason for that. The food was unique and so delicious that the entire dinner conversation was just how awesome the food tasted in our mouths. Between apps and two meals we spent about $90 total but it was so worth it. I didn't even care about the wait or how packed and noisy it was, and our waiter was super friendly and totally attentive
(5)
Mandy K.
The Sole is always good. I have never had a bad meal here. My only real complaint is that I would like to see some of the appetizer items offered as entrees. Great place.
(4)
Katie K.
This is the third time we've been in as many years and each meal has been worse than the last. People rave about this place, which is the only reason we've given them a few tries, but this was the last time. The service was fine, but the food was horrible. I don't think I need to expound, that's how horrible it was.
(1)
Kelly H.
If you are looking for seafood in Worcester, this is the place to go! Every single dish is amazing. I take my friends here whenever they are in town and it never disappoints. Parts of the restaurant can be a little loud. But for any busy restaurant that is the case.
(5)
Brandy S.
We dine here at least once a year and always for my husband's birthday. It's always packed and for good reason. The decor is upscale and because it's a seafood restaurant most of the artwork and accents are seafood or sea themed. Dark wood trim and lighting in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright. Very cozy and not overdone. From the Front of House to the wait staff everyone is welcoming and helpful. The wait staff know the menu and are happy to answer questions. As busy as this place gets, I would expect to feel rushed, but that is not the case. On a busy summer weekend, service does lag a little, but not to the point where food is not served in a timely manner. Never had bad service here. The bar is always hopping and is casual. Great place to grab a cocktail while you wait if you arrive early or just because. Reservations are a must. We were told that dinner service had 315 reservations made tonight. Seating is always prompt. Parking fills up super fast, so it's best to arrive a little early in case you have to wait for a space. The food is top notch. Fresh seafood, sizzling steaks, beautiful sushi. Nothing on the menu is bad. No matter what you order, it will be seasoned to perfection, cooked perfectly, and delight your tastebuds. The lobster bisque is the best I've ever had, my husband raves about the oysters. Steaks are spot on in terms of temperature which I'm picky about. The lobster dishes are always amazing. The wine list is extensive. No shortage of choices. The beer and cocktail selections are excellent too. It can be a little noisy on a busy night, but not to the point where you can't hear the conversation at your table. The ambiance is upscale and the dress code casual. Most people don't wear jeans, but in the summer nice shorts seem fine. Tonight, however, I saw a muscle shirt and cut offs. Don't be that person. Casual doesn't mean you dress like you're at the beach.
(5)
John H.
I've been here several times and have never been disappointed. Crab cakes are better than most in the area.
(4)
Lynda G.
Extremely accommodating service, and the best seafood I have ever had. And I eat a lot of seafood! The scallops were definitely the best I have ever had, and they broiled them for me in bread crumbs. The meal came with a salad, which I got a Caesar salad and the dressing was amazing. We had the clams casino as an appetizer, which I had never had before but they were enjoyable. The mojito I ordered was delicious and strong, and again the service was fast with drink orders and such. We took our time and didn't order everything at once because we didn't want to feel rushed. The servers got the hint and didn't rush us. I can't wait to go back and get the scallops again, and even try some of their sushi. Definitely a place for special occasions and it is expensive, but totally worth it.
(5)
Michael W.
Never thought it would come to this....this place used to be fantastic! Last night my pan roasted mahi was so overcooked it was horrible. The bread they served was burned nearly to black, the fish on the Shogun dinner should be renamed to the incredible shrinking sushi....is that pink dot on the middle of the rice ball tuna? Cut the shit, you people are way better than this. And what's with that disgusting vegetable slaw? Did someone actually ever see a slaw with large vegetables cut into paper thin sheets? The chowder is too thick all of a sudden as well! I'm not sure why this place chronically excels and then disappoints but it has been happening a lot. One week the meal is just fantastic and the next it borders on being below average....ownership needs to figure it out! You can't help but get the feeling that theSole has passed its prime!
(2)
Mrs B.
Eh, not the best, not the worst. Was disappointed that they use frozen seafood and lobster. I'm sure there are better places out there if you search a bit more.
(3)
Joe C.
Had a lovely night eating at the bar. Our server was classy and a pleasure. I had the Seafood stir fry and it was delicious. I like the charm of a classy Worcester building. A beautiful dinner for a reasonable price.
(4)
Yadi M.
My team and I were here to audit one of our companies and went to the Sole Proprietor TWICE, had the absolute YUMMY Lobster Bisque and I cannot say anything bad about it OMG, the best out there!!!!! I had the seafood Sautee the 1st time and then the Crab Cakes and enjoyed both very much along with both my Malbec glasses of wine which were perfect. I would definitely recommend this place espcially because both times the service was EXCELLENT!!! Wish i remember the names of both of them, i think last nights server, his name was Yori. its a must to stop by!
(5)
Michael E.
Although we live in New York we often travel to Massachusetts just to have dinner here. The hostess station leaves a little to be desired but the service and food make up for it. We love the special times when they have "Buster the Crab" for the month, or lobster or oysters. At those times the entire menu is devoted to these items. You won't be dissapointed
(5)
Alleah F.
The Sole Proprietor is a legit lunch spot. I've been twice now and have had a great experience both times. The service is very friendly and the place gets very busy at lunch. I've had the fish tacos which are really good and the shrimp/scallop pesto dish. They are pretty decadent and tasty. I wouldn't say it is the healthiest lunch spot...but maybe it's just the dishes I'm choosing. ;)
(4)
Bill H.
The food here has gone down hill for a bit now, it used to be insanely good. Just had the spiciest dish ever, seafood fra diavolo. I've had the dish before and while it is on the spicy side, it's not supposed to be, go buy some tums because your stomach feels terrible while you hiccup and sweat kinda hot. The service was great as usual but tonight, they dropped the ball pretty hard with this dish. Went here because of it's good food and reputation but that's something that needs to be relooked at.
(2)
Rachel B.
Even though I've lived in Worcester for many years, I'm not big on seafood, so I had never been to the Sole before. I was attending a family member's birthday here, so I was excited to see what it was like! The ambiance and aesthetic is quite nice. The place was packed, but I like the fact that it's separated into smaller rooms- My party of 8 was able to chat without any issues of excess noise. I was concerned that there was nothing on the menu other than seafood and steak. I was hoping to see at least one chicken dish, however the waitress informed me that they had chicken breast and were able to substitute it for any of the fish dishes if I so desired. I was happy about that, and decided to order the parmesean crusted trout dish with chicken instead. While our waitress was very sweet, she seemed like she was either new, or not very good at her job. She continuously put the wrong plate of food in front of the wrong person starting with appetizers all the way to when our entrees finally came out. On top of that, she also brought our drinks out all at different times, and then did this again with our entrees with no explanation as to why they weren't all brought out at once. 2 of the people I was with had to wait almost 10 minutes to receive their plates while the rest of us were eating and at a nicer/higher priced restaurant, that is just a no-no. Myself and 2 of the people I was with ordered the same dish, which came with green beans for a side. I substituted asparagus on my plate in place of green beans, which I was told would be a $1 upcharge. For an almost $30 plate, I found that a little ridiculous, but whatever. When our plates arrived ALL of them had asparagus, rather than just mine. My salad was OK- nothing to rant or rave about. My fiance said his chicken noodle soup was the best he's ever had. Everyone that ordered seafood said it was absolutely delicious, although the Shrimp and grits was incredibly spicy even though that was not mentioned in the description of the dish. The clam strips were also mentioned to be a bit on the greasy side, and were brought out in a red and white paper bowl. Speaking on that- i was also pretty disappointed in the presentation of the plates. I know it's not supposed to be a gourmet, 5 star restaurant plating experience, but it looked like something I'd order at a chain restaurant- everything was just kind of tossed on the plate. Those of us that ordered chicken were left underwhelmed. it was heavily crusted, a little oily, and overcooked. My potatoes and vegetables were sub par and room temperature the moment they hit the table. All in all, the important thing is the seafood, which I was told was very good. My fiance also said his steak was cooked to perfection, although there was a bit too much fat for his liking. I think this is a decent restaurant, but they do have some issues. I don't think I'd return here on my own, as I feel like I can get a much better meal and better service for the price elsewhere in worcester.
The only negative for this place is the noise level. I could hardly hear the friends sitting across from me at our table. The Food and service is superb. Very friendly and attentive. Priced reasonably. I just wish it was quieter.
(3)
Sara M.
Another exceptional dinner at the Sole. Went to sole for anniversary dinner. Fresh amazing food and excellent service. Our server was Cindy and she made our experience a pleasant one. Thanks so much!
(5)
Brenda W.
Reservations highly recommended. We called on Good Friday for reservations that evening and received an 8:30 slot for three of us. The good news is that they appear to be hopping and thriving at that dinner hour. Menu options were many. I selected the broiled sea scallops which came with mashed potatoes and a steamed vegetable medley. I also selected a caesar salad. The dinner was very good; prices were to be expected (in the 25.00 range for entrees), ambiance was dressy without feeling we had to be dressed to the hilt, and service was very good. I do have to say that the presentation for both the price and ambiance was less than stellar. I did expect that part of the meal to be much better.
(4)
Michael S.
Food was outstanding. The Ora king oscar was outstanding Amy Lynne was great at service. First time here and will definitely come back.
(5)
Jep G.
==food: mediocre. we got: 1) Chilled Seafood Platter (guess the shrimps were ~ok). 2) Ora King Salmon Oscar (salmon per se was ~ok. not overcooked. the crab meat / sauce and rice were almost flavorless) 3) Wildflower Honey Brushed Arctic Char (as for the
(2)
Inigo M.
Classic old school Worcester seafood restaurant, that one gets the sense is struggling to keep up with the times. At one point this was THE place for seafood in Worcester, and it still is for many people. Its expensive, a tad on the fancy side, and happens to have a fabulous wine list to boot. You'll find classic New England favorites here and more contemporary takes on seafood. I've only had the pleasure of eating here twice, and thoroughly enjoyed what I had: local seafood prepared simply. High rollers like this place for power lunches/dinners. Its a date place as well, in a city with far fewer of those than you might think.
(4)
Ashley V.
I've been going here for 20 of my 27 years on this planet, and seafood does not get any better. My hometown is close to Worcester, so every time I come back to visit, I demand to eat here. My favorites are the signature cocktails, the clam chowder, any salmon dish they prepare, and the sushi (firecracker).
(5)
Michelle L.
Such a BIG DISAPPOINTMENT!! The prices for their quality of steak and veggies is OUTRAGEOUS!! They were soggy veggies, hard steak, when i ordered medium well, and when i asked for a mixed sangria bowl, it was like sipping on a big bowl of fruit, NO ALCOHOL!! BOOOOO!! Never coming here again.
(1)
Tiffany B.
I had the worst experience at this restaurant today. Our server was crystal and Toni, we had two servers yet the worst service ever. We had water at the table that was asked to be refilled three times and at the end of the meal we still did not get our waters refilled and just asked for the check. We spent about 20 minutes waiting to get out order. I understand it was busy but to have two servers and no one serving you was ridiculous. The food was okay they overcharged us for the lobster bisque and then had to go back and fix it. I wouldn't order it again. The crab sliders were good and they was probably the best thing. Their drinks are okay nothing out of the ordinary.
(1)
Brian H.
The food here is excellent. I ordered the surf and turf with the steam and stuffed shrimp and the quality itself is amazing. Also, the service was pretty good: water and drinks were refilled within minutes and the waitress replaces dishes when necessary. However, one minor objection would be that the food is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food, to a small extent, overshadows this minor flaw.
(5)
Rich C.
Great seafood. Plenty of choices. I had the land and two seas which consisted of a perfectly cooked filet and shrimp scallops with garlic blue cheese mashed potatoes and asparagus. Yum yum yum. Also for $3 I upgrade my salad to a goat cheese and fennel with Apple slices with an awesome balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Huge portion with very tasty food. Ask for Yuri he's the best. He made my night.
(5)
Scott S.
Found this place via Yelp! and it was great. Lobster roll was huge and fresh and the oysters were wonderful as well. My only negative is that it was a little pricy for lunch but otherwise it was great.
(5)
Queen B.
Absolutely unacceptable service by waitress and manager . Have been a regular for four years but never going back . Even though I love the food and ambience here ,I am taking my business elsewhere. SORRY Sole you lost a loyal customer.
(1)
Tim R.
Please do yourself a favor and do not eat at this establishment. The Management and staff are extremely rude and not accommodating at all. We had reservations for Father's Day, which were made last Monday. My Mother-in law called yesterday morning and politely asked the lady who answered the phone that we would need to add one more person to our party of 4. The lady, without even checking immediately said we cant do that (with an attitude). Then we asked to speak with a manager and the manager said the same exact thing very rudely. He explained that they overbooked and could not accommodate us. I don't own/manage a restaurant, but I cant imagine adding 1 chair to the end of table being a problem but I guess I was wrong. If you like good food and being treated terribly by management and staff this is the best restaurant in town. The Sole Proprietor definitely lost a customer yesterday.
(1)
Kent C.
Had a work dinner here so we had a table of 10. Service was a little lacking and the food well we can break that down... Oysters, well the one I got had a piece of meat that was so small my fork couldn't even get it out of the half shell... I ordered the black and blue swordfish. Was alright.. Fish was a little bit too charred. My side broccoli was overcooked. The lobster bisque, had incredibly large pieces of lobster but the bisque itself was overly saltly and well had some separately liquid ontop... I hope it was water? Lemon sorbet was overwhelmingly large and definitely the best part of my meal other than the beer.
(2)
Kim N.
Went to visit my sister who is going to school out here. She said there wasn't much to do in the area. And she was right. But then...she took us to this gem of a place. The parking lot was easy to navigate. They greet you very nicely and walk you to your table quickly. The place looks very upscale. But there's a diverse crowd. You can see people in evening attire, or in hawaiian print shirts and flip flops. I was a bit confused. Servers were attentive and had good descriptions of the specials. The oysters came out quickly and were yummy. (It helped that the server kind of knew what was good for the day.) The clam chowder was good and I enjoyed it, but it was nothing amazing. I'd still order again. When the steaks came, I loved that the chef came out and asked us to cut into it to see if it was prepared to our liking. Big points for that! And so friendly! I ordered the surf and turf and it was delicious. They almost convinced us to go for a dessert, but we already had some waiting at home. Everything was so well-priced too! You would probably pay 2 times as much for the same thing in Boston! This is a good place to take visitors. I'm from out of state and Worcester can be a bit....out there. Since there are a lot of students here, I would definitely recommend this place for when family comes to visit.
(5)
Tim H.
I loved everything about Sole Proprietorship. The friendly service, the excellent food and the promptness. Food is presented well and tastes excellent. Vast selection of wine and expanded menu. You cannot go wrong with anything you choose. It gets full, so I recommend making a reservation.
(5)
Angel F.
Came for lunch. Great experience. I haven't been to a real restaurant in a while now, one that recalls what a good dining experience should be. Our waiter was superb, made recommendations and was very funny, but not over the top! He took all of our orders from memory. Decor and lighting are great, nice size tables and chairs. I hate restaurants that try to squeeze everybody too close together. Food was excellent. I had salmon, was probably the best cooked salmon I've ever had. My sister's was even better, was so buttery and fatty it melted in your mouth. I think it was the salmon masala so check that out when you come. There were 5 of us and everyone loved their food. Anyway very reasonable for what is a great restaurant. I can see why they've been on top for years.
(5)
Ann I.
Great seafood restaurant with wonderful service! I came here on a work function that was about 20+ people. The wait staff was on it! They tag teamed and made sure everyone was taken care of. The menu had a lot to choose from, it was Lobster fest so of course I had lobster. It was cooked to perfection and the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes were to die for. Had the cheesecake for dessert and it was also delicious. Kudos to the waiters and waitresses to helped us that night, they were super friendly and always kept the drinks coming!
We had fixed price Sunday menu. While service was great and food was fresh I have to comment on the "lobster with creamy newburg sauce with crumbs." The sauce was sweet and tomato based. No cream. No crumbs. Very weird. Off night? I didn't think the key lime pie was tart enough and found that the whipped cream overwhelmed the tart. It was okay. I was a little disappointed. For $100, I think I can do better elsewhere. I don't think the restaurant is as good as I used to think it was. (PS I wrote a comment to the restaurant but got no response.)
(3)
Tracy E.
They have the absolute best seafood I have ever eaten in my entire life. The seafood is not only fresh, but the creativity of the menu is exceptional. It's not the type of place that changes its menu every month, but there's enough on the menu that allows you to switch up your orders upon every visit. Most diners find their special dish and stick with it until they stop making it. In my case, I ordered the same tuna dish from 2003-2006, then after they switched up the protein aspect of the dish from tuna to scallops, they allowed me to special order the same dish from 2006 until my graduation from college in the area in 2007. I recently returned to "The Sole" a few days and found that my favorite dish was no longer on the menu, but I was pleasantly surprised with what I had ordered. The crab cakes were phenomenal as they were served with a cumin-infused slaw and the Arctic char served with pumpkin risotto was so perfectly autumnal in every comforting way. You can't go wrong with whatever you order here. The food is impeccable as is the service. How I wish there was another place comparable to The Sole elsewhere in the country. For goodness sake, I live right outside NYC, and I have yet to find anything like it ANYWHERE in my travels. I miss The Sole =(
(5)
Colleen S.
In Food SERVICE, a Pro-Active approach is always best! That is why I don't understand why when I told the manager, on the way out that we had seen a waitress come out of the bathroom without washing her hands, he got defensive, and told us that women! Go in the bathroom and look at themselves in the mirror,and touch their hair, or tuck their blouse into their pants...Touch touch touch!! Touch the bathroom doorknob, if nothing else!? What does the sign say in every bathroom? ALL employees must wash their hands! This employee did use the toilet stall! We saw it! One has to wonder about the quality of sanitation training in a place where the manager has an attitude like this!? And, it's really too bad, because the service, by two young, friendly, attentive MEN, was outstanding! And, the food was delicious! And the price was very reasonable! Try again, Mr. "manager"!
(1)
Reid F.
A very good seafood place with a strange but interesting take on stuffed lobster--they take out the lobster meat and fill the shell with either scallops, shrimp, or lobster that has been baked in cracker crumbs. The oysters are also very good, but the lobster ravioli is just OK.
(4)
Catherine A.
Slammed pack but not the service I received at One 11 Chophouse. The $4.99 clam chowder was good. The spicy tuna roll was chewy. Although the large piece of tuna was nice. The cocktail wasn't strong. I would have ordered another but they never asked. I also would have ordered an entree but they never asked so when I caught their attention I just settled for sushi. I was willing to drop money but no one was attentive. Ill return to one 11 but since its the same owners they prob wont care I converted to the other concept.
(2)
Gia G.
I have been going to the Sole for 20 years. I love the food there. Sushi is amazing. Love the shrimp scampi. Great wine list. ... But I just think the service had gone downhill over the years. I find I sit there waiting a long time for a second drink.
(3)
Lauren M.
My husband made reservations for two at The Sole for Saturday night, October 18th. It was my 40th birthday, and he mentioned this to the host when he called. Upon arrival, we noticed how cramped/awkward the host station area is, even after all these years in operation. We had been to The Sole before, but it had been a while...a couple of years, probably. When I worked for a mortgage company in Worcester, I'd dine at the bar for lunch from time to time. We've been choosing either Baba Sushi or Armsby Abbey mostly in the last year or so, and wanted to revisit what we remembered as a good restaurant. ANYWAY, the frontage of the restaurant and the bar area are modern and cool to look at, even though it's always ridic crowded. And seriously Worcester, this is supposed to be fine dining...dress up a little. Ok...I'll try to stay focused here. So the host station was crowded, and we gave our names/reservation to the kids at the desk, and got an "OK". Um, ok what, exactly? I said, "About how long?", and was told, "Not long, you can wait at the bar". We ordered drinks at the bar, (my martini was a highlight...clearly the bar-tender was a pro, and really listened to my order...tough to get a perfect slightly dirty glass of delish to make me smile), and before my husband could pay, a different hostess came over to us, and said to me that she'd take me to my table and my husband could come along after, (This was strange to me). The room she brought us to was one of the worst parts of the experience...there's an old, run-down room off the bar in the back that takes you right back to the late 70's. Old booths, outdated paintings, etc...really really tacky. I guess we could've asked to be seated in one of the other rooms, but like I said it was crowded, and we were hungry, and now holding drinks, so we stayed. We were all dolled up and wanted to see and be seen...this room certainly wasn't made for people watching. Sigh. Our waiter/waitress combo was a couple of older (50's?) servers, who made corny comments throughout our whole meal, and chatted loudly behind us at the service station about themselves...seriously, shhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Speaking of our meal...here it goes: The appetizer I ordered was one of the reasons I wanted to come to The Sole again. I remember The Firecracker sushi roll being nothing sort of amazing back in the day. Well, not so much, anymore. What once was a huge beautiful tempura lobster tail in a fresh sushi roll displayed like art on a cool plate was now a flimsy, warm, run of the mill mini-roll which tasted...well, the word "meh" comes to mind. I ordered swordfish, which was over-done, and my hubby ordered salmon, which was a tad pungent. Neither dish was awful, neither dish was good. When the waiter brought over the dessert menu, my husband tried to give him "the look" to see if he knew about my bday, and he did not. This annoyed my husband, but we ordered the key lime pie, and they were nice to write Happy Birthday on it. The pie was delicious BTW...really good. SO, all in all, not great. Not even close. We won't be back, and won't recommend this place to anyone. For well over a hundred dollars, I'd now take many other restaurants over The Sole Proprietor, which once was a favorite of mine. NEXT.
(2)
jeffrey e.
Went here with a group of coworkers who were visiting the area based on the yelp reviews. I had high hopes based on the menu and the reviews here on Yelp. Upon first arriving I was a little put off by the fact that private lot for the restaurant was full. I drove around the block a few times and finding street parking looked a bit unpromising. Eventually I was able to find a spot in the restaurants lot. After making my way through throng of people in the circus like atmosphere of the main entranceway, I gave my name and informed them I was there for out 7:30 reservation. I was told that it was going to be a few minutes before our table was ready. Our group of 3 decided to wait outside because there was really no place to wait inside. Wow, who knew that so many people go out to dinner at a restaurant in Worcester at 7:30 on a Wednesday night. The place was a zoo. About 10minutes later we were finally escorted to our table. Turns out it was restaurant week, they had special 3 courses meals for $24. Not sure if this was the reason for the crowd or not but it seemed like a good deal. I ordered the three course meal, which consisted of the house salad, a shrimp appetizer and the Lobster Newburgh. My coworker ordered a tuna steak and a regular NY Strip. My meal was pretty middle of the road, the shrimp were nothing special and the salad was just a pile of lettuce with blue cheese dressing. The entree was pretty tasty but uninspiring. My coworkers seemed pretty much in agreement in relation to their meals. The Service was very good, everything was brought in a timely fashion. Overall, I thought it was a good meal for the price, but the crowd was way to much. It was difficult even to get into the restaurant. If I am in the area I would give it another go, but I would probably avoid it if they are running a restaurant week promo again.
(3)
Dan R.
I have gone here the times within the last two months. I love the seafood, from there surf and turf to raw bar... yum yum yum. Never had a problem with seating, the service staff are the greatest. We were well taken care of. If you want to make sure you have a table ready use open table for your reservation. This place is one of the reasons I love worcester restaurants... I love my town.
(5)
Lawrence B.
One of the finest meals I have ever enjoyed. Lobster bisque was out of this world with gigantic pieces of lobster, clam chowder was equally awesome. The seafood was incredibly fresh, piping hot and prepared to perfection. I usually find fault with everything, everywhere I go and Sole Proprieter exceeded my expectations and standards by a mile. This is a fabulous restaurant with an excellent menu prepared to perfection.
(5)
Tran T.
Made reservations, came 45 mins prior to rsvp... And they gave our table to another group because it was more "convenient" for them. Now it's 25 mins past our RSVP and still no table. I am very tempted to walk out of here now.... My parents are in town and I thought I'd take them to the most raved restaurant in town. So far not impressed by their service but I'm sure the food is impeccable... Will update this review as soon as I get to taste their food.
(1)
Cora B.
We were greeted by a big, cheesy, inflatable crab draped over the entrance. Our party of four went with the intention of talking over dinner. We were told it would be a half hour wait, and we accepted. 10 minutes later, they seated us in the bar. Had we known, we would have asked to keep waiting for a table in a dining area. Bar was so loud and crowded we ended up not really talking. Since we had to shout. My cocktail was superb, that's how they got an extra star from me. My lobster bisque was bland, underseasoned, and had been reheated too harshly so all the bisque-ness was gone. Just slop. It had some very nice pieces of meat for a garnish. Such a shame. Our waiter did take notice that I hadn't enjoyed it and was kind enough to comp that. My swordfish was slightly overdone but the blackened seasoning was nice. Boring mashed potatoes and overcooked zucchini and squash were reminiscent of my work cafeteria. My partner's broiled scallops were unseasoned and overcooked. Again, a shame. My friend across from me had opted for spinach. It was a mess. The stems were left on and it was overcooked and.... you guessed it! Underseasoned. We weren't wowed. Dishes here are not a good value. We appreciated that it was quality and we weren't made sick but I feel that the bill was about $20 more than it should have been for such a mediocre experience.
(2)
Susan W.
Please sit at the bar and ask for Raphael. He is super knowledgable and attentive plus he make the most amazing drinks. Try the last retort and artic chat with honey. Amaze ballz.
(5)
John B.
This was truly an awesome meal. The raw bar is ultra-fresh and tasty. They are running a lobster special that for $10 more you can add a small lobster to an entree. The wait staff was 100% on their game. Very efficient and knowledgeable. It was crowded but we were not rushed. Good off-street parking with an attendant. We are definitely going back!!!
(5)
Kostia G.
Horrible. Went for the first time in 20 years in the area for dinner around 8pm. Always heard good things, to be so greatly disappointed. Parking is tough especially after the snow storm, or not, but it was hard to find parking on Saturday night. Atmosphere is nice, lots of people, not too loud. dogfish head -ran out ordered a bottle of wine, apparently last one ... Now for the food, clam chowder was good. Sushi rolls not good. Goat cheese cake, hmmm... cheese was good everything else on the plate not so much. Calamari, way too much oil. Decided to order fish given that we were at seafood restaurant, ordered special Grilled Trout... was brought something deep fried, overcooked... Very disappointed. Everyone else in the party of 4 feels the same way. None of the dishes served were good. Feel like Boynton across the street for food would have been bar far a better choice. Service was good that is why there is 1 star.
(1)
David S.
I had stuffed flounder. Delicious. My wife had the seared tuna. Also delicious. Lobster bisque was different than what I'm used to (ok... what I used to make when I worked in a restaurant) but it was very tasty. We sat at the bar. The bartender was super nice and very attentive, especially since it was a very busy Saturday night. This place has been great for as long as I can remember... Keep it up!
(5)
Cara W.
I came here several weeks ago with my parents and boyfriend for lunch. I've been here many times, and although I never have any complaints about the food, the restaurant is just not something that I crave or yearn for. The food is always good, but the atmosphere tends to be dark and boding. The benefits to The Sole are that it can accommodate large parties. Like its sister restaurants, its more of a "crowd-pleasing" atmosphere than somewhere I would suggest for a more intimate evening. We shared some good raw oysters, fish tacos, and a sushi plate. I don't have any complaints about the food or service.
Best seafood around, great atmosphere. Only downside is the parking lot - not big enough!
(5)
Leigh S.
I make it a habit to try salmon all over the world and I have to say I had the best piece of salmon right here. Crisp and seasoned on top but buttery and delicious inside cooked to perfection . My daughter has the steak and lobster tail, first east coast lobster for her and it was great. Nicely grilled and tender, the steak was super and very well cooked & seasoned. The lobster bisque s was a bit sweet for me but had 2 whole claws in it and the meat was great. Sadly too full for desert.
(5)
Jocelyn K.
I have been here several times. The selection of seafood choices are bountiful! Service is impeccable! My only complaint is that it is a bit pricey, so I can't go as often as I would like. But nonetheless, everything is outstanding.
(4)
Donny W.
Love the chowder, and...everything else here. I've yet to have a bad experience at this place! Great food, attentive staff. Get here!
(4)
Jim O.
The menu selections, staff and food were all very good. Would not hesitate to return or recommend this place to friends and family.
(4)
Nicolas D.
Wow. I had a delicious meal at this establishment! The menu is huge, with so many options, great wine selection, full bar, all the bells and whistles. The "teamed up" waiters are so helpful and friendly and so happy to help steer you in the right direction of a wonderful evening. From the second we sat down to the second we left, my experience was fully enjoyable. I wish I could give this place half stars, because I would like to rate this place 4.5 stars. The only reason why I take a star off is because of the lack of originality and choice in the craft cocktail section. You can get a cosmo and martini anywhere. When I go and spend a pretty penny on food and drinks, I'd like to have a fun "aperitif" that opens up my palate and has fun. A tequila or gin drink on the menu would've been fun, but it was just the classics. Oh well, what they lack in originality in the cocktail menu, they make up in choice in all seafood. We shared a dozen oysters, all wonderful, fresh and delicious, sushi was ordered as well (nothing to write Japan about, it was actually nothing spectacular), and our entrees were delicious, stuffed flounders and lobster tails. The lobster was flaky and grilled perfectly. Desserts were good, but again here was another spot where they could've been a little more imaginative and surprised us with something different instead of the usuals. What can I say, I expect amazing things for my 5 star reviews! But definitely not to miss. Probably the best seafood restaurant in Worcester.
(4)
Nicole L.
the service is awesome - we had a great experience at the restaurant with a wonderful waiter who was very attentive to our large party, all of whom have different food allergies to deal with :) the food was OK - i've been to many better seafood places. i'd say legal seafoods is still my favorite and hard to compare with.
(3)
Julianna J.
Father's Day can be a challenge. My Dad is 97 and walks with a walker, We requested seating near the door and off the bar area.The request was granted and We were on our way to a great dining experience,not unusual for the Sole. We started with the chilled seafood platter fresh and tasty as usual. Our entrees were varied from the fried scallops to the blackened tuna and grilled salmon, The service was professional,and on spot from a clear understanding of the menu to the recommendation for a wine selection. Father's Day was great and we will be sure to choose the sole for our next special occasion,( if not before ).
(5)
Brandon S.
Great restaurant with fair pricing for seafood. The stuffed lobster with scallops was excellent. I also had lobster bisque which was really great and a must try, it is not as rich as most places I have tried in the past. Also had the tiramisu for dessert and it was really great....this is a must have.We went on a Tuesday night and we wished we would have made reservations because we ended up waiting close to and hour for a table of 3. Learn from our mistake get reservations!
(4)
Sarah C.
Came here for the first time on the last Friday of lent - thought I might have been crazy! We had a reservation but ended up being 20 minutes late - they were quite busy but didn't seem upset we were late and sat us right away (Not my fault we were late and I felt really bad about it!) The waitress situation was confusing - one minute we had one girl waiting on us and another it was a different girl. I know they were fairly busy but the service was incredibly slow and not at all friendly or helpful. I had the lobster bisque as an app and the lobster newburg as my meal. The lobster bisque was good and had chunks of lobster but it had a slightly different taste than I have ever tried. The newburg was OK but the lobster was a bit chewy - the side of rice and veggies was so small it didn't even fill the bowl it came in. I wasn't expecting huge portions from a place like this but if you are going to serve something in a specific small dish it should fill the dish. My friend had the lobster sesame stir fry which I kept stealing bites from because it was so good and the portion was HUGE - only thing I didn't like was the deep fried lobster in it. My other friend had the fish and chips which I also kept stealing bites from because it was really good too. For dessert we split the black bottom pie. It was an oreo crust with a mango sorbet. It was to die for - and I had fought my friends not to order it thinking oreo and mango don't mix. It had a light mango flavor but was perfect with the oreo crust. They are pricey than other places but for the portion sizes and the quality of food it is definitely worth it. The parking lot is kind of a nightmare...
(3)
Jon R.
One of the 3 best restaurants in Worcester! The service is excellent, the food is dynamite, atmosphere and ambiance are very nice as well. If you like Seafood or Sushi and you are in Worcester, you can't miss going to The Sole. The bar is a great place to have a cocktail and grab an app or a meal.. This restaurant group knows how to do it, they run a tight ship! If you are more in the mood for a steak go to their sister " The 111 Chop House.. If you want Italian, you can't go wrong (most of the time) at their Italian place VIA
(5)
Arthur L.
Varied and interesting menu. Enjoyed the meal but can't say I like the aroma of the place.
(3)
Karen B.
My mother and I went here for restaurant week. It was delicious! It really wasnt as fancy as people made it sound, but the food was great. Atmosphere was ok... I had a butternut squash soup that was to die for. Reasonable prices, and a decent place to take the kids.
(4)
Walerz B.
- Thorough and friendly service. - Pretty venue with an open kitchen. - Steamed clams with drawn butter was delicious - Coconut shrimp and fried calamari were under seasoned and not as crispy as they could've been. BD doesn't really eat seafood but ate so
(2)
Bremen S.
Best seafood restaurant in Worcester hands down! Little too noisy and chaotic for an upscale restaurant but you won't remember any of it because the food is paradise. Portions are generous and if you feel your food doesn't taste like you want it to, do tell them. They'll make every effort to accommodate you. Personally, I always get the salmon but friends/family have tried other fish and they all taste super and fresh!
(5)
K B.
I've been going to the Sole for years but it's the first time I ever ordered fish & chips. The entree was delicious but shocked that they don't offer malt vinegar for the traditional English fare. Sorry but balsamic or red wine vinegar is a disgusting alternative, don 't bother offering it... Just say you don't have it or better yet, start offering it. Smoked platter and sushi was delicious, as usual.
(5)
Eric C.
I had one night in Worcester and this restaurant was recommended to me by my interviewer. I asked for the best restaurant you could have me try here and he said "You can find no better seafood in town and it will rival anything you would find in Boston." So I guess it's a must try then huh! I made a reservation because they actually are usually very busy even though this was for a party of 1. I went around 6:30pm and there were plenty of open seats but once 7pm hit, then the place filled up and I agree that a reservation was a must! If you're like me, you always panic about whether there is adequate parking. There is plenty of parking in their lot. As you drive down from Umass medical center, they will be on the right and you can easily turn in without any issues. So I decided to wait for the waiter to help me choose my courses for the night. So I started out with the clams casino, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder. The clams for the clams casino were about the size of my palm. Delicious, flavorful, juicy and obviously fresh. No fishy taste and smothered in cheese and bacon. Probably the best casinos I've had! Shrimp cocktail was fresh and juicy. The clam chowder was thick and perfectly seasoned. After this "first" course I thought the restaurant was off to a great start! As for the main course, I was told that everything else on the menu would pale in comparison to the fresh Nantucket scallops that are only served from October to March. They were right! Served on top of perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked risotto cake, these small sized scalloped were sweet and succulent. The tomatoes were a nice addition giving the dish a nice dose of acid. At this point I'm stuffed. Like I need to unbutton my pants full. But they again insisted that I try the black bottom pie. Each day they have a different flavor of ice cream as the main make up of the pie. Tonight it was pumpkin. The "black bottom" is an oreo crust that was specially made for them. If the ice cream were coffee then this would be your typical mud pie, but the pumpkin was just so unusual, different and awesome that I left happier than ever... even though I think they needed a forklift to get me out of there. This place will easily make my top 5 favorite seafood places ever. Great service, great food. Loved it.
(5)
James K. G.
Very disappointed, dry, over cooked, musty dining room,(baked lobrs laterster and swordfish)Very dissapointed food was dry and lobster was musty with barnicles attached! 125 dollars for a nasty meal
(1)
Carol M.
I've been here twice. First time was so great, it demanded a return visit. There's a goat cheese appetizer that is amazing. Salads are decent. I thought the dressing on the Cesear was a bit "goopy" for my taste, but I prefer a lightly dressed salad in general. Crab cakes were amazing! Sweet, but not cloyingly so and not loaded with filler. I had one leftover and reheated it the next day on my stovetop at home and it was just as delcious. They are also have a lovely selection of sides. If your server doesn't offer, you can swap out the sides listed on the menu for each entree with any of the sides they have listed, which is great. My dining partner and I split the flourless chocolate cake for dessert. It was good. Pretty standard for a restaurant of this caliber. I'm sure we'll be back!
(4)
Basil W.
I went to the SP last night with friends for dinner. I've been many times before ( and frequent Via and 111 Chophouse too). The service is fantastic. I got the honeyed char -- it was tasty but not great. I really object to the smell of SP, slightly musty and fishy. I also find that I never feel well (tummy-wise) after eating at SP, Via, or Chophouse. I don't what it is-- other restaurants don't effect me this way. For most purposes, the ambient noise level is ridiculous. You can't carry on a conversation without shouting. In my book, SP only rates as a "fair" restaurant. Food isn't worth the price, nor is the atmosphere.
This is one of the places I like to go for special occasions. With drinks, an app, dessert and tip its an easy $100 for two people. Regardless of the price the seafood is frackin great! I can't say I order the same thing since the menu changes seasonally. Honestly though, I like that they change the menu based on what type of fish is fresh for the time of year. Makes me think they serve mostly wild caught, which arguably tastes a lot better than farm raised. I could be wrong in this assumption, but based on all my positive experiences I'd say they are doing something right.
(4)
P T.
I had a very tasty Ceasar Salad, though was a bit taken aback by the price. I won't knock that though, I had come here with a friend's recommendation. I was impressed with the service and decor. The parking lot was a bit of a fiasco, but I could see myself coming again.
(4)
Hubert H.
I have to say it was okay. For the price one pays: The stuffed flounder was a bit mushy, not as fresh as I think it could have been. The lobster bits were a bit tough. The clam chowder could have been more flavorful. Nonetheless, the restaurant has a 'classic seafood' restaurant feel to it, and is clearly very popular. The ambiance is classy, and it's easy to talk to your mates in the space.
(3)
Colleen B.
What are people talking about? I've heard good things about the Sole and decided to try it myself last night. The food was mediocre at best. Started with shrimp cocktail- very fresh and the best part of our meal. The lobster bisque was just ok- rather bland. However the big disappointment was the mahi mahi . Under cooked with no seasoning. The vegetables were too chunky and under cooked as well. Three bites and I was done. My husband had a lobster which he said was pretty good. Spent $140 and left hungry knowing I'd never return. I wish the entree could have been presented at a cooking competition so the chef could hear all that was wrong with it. I love a great meal but this was not it. I will say the service was good though. Completely surprised at what a bad meal this was!
(1)
Michele M.
If you like seafood, you should try this place. Started with a variety of oysters, which were really tasty! The grilled cajun swordfish was really fresh and delicious. My husband's sirloin steak was a little overcooked, but the lobster tails were a nice addition to the dish..Its a comfortable atmosphere at the bar with excellent service..We will be back to try other dishes on their extensive menu!!!
(4)
K V.
Probably my worst experience a a restaurant. The waitress behaved like she was doing us a favor by serving us food. They got the food out right in the middle of appetizers and blamed us for eating slow. What restaurant does that? The food was ok but the service sucked. Not going back. Definitely.
(1)
Eric J.
Great food, try the salmon with citrus shrimp....delicious!!! The clam chowder was also very good along with the Mai tai's.
(4)
Lawrence L.
I was told this is the best restaurant in Worcester MA... After enjoying a nice dinner here with good company, I was in agreement (although, it is the only dinner I had in Worcester MA)... But, having dined in a nice spot in Boston the previous night, this place was very comparable. We arrived with a small party, and had some time to wait at the bar. Several beers on tap, including some local brews (Wachusett Country Ale, and Harpoon IPA). I tried their Harpoon (nice mellow hoppiness with smooth finish). Wait was pretty short, even though the place was already pretty packed. We started with a dozen blue point oysters (Long Island NY) - sweet and tasty. I ordered up the Baked Haddock with Lobster Newburgh - moist and flaky with sweet and tender lobster craw meat. Had a side of "chowdah" - loved it. My colleagues had the 1.5 lb lobster served up with some nice melted butter - looked great, and the sushi plate - a ton of maki rolls. This place does seafood right! Service was 100% on point, and friendly. Always had our tables cleaned up from the empty plates, and drinks were always ready to be had. tons of parking in their own private lot. I definitely would recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area.
(4)
John A.
This is without doubt my favorite restaurant in Worcester. Never a bad meal. Always fresh. Excellent service. Good drinks to go with meal. As good if not better than any seafood restaurant I have been to in Boston, New York or any where for that matter. I can't even begin to mention favorite meals as they are all wonderful and I often struggle making choice. A must place to eat if in Worcester.
(5)
Peter R.
The food here is phenomenal. Love seafood even more now. Try the Salmon special, ora king salmon. This is a great dish. Sushi is really good here too! Manager, Max is a dumbass though... doesn't really know how to manage just how to speak down to his employees. He was the only thing that employees complained about. We were close enough to a service area to hear and we witnessed first hand his arrogance. Food was so good I still gave them 5 stars.
(5)
Tasha S.
My go to date night restaurant. The wait can be lengthy but it's usually always worth it. Professional, classy, service with great food especially anything lobster.
(4)
H O.
My family and I came here because the reviews seemed really good but we were very disappointed. The menu also looked really tasty. However the food lacked flavor and it wasn't even warm. We had to send back 2 dishes and the replacements weren't much better. However the service was excellent and staff were kind to replace our dishes. Overall go to Red Lobster instead. No joke Red Lobster is better.
(1)
Stephen B.
This week I had my second meal at Sole Proprietor in about the same number of years. Both experiences were very nice and not knowing too much about Worcester, this is a placeto go. It's a fairly large room and contemporary, not an old salty dog, woody seafood decor. Nice place. The food quality was very good. The clams on the half shell were very fresh and small (as they should be). The calamari and shrimp appetizers were excellent and of course the New England clam chowder met the standards. The main courses were also very good with people ordering a large cross section of the menu. Very happy and full after the meal. When in "Woostah", the is a great choice.
(4)
Meredith B.
I used to be anti-seafood, but when I decided I no longer wanted the palette of a 5 year old, I went straight to the Sole. Amazing tuna barcelona, shrimp cocktail, lobster and CRAB! Best seafood around... Easy!
(5)
Mark H.
The food was disappointing. There was a slaw in the crab cake that was really an inedible mess. Pretty good place for a business dinner though, the atmosphere is sophisticated.
(3)
Shaun G.
The land and two seas was fantastic. The scallops delicious and the firecracker sushi divine. Once you get to dessert it's so hard to finish but I recommend doing it because of course it's also ....Delish!
(4)
Elisabeth M.
Lunch for three during oysterfest. Service was prompt and friendly. Oysters were fresh, chowder was creamy, and everything else we ordered was quite good. Would be happy to dine here again.
This is a great spot for so many reasons. 1. The food is great. 2. Happy hour is a great way to get great prices on their food (Others have written the details in previous reviews) 3. The food is great. 4. The food is great. 5. The wine is delicious - even their cheapest glass! Waitstaff are knowledgeable and helpful. The seafood is wonderfully fresh and continually changes. The appetizers and main dishes are plentiful and the desserts are decadent! This place is a gem in the middle of Worcester. However, the wait can be long even on weeknights so call ahead! (There are no reservations for the bar however) Haven't had the sushi yet - I'll be trying that next happy hour!
(5)
Mike L.
I would give it a 4, but my meal just wasn't wonderful. Service was outstanding. Mike and Max were super attentive and exactly what I wanted in waiters (except for the rec). Can't complain there. I ordered the clam chowder and the lobster Newman. The newman is essentially a whole 1. 5 lb lobster cut up, cooked in a bisque like sauce, and covered with crumbled ritz crackers. Not as flavorful as I would have liked (mike's recommendation). I had food envy when I saw the lobster stir fry and the classic steamed lobster. The sushi menu and raw menu items looked pretty good too. I'd go back , but I'll be ordering differently.
(3)
Tani S.
If only we didn't live so far away from this great restaurant! Legal Seafoods (in our Cambridge neighborhood) doesn't come close! Such a tasteful interior, with wood tones and muted colors (comfortable chairs). We went for lunch on Saturday and enjoyed warm rolls and a stuffed sole dish and potato crusted trout. Both entrees were delightful (the pilaf accompanying the sole was flavorful) and we were more shocked that each dish with it's ample portions and well balanced flavors was only $11, roughly the same per dish as our normal breakfast places in Cambridge/Boston. We ended our wonderful meal with the indulgent whoopie pies. It was the perfect New England meal.
(5)
Theresa N.
Best happy hour ever. From 430-630pm Mon-Fri, Sole Proprietor has an amazing Happy hour featuring a $5 bar menu and 42 below martinis&cosmos. Made last minute plans to get drinks here with some friends and was pleasantly surprised. It's really crowded during happy hour and difficult to find parking in the small lot but there's some street parking in the neighborhood surrounding the restaurant. The 42below drinks weren't great but the food off the bar menu was impressive. We ordered the Tiger Eye and Scorpion Roll off the sushi portion of the bar menu. Surprisingly good for a restaurant that doesn't specialize solely in sushi. We also ordered mussels which were perfectly tender and extremely fresh. Service was pretty good given the fact that the bar area was so busy. I have yet to eat in the dining room but I love the bar there so much that i doubt that I'll ever make it all the way in for table service.
(4)
Jason C.
I stop by this place every time im in woosta and its still good every time. There are new items on the menu at every visit and the wait staff is friendly and attentive.
(4)
Patrick S.
The pinnacle of seafood in central mass. The food should largely speak for itself; but I'll say that they change up the menu seasonally, and they always have specials targeting a particular "in" fish. You'd do well to take advantage. I find the service here to be consistently amazing. Most recently, my drinks would be refreshed just -before- I put down the glass after finishing. I don't have much more to add. Food is great, and leave rom for dessert! Just go, if you haven't already!
(5)
Jess T.
The Sole is a place that has never let me down. I'm a seafood fanatic, and growing up on the ocean has made me slightly snobbish. Their seafood scampi medley is glorious and the portions are definitely plentiful. The decor is dark, sleek and sexy....three words one does not often use when talking about anything in downtown Worcester, but the Sole manages to bring some class to the city. My all time favorite item to order is the sushi platter. It runs about $22, but there's no way anyone can finish it in one sitting. I love to get that for dinner and then have the leftovers for lunch the next day. Their bloody Mary's are very tasty. Usually garnished with a jumbo shrimp, they are worth every penny. The only negative I have about the Sole is the parking. The lot is very small, and often very icy in the winter. The ownership needs to consider additional parking or investing in more rock salt otherwise they're bound to have a lawsuit on their hands one of these days.
(4)
Alison K.
Great food. Ate here during restaurant week so it wasn't too pricey.
(4)
Anne H.
Well, I have been here about nine months now. Tried a lot of new restaurants and still couldn't find something that really had that "wow' factor. I have been sticking with the Texas Roadhouse as the go to place. It was hubby's birthday and he loves seafood but we never can seem to find a good place to get some other than legal seafood. We went in at the busy lunch hour, which told me something right there, no parking, the place was packed. We did get a cozy booth. The atmosphere was surprising pleasant. We had two waiters that really knew how to keep the flow going and keep everyone happy. We were off to a good start. We had the fish chowder and my daughter had the clam chowder. Now, THAT is what heaven must taste like. Big chunks of fish, a rich, tasty broth. UUMMMM still dreaming of it two days later. The clam chowder had a smokey, bacon taste, and the most tender clams. Seriously, a bowl of this is a meal. The cup was $4.00 and the bowl, I think $6.00. Move on to the main course. We had the fish and chips, the haddock. Fresh, fresh, fresh. The shoe string fries were kind of a chintzy thing, but who cares. The fish portion was huge. Hubby had the salmon, the chef special of the day. He really enjoyed it so much. We will return. So much to try. I am now looking at the review next to mine with the $6.00 bar menu. Hello. Sounds like a plan next week. Had we not been so full, we would of been doing the happy dance on the way out. We had to home and recover from stuffing ourselves!
(5)
A H.
Decent food in a decent place, but not worth the price. A "nice dinner out," but nothing that special. A standard New England seafood restaurant.
(2)
Lia K.
Been here on a number of occasions and love the restaurateurs! The owners also manage 111 and Via. The only downside for the Sole is its a bit pricey. Below are some meals/food I've enjoyed. Cherrystones yum. surf and turf yum. Sushi rolls, not too bad. Shrimp salad with avocado. Love their happy hour bar menu. Service can be a bit off during peak hours but only on off-chance.
(4)
Mary Ann C.
Still an excellent seafood restaurant after all these years! Like an old friend, Sole Proprietor was still there and still serving up some old favorites as well as some new additions. I loved the Lobsterfest menu. They offer lobster with deviled eggs and lobster mac n cheese as well as many other appetizers and main courses. The lobsterbake was just the way it should be with steamed lobster,mussels, clams (I had mine raw on the half shell), potatoes and corn on the cob. By far the highlight of the meal were the clams. They were fresh, cold, salty and they gave me plenty of lemon wedges. The dinner included soup or salad but we had already had the clam chowder which was not Sole Proprieter's original recipe. What did they do to it??? I understand that they have renovated the place and modernized the menu but it would be nice if they offered the traditional thick chowder that tasted like a fisherman cooked it up on the docks! I was not impressed with the new recipe but it was not bad either. We picked salad and it was a delicious mix of field greens with cucumber and tomato. The honey mustard dressing was perfect. The maple glazed scallops looked more like an appetizer than a main course. I would not recommend it for anyone who is hungry, however the scallops were delicious. The lobster was not a female (sweeter) as requested and was overcooked. They quickly replaced it with another one that wasn't like rubber and were friendly about the concern. Overall I still love coming here when I am home visiting.
(4)
John P.
We were traveling home from Conn and we went on Yelp to research food along I290 in the Worcester area.....and this place was ranked highly. We arrived at 1pm on MLK holiday Monday, and the place was very busy. Small parking lot but located less than a mile off the highway. We secured the last 2 bar seats and began to admire the dish beside us of swordfish and veggies. The bartender was busy....there are more than 15 bar stools and she was full and pouring drinks for the restaurant too.....and it took a little bit for her to come over, but not bad. She was very pleasant and helpful, and made suggestions. We chose the fish taco app which was very good. The sesame shrimp was fresh and hot, but a little be batter-soaked/soggy, not super crispy. Still ok. Meals were 1-2.....my fried haddock was a thick cut piece fried to perfection in a light batter, although the fries are McDonald's/Burger king style. I loved the haddock. My wife tried a salad with crab meat and greens, and it came in the shape of a square...and it wasn't the best.....not awful, just not appealing. The reason we rate this place a 4 star was the seafood, and we can tell on future visits that the seafood is the way to go.....and service was good. They have 2 other places in town as well, Chop house 111, and , Via....so we may try those next. Overall a decent place for sure...especially in Worcester.
(4)
Joe B.
Best place for good quality seafood. Their oysters are wonderful and the sashimi tuna was incredible- melted in my mouth. The Newburg lobster though was a bit chewy. Great service!
(4)
Barbara S.
I don't know what all the hype is about! It was expensive and the food was just okay. Maybe my problem Is that I don't do sushi!
(2)
Nicole M.
I was born and raised in MA eating tons of seafood. Every year on my birthday when I was kid, my family would take me out for lobster. Funny sidenote, I was totally grossed out by coleslaw and to drive me nuts (or maybe it was a genuine word pronunciation issue?) my sister would call it "Nicole slob". Cute right? Anyway, at 18 I moved to Boston and was vegan for the next 7 years. By the time I started eating meat again, I was living in New York and then Los Angeles. While I've had plenty of seafood over the past several years, it hasn't quite lived up to my extremely nostalgic memory of eating classic New England seafood. After driving cross country from LA back to Boston this week, I went to Sole Proprietor and was absolutely in heaven. I got the Seafood Saute which was chalk full of all my favorites-lobster, scallops & shrimp and it was amazing. I was transported back in time to the seafood eating heydays of my youth. Food rundown: Seafood Saute: amazing with good sized lobster chunks Jumbo King crab legs: ridiculously amazing, I will be getting this next time for sure Seared blackened tuna: fantastic, fresh and cooked perfectly Sides of steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes: delicious, only complaint is that the sweet potatoes were a bit more liquified than I prefer but that's a personal thing. They still tasted very good. Red Sangria: decent (tough act to follow after drinking a lot of sangria in LA) White Sangria: Sucked down by a few people at my table crazily fast with lots of discussion of how delicious it was, though I didn't try it myself. Key Lime Pie: Despite being completely stuffed, it was good enough that I managed my fair share along with everyone else at the table. Service: It was a very busy Saturday night and we were not neglected for even a second. Very impressed. Price: Yeah, it's not cheap, but it's seafood and everything had by my table was very obviously fresh and cooked perfectly so no complaints here. Absolutely worth every penny. Decor: Classic & tasteful. I especially loved the black walls with the light wood trim. Lots of great prints on the walls as well. I will definitely make an effort to eat here again before I leave in a few weeks and judging by some of the other reviews I should stick to the dinner service.
(5)
Kaytee T.
This is one place I will never go again. The food is INSANELY overpriced for what you get, the restaurant itself is full of stuffy people and the menu is very small and limited. Drinks were okay, it took out waiter a good 5 minutes to even greet us even though the place was dead. He also reeked of cigarette smoke which was pretty gross. I love seafood so I was majorly disappointed.
(1)
Paul M.
Love the Sole! It's been a while since I've had dinner here, and I was in the mood for seafood, so decided to head over. The day before Thanksgiving and the place was packed, but the maitre d' did say there was a table available, so I was promptly seated. The mustard bluefish looked appealing, so I ordered it. The mustard sauce was just a tad overpowering, but otherwise the fish was absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. The rice, grilled squash and asparagus was also very good. The ambiance was very elegant and the staff very professional. Prices can be a bit high, but the food and service are worth it. My favorite seafood restaurant in Central Mass.....
(4)
Ray Z.
Great Service, Good Food.
(4)
Kelly H.
sorry to rain on everyone's parade on this place... but it's not good! i've gone here twice in a week's time frame and was not impressed either times. the first time i was here, i was really excited to try their seafood saute as another yelper had indicated it's good... WRONG! the seafood is drenched in butter and oil... there's sand in the scallops... the shrimps are opaque... (and you know how i HATE that)... and the lobster is over cooked... the description of the dish sounds awesome... and i hate it when i get the opposite... second time i came here, decide to possibly get the lobster stir fry... less the batter... cuz u know stir fry w/"tempera" batter in a non japanese restaurant may just mean mush! so got my lobster stry fry naked... and again... disappointed. the presentation of the plate is just a plop of pasta with a lobster head... the lobster was slightly better than last time... but to me the lobster was not cooked to order... seems like they cooked the lobster probably hours before and then reheated... *shakes head* thank goodness i'm not the only one that thinks that the lobsters are not good... two of my dinner party got their lobster dinner and also stated that their lobsters were also over cooked... how can you be a seafood restaurant and over cook lobster?!?! only explanation is that the lobsters were ALREADY cooked in the morning... cracked... and then possibly reheated... tisk tisk and they want to charge over $25 bucks for that quality?? honestly, that's just horrible. how long does it really to dunk a live lobster into a hot pot... 10 min while i'm eating my salad? ugh... hate when restaurants can't cook seafood right when they are known as a seafood restaurant... the saving grace is that some others at the party ordered fish and enjoy that. So i guess the conclusion is order fish... they can't really mess up grilling a fillet of fish... i hope not! i may give this place another shot in looking at their bar menu... the bar menu looks decent... and with the lack of options in worcester... i'd prob be back to try it... but that might be the last time if i'm disappointed again...
(2)
Susannah L.
Not a fan. I have NEVER had an outstanding meal at the Sole. EVER! The seafood is fresh and good - but not memorable. If I have to meet someone in this area of Worcester, I'll go here for a drink in the bar and a few oysters, but will not dine here anymore. The 111 Chop House and Via are amazing and owned by the same people. I would recommend either before suggesting the Sole to anyone.
(2)
Scott A.
Excellent service and the food was impressive. The bar staff was attentive and was nice...thank younger a greatbexperience!
(4)
Anthony S.
Good food, but the atmosphere has deterioated especially compared to its sibling restaurants - 111 chophouse and Via. Seems due for an updating. So, the food... Oysters were very nice. Tuna was good, but a bit overlooked for my taste. Haddock was very good. Deserts were large and very nice.
(3)
Dave U.
Best seafood in Central Mass. Great bar, friendly and helpful staff, good atmosphere in the restaurant. I'm a huge fan of the Angel Hair Bernardi.
(4)
Patrick K.
So, a little back story on this place...I have been trying to go there with my girlfriend for the better part of two years now. Yes, they accept reservations, I know, but it was always a spur the moment type of thing. Every single time, without exception, it was a 90 minute plus wait. Inevitably, we would end up at the Boynton, (a whole different review, but awesome...) Anyway, back to Sole...it is owned and operated by the same Group that has Via and 111 Chop, which I have been to both and find to be excellent. They are the best three restaurants in Worcester for sure. I think that the thing I like best is that each of the three restaurants have their own unique character. Other than the excellent service, high-quality meals, and over-priced (zing!) drink menu, they are all distinct. Again, back to Sole. So I finally got there. We were seated right on time with our reservation, which I always appreciate. We started off with a dozen Oysters, which were fresh and served with all of the fixin's. I had the Surf & Turf (Filet and Baked Stuffed Shrimp). And here in lies my only complaint for the evening. When I ordered the baked stuffed shrimp as the 'surf' portion, the waitress kindly informed me that the shrimp were not prepared in the traditional baked-stuffed fashion. She said that it was an all over batter, etc, etc. I said I couldn't wait to try it...but...and get this... when it was served to me it was basically fried shrimp! Fried f'n shrimp! Who the hell decided that such a quality establishment could even dream of getting away with this! If I wanted fried shrimp, I would have gone to Long John Silver's. Seriously, the GM of this place should take the Exec Chef aside and explain to him that when people are paying the cash that they charge, fried shrimp is a no go when pairing with a Filet. Seriously, I couldn't believe it. Even though the waitress flat out warned me it wasn't what I was thinking, I still find it unacceptable. What a chopper move this was...Chop City! Other than that, I have nothing bad to say about this place at all. I feel like if I were to make a better decision ordering, I would go with 5 stars, which could be in a future update. Also, parking is an absolute circus. They have a lot, just not nearly appropriately sized. Have fun with that one.
(4)
Sue B.
The crab stuffed huge Portabella mushroom was insane! Decadent, smokey and delish! I just love the bread to salad to meal to dessert. Ask the waiter what the knock your socks off items are and you won't be disappointed if you follow their recommendations.
(4)
Shannon C.
I'm not into seafood but I'm into the Sole. I've never had trouble finding something on the menu for the non-seafaring type. I always order a salad or appetizer and the veggie roll and am never disappointed. The seasonal revisions to the menu are a refreshing welcome and often delicious. The service is amenable. The wine list is extensive. And the martinis are excellent, especially the $5 happy hour specials. I always enjoy myself here. The Sole is a gem amongst the usual Worcester fare.
(4)
Trauts N.
The only recommendation I would make is to stick with the basic grilled, roasted or fried fish selections. The sauces, coatings and marinades overpowered the fish. It was good though. And reasonable.
(4)
Molly S.
I have been to the Sole about half a dozen times now, and I have some compliments, some complaints. I have little negative to say about the bar area and $5 happy hour menu. The sushi is very good (especially for $5 sushi), and the salads good. I'm underwhelmed by the drink offerings, especially the limited house cocktails, but it's fine. Service is prompt and friendly, which could always make up for any problems. One night my boyfriend and I dressed up and came in for a fancy meal, however. It was our anniversary and we wanted to have a really nice night. The problem was dinner did NOT go smoothly. My boyfriends "surf & turf", which you would think comes with a steak and a handful of shrimp, only came with ONE shrimp, and his steak was cooked incorrectly. His meal was missing one full side (asparagus) that had been advertised with the meal on the menu. It was an unbelievable failure of a meal. It was just before the kitchen closed, and I'm sure this had something to do with the rushing staff that made our meal. My boyfriend and I are both in foodservice, and we understand very well that when the end of a night comes, you want nothing more than to be done. But this does not excuse rushing through the last meal and screwing it up so terribly. We also understand that this has nothing to do with the waitstaff; our bumbling, meek waitress was terrified of us as we calming explained the problems. After apologizing profusely and sending over a manager, we were not granted any discount on the dinner. Although we did not act as outraged as we felt, we still feel we should have been given one in good faith. I'll be back for late-night cocktails and sushi, but I won't return to the Sole for a table-service meal.
(3)
Tom S.
Make a reservation here...come early and hang at the bar. Great wines, martinis and draft beers complemented by an open oyster bar! Yes this is "Worcester by the sea" believe it or not great seafood and sushi!! Fantastic menu, great apps, busy bar, nice dining experience here too with private rounded booths if you ask for them. Lunch is best in the high bar booths for faster service. Great Oyster selection. Hard to get a seat at the bar at happy hour ...
(4)
Crystal L.
Pescado Guisado con Arroz y Pan Tostado was great. Very flavorful. Downside is the mussels were a little sandy.
(4)
Kathryn P.
Really very good food. Expensive. However, they do have a $6 bar menu early in the evening. The sushi is super yummy. I have noticed that if you get the sushi for regular price, you get bigger pieces than the $6 menu. The rolls are great and there are crackers and cheese by the bar. Also great for a romantic dinner.
(4)
Tim C.
For a table, three stars. But sit at the bar, fours stars, at least. Get a drink, have some oysters, shrimp, and littlenecks and just enjoy yourself. Bartenders are attentive and helpful, the drinks are ample, and the seafood is first-class. At the bar you can get a limited menu at reduced prices at happy hour, and that's a real deal. Service at tables is less good; in my experience over several years it is uneven at best, sometimes just awful. The food is always very good, though.
(3)
Ryan G.
The Sole Proprietor is one of the upscale restaurants that is actually worth all the fuss. I have come here for dinner on several occasions and the food never disappoints. The restaurant is located in a nice building with a spacious private lot, rather rare and always a plus for Worcester! The interior has a classy yet homey feel and is broken up into several rooms, which helps keep down the noise. However, if you end up anywhere near the bar it is too loud, you can't even hear yourself think. As for the food, the menu offers an "eclectic" mix of seafood and includes some turf options for those land-lovers out there. I've tried their sushi, crab cakes, and various fish my favorite being the swordfish. The food is always fresh, tastes great, and is plated with the utmost care. It is far from bland and some of the dishes combine somewhat unorthodox flavors creating a unique dining experience. This is really impressive as a lot of upscale "non-ethnic" places simply rehash familiar dishes and jack up the price. The food is pricey, but I have had nothing but great food here--it is well worth the price. The only downside is the service, which can be rather spotty. For an upscale restaurant I expect fast and friendly service. I've had several great experiences, but also several poor ones. I also find it rather odd that you are assigned several people to wait on you, one is plenty. Spotty service aside, I highly recommend the Sole for the best seafood you will find in Worcester. Keep in mind that the place is usually packed, especially for holidays, so be sure to make a reservation at least a few days in advance.
(4)
Bryan D.
This place is delicious. If I was rating it for dinner, it would only get 4 stars. For lunch, it gets 5 though because the value is so good. Everything is delicious.
(5)
gus w.
Kind of a hidden gem near WPI. One of the nicest fish houses I've been to. We took some out of town family guests here, on a tuesday night -- it was packed. Had great service, the waiter was able to explain everything and gave some great recommendations. They have seperate staff handle water/bread. Everyone ordered something different -- all was great. They made some special preperations for us, no questions asked and everything came out perfectly. Prices are super reasonable for a fairly classy joint. Living not too far away, we'll be back for sure.
(4)
Joseph K.
Excellent fresh sea food. needs little bit of work on better preparation for serving the clams and oyster. (broken shell pieces inside the shell) Must visit place if you are into New England style sea food
(4)
Roger S.
The Sole is consistently excellent with a fantastic wine list. We've tried specials and menu standbys - Tuna Barcelona they were great. Good decor, bustling bar and overall good service.
(4)
Courtney M.
Best sushi in town!! We go here every year for dinner when we come to have a booth at the DCU Center for the Sporting Show. This place is great! They have almost all male waiters that are very attentive to your every need. I highly reccomend this place if you are in town. Make a reservation if you can. It is very busy there.
(5)
Emmy S.
For my dad and my traditional lobster birthday dinner, my mom introduced us to her favorite seafood restaurant in the Worcester area. I'm going to be straight up with this: the wait staff was so friendly and very attentive, the seafood was *fantastic* and wicked fresh, and I like the dressy atmosphere. One of those places you can go in jeans and a t-shirt, but if you feel like having a dressy night out, you still fit right in. We got everything from lobster, to clams, to shrimp; all amazing. I'm drooling a little bit just thinking about it. Oh, and the desserts are illegally fantastic. Oh, man, I'm killin' myself over here. Who's up for a trip to Worcester tonight?? I cannot wait to go back there again.
(5)
Tina S.
This place is very good and great for sushi, and tryin this thing called a fish bowl is a must...but be prepared to wait cause it gets packed
(4)
Mimi K.
The best seafood Worcester has to offer. Nuff sed.
(4)
Kevin S.
great lobster roll and the land and two seas dish was great, really tasty. didnt get much bleu cheese flavor from the potatoes but that wasnt a real problem. all in all a great meal.
(4)
X to the Z M.
Excellent restaurant with creative and innovative foods at a reasonable price. Well decorated restaurant that is both a blend of formal and casual. They occasionally offer special "late night deals" for college kids that help make it more affordable. Go for lunch and the food you get for the price is a steal.
(5)
MC L.
Down hill since the last time I went. Four dinners and everything from apps to entrees where just ok. Chicken for the non-fish lover was greasy. Fish ranged from no flavor, to fishy / not fresh. I was hoping for much better.
(2)
Russell O.
This is THE restaurant we compare all others with. Over the past 16 years that I have been a customer, I have never been disappointed. Food is the best with a wide variety of seafood, basically American cuisine with Asian touches. The service is impeccable with very low turnover amongst the wait-staff. I am sure it will be one of your favorites after your first time.
(5)
Doug M.
I hadn't been to the Sole Proprietor in about 15 years - shouldn't have stayed away for so long. Went a few Saturdays ago and loved the food. I had the fisherman's platter - excellent. My wife had the salmon which was very good (though my grilled salmon at home is better) and my son had the seafood alfredo, which was great. Service was really good and I have to say that prices were much better than I anticipated too.
(4)
Sugar J.
I have been here several times (unfortunately wasted my money too) and will NEVER go back. I think the reviewers who "love" this place truly have never left Worcester. Really. Most likely they've never been fortunate enough to experience a real nice seafood restaurant on the east coast , whether in Boston or Maine ??? Or, of course, San Francisco Bay. Really, it is all VERY relative. The Sole has gone way downhil IMO. It used to be passable in some ways, but now ? Like a huge, careless , common chain restaurant. It is always way too noisy. You are always seated next to a table of like 10 giggling, drunk men. (Yes really). Yuk. The service is very slow and careless. Certain dishes (fish, lamb chops) are always undercooked and NOT how we ordered them at all. The sides are tasteless, mostly. If you get a baked potato you will be safe ! My friend's fish was practically raw inside, and we had to send it back. What came out next, was a very dry fish in its place. Their fish chowders are overly fishy, gross. NO ambience. Just an atmosphere of a huge fast-food type joint, but NO "fast" service. Parking is horrendous. If you get take-out you are forced to wait in a rude crowd of pushers and near the bar, very loud and it all basically is a torturous experience. all around. These owners own Via and 111 Chophouse. Here's hoping they stop growing.
(1)
Brad H.
Our daughter attends WPI and this is a top choice of restaurants when we want a nice meal. We've been there often and have never been disappointed. Love the clam chowder.
(4)
David W.
One of the best seafood meals I've had. It was the sauteed Seafood Platter, with well prepared shrimp, scallops, and crab claw. The service was excellent and they were eager to substitute the sweet potato mash with the rice pilaf and vegetables.
(5)
Stephanie M.
A favorite of our family for many years, this spot is a meeting place for drinks and apps around the bar or a large dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Love the Buffalo Chicken M-80s!
(4)
Angela G.
Being from Colorado we were looking for some great east coast sea food and this is the place. The New England Clam Chowder was delicious! Love that they take reservations because we had a party of 17! The fried clams are also very very good! Why can't this great sea food be all over the US??? Kind of difficult to find parking but there is an attendant in the parking lot helping you to park (yes it is free parking).
(5)
Jill F.
Went for lunch last Friday. Prices for lunch are very reasonable, but portions of the fish and chips were very small for the fish part. I had the fisherman's sandwich and my fish piece was much larger, for some reason. The simple sandwich and fries were very good. My sister-in-law had crab cakes that came with nicely cooked fresh veggies and she loved it. I have to say that the real star of the lunch was the Bloody Mary! SO delicious. Nicely seasoned, a skewer with olive, lime wedge and cherry tomato and a jumbo shrimp resting on the rim. YUM! Would love the recipe as it was different than ours at home.Excellent service from the wait staff. Would recommend!
(4)
Courtney D.
I went to the Sole Proprieter on a whim a few Saturdays ago at 8:30 after leaving another restaurant unhappily (see other review on Allora in Marlborough). I decided Worcester was my best bet for a decent dinner and I knew our options at 8:30 were going to be limited. We decided to take our chances at the Sole knowing we'd probably have to wait an hour to eat w/o a reservation. Well, we were right. The place was PACKED...like sardines in a can. The sizable bar area could not fit one more person in it if it tried. We ordered and smushed ourselves against the wall waiting for a table which we knew would be a long time coming. The bartender was happy to appease my request for something "fruity and non-alcoholic" being that I'm pregnant and am beyond bored with diet soda. Luckily, our table was ready after just about 45 minutes. The restaurant overall is actually a bit more casual and reasonably priced than I had imagined. Granted, a 3lb lobster or raw bar buffet will cost you, but overall I found their prices average. The restaurant is loud and I would say isn't really fine dining, but dressy casual. Our waitress was prompt, but you could tell at 9:15 on such a busy night, all she wanted to do was go home. They brought warm rolls and butter (just two, which we devoured before they even hit the table) and proceeded to peruse the very large and diverse menu. My husband ended up with a bbq flounder (which sounded interesting) and I, chicken. I know, I know...but I don't like any seafood. I was pleasantly surprised to see soup or salad was actually included with your meal which is rare these days. The chowder and salad were both very good. Our meals were good as well. Not "blow me off my chair" fantastic, but good. The place is average-above average. I would go back because I really liked their diverse menu. I'm a sucker for a big selection and the prices were appropriate. Overall, decent spot if you're in the area and want seafood.
(3)
Erin H.
My husband and I went here for our anniversary after doing a ton of research, and we couldn't have been happier! Our service was great--the food--to die for! And the price was really reasonable for what we got. Very pleased!
(5)
Stephen H.
I've eaten here many times. Always pleased with the food. My favorite would be the salmon with shrimp wasabi but I have never had anything but a great meal. Only negaitve is the noise - the restaurant gets a bit noisy when it is crowded. Best seafood in Worcester.
(5)
Anne A.
This is the best seafood restaurant in central and western Mass. Always excellent food, service and they always honor the reservation you have made. No waiting!
(5)
Brian G.
Great fresh fish! Late night menu is the best in town!
(5)
Shreedhar D.
This a consistently excellent seafood restaurant. The seafood is always fresh, perfectly cooked, and not too expensive. Last night I had the king salmon with lobster bacon slaw, pumpkin risotto, and sweet and spicy pumpkin seeds. The salmon melted in my mouth, the slaw was refreshing, the risotto was tasty and well spiced, and the seeds add nice texture. All in all, this is a great seafood place.
(5)
Trina J.
Ate here on last night. The food was good but the service was slightly lacking. The server mentioned she (Caitlyn) and another person would be serving. I would note that I only saw the other person twice. Once when the meal was finished and to pick up the credit card receipt to inspect the tip. When I lived in the area I ate here pretty often so I entered expecting the same level of service. I ordered my appetizer, meal and beverages. One of my beverages was water. I had to look around when both my glasses were empty to get a refill. Needless to say, the water was refilled but I had to specifically ask for more of the other. On top of this, when they main entree arrived, I requested sweet potato mash and was given butternut squash. They look and taste pretty different but my thought was "it'll be an easy fix". I finished the rest of the meal before anyone stopped by to check on me. This was the first time I saw the other waitress. She was leaning into take the plate and I mentioned I thought I didn't receive the correct side item because it doesn't taste like sweet potato. She looked at it with no acknowledgment, stopped by Caitlyn and went in the kitchen. Caitlyn walked over and said, now that I have looked at it, it looks different. The check comes and she says take your time but her return to pick up the bill was the quickest response I received all night!!!! She returned it right away and I filled it out. SOON as I filled it out, the other waitress (whose name I wish I knew) swooped in and said let me take that for you. Before walking off, she opened it, looked at the tip and put it in her pocket! What's unsettling is you provided no service but wanted to disregard etiquette to review the tip? Have you been burned that many times by women? Caitlyn stopped by with a smile and thank you. She also asked if I needed anything else. Guess the bus girl - waitress shared the details despite her lack of assistance. Geesh! I am disappointed but relieved that this was not a regular occurrence. The food is great but anyone would avoid a place with inattentive and unprofessional servers.
(2)
constantconsumer c.
The smoked seafood platter was delicious. Other than smoked salmon, I had not tried too many other smoked fish until now. I loved the smoked scallops and the smoked mussels. Who knew? The clam chowder was tasty but the clams werent as tender as say Legal Seafood. The crab rangoon has lots of real crab!
(4)
Chris M.
My wife and I ate here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. It was the perfect choice. We were in the neighborhood visiting my sister (we're from CT). We went at 4pm thinking it would be slow, but it was quite busy. The service right from the start was exceptional. Friendly staff and we had two waiters (Stephanie and Joe). Both of them gave us great food recommendations. We started with a dozen oysters from all over the country (Canada too). These were raw oysters served on ice (very nice presentation). Joe was able to give us a history of EACH oyster and what paired well with each type. They were the best and freshest oysters we have ever had. It was worth the $27! We both had clam chowder, which was also exceptional. I had The Land of Two Seas for dinner- 4 oz steak, pan seared shrimp and scallops over mashed potatoes and topped with asparagus. The combination was amazing. My wife had the twin lobster tails over mashed parsnips and portabella mushrooms. She loved every bit. We both had the season Shipyard Pumpkinhead beer (cinnamon-sugared rim), which I highly recommend. Goes VERY well with seafood and is filling enough to leave you full. We skipped on dessert. I would come back here in a heartbeat. We love food- cooking, eating out, and trying everything. So giving this such a high rating comes with an eclectic palette. -Chris
(5)
Bryan R.
A true seafood gem, in proximity to WPI in Worcester, MA in short proximity to I-290. Parking is hit and miss and street parking is even worse for weekend dinners, happy hours and Thursday and Friday lunch. I would highly recommend making reservations for dinner to avoid the up to 2 hour wait. The lunch menu is good in comparison to most seafood restaurants but if you want the full experience go for dinner. My recommendations would be the following: Lunch: Trout with a Potato Crust Honey Chipolte Bacon Wrapped Scallops Shrimp, Tomato, Garlic (Shrimp Scampi) Appetizers: Lobster & Ravioli Rainbow Maki Entree: Shogun Sushi Combo Land and Two Seas Salmon Fillet and Jumbo Shrimp with Hoisin Wasabi Drizzle Desert: Chocolate Tulip Don't get me wrong, all of the dishes at the Sole are good but these dishes are head and shoulders above the rest and could easily become a person(s) 'usual' dish when visiting. I would avoid dishes that are primarily Chicken or Steak, these selections would be good but not great and not worth getting at the Sole. For dinner your meal comes with a salad or soup. The Sole used to have a house dressing that was a French and Bleu Cheese mix but now there dressing selections are pedestrian. When given the option get the Seafood Chowder in lieu of the clam to avoid a half bowl of potatoes in your soup. Typically of most restaurants I would not recommend getting the boiled lobster, for the price of one you could get 2-3 in the grocery store. Dress is business casual, jeans, t-shirts, flip flops and shorts are not recommended, unless you want to feel like a fool. Average price per person reflects drink, appetizer and entree. Not great for large parties based on how busy they get. We tried to make reservations for a wedding party and were given a lot of ridiculous stipulations for our reservations so we ultimately booked at another locations. Best for intimate dining and parties greater than 8.
(5)
F D.
Solid seafood performance. Not a great location in a rough city, but the private parking lot and relatively easy highway access let's you zip in and out of a tough area. I had the Tuna special- outrageously good. If I have to be in Worcester- this is where I'm going.
(4)
Shane L.
My wife and I are truly very big fans of the Sole Proprietor. The reasons are many but especially the fact that the seafood is fresh and service is great. If you are looking to take someone on a date, take them here and get some steamers or mussels for apps. Then rock out some very good fresh sushi or a fresh bowl of piping hot new England style clam chowder. Then definitely partake in baked stuffed haddock and/or lobster it is really good. I guess the the only thing that I would change here is the price. I guess you get what you pay for though. It is the old adage. I definitely recommend this restaurant for a great night of dining and delicious desserts.
(4)
Cindy W.
This place is truly awesome! Simple decor but the food will make your palate dance circles around you. My picks are raw bar (oysters, clams and shrimp). So fresh that you think the beach is behind the restaurant. My all time favorite entree is the Nantucket scallops. Sweet, moist, and AMAZING!! Never rubbery or sandy. Cooked perfectly and the quality is like the Legal Seafood Corp. If you have a large group, call them and give them a heads up. This place tends to be a little busy so be sure to make reservations. They are worth the wait.
(4)
Tanya S.
I don't like the dual-service shenanigans that fancy restaurants pull..it's a bit overwhelming. I chose to have my birthday celebration there and it was very pleasant. The grilled salmon is perfect. the sweet potatoes (mashed) are consistently amazing. Also the sesame fried shrimp are to die for.
(4)
Allyson S.
I have been going to the happy hours for years. It's no longer $5 which is a bummer. Tiger Eye Roll is my favorite. The lobster bisque has changed in the last few years it didn't have flavor and was brown which was odd. The service was odd with two waitresses.
(4)
Hildy P.
We were aiming to go to the restaurant across the street but there was no parking available and the Sole Proprietor had a lot of dedicated parking......what luck! We ordered the clam chowder which was perfect. We each ordered the lobster salad sandwich which was heaping with big chunks of lobster lightly tossed in something that was non-mayo maybe lemon juice. It was fabulous.
(5)
Carrie P.
I love this place! It is always my go to place. Everything I've ever had there has been excellent. Appetizers, soups, salads, meals, drinks and deserts, everything is always fabulous. The waitstaff is always on point and helpful and friendly. The flirtinis are my favorite and they always put cute designs on the top! Love the bar section and the ambiance. It's just a great fun place! We just went with 2 other couples this past weekend and I had the blackened scallops and they were excellent. Our waiter was Dustin and he was great! I'd recommend them in a heart beat.
I've eaten here several times and I've never been disappointed! We went there just the other day. I had salmon and my wife had haddock. Both were nice portions of quality fish which were well prepared. We both ordered steamed broccoli with our meals which was slightly undercooked. The chowder was a little thin and bland. Everything else was excellent. The cherry stones and firecracker rolls were very good. The service has always been great each time I've eaten there. The wait staff is professional and very knowledgeable.
(4)
Darrell L.
First time I've ever visited the Sole and all I can say is Terrific. I was recommended the spot by some locals I was doing business with because I mentioned I came to Boston for Chowdah. The place was packed when I got there. Parking can be challenging but I got extremely lucky and got the last spot in the lot. I was greeted cheerfully at the door by 3 hosts. I was shown the way to a table in a cozy back room. The place is dated but I wasn't there for decor. I started the meal with a cup of chowder and it lived up to the hype. It had a smooth taste which had hints of the sea. The only drawback was the fact it needed a bit more clam. It wasn't overloaded with potato and was creamy goodness. I asked my waitress for her opinion on a meal and agreed with her on the Winter Grilled Salmon. The fish came out perfectly cooked. The apple added the perfect notes when paired with everything in a bite. Most items were just ok on their own but together the dish sang. I recommend the restaurant and if you are struggling with a choice on the menu Seek out the advice of your server. AL assisted me greatly and it was a great meal. I'll definitely be going back.
(4)
Leah T.
The Sole is one of my favorite places for seafood. They always have great service and the staff is very accommodating to any and all needs. I have come here to celebrate my birthday the past two years and am yet to be disappointed. I have never tried their sushi but they do offer a pretty extensive sushi menu. Their oysters and raw bar items are extremely fresh and super yummy. Some of the desserts are a little rich but there is a very large selection and I certainly haven't tried them all. They do offer menu items that aren't found in the sea but I am yet to try them. If you are craving some chowder this is the place to go. Very, very good. Possibly the best in Worcester. My last visit I ordered the salmon with butternut squash risotto. My fish was cooked perfectly and the risotto was amazing. (I also ordered the chowder, naturally) The portion sizes are big and most meals come with a soup/salad option. If you also order an appetizer there is no way you'll leave there hungry. Overall a great spot for seafood!
(4)
Aaron W.
I was working in Worcester for a few months and the Sole Proprietor was recommended by a co-worker. Very impressed. Large wine selection, good beer selection and our food was nearly perfect. Appetizer was crab spring rolls, I had seared tuna and my girlfriend had some crab stuffed shrimp with steak. SOOOOO GOOD!! Waiter was knowledgeable about the wine and attentive to us. He went out of the way to place the uneaten tuna on a bed of ice so it would keep better since we told him we were not going directly home. Five star service, five star menu, five star drinks. We will return. Thank you!
(5)
James R.
Great sushi and desserts, that is (unfortunately) all I've tried there thanks to their amazing half-priced happy hour deal. The bar area is a nice place to hang out with good staff and a very laid-back atmosphere late-night. The regular menu is pretty expensive, but the food and atmosphere make it a classy place.
(4)
C L.
Really really great food and awesome service. Can get loud and crowded but that's because everyone loves it there. Great place for a long, multi-course, special occasion dinner with friends or a fancy date. Expensive, but very worth it!
(4)
Jim D.
Somewhat disappointed. Although the food was good there is a lot lacking in the total dining experience. A very expanded seafood menu and if that's what you're looking for, give it a try. The ambiance is another story. Very crowded, tables are close together, loud and noisy. Worst of all they really try to rush you. After studying our server and other tables around us it was obvious the main objective of each server is to turn the table as quickly as possible. Which is understandable since there is always a line waiting. The wine list leaves a lot to be desired. They have great seafood. However if you want a nice dining experience, relaxing and romantic this is not the place. It is a very popular restaurant, you will need a reservation.
(3)
Kayla I.
Always loved the sole! The food is always good and servers are very attentive ! I went there on a Sunday night and 2 male bartenders, one named raf and the other was an older gentleman were so nice and friendly! Will be back
(4)
Stephen P.
We found our new favorite restaurant! Front the moment we walked in the door the staff was welcoming and helpful. Appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, drinks, and desserts....all perfect! Tara, our waitress, was excellent.
(5)
Larissa A.
This is my father's go to restaurant in Worcester. I went for the first time this weekend. I was floored! The food is amazing. I had the bluefish that was a special, fresh and delicious. One of my pet peeves is when places load up on the starch to skimp on the veggies. Not Sole Proprietor! My meal came with roasted mixed (squash, zucchini, peppers, onions) and also an asparagus hash, which was asparagus and crab meat chopped up together (large pieces)! Then we shared the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. YUM and YUM! The one thing that took this place to five stars is the staff. Who not only introduced themselves but asked our names and continued to call us by our names throughout our visit. All of them, not just our waiter. I will be back!
(5)
Ingrid S.
New favorite find.
(4)
Brad S.
One night is Worcester for business and decided to try it. It was very good. I will deffinetly go again to try another dish!
(4)
Christopher H.
The standard bearer of worcester. You want a solid meal? Go here. It is always packed, lunch, dinner, whenever. Not the greatest for afterwork drinks, unless you feel like talking about your grand kids with all the old folks at the bar. That being said, you can't go wrong here.
(4)
Lauren E.
I've only been here twice but both times my vegetable medley was overcooked and looked and tasted like a frozen mix. Also, if they are supposed to specialize in seafood, shouldn't they know how to wash seafood properly so it's not sandy? I had the clam chowder and my Mom had scallops and both of us were crunching away on sand. She couldn't even finish her meal unfortunately. I know people who always go here and it's supposed to be one of the biggest hot spots in Worcester but for the life of me cannot understand why. Legal's Harborside in Boston is 10,000 times better and there are much better restaurants elsewhere in Worcester.
(2)
Wendell W.
I'll make this really short. The service is really good but the food is just average. Maybe if you like bland food you would think the seafood is great, but there are more herbs and spices other than black pepper, salt and parsley. I honestly don't believe I had any salt or pepper in my food. Legal Seafood may be a chain but at least it gives you more flavor.
(2)
Deanna D.
So we were a party of 6 on a Sun night and the place was packed. The hostess greeted us and sat us immediately even without a reservation. The servers promptly greeted us and were very friendly and knowledgeable. The decor consisted of dark wood, pictures of fish and mounted fish along the wall--Not exactly the romantic ambiance but a nice restaurant. It was very busy in there so it got a bit loud as the night progressed. They have a great vine list with a huge selection of bottles. They even had a good selection of wines by the glass. The clams casino was really tasty. The freshly baked warm rolls were yummy. The clam chowder had great consistency and flavor but lacked in clams. I had the Crab and Langostino stuffed Sole which ended up being trout since they ran out of sole. Sole Proprietor running out of sole--a little ironic? Regardless it was very good. The fish was perfectly cooked and the stuffing was delicious. It was served with mashed sweet potatoes, asparagus and beets--- Everything was tasty minus the asparagus; it was steamed and flavorless. My bf had the Salmon Oscar which he really enjoyed.... again the asparagus was the complaint. We had a variety of dishes at the table and everyone enjoyed their meal. Very weak coffee, cappuccino and espresso which was a bit disappointing. Over all a good experience. The service was excellent, the prices are reasonable and the quality was good. Sole Proprietor is good option for a nice dinner while in the Worcester area.
(4)
Ann P.
I have been dining here since I was in my 20's so a longgggggg time. The place is not the same. Go for the bar and to watch a game. Our waiter Max was great. The sushi was mediocre to bad. The lobster bisque had a huge chunk of lobster but had no taste. The shrimp in my Bloody Mary was soggy yuck. The bread was great and real butter (in foil packets). Mom loved her salmon and fries. The Caesar salad was fine. No more..the days of this being my go to spot in Wormtown are over. 75 with a generous tip.
(2)
Cee Cee S.
Another date with another db. At least this guy had some balls and picked the place. The parking lot was a circus. There are attendants directing you here and there and you can only park in the spot they wave you into. I was confused....was I dining in Worcester or attending a show at Gillette. The inside was nice and we were promptly seated. We were tucked in a back dining room with several small parties and a large group of senior citizens. One which was exuding a certain Eau du Depends. Not the best dining ambiance. But how do you say I want to move because someone here smells like pee? The conversation was stiff as were the drinks. Thank goodness for that otherwise, I wouldn't have made it. The food was delicious, but I found the portions large. The fried artichokes were unexpected stars. We topped the evening off with a coffee. Thankfully, they were weak otherwise I would have been up for hours thinking about what a jerk this kid was.
(3)
Timothy R.
I believe i read somewhere that the Sole has achieved national accolades for their seafood. And they deserve every commendation. The ambiance is what I'd call "classy casual." Basically, you can't get away with gym shorts but a jacket is by no means required. A nice button down and jeans for men to give you an idea. The dining room is slightly dark in a great way, allowing for a romantic atmosphere if bringing an interest or partner. The wait staff is top notch. They consistently work in teams, so you'll have at least two waitors every time you dine. One usually serves as an assistant to the other but both are usually very attentive. I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant. Their sushi comes in many different varieties and the chefs are creative in the roll designs. The Firecracker roll is a favorite (tempura). The entree menu is large with basically everything seafood you could possibly imagine. I usually stick with a white fish, which are available blackened or grilled with potato and vegetable. But if you are looking for a more dramatic choice they have very creative combinations of fish, pastas, potatoes, vegetables, etc. The Sole has a full bar with a large wine list and a variety of cocktails. Their house sangria is to die for. Yes, It is expensive. But so very worth it.
(4)
Elissa B.
My husband took me to The Sole for Valentine's day last night and I have to say, it didn't disappoint! Not only did we get seated right away, the food was FANTASTIC and the service was excellent! My husband even remarked at how good the service was and usually he is oblivious to it all. He got the blackened swordfish with potatoes au gratin, and I got the broiled haddock with roasted potatoes and butternut squash. Not a morsel left. We had Red Sangrias with the meal and coffee and the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. Unbelievable experience. It was so good, that we tipped the waiters 25% instead of the normal 20%. It was a $100 bill, but totally worth it. If you are on the fence....don't be.
(5)
Stacey A.
The good ole Sole. I've never been a huge fan but I don't hate it either. Expensive - another company sponsored lunch spot.
(3)
William E.
Just went here today for the first time....very very good. Just sat in the bar with a client & had drinks & appetizers. M80 Chicken - so so Buffalo Shrimp - great Clams Casino - great Swordfish Burgers - fantastic Scorpion Roll - fantastic x 100 Can't wait to get back there to explore the main course menu...
(4)
Andy F.
I'm not a huge seafood fan outside of coastal cities but this place could change my mind. If you can go during Crabfest (which is the month of July) don't pass up on the specials. My absolute hands down favorite is the Crab Stuffed Portabello-- out of this world. Second to this would be the Trout. Stay away from the BBQ Tuna-- yes I said Barbecued Tuna-- I've not made a mistake this big since ordering the Goat Cheese and Tomato Omelette at Zaftigs. The staff is upscale as are some of the prices, but this is a nice restaurant with some really outstanding food. Worthy of special occasion dinners or a nice lunch.
(4)
Bruce L.
The Sole Proprietor... has been a favorite of ours for a long time. Great seafood, I have never had a bad meal here. My favorites include the Tuna Barcelona, Tuna Sashimi dinner, the clam chowder, the tuna crunch roll (great!) and also the lobster ravioli appetizer is to die for. Finally the tulip cup mouse for dessert. So about the Sole. It is a rather busy place so reservations are good if you can get them, very popular in the area. The service has always been top notch and the food cooked to perfection, really! Many different kinds of seafood. Tip: They have a set menu price on Sundays for $21.99 choice of three apps, three entrees, three desserts. For this set price you can have a cup of clam chowder or garden salad, tuna Barcelona (tuna steak stuffed with feta and sun dried tomatoes, seared with peppercorns) and the yummy Tulip Cup dessert. Nice way to spend an hour or so trust me. Yes, there are other options but this is what I had Sunday it was great. I have been here with large groups and had wonderful meetings, I think you can reserve a big side room if you have enough people and money ;) Also great for a special meal with the one you love. Lastly, they have a late night menu with $6 items but I'm not sure what it includes.
(5)
Josh F.
Went during restaurant week for the first time. It was crowded as expected and the waitstaff was obviously scrambling to keep up - which they did a great job of. Atmosphere seemed dated to me. Got the broiled scallops. They were simply meh. Oh and someone forgot to top it with breadcrumbs and threw them on raw at the end. Haven't been back since and not sure I'm going to.
(2)
Paul L.
Excellent! Hoppin' location, very friendly staff, and the food was wonderful. Fish was fresh and perfectly cooked with tasty accompaniments (fried artichokes...yum) Decent chowder as well.
(4)
J M.
We hadn't been to the Sole in quite a while, but decided to try it. I have never been so disappointed! The service was great, but the dinner wasn't. The clam chowder is full of flour and potatoes, and too much pepper. Why isn't it as good as Legal Seafood's? My "maple glazed" scallops were plain, unseasoned (steamed?) scallops unceremoniously dumped into a pool of butternut squash. The "maple glaze" was drizzled into the squash instead of onto the scallops. Why weren't the scallops sauteed in butter and the glaze done in the pan? The accompanying broccoli was so hard as to seem uncooked. My husband had the stuffed flounder that the menu promised was stuffed with crab and other seafood, but he could find none amidst the bread stuffing. What has happened to the Sole? This dinner was Sunday, March 17, 2013, at 6:00 PM. This is going to be taken off my list of Worcester's best.
(2)
Katie P.
This is the best seafood restaurant I have ever been to. The Scorpion Roll with pineapple is AMAZING. Every meal we have had here has been outstanding. This is the restaurant that I miss the most now that we live in CT. Parking is sometimes tough. If you have to wait to be seated it is well worth it!
(5)
Ann K.
The Sole Proprietor was VERY busy on a Tuesday night but after a short wait we were seated. Seating was interesting as it was a booth - spacious enough in terms of seating space but the table leg was so big that it took up most of the leg room. Add to that huge menus and oversized bread plates and we were out of space before we even got our drinks. It was "Lobsterfest" time so there were alot of great lobster based specials. The table next to us opted for the 2.5 lb monsters but we picked more subdued entrees. The Lobster Risotto was very good although very light on the promised artichokes and asparagus tips. The food was good enough to override the downside of the cramped seating but if you are tall, I suggest that you ask for a table rather than a booth!
(3)
steven R.
really overrated in my opinion high prices for little. I just don't get it the service was ok but not as good as it should of been for what they were charging the was clean I sat at the bar and I understand that is a seafood restaurant and don't mind smelling some fish but it was a strong smell. I have always been told if it smell really fishy then it is not fresh and stay away. with that being said I wanted to try something so I had a few drinks and the seafood chowder it was good not great it had large chunks of a fish in it and a few small pieces of something else but not much of a variety as I was hoping for. overall I was just disappointed with the whole experience.
(2)
Alan P.
We made reservations and asked for a quiet table. What we got was a room with a table of 6 very loud people. We complained to Max the manager. Nothing was done. We heard about their colonoscopy and prep. Will not go their again since this is the client they prefer!
(2)
Thomas N.
lunch recently....ate in the bar area, verrrry noisy, with a perticularly noisy person or two.....service was pleasant and attentive....bar special was 6$ russian river vodka drinks, they were good although the martinis were small.....softshell crab (crab time) very good, seafood assortmnet good, fish was a little on the dry isde, very attractive area and it's own parking lot....have been there before, will be there again...
(4)
SaraLee C.
AMBIANCE: loud, crowded, unpleasant. An up-scale (and slightly bigger) diner experience at best. SERVICE: our waitress was not very knowledgeable about their drink options in specific, and in general, just plain unmemorable. PRICE: Given the quality of the food, just plain expensive! OVERALL: This place felt like an overpriced and dressed-up Bertucci's with a penchant for seafood, but, without the mouth-watering rolls.
(2)
Suzanne G.
I really liked this place. Went for lunch with two colleagues and we were seated quickly, and attended to efficiently. I had a salmon tips with lemon caper sauce with roasted vegetables. Quite delicious, dessert was very good too, flan in buttery caramel sauce. My companions enjoyed their lunches as well. It was very busy, our meals were good, prices are really good. I'd go again when in the area.
(4)
Matt R.
This place is pretty good... maybe 4-stars for Worcester, but definitely not a 4-star restaurant in any other city. All of the food is overpriced, you will be hard pressed to not spend 25-30 bucks per person here even for lunch. The Oysters are fresh (I would definitely recommend them) Sushi - stay away from it, it is simply not that good. Chowder - I like the chowder here, a great staple I miss their bluefish Pate' - was delicious! All of their entrees are good, but not great. You are better off taking a 40 minute trip to Providence or boston to eat at a great seafood restaurant... the food simply does not justify the price. definitely not 4-stars
(3)
Marcel B.
Great seafood restaurant. I eat here very frequently with visitors and colleagues because it's the nicest restaurant close to work, and I'm always very happy with the cuisine and service. Great place.
I heard so many great things about the Sole Proprietor so I decided to give it a shot. I went there with my boyfriend and we got clam chowder and some lobster thing with a bunch of sauce on it. This place is totally overrated. The service was neglectful. The location was fine. However, the food was not very good. The clam chowder was decent, but was gritty. The lobster was okay, but the sauce really over powered everything. It's also overpriced. I wouldn't go back.
(2)
Emily A.
I went to the Sole regularly when I worked downtown Worcester for lunch. I've gone over the past 9 years several times for dinner for special occasions. I went back a couple months ago with a friend who still works in the area and very nearly sent my food (one of the sandwiches on the lunch specials) back. It was almost inedible. The spices used clashed, the fish was overdone and rubbery, the fries had that slight bitter taste they sometimes get when (I assume) the oil is too old or overused... Not good. I never send food back and I never complain unless it's really bad. I've been a waitress, I know what food service is. I think the quality at the Sole has gone down hill over the past several years and the prices have stayed risen. As my palate for good food and alcohol has developed, the Sole has not. Their wine list is good, their beer and liquor offerings are sophomoric at best. It's disappointing they're not waking up to the possibilities of excellent food and beer pairings and the movement for excellence in food. Granted, this is a seafood place 50+ miles from the coast, so there's only so much you can expect, but I think any creativity and verve the place used to have has gone the way of complacence in a steady stream of regulars. The bartender there during the day is wonderful. I just wish the food there were as good. It's disappointing. I'd love a good local seafood place that would serve sustainable fish. I almost never eat it any more because of sustainability issues and I miss it. I'm just not spending money at the Sole.
(2)
Kevin J.
The food was excellent, service was very good, and the drink selection was decent. The spiciness of the fried squid was a nice touch on a regular appetizer.
(4)
D M.
My husband and I went to the Sole last night. We go maybe 2-3 times a year but we haven't been for almost a year. We were really disappointed with the service and our meals. First of all the waitresses seemed over-whelmed. They messed up our salad order and put the wrong dressing on the salad. Ok not a real biggy. Then my husband ordered the clam chowder which he said was good and I ordered the stuffed lobster which lacked flavor and was chewy because it was not fresh. Please see review below from 12/13 which states that their lobster was rubbery also. The reason for this I concluded is because they either cooked beforehand and refrigerate or use frozen and heated up from there because you get the food out faster. Either way it was not fresh. I know my lobster and if you like lobster you will be disappointed. I recommend that you ask them if it is cooked before serving. See what they have to say. Another issue I had was that it was suppose to be stuffed lobster. That means stuffing right? Thats what stuffing means to me. Well there were some broiled scallops and shrimp thrown into the shell. They were good but not stuffing. Finally, I asked for a 1.5 pd lobster and I am pretty sure thats not what I got but thats what I paid for. So in addition to being disappointed now I felt ripped off. I just wanted to get the heck out of there as quickly as possible. We will not be going back any time too soon. It was a big disappointment.
(2)
Jeffrey L.
My go to place for seafood in Worcester, it used to be happy hour but I soon realized the decline in happy hour quality for food. However their dinner and lunch items normally served are still exceptional. Think of it as an alternative to legal seafood but the best thing about this place is the service! I would give it 4.5 if I could, I've had bad run ins with some servers but the management is always spot on, they cleared my whole bill once but of course I still paid anyways, couldn't believe my eyes when the check was 0.00 dollars for 7 people. Being classy never goes out of style and I will truly miss the sole proprietor once I move. A must try for people in the area.
(4)
Leah M.
$6 bar menu!! (Which used to be $5). Actually, I'm a little disappointed it's no longer $5, because THAT was a good deal. Now it's just a fairly good deal. My friends and I go to get our sushi fix. The Tiger eye is by far the best, it's wonderful and hugee. Also the white sangria sole bowl is great; light, fruity, enjoyable. Just if you go for the bar menu, go early enough. It get's really busy really fast and you have to get your order in by 6:30
(4)
lella b.
I went with my parents (sea food lovers in the flat lands of the midwest) and myself (deathly allergic and live in MA). The portions are great, my parents RAVED on the 2 chowders (thanks fellow yelpers on that one - i had suggested they get one of each). My dad is a clam chow-dah freak (lol) and said it was among the best he's ever had. My dad did the Scallop Entree special dish, my mom a basic lobster. Both were great, and scored "oh, we WILL come back here". Parking was easy, make reservations: quite busy at 6:00 on 12/30. The meals came with potato, mixed veggies so when we ordered sides we we a bit vegtable heavy (hey, that's fine with me). $5 martini (lemon drop) great, nut martini, ok ($7) (but i'm PICKY about them!!!). I had a NY Strip Steak: excellent for a seafood resturant and they made sure to cook in a seafood free zone. They have an extensive GF menu. We ordered ice cream (coffee) and key lime pie for dessert. I wasn't a fan of the they key lime pie, ice cream was excellent. Portions are HUGE, great non-seafood options, great wine and martini list. We will go back - it was a fun mixed crowd with excellent service and a great local business. Only reason for missing a 5 star is 1) key lime pie and 2) forgetting our side of asparagus (but getting it then deducting from bill...totally not asked for but nice!).
(4)
Aubrey S.
My Sole! My Darling Sole! What has happened to you? Do you not like us anymore? The college kids who adore you? (Though, congrats to Mark on the promo.) You separate my group of ten, "policy, policy." Is this new policy from just this past week? You separate us, but you do not even separate our checks. Gratuity of 18% for 10 people? But the menu says we must number above 12 humans! You make us wait for over 45 minutes collectively for some sushi rolls and drinks? 20 more for the check? Do we kids no longer matter to you? Even though I've spent more here than I dare say? Even though we come ecstatic for your food and drinks every time we have entered your doors? We are sad, we hang our heads as we leave, I blush at the embarrassing crush I had on you. But Sole, I thought I loved you. I miss the days where you opened to us your comforting arms and Wellfleet oysters. My heart still aches, I have had to edit myself from a 1 star for you to a 2 star. I clearly need a rebound restaurant.
(2)
Dan H.
Great seafood. Fair prices. Great setting and comfortable bar area. Worcestor has many strong options for dinner, and this is among the best of what I have tried. If you're a seafood aficionado, it's a must try for western MA. I have only had good experiences there.
(4)
J S.
We've given the Sole a couple tries and are unimpressed. Their seafood dishes are just average in my book. The Sole just doesn't compare to what you can find near the shore.
(3)
Teri L.
Going out to meet my sisters for a Christmas Lunch at the Sole was such a treat for me!! I never get to the Sole as much as I want. I think the last time I was here was about......wow...over 6 years ago?? Yes, I'm ashamed because I can't imagine that it took THIS LONG to get back here!! I will repent. I rushed in because I hate being late and yes...I was late. Sitting down finally I took in the beautiful Christmas decor to make the very handsome style even better. What I love about this seafood restaurant...it doesn't smell like one. Seriously! I have been in some seafood establishments that the smell hits you at the door and you take it home with you on your clothes...bleh not this place. We ordered up 3 apps..crab stuffed portabella mushroom, goat cheese cake and popcorn shrimp. I'm not a shrimp lover so I coudn't tell you how that was but my sister Anne and boyfriend Nick get it all the time. The stuffed mushroom was to freakin die for!!!! The crab was perfect, creamy and complimented the mushroom exactly. The goat cheese cake and toasted bread was amazing! I almost licked my knife. I ordered for my entree the ginger cream scallops with apples. It was so full of flavor, the scallops so perfectly cooked (I have this thing about scallops being just right), the rice was mounded in the middle with a creamy Parmesan sauce with cooked apples poured over it. I couldn't stop eating it. I wanted to but no..I couldn't. I then ordered...as if I didn't have enough to eat...a chocolate tulip cup to end our wonderful lunch. It was good. Very pretty to look at. Very creamy and nice. All in all, it was a fabulous time at the Sole. A fine dining restaurant that's well established and well loved.
(4)
Rachael B.
Took my sister here for lunch while visiting. The food was good - i had the clam chowder and the salmon and my sis had a salad and the lobster roll. service was a little slow and a little awkward - our waitress just seemed a little out of place, lol. definitely a yummy lunch in worcestor!
(4)
Kevin H.
Easily my favorite restaurant since moving to the Worcester area. The food is outstanding, the service is great and they do a great job of mixing up the menu seasonally. Check often for specials like the $5 happy hour bar menu. Great way to have a few drinks and some really great sushi for little money. Also, lobsterfest is a great time for a $20 lobster dinner, although we seem to get talked into upsizing every time. I love sushi. Been to Japan quite a few times and the Sole has some of the best around.
(5)
Michael N.
I have eaten at the Sole Proprietor twice, and I would give it 10 stars each time. Most recently we went there a few weeks ago. The staff is amazingly friendly, helpful and courteous. They provide you with a lead waiter (so to speak) and a second waiter to help make sure every need is tended to. The waiter was helpful with recommending a bottle of wine. We had clam chowder - thick & delicious and lobster bisque, which had several chunks of lobster. For our entrees, we both had baked stuffed lobster. They allow you to specify the weight of the lobster, the stuffing, and whether you would like them to remove the lobster from its shell for you or if you would prefer to "do the work" yourself. This is a more upscale restaurant with great prices for the amount of food, its deliciousness and the ambience. I LOVE the Sole Proprietor.
(5)
Jim W.
I like Sole. The staff seems friendly and the atmosphere is lively. Been twice but have had mixed impressions of the food. First time I had the bay scallop newburg. Being a scallop lover thought it'd be a slam dunk. I really didn't think it through though. Must have been tired, since I forgot I'm a fan of sea scallops not bay. The whole dish was a bit too rich, runny, and sweet for my taste. The second time dining I had the Tuna Barcelona. It was fantastic. Huge portions (took home half of it) and the entree and sides tasted great. Definitely recommend the dish.
Had the chicken with a mini shrimp appetizer. The shrimp tasted and looked like it came out of a box from some low budget grocery store. Over priced food of an average quality.
(2)
Katie C.
I went here with a group of 6 for my roommate's birthday. When I saw the outside I did not expect it to be anything like what it was. It looked like a fancy clam shack. But it was so much more than that. Everything was top of the line. From the mussels appetizer to the clam chowder to the blackened swordfish and lastly to the tirimisu. The service was excellent. My waiter was very knowledgable about the entire menu and was able to answer all of our questions and he recommended me a wine that paired with my dish. The prices were a little steep for a typical night out for me, but very much worth it. For a special occasion I would absolutely go back again!
(5)
Alex H.
Yes, this is an (or the) upscale seafood place in the desert of Worcester. The food is on the higher end of the spectrum but certainly is well worth it. I took a group of about 30 people here, the check came to about 60$ per person. The service was quite good, as the 2 staff members were able to handle the group quite well. However, they attempted to cram us into a function room like sardines. The cold air from the vents bothered several of my guests. Overall, a fantastic experience, but a few little quirks to make a few people less than perfectly satisfied.
(4)
David S.
I had stuffed flounder. Delicious. My wife had the seared tuna. Also delicious. Lobster bisque was different than what I'm used to (ok... what I used to make when I worked in a restaurant) but it was very tasty. We sat at the bar. The bartender was super nice and very attentive, especially since it was a very busy Saturday night. This place has been great for as long as I can remember... Keep it up!
(5)
Cara W.
I came here several weeks ago with my parents and boyfriend for lunch. I've been here many times, and although I never have any complaints about the food, the restaurant is just not something that I crave or yearn for. The food is always good, but the atmosphere tends to be dark and boding. The benefits to The Sole are that it can accommodate large parties. Like its sister restaurants, its more of a "crowd-pleasing" atmosphere than somewhere I would suggest for a more intimate evening. We shared some good raw oysters, fish tacos, and a sushi plate. I don't have any complaints about the food or service.
Best seafood around, great atmosphere. Only downside is the parking lot - not big enough!
(5)
Leigh S.
I make it a habit to try salmon all over the world and I have to say I had the best piece of salmon right here. Crisp and seasoned on top but buttery and delicious inside cooked to perfection . My daughter has the steak and lobster tail, first east coast lobster for her and it was great. Nicely grilled and tender, the steak was super and very well cooked & seasoned. The lobster bisque s was a bit sweet for me but had 2 whole claws in it and the meat was great. Sadly too full for desert.
(5)
Jocelyn K.
I have been here several times. The selection of seafood choices are bountiful! Service is impeccable! My only complaint is that it is a bit pricey, so I can't go as often as I would like. But nonetheless, everything is outstanding.
(4)
Donny W.
Love the chowder, and...everything else here. I've yet to have a bad experience at this place! Great food, attentive staff. Get here!
(4)
Jim O.
The menu selections, staff and food were all very good. Would not hesitate to return or recommend this place to friends and family.
(4)
Nicolas D.
Wow. I had a delicious meal at this establishment! The menu is huge, with so many options, great wine selection, full bar, all the bells and whistles. The "teamed up" waiters are so helpful and friendly and so happy to help steer you in the right direction of a wonderful evening. From the second we sat down to the second we left, my experience was fully enjoyable. I wish I could give this place half stars, because I would like to rate this place 4.5 stars. The only reason why I take a star off is because of the lack of originality and choice in the craft cocktail section. You can get a cosmo and martini anywhere. When I go and spend a pretty penny on food and drinks, I'd like to have a fun "aperitif" that opens up my palate and has fun. A tequila or gin drink on the menu would've been fun, but it was just the classics. Oh well, what they lack in originality in the cocktail menu, they make up in choice in all seafood. We shared a dozen oysters, all wonderful, fresh and delicious, sushi was ordered as well (nothing to write Japan about, it was actually nothing spectacular), and our entrees were delicious, stuffed flounders and lobster tails. The lobster was flaky and grilled perfectly. Desserts were good, but again here was another spot where they could've been a little more imaginative and surprised us with something different instead of the usuals. What can I say, I expect amazing things for my 5 star reviews! But definitely not to miss. Probably the best seafood restaurant in Worcester.
(4)
Nicole L.
the service is awesome - we had a great experience at the restaurant with a wonderful waiter who was very attentive to our large party, all of whom have different food allergies to deal with :) the food was OK - i've been to many better seafood places. i'd say legal seafoods is still my favorite and hard to compare with.
(3)
Julianna J.
Father's Day can be a challenge. My Dad is 97 and walks with a walker, We requested seating near the door and off the bar area.The request was granted and We were on our way to a great dining experience,not unusual for the Sole. We started with the chilled seafood platter fresh and tasty as usual. Our entrees were varied from the fried scallops to the blackened tuna and grilled salmon, The service was professional,and on spot from a clear understanding of the menu to the recommendation for a wine selection. Father's Day was great and we will be sure to choose the sole for our next special occasion,( if not before ).
(5)
Sarah C.
Came here for the first time on the last Friday of lent - thought I might have been crazy! We had a reservation but ended up being 20 minutes late - they were quite busy but didn't seem upset we were late and sat us right away (Not my fault we were late and I felt really bad about it!) The waitress situation was confusing - one minute we had one girl waiting on us and another it was a different girl. I know they were fairly busy but the service was incredibly slow and not at all friendly or helpful. I had the lobster bisque as an app and the lobster newburg as my meal. The lobster bisque was good and had chunks of lobster but it had a slightly different taste than I have ever tried. The newburg was OK but the lobster was a bit chewy - the side of rice and veggies was so small it didn't even fill the bowl it came in. I wasn't expecting huge portions from a place like this but if you are going to serve something in a specific small dish it should fill the dish. My friend had the lobster sesame stir fry which I kept stealing bites from because it was so good and the portion was HUGE - only thing I didn't like was the deep fried lobster in it. My other friend had the fish and chips which I also kept stealing bites from because it was really good too. For dessert we split the black bottom pie. It was an oreo crust with a mango sorbet. It was to die for - and I had fought my friends not to order it thinking oreo and mango don't mix. It had a light mango flavor but was perfect with the oreo crust. They are pricey than other places but for the portion sizes and the quality of food it is definitely worth it. The parking lot is kind of a nightmare...
(3)
Jon R.
One of the 3 best restaurants in Worcester! The service is excellent, the food is dynamite, atmosphere and ambiance are very nice as well. If you like Seafood or Sushi and you are in Worcester, you can't miss going to The Sole. The bar is a great place to have a cocktail and grab an app or a meal.. This restaurant group knows how to do it, they run a tight ship! If you are more in the mood for a steak go to their sister " The 111 Chop House.. If you want Italian, you can't go wrong (most of the time) at their Italian place VIA
(5)
Arthur L.
Varied and interesting menu. Enjoyed the meal but can't say I like the aroma of the place.
(3)
Karen B.
My mother and I went here for restaurant week. It was delicious! It really wasnt as fancy as people made it sound, but the food was great. Atmosphere was ok... I had a butternut squash soup that was to die for. Reasonable prices, and a decent place to take the kids.
(4)
Walerz B.
- Thorough and friendly service. - Pretty venue with an open kitchen. - Steamed clams with drawn butter was delicious - Coconut shrimp and fried calamari were under seasoned and not as crispy as they could've been. BD doesn't really eat seafood but ate so
(2)
Brandon S.
Great restaurant with fair pricing for seafood. The stuffed lobster with scallops was excellent. I also had lobster bisque which was really great and a must try, it is not as rich as most places I have tried in the past. Also had the tiramisu for dessert and it was really great....this is a must have.We went on a Tuesday night and we wished we would have made reservations because we ended up waiting close to and hour for a table of 3. Learn from our mistake get reservations!
(4)
Bremen S.
Best seafood restaurant in Worcester hands down! Little too noisy and chaotic for an upscale restaurant but you won't remember any of it because the food is paradise. Portions are generous and if you feel your food doesn't taste like you want it to, do tell them. They'll make every effort to accommodate you. Personally, I always get the salmon but friends/family have tried other fish and they all taste super and fresh!
(5)
K B.
I've been going to the Sole for years but it's the first time I ever ordered fish & chips. The entree was delicious but shocked that they don't offer malt vinegar for the traditional English fare. Sorry but balsamic or red wine vinegar is a disgusting alternative, don 't bother offering it... Just say you don't have it or better yet, start offering it. Smoked platter and sushi was delicious, as usual.
(5)
Eric C.
I had one night in Worcester and this restaurant was recommended to me by my interviewer. I asked for the best restaurant you could have me try here and he said "You can find no better seafood in town and it will rival anything you would find in Boston." So I guess it's a must try then huh! I made a reservation because they actually are usually very busy even though this was for a party of 1. I went around 6:30pm and there were plenty of open seats but once 7pm hit, then the place filled up and I agree that a reservation was a must! If you're like me, you always panic about whether there is adequate parking. There is plenty of parking in their lot. As you drive down from Umass medical center, they will be on the right and you can easily turn in without any issues. So I decided to wait for the waiter to help me choose my courses for the night. So I started out with the clams casino, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder. The clams for the clams casino were about the size of my palm. Delicious, flavorful, juicy and obviously fresh. No fishy taste and smothered in cheese and bacon. Probably the best casinos I've had! Shrimp cocktail was fresh and juicy. The clam chowder was thick and perfectly seasoned. After this "first" course I thought the restaurant was off to a great start! As for the main course, I was told that everything else on the menu would pale in comparison to the fresh Nantucket scallops that are only served from October to March. They were right! Served on top of perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked risotto cake, these small sized scalloped were sweet and succulent. The tomatoes were a nice addition giving the dish a nice dose of acid. At this point I'm stuffed. Like I need to unbutton my pants full. But they again insisted that I try the black bottom pie. Each day they have a different flavor of ice cream as the main make up of the pie. Tonight it was pumpkin. The "black bottom" is an oreo crust that was specially made for them. If the ice cream were coffee then this would be your typical mud pie, but the pumpkin was just so unusual, different and awesome that I left happier than ever... even though I think they needed a forklift to get me out of there. This place will easily make my top 5 favorite seafood places ever. Great service, great food. Loved it.
(5)
James K. G.
Very disappointed, dry, over cooked, musty dining room,(baked lobrs laterster and swordfish)Very dissapointed food was dry and lobster was musty with barnicles attached! 125 dollars for a nasty meal
(1)
Carol M.
I've been here twice. First time was so great, it demanded a return visit. There's a goat cheese appetizer that is amazing. Salads are decent. I thought the dressing on the Cesear was a bit "goopy" for my taste, but I prefer a lightly dressed salad in general. Crab cakes were amazing! Sweet, but not cloyingly so and not loaded with filler. I had one leftover and reheated it the next day on my stovetop at home and it was just as delcious. They are also have a lovely selection of sides. If your server doesn't offer, you can swap out the sides listed on the menu for each entree with any of the sides they have listed, which is great. My dining partner and I split the flourless chocolate cake for dessert. It was good. Pretty standard for a restaurant of this caliber. I'm sure we'll be back!
(4)
Basil W.
I went to the SP last night with friends for dinner. I've been many times before ( and frequent Via and 111 Chophouse too). The service is fantastic. I got the honeyed char -- it was tasty but not great. I really object to the smell of SP, slightly musty and fishy. I also find that I never feel well (tummy-wise) after eating at SP, Via, or Chophouse. I don't what it is-- other restaurants don't effect me this way. For most purposes, the ambient noise level is ridiculous. You can't carry on a conversation without shouting. In my book, SP only rates as a "fair" restaurant. Food isn't worth the price, nor is the atmosphere.
This is one of the places I like to go for special occasions. With drinks, an app, dessert and tip its an easy $100 for two people. Regardless of the price the seafood is frackin great! I can't say I order the same thing since the menu changes seasonally. Honestly though, I like that they change the menu based on what type of fish is fresh for the time of year. Makes me think they serve mostly wild caught, which arguably tastes a lot better than farm raised. I could be wrong in this assumption, but based on all my positive experiences I'd say they are doing something right.
(4)
P T.
I had a very tasty Ceasar Salad, though was a bit taken aback by the price. I won't knock that though, I had come here with a friend's recommendation. I was impressed with the service and decor. The parking lot was a bit of a fiasco, but I could see myself coming again.
(4)
Colleen B.
What are people talking about? I've heard good things about the Sole and decided to try it myself last night. The food was mediocre at best. Started with shrimp cocktail- very fresh and the best part of our meal. The lobster bisque was just ok- rather bland. However the big disappointment was the mahi mahi . Under cooked with no seasoning. The vegetables were too chunky and under cooked as well. Three bites and I was done. My husband had a lobster which he said was pretty good. Spent $140 and left hungry knowing I'd never return. I wish the entree could have been presented at a cooking competition so the chef could hear all that was wrong with it. I love a great meal but this was not it. I will say the service was good though. Completely surprised at what a bad meal this was!
(1)
Michele M.
If you like seafood, you should try this place. Started with a variety of oysters, which were really tasty! The grilled cajun swordfish was really fresh and delicious. My husband's sirloin steak was a little overcooked, but the lobster tails were a nice addition to the dish..Its a comfortable atmosphere at the bar with excellent service..We will be back to try other dishes on their extensive menu!!!
(4)
K V.
Probably my worst experience a a restaurant. The waitress behaved like she was doing us a favor by serving us food. They got the food out right in the middle of appetizers and blamed us for eating slow. What restaurant does that? The food was ok but the service sucked. Not going back. Definitely.
(1)
Eric J.
Great food, try the salmon with citrus shrimp....delicious!!! The clam chowder was also very good along with the Mai tai's.
(4)
Lawrence L.
I was told this is the best restaurant in Worcester MA... After enjoying a nice dinner here with good company, I was in agreement (although, it is the only dinner I had in Worcester MA)... But, having dined in a nice spot in Boston the previous night, this place was very comparable. We arrived with a small party, and had some time to wait at the bar. Several beers on tap, including some local brews (Wachusett Country Ale, and Harpoon IPA). I tried their Harpoon (nice mellow hoppiness with smooth finish). Wait was pretty short, even though the place was already pretty packed. We started with a dozen blue point oysters (Long Island NY) - sweet and tasty. I ordered up the Baked Haddock with Lobster Newburgh - moist and flaky with sweet and tender lobster craw meat. Had a side of "chowdah" - loved it. My colleagues had the 1.5 lb lobster served up with some nice melted butter - looked great, and the sushi plate - a ton of maki rolls. This place does seafood right! Service was 100% on point, and friendly. Always had our tables cleaned up from the empty plates, and drinks were always ready to be had. tons of parking in their own private lot. I definitely would recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area.
(4)
John A.
This is without doubt my favorite restaurant in Worcester. Never a bad meal. Always fresh. Excellent service. Good drinks to go with meal. As good if not better than any seafood restaurant I have been to in Boston, New York or any where for that matter. I can't even begin to mention favorite meals as they are all wonderful and I often struggle making choice. A must place to eat if in Worcester.
(5)
Peter R.
The food here is phenomenal. Love seafood even more now. Try the Salmon special, ora king salmon. This is a great dish. Sushi is really good here too! Manager, Max is a dumbass though... doesn't really know how to manage just how to speak down to his employees. He was the only thing that employees complained about. We were close enough to a service area to hear and we witnessed first hand his arrogance. Food was so good I still gave them 5 stars.
(5)
Tasha S.
My go to date night restaurant. The wait can be lengthy but it's usually always worth it. Professional, classy, service with great food especially anything lobster.
(4)
H O.
My family and I came here because the reviews seemed really good but we were very disappointed. The menu also looked really tasty. However the food lacked flavor and it wasn't even warm. We had to send back 2 dishes and the replacements weren't much better. However the service was excellent and staff were kind to replace our dishes. Overall go to Red Lobster instead. No joke Red Lobster is better.
(1)
Stephen B.
This week I had my second meal at Sole Proprietor in about the same number of years. Both experiences were very nice and not knowing too much about Worcester, this is a placeto go. It's a fairly large room and contemporary, not an old salty dog, woody seafood decor. Nice place. The food quality was very good. The clams on the half shell were very fresh and small (as they should be). The calamari and shrimp appetizers were excellent and of course the New England clam chowder met the standards. The main courses were also very good with people ordering a large cross section of the menu. Very happy and full after the meal. When in "Woostah", the is a great choice.
(4)
Meredith B.
I used to be anti-seafood, but when I decided I no longer wanted the palette of a 5 year old, I went straight to the Sole. Amazing tuna barcelona, shrimp cocktail, lobster and CRAB! Best seafood around... Easy!
(5)
Mark H.
The food was disappointing. There was a slaw in the crab cake that was really an inedible mess. Pretty good place for a business dinner though, the atmosphere is sophisticated.
(3)
Shaun G.
The land and two seas was fantastic. The scallops delicious and the firecracker sushi divine. Once you get to dessert it's so hard to finish but I recommend doing it because of course it's also ....Delish!
(4)
Elisabeth M.
Lunch for three during oysterfest. Service was prompt and friendly. Oysters were fresh, chowder was creamy, and everything else we ordered was quite good. Would be happy to dine here again.
I have to say it was okay. For the price one pays: The stuffed flounder was a bit mushy, not as fresh as I think it could have been. The lobster bits were a bit tough. The clam chowder could have been more flavorful. Nonetheless, the restaurant has a 'classic seafood' restaurant feel to it, and is clearly very popular. The ambiance is classy, and it's easy to talk to your mates in the space.
(3)
Kayla I.
Always loved the sole! The food is always good and servers are very attentive ! I went there on a Sunday night and 2 male bartenders, one named raf and the other was an older gentleman were so nice and friendly! Will be back
(4)
Stephen P.
We found our new favorite restaurant! Front the moment we walked in the door the staff was welcoming and helpful. Appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, drinks, and desserts....all perfect! Tara, our waitress, was excellent.
(5)
Trina J.
Ate here on last night. The food was good but the service was slightly lacking. The server mentioned she (Caitlyn) and another person would be serving. I would note that I only saw the other person twice. Once when the meal was finished and to pick up the credit card receipt to inspect the tip. When I lived in the area I ate here pretty often so I entered expecting the same level of service. I ordered my appetizer, meal and beverages. One of my beverages was water. I had to look around when both my glasses were empty to get a refill. Needless to say, the water was refilled but I had to specifically ask for more of the other. On top of this, when they main entree arrived, I requested sweet potato mash and was given butternut squash. They look and taste pretty different but my thought was "it'll be an easy fix". I finished the rest of the meal before anyone stopped by to check on me. This was the first time I saw the other waitress. She was leaning into take the plate and I mentioned I thought I didn't receive the correct side item because it doesn't taste like sweet potato. She looked at it with no acknowledgment, stopped by Caitlyn and went in the kitchen. Caitlyn walked over and said, now that I have looked at it, it looks different. The check comes and she says take your time but her return to pick up the bill was the quickest response I received all night!!!! She returned it right away and I filled it out. SOON as I filled it out, the other waitress (whose name I wish I knew) swooped in and said let me take that for you. Before walking off, she opened it, looked at the tip and put it in her pocket! What's unsettling is you provided no service but wanted to disregard etiquette to review the tip? Have you been burned that many times by women? Caitlyn stopped by with a smile and thank you. She also asked if I needed anything else. Guess the bus girl - waitress shared the details despite her lack of assistance. Geesh! I am disappointed but relieved that this was not a regular occurrence. The food is great but anyone would avoid a place with inattentive and unprofessional servers.
(2)
constantconsumer c.
The smoked seafood platter was delicious. Other than smoked salmon, I had not tried too many other smoked fish until now. I loved the smoked scallops and the smoked mussels. Who knew? The clam chowder was tasty but the clams werent as tender as say Legal Seafood. The crab rangoon has lots of real crab!
(4)
Chris M.
My wife and I ate here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. It was the perfect choice. We were in the neighborhood visiting my sister (we're from CT). We went at 4pm thinking it would be slow, but it was quite busy. The service right from the start was exceptional. Friendly staff and we had two waiters (Stephanie and Joe). Both of them gave us great food recommendations. We started with a dozen oysters from all over the country (Canada too). These were raw oysters served on ice (very nice presentation). Joe was able to give us a history of EACH oyster and what paired well with each type. They were the best and freshest oysters we have ever had. It was worth the $27! We both had clam chowder, which was also exceptional. I had The Land of Two Seas for dinner- 4 oz steak, pan seared shrimp and scallops over mashed potatoes and topped with asparagus. The combination was amazing. My wife had the twin lobster tails over mashed parsnips and portabella mushrooms. She loved every bit. We both had the season Shipyard Pumpkinhead beer (cinnamon-sugared rim), which I highly recommend. Goes VERY well with seafood and is filling enough to leave you full. We skipped on dessert. I would come back here in a heartbeat. We love food- cooking, eating out, and trying everything. So giving this such a high rating comes with an eclectic palette. -Chris
(5)
Bryan R.
A true seafood gem, in proximity to WPI in Worcester, MA in short proximity to I-290. Parking is hit and miss and street parking is even worse for weekend dinners, happy hours and Thursday and Friday lunch. I would highly recommend making reservations for dinner to avoid the up to 2 hour wait. The lunch menu is good in comparison to most seafood restaurants but if you want the full experience go for dinner. My recommendations would be the following: Lunch: Trout with a Potato Crust Honey Chipolte Bacon Wrapped Scallops Shrimp, Tomato, Garlic (Shrimp Scampi) Appetizers: Lobster & Ravioli Rainbow Maki Entree: Shogun Sushi Combo Land and Two Seas Salmon Fillet and Jumbo Shrimp with Hoisin Wasabi Drizzle Desert: Chocolate Tulip Don't get me wrong, all of the dishes at the Sole are good but these dishes are head and shoulders above the rest and could easily become a person(s) 'usual' dish when visiting. I would avoid dishes that are primarily Chicken or Steak, these selections would be good but not great and not worth getting at the Sole. For dinner your meal comes with a salad or soup. The Sole used to have a house dressing that was a French and Bleu Cheese mix but now there dressing selections are pedestrian. When given the option get the Seafood Chowder in lieu of the clam to avoid a half bowl of potatoes in your soup. Typically of most restaurants I would not recommend getting the boiled lobster, for the price of one you could get 2-3 in the grocery store. Dress is business casual, jeans, t-shirts, flip flops and shorts are not recommended, unless you want to feel like a fool. Average price per person reflects drink, appetizer and entree. Not great for large parties based on how busy they get. We tried to make reservations for a wedding party and were given a lot of ridiculous stipulations for our reservations so we ultimately booked at another locations. Best for intimate dining and parties greater than 8.
(5)
F D.
Solid seafood performance. Not a great location in a rough city, but the private parking lot and relatively easy highway access let's you zip in and out of a tough area. I had the Tuna special- outrageously good. If I have to be in Worcester- this is where I'm going.
(4)
Shane L.
My wife and I are truly very big fans of the Sole Proprietor. The reasons are many but especially the fact that the seafood is fresh and service is great. If you are looking to take someone on a date, take them here and get some steamers or mussels for apps. Then rock out some very good fresh sushi or a fresh bowl of piping hot new England style clam chowder. Then definitely partake in baked stuffed haddock and/or lobster it is really good. I guess the the only thing that I would change here is the price. I guess you get what you pay for though. It is the old adage. I definitely recommend this restaurant for a great night of dining and delicious desserts.
(4)
Cindy W.
This place is truly awesome! Simple decor but the food will make your palate dance circles around you. My picks are raw bar (oysters, clams and shrimp). So fresh that you think the beach is behind the restaurant. My all time favorite entree is the Nantucket scallops. Sweet, moist, and AMAZING!! Never rubbery or sandy. Cooked perfectly and the quality is like the Legal Seafood Corp. If you have a large group, call them and give them a heads up. This place tends to be a little busy so be sure to make reservations. They are worth the wait.
(4)
Tanya S.
I don't like the dual-service shenanigans that fancy restaurants pull..it's a bit overwhelming. I chose to have my birthday celebration there and it was very pleasant. The grilled salmon is perfect. the sweet potatoes (mashed) are consistently amazing. Also the sesame fried shrimp are to die for.
(4)
Allyson S.
I have been going to the happy hours for years. It's no longer $5 which is a bummer. Tiger Eye Roll is my favorite. The lobster bisque has changed in the last few years it didn't have flavor and was brown which was odd. The service was odd with two waitresses.
(4)
Hildy P.
We were aiming to go to the restaurant across the street but there was no parking available and the Sole Proprietor had a lot of dedicated parking......what luck! We ordered the clam chowder which was perfect. We each ordered the lobster salad sandwich which was heaping with big chunks of lobster lightly tossed in something that was non-mayo maybe lemon juice. It was fabulous.
(5)
Carrie P.
I love this place! It is always my go to place. Everything I've ever had there has been excellent. Appetizers, soups, salads, meals, drinks and deserts, everything is always fabulous. The waitstaff is always on point and helpful and friendly. The flirtinis are my favorite and they always put cute designs on the top! Love the bar section and the ambiance. It's just a great fun place! We just went with 2 other couples this past weekend and I had the blackened scallops and they were excellent. Our waiter was Dustin and he was great! I'd recommend them in a heart beat.
I've eaten here several times and I've never been disappointed! We went there just the other day. I had salmon and my wife had haddock. Both were nice portions of quality fish which were well prepared. We both ordered steamed broccoli with our meals which was slightly undercooked. The chowder was a little thin and bland. Everything else was excellent. The cherry stones and firecracker rolls were very good. The service has always been great each time I've eaten there. The wait staff is professional and very knowledgeable.
(4)
Darrell L.
First time I've ever visited the Sole and all I can say is Terrific. I was recommended the spot by some locals I was doing business with because I mentioned I came to Boston for Chowdah. The place was packed when I got there. Parking can be challenging but I got extremely lucky and got the last spot in the lot. I was greeted cheerfully at the door by 3 hosts. I was shown the way to a table in a cozy back room. The place is dated but I wasn't there for decor. I started the meal with a cup of chowder and it lived up to the hype. It had a smooth taste which had hints of the sea. The only drawback was the fact it needed a bit more clam. It wasn't overloaded with potato and was creamy goodness. I asked my waitress for her opinion on a meal and agreed with her on the Winter Grilled Salmon. The fish came out perfectly cooked. The apple added the perfect notes when paired with everything in a bite. Most items were just ok on their own but together the dish sang. I recommend the restaurant and if you are struggling with a choice on the menu Seek out the advice of your server. AL assisted me greatly and it was a great meal. I'll definitely be going back.
(4)
Leah T.
The Sole is one of my favorite places for seafood. They always have great service and the staff is very accommodating to any and all needs. I have come here to celebrate my birthday the past two years and am yet to be disappointed. I have never tried their sushi but they do offer a pretty extensive sushi menu. Their oysters and raw bar items are extremely fresh and super yummy. Some of the desserts are a little rich but there is a very large selection and I certainly haven't tried them all. They do offer menu items that aren't found in the sea but I am yet to try them. If you are craving some chowder this is the place to go. Very, very good. Possibly the best in Worcester. My last visit I ordered the salmon with butternut squash risotto. My fish was cooked perfectly and the risotto was amazing. (I also ordered the chowder, naturally) The portion sizes are big and most meals come with a soup/salad option. If you also order an appetizer there is no way you'll leave there hungry. Overall a great spot for seafood!
(4)
Aaron W.
I was working in Worcester for a few months and the Sole Proprietor was recommended by a co-worker. Very impressed. Large wine selection, good beer selection and our food was nearly perfect. Appetizer was crab spring rolls, I had seared tuna and my girlfriend had some crab stuffed shrimp with steak. SOOOOO GOOD!! Waiter was knowledgeable about the wine and attentive to us. He went out of the way to place the uneaten tuna on a bed of ice so it would keep better since we told him we were not going directly home. Five star service, five star menu, five star drinks. We will return. Thank you!
(5)
James R.
Great sushi and desserts, that is (unfortunately) all I've tried there thanks to their amazing half-priced happy hour deal. The bar area is a nice place to hang out with good staff and a very laid-back atmosphere late-night. The regular menu is pretty expensive, but the food and atmosphere make it a classy place.
(4)
C L.
Really really great food and awesome service. Can get loud and crowded but that's because everyone loves it there. Great place for a long, multi-course, special occasion dinner with friends or a fancy date. Expensive, but very worth it!
(4)
Jim D.
Somewhat disappointed. Although the food was good there is a lot lacking in the total dining experience. A very expanded seafood menu and if that's what you're looking for, give it a try. The ambiance is another story. Very crowded, tables are close together, loud and noisy. Worst of all they really try to rush you. After studying our server and other tables around us it was obvious the main objective of each server is to turn the table as quickly as possible. Which is understandable since there is always a line waiting. The wine list leaves a lot to be desired. They have great seafood. However if you want a nice dining experience, relaxing and romantic this is not the place. It is a very popular restaurant, you will need a reservation.
(3)
Larissa A.
This is my father's go to restaurant in Worcester. I went for the first time this weekend. I was floored! The food is amazing. I had the bluefish that was a special, fresh and delicious. One of my pet peeves is when places load up on the starch to skimp on the veggies. Not Sole Proprietor! My meal came with roasted mixed (squash, zucchini, peppers, onions) and also an asparagus hash, which was asparagus and crab meat chopped up together (large pieces)! Then we shared the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. YUM and YUM! The one thing that took this place to five stars is the staff. Who not only introduced themselves but asked our names and continued to call us by our names throughout our visit. All of them, not just our waiter. I will be back!
(5)
Ingrid S.
New favorite find.
(4)
Brad S.
One night is Worcester for business and decided to try it. It was very good. I will deffinetly go again to try another dish!
(4)
Christopher H.
The standard bearer of worcester. You want a solid meal? Go here. It is always packed, lunch, dinner, whenever. Not the greatest for afterwork drinks, unless you feel like talking about your grand kids with all the old folks at the bar. That being said, you can't go wrong here.
(4)
Lauren E.
I've only been here twice but both times my vegetable medley was overcooked and looked and tasted like a frozen mix. Also, if they are supposed to specialize in seafood, shouldn't they know how to wash seafood properly so it's not sandy? I had the clam chowder and my Mom had scallops and both of us were crunching away on sand. She couldn't even finish her meal unfortunately. I know people who always go here and it's supposed to be one of the biggest hot spots in Worcester but for the life of me cannot understand why. Legal's Harborside in Boston is 10,000 times better and there are much better restaurants elsewhere in Worcester.
(2)
Betsy M.
Wow...we had heard for years how terrific the food at Sole was but hadn't ventured until last week. It was nothing less than FABULOUS. So impressed with the waitstaff too, who were so knowledgeable about the expansive menu! But the food was to die for great and we will be coming back. Loved the cozy atmosphere in the room past the bar...the light was low and it just created the nicest, warm and inviting atmosphere. My husband had Nantucket scallops that were very sweet and delicious, my daughter had salmon that I will order next, and I had stuff flounder that was the best anywhere...it had large chucks of shrimp and scallops and the fish was so fresh and delicious. All in all a terrific place for dinner (or lunch, as I hear the prices are a bit less then), and a nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)
Nicholas C.
I was disappointed, very disappointed. I've been here several times for family's sake, but the last visit was the final straw. A review just had to be made. Despite all of past declining visits and the last FOH service, I'll just concentrate on the food on this one (Keep in mind that I'm a chef who has also worked in seafood). The sourdough rolls- Reheated improperly, fully toasting half of the rolls and melting the butter. That was a surprise when I opened one of them spilling liquid butter on myself (luckily, my napkin was on my lap). It's annoying when you have crumbs flying everywhere because your dinner knife isn't made to cut toasted bread. Although complimentary, the proofing and scoring was laughable. The smoked appetizer. The blue fish was severely over-smoked and all you could taste was the wood. Don't get me wrong, hickory's great, but you mind as well smoke cheap anchovies & sardines (yes, blue fish are cheap too, but are a pain to ship farther inland) and call it a day if you're going to remove of the fish's flavour. The wine list- I only found one Spanish wine for this seafood restaurant. Go hire a certified higher level sommelier for a day and redo that wine menu. Yes, you have a couple great bottles and for some reason Wine Spectator praises you, but a good number of those labels on the list are available in most packeys, making your list dull and uninspiring. Despite the bore, I do appreciate that you only marked up one of the labels about 300% (most restaurants do at least 400%) from the individual retail price. Clam Chowder- Was it supposed to be that watery? That under seasoned? Your potatoes were over cooked by the way (potatoes can be tricky sometimes, so it's not too bad). Entree- Plate was warm, but you can tell that it sat under the heat lamp for way too long. There was a significant layer of film on top of my sauce and everything was cold to lukewarm. Nothing was seasoned and the prep/line cook did not (or forgot to) season the water before cooking the linguine I requested, making the pasta bland too (quick tip: if you didn't season the water, add a bit of oil and a considerable amount of salt in a hot pan, and toss the pasta in it). The haddock was sadly over done as well. By the way, do you guys use Sysco for your frozen lobster claws? Those looked awfully familiar. The vegetables were also over done except for the zucchini, but those were ice cold and under seasoned. BoH- I'm almost certain your line cooks have their own bathroom (or they should), and that they shouldn't be going to the ones meant for costumers. Oh, and coworkers should probably off their aprons before going in. Dessert- Flourless Chocolate Cake- I know this is silly, but you need to re-teach whoever plates your dessert how to handle slices. The flavour was okay, but the execution had plenty of room for improvement. Sole, you used to be well-known, what happened? This made me want to bust out of retirement just to yell at kick your BoH staff.
(1)
Rui W.
This place is very nice, I feel bad I didn't find this place earlier. Compare to Sole, I think Legal Seafood is both over priced and over cooked. I went to Sole with my wife, mother and bro. With a doz of oysters to start, four entrees (Sicilian Swordfish, Jamaican Jerk Bluefish, BBQ Idaho Trout & Seared Scallops, Thai Curry Seafood Pasta) and two deserts, total bill was ~$120. The portions are large and tastes are delicious. BTW, clam chowder and Seafood chowder that came with the entree are rich in flavor as well. Be sure to make reservation on weekend night or the wait would be 30+ min.
(5)
Jade R.
Quick overview: Service: booo!! Food: Good, not Great. Recommendations: Cherry Peppered Squid Awkward service, but good food. The 3 stars are primarily due to the weird service we had. He was rushed when speaking, asked for food orders before our drinks came (Who does that??!), lacked knowledge on items/drinks, forgot to put our food in the system... Apps: Cherry Peppered Squid - perfectly fried, not chewy at all!! Only wish there was some dipping sauce with it.. Firecracker Roll - meh, pass. I was so intrigued with the fried sweet potato, but if you are a die-hard sushi fan, this is so not for you... With that said, check out who is in charge of the roll station.. the night we went, it was a 25 year old white female... That doesn't ring sushi to me! Clams Casino- it was the first time i've tried them, so I can't accurately judge. Not something I'd order again though... seemed soggy. Dinner: Sweet Chili Glazed Mahi Mahi - the rice, wasn't as coconut-y as I would have liked, but hey, I still ate it all.. And the fish was perfectly cooked. Blackened Tuna Steak Sashimi - I love tuna steak sashimi. If you're looking for just a protein packed dish, this is it. It's two whopping portions of tuna steak and a dime size about of seaweed salad. Both were really fresh, nothing of a "wow" factor. Overall, I would come back to give this another shot, since a lot of the yelpers seem to love it.
(3)
Kel S.
Went back for a second try... and wow. My expectations were exceeded. Amazing oysters, one of the best lobster bisques I have ever had. We were a party of 16 and were taken care of with ease. Everyone sitting in proximity of me was jealous and rightfully so. I have never seen so much lobster meat in bisque before in MY ENTIRE LIFE. An entire, in-tact claw was in my cup of soup. The drinks I tried were great (Pomegranate Cosmo and Lime Ricky). The seared tuna was also good, but it was too much food having shared appetizers. It also arrived as 3 steaks. I would suggest making it 2 steaks or slicing it into thin strips so it doesn't appear to be just "hunks of meat" on the plate. Everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their entrees as well. Overall, very well done SP!!!
(4)
Christian P.
This place is one of the only reliably good restaurants in town. Problem is, everyone knows it. Ever experience traffic in downtown New Delhi? That's how I feel when I'm here. Packed, loud as hell, the crushing closeness of strangers and the lingering smell of fish. It's anarchy. And a reservation doesn't necessarily mean you'll actually get a table at the "reserved" time. It may mean you wait 20 minutes less than some other poor fool. But the food and service is great, so we cope with it.
(4)
Veronica F.
Crab Fest - my darling, how I've missed you. Really excellent food, great service, and worth the price.
(4)
Amy A.
What a terrible experience tonight. Have been here several times in the past and had decent meals and good overall experience. After tonight, I will not be going back. There were 6 in my reservation... 6 very good friends (40's and 50's) who hang out all the time and wanted to have dinner here for one of my our birthdays. We ended up at a very small table for 6 in a middle room. And next to us was a table of 8 or 10 "men" who were having a bachelor party. Who sticks a bachelor party right smack in the middle of the restaurant where most people are looking for a quiet evening with friends???The drinks were certainly flowing at their table! They proceeded to get louder and louder with each drink. Did I mention we were not sitting at the bar? The bar (which was jam packed) was quieter than the very small middle room they jammed us in with the bachelor party. When one if us made a comment to the waitress, we were told she has two small children at home so she guessed she was used to noise. We decided it was time to go after a wine glass shattered at their table. When one of us complained to the manager at the front on our way out, he tried to blow him off and say they can't predict how people will act. True, but when decent people come in for a quiet meal and get shoved in with the loud and obnoxious riff raff, we complain and are basically told "too bad", you can be sure the decent people won't be back.
(1)
Victor V.
Great seafood in a classy atmosphere! We went over for lunch (on our way from Maine to NY, Sole is conveniently located not too far from the highway) and enjoyed both daily specials and from the main menu. Definately a place to come back for a (formal) dinner when we're around!
(5)
Toni M.
Great $6 Happy Hour menu 4-6:30 Monday - Friday. All bar menu items $6 and $6 Vodka drinks. You can't get a better meal for $6. The food is great, the bartenders are friendly and attentive, the bar area is HUGE with really big comfy booths, and atmosphere is great. Sushi, tacos, crab sliders, oysters (6 for $6), sauteed mussels, clam chowder, the menu goes on and on. On weekends they have a late night menu after 11pm Get here early or you won't get a seat!
Love the Sole Proprietor....We do Happy Hour often and it is always a wonderful experience...The food is great with chefs making your entree right in front of you. The staff and bartender are treating you like first class and fulfilling all of your need....The bartender MARK is the best!!!! He makes us feel so welcome and the service is impeccable!!!! If you have a chance to go to the Sole's Happy Hour or just to dine, please do, It is always a Fabulous time at the Sole!
(5)
Sean J.
Go here for the late night menu! On weekends after 11pm they have a special late night menu in the bar area. Everything is 50% off and you can stuff you face with oysters for nothing. Great spot to hit with a group after the bars! My one complaint was the service. Our waiter seemed very over-worked and was not too friendly.
(4)
J D.
ok, I was prepared to be disappointed. I was ready to snub this place - but damn, didn't they execute on everything wonderfully here. The place was jam packed, the bar too - but I was able to get a drink and settle in. Once seated, things moved along at the right pace, quick enough for us to enjoy the menu, sip drinks and take the place in - and get down to the food. Everything brought to the table was prepared really really well, things looked good, tasted great made the evening a real success cuisine wise. The service was top notch, friendly and attentive. Thanks for wowing me - and yes, I will be back.
(4)
Jason M.
This place was a joke.. Been wanting to go here for almost 5 years, finally had an excuse to go. It started as soon as we walked in, we had to find some one never mind being greeted, we were sat right away as we had a reservation. We ordered apps, ONE came out promptly, the others took over 25 minutes after the first app was already eaten, I had to ask where the rest of the food was.. then about another 20 min after that our food came.. took almost an hour to get our food. I got the King Salmon and my wife got the new your strip. Steak was cooked the way she wanted it no complaints for her. My Salmon was good minus the fact I almost choked on the 6 bones I found in it, it came with these little crab cakes.. they SUCKED!! all filler and they were over cooked, just junk I didn't even eat them ( or finnish the salmon.. All wasted). Our waitress sucked so bad, she forgot my 10 dollar side dish.. I didnt even want to waste my breath complaining I just wanted her to come back so i could pay and leave. 100 bucks later and almost 3 hours we left. what a joke, screw this place, Ill never go back. 111 is my only option for the "high end Worcester trio". I would not recommend this place to anyone.. Anyone that thinks this place is good is just a yuppy with money to spend at a place like this. Hell I can get a better a piece of fish at olive garden, and better service too! I feel so ripped off after eating here..
(1)
Amanda Z.
My husband and I went to this establishment for our anniversary. We have heard good things and were interested to try this restaurant out. It was so busy even with reservations we had to wait a little bit but not too long. We were seated in the back with in a line of open tables that were tight in between booth tables. Being a busy restaurant there was constant traffic surrounding me that we had to ask to switch to a booth. The food was delicious and the waitress was very sweet. and accommodating. I enjoyed the meal but the environment was loud and tight.
(3)
Brian M.
after a recommendation from a coworker I decided to drive out after work. I had a crab cake app and a bowl of seafood chowder. The crab cake was tiny, the crab tasted a little old, it was quite spicy too. The seafood chowder tasted very fishy without much else for flavor. One piece of clam was inedible it was so chewy and foul tasting. The place left me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling unsatisfied. The Wachusetts County Ale was great, the servers were ok but not terribly friendly. Maybe I visited the wrong time of year, but the haddock I had at the Holidy Inn I would take over that chowder any day.
(2)
Amnon S.
My family and I were on a trip for Presidents Week. We were all in the mood for sushi; so, we decided to look for a place to eat. While we were looking we stumbled across a place called "Sole Proprietor." We sat down at a comfortable, elegant, beautiful table. We ordered food; such as the "Tuna Crunch", the Ora King Salmon, the Cagin Trout, and the Shrimp California Roll. Plus, for the kids we ordered spaghetti from an out-of-this-World kids menu. It came with crayons and a lot of space to draw . Everything was simply divine!!!! We enjoyed every moment and they had amazing service!!!! After we thought it couldn't get any better; well, let's just say it did. Desert was delicious. All we asked for was a Chocolate Tulip cup. It was Heaven. Also, they have lots of free parking space!!!! All-In-all it was GREAT!
(5)
A Z.
Best Fish place in Central Mass very good lunch specials. friendly staff. good as well for larger parties
(5)
Pierre T.
Cannot go wrong with The Sole. Everytime we dine here the food is fresh and tasty. We were here last Sunday and arrived just as they were opening. Got seated quickly service was great. The waitress overheard my Mom talking about a smaller portion and suggested a lunch menu item for her instead. I would recommend this place to anyone seeking fresh quality seafood.
(5)
Rich W.
I took a date here b/c I've heard so many good things. Other then that fluorescent sign outside, everything was great! The service was excellent! I think our waiter's name was Joe, he was very nice, very willing to recommend dishes, and was phenomenal. The decor and ambience I thought looked very neat. Considering it was a seafood place the decor was very fitting. It gives you the vibe like you are on a sailboat or fishing vessel w/o the stench! The food was great, everything was cooked well and we didn't have to wait that long. We ordered some tapas and had the clam chowder, the caesar salad, some sushi, and other smaller dishes which were very good. I highly recommend this place to anybody who is looking to take a date here, or looking for a nice place for dinner on Friday night. It is a little on the expensive side, but I have no problem paying for quality.
(4)
Omar Z.
This is a traditional New England fish house. If it were any place else, kudos would be flying off the shelf for the perfectly cooked fish, but here it is necessary for three stars. And they take some baby steps towards four: 1) Creativity. A lobster stir fry done with a whole lobster leaves you feeling a bit heavy with a disproportionate amount of pasta. Appreciative for the effort and presentation though. 2) Elegance of flavor. Cherrystones on the half shell are well selected and served with finely chopped red onion in addition to the more standard horse radish. 3) Hitting on the standards: A solid selection of raw oysters, chowders (the clam one being a tad too potatoey), and interestingly enough for a traditional New England fish house: Sushi. And the bread rolls were nice and soft. 4) Variety of fresh fish. The Ocean Catfish being heavily sold was almost worthy of the hype in texture but far from it in flavor. Disappointingly few preparations, though. 5) Great, professional waitstaff. If you've ever compared Boston television local news to any other news show in the country, you can begin to understand and appreciate good, serious New England service. Two servers per table here. 6) Proportions: Uber large. It's fine dining in a working class city. Fill 'em up. Those four filets of sole seemed a bit excessive though, even given the Restaurant's name. This place has a fine reputation, and actually, it had been on our list for years! But, know that this is not the type of place that really goes the extra mile to dazzle your buds. It just does a solid, and more than workmanlike job at giving you a well cooked seafood meal which you will find memorable in some way or another. And it works well in the community, setting up all the right elements and a few "stretch goals" for a special family occasion. Happy Birthday, Mom. Thanks, Dad! We loved it. Looking forward to the next one. Love, OZ.
(4)
Wendell W.
I'll make this really short. The service is really good but the food is just average. Maybe if you like bland food you would think the seafood is great, but there are more herbs and spices other than black pepper, salt and parsley. I honestly don't believe I had any salt or pepper in my food. Legal Seafood may be a chain but at least it gives you more flavor.
(2)
Andy F.
I'm not a huge seafood fan outside of coastal cities but this place could change my mind. If you can go during Crabfest (which is the month of July) don't pass up on the specials. My absolute hands down favorite is the Crab Stuffed Portabello-- out of this world. Second to this would be the Trout. Stay away from the BBQ Tuna-- yes I said Barbecued Tuna-- I've not made a mistake this big since ordering the Goat Cheese and Tomato Omelette at Zaftigs. The staff is upscale as are some of the prices, but this is a nice restaurant with some really outstanding food. Worthy of special occasion dinners or a nice lunch.
(4)
Kevin J.
The food was excellent, service was very good, and the drink selection was decent. The spiciness of the fried squid was a nice touch on a regular appetizer.
(4)
Deanna D.
So we were a party of 6 on a Sun night and the place was packed. The hostess greeted us and sat us immediately even without a reservation. The servers promptly greeted us and were very friendly and knowledgeable. The decor consisted of dark wood, pictures of fish and mounted fish along the wall--Not exactly the romantic ambiance but a nice restaurant. It was very busy in there so it got a bit loud as the night progressed. They have a great vine list with a huge selection of bottles. They even had a good selection of wines by the glass. The clams casino was really tasty. The freshly baked warm rolls were yummy. The clam chowder had great consistency and flavor but lacked in clams. I had the Crab and Langostino stuffed Sole which ended up being trout since they ran out of sole. Sole Proprietor running out of sole--a little ironic? Regardless it was very good. The fish was perfectly cooked and the stuffing was delicious. It was served with mashed sweet potatoes, asparagus and beets--- Everything was tasty minus the asparagus; it was steamed and flavorless. My bf had the Salmon Oscar which he really enjoyed.... again the asparagus was the complaint. We had a variety of dishes at the table and everyone enjoyed their meal. Very weak coffee, cappuccino and espresso which was a bit disappointing. Over all a good experience. The service was excellent, the prices are reasonable and the quality was good. Sole Proprietor is good option for a nice dinner while in the Worcester area.
(4)
Ann P.
I have been dining here since I was in my 20's so a longgggggg time. The place is not the same. Go for the bar and to watch a game. Our waiter Max was great. The sushi was mediocre to bad. The lobster bisque had a huge chunk of lobster but had no taste. The shrimp in my Bloody Mary was soggy yuck. The bread was great and real butter (in foil packets). Mom loved her salmon and fries. The Caesar salad was fine. No more..the days of this being my go to spot in Wormtown are over. 75 with a generous tip.
(2)
Cee Cee S.
Another date with another db. At least this guy had some balls and picked the place. The parking lot was a circus. There are attendants directing you here and there and you can only park in the spot they wave you into. I was confused....was I dining in Worcester or attending a show at Gillette. The inside was nice and we were promptly seated. We were tucked in a back dining room with several small parties and a large group of senior citizens. One which was exuding a certain Eau du Depends. Not the best dining ambiance. But how do you say I want to move because someone here smells like pee? The conversation was stiff as were the drinks. Thank goodness for that otherwise, I wouldn't have made it. The food was delicious, but I found the portions large. The fried artichokes were unexpected stars. We topped the evening off with a coffee. Thankfully, they were weak otherwise I would have been up for hours thinking about what a jerk this kid was.
(3)
Timothy R.
I believe i read somewhere that the Sole has achieved national accolades for their seafood. And they deserve every commendation. The ambiance is what I'd call "classy casual." Basically, you can't get away with gym shorts but a jacket is by no means required. A nice button down and jeans for men to give you an idea. The dining room is slightly dark in a great way, allowing for a romantic atmosphere if bringing an interest or partner. The wait staff is top notch. They consistently work in teams, so you'll have at least two waitors every time you dine. One usually serves as an assistant to the other but both are usually very attentive. I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant. Their sushi comes in many different varieties and the chefs are creative in the roll designs. The Firecracker roll is a favorite (tempura). The entree menu is large with basically everything seafood you could possibly imagine. I usually stick with a white fish, which are available blackened or grilled with potato and vegetable. But if you are looking for a more dramatic choice they have very creative combinations of fish, pastas, potatoes, vegetables, etc. The Sole has a full bar with a large wine list and a variety of cocktails. Their house sangria is to die for. Yes, It is expensive. But so very worth it.
(4)
Elissa B.
My husband took me to The Sole for Valentine's day last night and I have to say, it didn't disappoint! Not only did we get seated right away, the food was FANTASTIC and the service was excellent! My husband even remarked at how good the service was and usually he is oblivious to it all. He got the blackened swordfish with potatoes au gratin, and I got the broiled haddock with roasted potatoes and butternut squash. Not a morsel left. We had Red Sangrias with the meal and coffee and the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. Unbelievable experience. It was so good, that we tipped the waiters 25% instead of the normal 20%. It was a $100 bill, but totally worth it. If you are on the fence....don't be.
(5)
Stacey A.
The good ole Sole. I've never been a huge fan but I don't hate it either. Expensive - another company sponsored lunch spot.
(3)
William E.
Just went here today for the first time....very very good. Just sat in the bar with a client & had drinks & appetizers. M80 Chicken - so so Buffalo Shrimp - great Clams Casino - great Swordfish Burgers - fantastic Scorpion Roll - fantastic x 100 Can't wait to get back there to explore the main course menu...
Had the chicken with a mini shrimp appetizer. The shrimp tasted and looked like it came out of a box from some low budget grocery store. Over priced food of an average quality.
(2)
Bruce L.
The Sole Proprietor... has been a favorite of ours for a long time. Great seafood, I have never had a bad meal here. My favorites include the Tuna Barcelona, Tuna Sashimi dinner, the clam chowder, the tuna crunch roll (great!) and also the lobster ravioli appetizer is to die for. Finally the tulip cup mouse for dessert. So about the Sole. It is a rather busy place so reservations are good if you can get them, very popular in the area. The service has always been top notch and the food cooked to perfection, really! Many different kinds of seafood. Tip: They have a set menu price on Sundays for $21.99 choice of three apps, three entrees, three desserts. For this set price you can have a cup of clam chowder or garden salad, tuna Barcelona (tuna steak stuffed with feta and sun dried tomatoes, seared with peppercorns) and the yummy Tulip Cup dessert. Nice way to spend an hour or so trust me. Yes, there are other options but this is what I had Sunday it was great. I have been here with large groups and had wonderful meetings, I think you can reserve a big side room if you have enough people and money ;) Also great for a special meal with the one you love. Lastly, they have a late night menu with $6 items but I'm not sure what it includes.
(5)
Josh F.
Went during restaurant week for the first time. It was crowded as expected and the waitstaff was obviously scrambling to keep up - which they did a great job of. Atmosphere seemed dated to me. Got the broiled scallops. They were simply meh. Oh and someone forgot to top it with breadcrumbs and threw them on raw at the end. Haven't been back since and not sure I'm going to.
(2)
Paul L.
Excellent! Hoppin' location, very friendly staff, and the food was wonderful. Fish was fresh and perfectly cooked with tasty accompaniments (fried artichokes...yum) Decent chowder as well.
(4)
J M.
We hadn't been to the Sole in quite a while, but decided to try it. I have never been so disappointed! The service was great, but the dinner wasn't. The clam chowder is full of flour and potatoes, and too much pepper. Why isn't it as good as Legal Seafood's? My "maple glazed" scallops were plain, unseasoned (steamed?) scallops unceremoniously dumped into a pool of butternut squash. The "maple glaze" was drizzled into the squash instead of onto the scallops. Why weren't the scallops sauteed in butter and the glaze done in the pan? The accompanying broccoli was so hard as to seem uncooked. My husband had the stuffed flounder that the menu promised was stuffed with crab and other seafood, but he could find none amidst the bread stuffing. What has happened to the Sole? This dinner was Sunday, March 17, 2013, at 6:00 PM. This is going to be taken off my list of Worcester's best.
(2)
Katie P.
This is the best seafood restaurant I have ever been to. The Scorpion Roll with pineapple is AMAZING. Every meal we have had here has been outstanding. This is the restaurant that I miss the most now that we live in CT. Parking is sometimes tough. If you have to wait to be seated it is well worth it!
(5)
Ann K.
The Sole Proprietor was VERY busy on a Tuesday night but after a short wait we were seated. Seating was interesting as it was a booth - spacious enough in terms of seating space but the table leg was so big that it took up most of the leg room. Add to that huge menus and oversized bread plates and we were out of space before we even got our drinks. It was "Lobsterfest" time so there were alot of great lobster based specials. The table next to us opted for the 2.5 lb monsters but we picked more subdued entrees. The Lobster Risotto was very good although very light on the promised artichokes and asparagus tips. The food was good enough to override the downside of the cramped seating but if you are tall, I suggest that you ask for a table rather than a booth!
(3)
steven R.
really overrated in my opinion high prices for little. I just don't get it the service was ok but not as good as it should of been for what they were charging the was clean I sat at the bar and I understand that is a seafood restaurant and don't mind smelling some fish but it was a strong smell. I have always been told if it smell really fishy then it is not fresh and stay away. with that being said I wanted to try something so I had a few drinks and the seafood chowder it was good not great it had large chunks of a fish in it and a few small pieces of something else but not much of a variety as I was hoping for. overall I was just disappointed with the whole experience.
(2)
Alan P.
We made reservations and asked for a quiet table. What we got was a room with a table of 6 very loud people. We complained to Max the manager. Nothing was done. We heard about their colonoscopy and prep. Will not go their again since this is the client they prefer!
(2)
Thomas N.
lunch recently....ate in the bar area, verrrry noisy, with a perticularly noisy person or two.....service was pleasant and attentive....bar special was 6$ russian river vodka drinks, they were good although the martinis were small.....softshell crab (crab time) very good, seafood assortmnet good, fish was a little on the dry isde, very attractive area and it's own parking lot....have been there before, will be there again...
(4)
SaraLee C.
AMBIANCE: loud, crowded, unpleasant. An up-scale (and slightly bigger) diner experience at best. SERVICE: our waitress was not very knowledgeable about their drink options in specific, and in general, just plain unmemorable. PRICE: Given the quality of the food, just plain expensive! OVERALL: This place felt like an overpriced and dressed-up Bertucci's with a penchant for seafood, but, without the mouth-watering rolls.
(2)
Suzanne G.
I really liked this place. Went for lunch with two colleagues and we were seated quickly, and attended to efficiently. I had a salmon tips with lemon caper sauce with roasted vegetables. Quite delicious, dessert was very good too, flan in buttery caramel sauce. My companions enjoyed their lunches as well. It was very busy, our meals were good, prices are really good. I'd go again when in the area.
(4)
Matt R.
This place is pretty good... maybe 4-stars for Worcester, but definitely not a 4-star restaurant in any other city. All of the food is overpriced, you will be hard pressed to not spend 25-30 bucks per person here even for lunch. The Oysters are fresh (I would definitely recommend them) Sushi - stay away from it, it is simply not that good. Chowder - I like the chowder here, a great staple I miss their bluefish Pate' - was delicious! All of their entrees are good, but not great. You are better off taking a 40 minute trip to Providence or boston to eat at a great seafood restaurant... the food simply does not justify the price. definitely not 4-stars
(3)
Marcel B.
Great seafood restaurant. I eat here very frequently with visitors and colleagues because it's the nicest restaurant close to work, and I'm always very happy with the cuisine and service. Great place.
I heard so many great things about the Sole Proprietor so I decided to give it a shot. I went there with my boyfriend and we got clam chowder and some lobster thing with a bunch of sauce on it. This place is totally overrated. The service was neglectful. The location was fine. However, the food was not very good. The clam chowder was decent, but was gritty. The lobster was okay, but the sauce really over powered everything. It's also overpriced. I wouldn't go back.
(2)
Emily A.
I went to the Sole regularly when I worked downtown Worcester for lunch. I've gone over the past 9 years several times for dinner for special occasions. I went back a couple months ago with a friend who still works in the area and very nearly sent my food (one of the sandwiches on the lunch specials) back. It was almost inedible. The spices used clashed, the fish was overdone and rubbery, the fries had that slight bitter taste they sometimes get when (I assume) the oil is too old or overused... Not good. I never send food back and I never complain unless it's really bad. I've been a waitress, I know what food service is. I think the quality at the Sole has gone down hill over the past several years and the prices have stayed risen. As my palate for good food and alcohol has developed, the Sole has not. Their wine list is good, their beer and liquor offerings are sophomoric at best. It's disappointing they're not waking up to the possibilities of excellent food and beer pairings and the movement for excellence in food. Granted, this is a seafood place 50+ miles from the coast, so there's only so much you can expect, but I think any creativity and verve the place used to have has gone the way of complacence in a steady stream of regulars. The bartender there during the day is wonderful. I just wish the food there were as good. It's disappointing. I'd love a good local seafood place that would serve sustainable fish. I almost never eat it any more because of sustainability issues and I miss it. I'm just not spending money at the Sole.
(2)
D M.
My husband and I went to the Sole last night. We go maybe 2-3 times a year but we haven't been for almost a year. We were really disappointed with the service and our meals. First of all the waitresses seemed over-whelmed. They messed up our salad order and put the wrong dressing on the salad. Ok not a real biggy. Then my husband ordered the clam chowder which he said was good and I ordered the stuffed lobster which lacked flavor and was chewy because it was not fresh. Please see review below from 12/13 which states that their lobster was rubbery also. The reason for this I concluded is because they either cooked beforehand and refrigerate or use frozen and heated up from there because you get the food out faster. Either way it was not fresh. I know my lobster and if you like lobster you will be disappointed. I recommend that you ask them if it is cooked before serving. See what they have to say. Another issue I had was that it was suppose to be stuffed lobster. That means stuffing right? Thats what stuffing means to me. Well there were some broiled scallops and shrimp thrown into the shell. They were good but not stuffing. Finally, I asked for a 1.5 pd lobster and I am pretty sure thats not what I got but thats what I paid for. So in addition to being disappointed now I felt ripped off. I just wanted to get the heck out of there as quickly as possible. We will not be going back any time too soon. It was a big disappointment.
(2)
Jeffrey L.
My go to place for seafood in Worcester, it used to be happy hour but I soon realized the decline in happy hour quality for food. However their dinner and lunch items normally served are still exceptional. Think of it as an alternative to legal seafood but the best thing about this place is the service! I would give it 4.5 if I could, I've had bad run ins with some servers but the management is always spot on, they cleared my whole bill once but of course I still paid anyways, couldn't believe my eyes when the check was 0.00 dollars for 7 people. Being classy never goes out of style and I will truly miss the sole proprietor once I move. A must try for people in the area.
(4)
Leah M.
$6 bar menu!! (Which used to be $5). Actually, I'm a little disappointed it's no longer $5, because THAT was a good deal. Now it's just a fairly good deal. My friends and I go to get our sushi fix. The Tiger eye is by far the best, it's wonderful and hugee. Also the white sangria sole bowl is great; light, fruity, enjoyable. Just if you go for the bar menu, go early enough. It get's really busy really fast and you have to get your order in by 6:30
(4)
Jim W.
I like Sole. The staff seems friendly and the atmosphere is lively. Been twice but have had mixed impressions of the food. First time I had the bay scallop newburg. Being a scallop lover thought it'd be a slam dunk. I really didn't think it through though. Must have been tired, since I forgot I'm a fan of sea scallops not bay. The whole dish was a bit too rich, runny, and sweet for my taste. The second time dining I had the Tuna Barcelona. It was fantastic. Huge portions (took home half of it) and the entree and sides tasted great. Definitely recommend the dish.
(3)
lella b.
I went with my parents (sea food lovers in the flat lands of the midwest) and myself (deathly allergic and live in MA). The portions are great, my parents RAVED on the 2 chowders (thanks fellow yelpers on that one - i had suggested they get one of each). My dad is a clam chow-dah freak (lol) and said it was among the best he's ever had. My dad did the Scallop Entree special dish, my mom a basic lobster. Both were great, and scored "oh, we WILL come back here". Parking was easy, make reservations: quite busy at 6:00 on 12/30. The meals came with potato, mixed veggies so when we ordered sides we we a bit vegtable heavy (hey, that's fine with me). $5 martini (lemon drop) great, nut martini, ok ($7) (but i'm PICKY about them!!!). I had a NY Strip Steak: excellent for a seafood resturant and they made sure to cook in a seafood free zone. They have an extensive GF menu. We ordered ice cream (coffee) and key lime pie for dessert. I wasn't a fan of the they key lime pie, ice cream was excellent. Portions are HUGE, great non-seafood options, great wine and martini list. We will go back - it was a fun mixed crowd with excellent service and a great local business. Only reason for missing a 5 star is 1) key lime pie and 2) forgetting our side of asparagus (but getting it then deducting from bill...totally not asked for but nice!).
(4)
Aubrey S.
My Sole! My Darling Sole! What has happened to you? Do you not like us anymore? The college kids who adore you? (Though, congrats to Mark on the promo.) You separate my group of ten, "policy, policy." Is this new policy from just this past week? You separate us, but you do not even separate our checks. Gratuity of 18% for 10 people? But the menu says we must number above 12 humans! You make us wait for over 45 minutes collectively for some sushi rolls and drinks? 20 more for the check? Do we kids no longer matter to you? Even though I've spent more here than I dare say? Even though we come ecstatic for your food and drinks every time we have entered your doors? We are sad, we hang our heads as we leave, I blush at the embarrassing crush I had on you. But Sole, I thought I loved you. I miss the days where you opened to us your comforting arms and Wellfleet oysters. My heart still aches, I have had to edit myself from a 1 star for you to a 2 star. I clearly need a rebound restaurant.
(2)
Dan H.
Great seafood. Fair prices. Great setting and comfortable bar area. Worcestor has many strong options for dinner, and this is among the best of what I have tried. If you're a seafood aficionado, it's a must try for western MA. I have only had good experiences there.
(4)
J S.
We've given the Sole a couple tries and are unimpressed. Their seafood dishes are just average in my book. The Sole just doesn't compare to what you can find near the shore.
(3)
Teri L.
Going out to meet my sisters for a Christmas Lunch at the Sole was such a treat for me!! I never get to the Sole as much as I want. I think the last time I was here was about......wow...over 6 years ago?? Yes, I'm ashamed because I can't imagine that it took THIS LONG to get back here!! I will repent. I rushed in because I hate being late and yes...I was late. Sitting down finally I took in the beautiful Christmas decor to make the very handsome style even better. What I love about this seafood restaurant...it doesn't smell like one. Seriously! I have been in some seafood establishments that the smell hits you at the door and you take it home with you on your clothes...bleh not this place. We ordered up 3 apps..crab stuffed portabella mushroom, goat cheese cake and popcorn shrimp. I'm not a shrimp lover so I coudn't tell you how that was but my sister Anne and boyfriend Nick get it all the time. The stuffed mushroom was to freakin die for!!!! The crab was perfect, creamy and complimented the mushroom exactly. The goat cheese cake and toasted bread was amazing! I almost licked my knife. I ordered for my entree the ginger cream scallops with apples. It was so full of flavor, the scallops so perfectly cooked (I have this thing about scallops being just right), the rice was mounded in the middle with a creamy Parmesan sauce with cooked apples poured over it. I couldn't stop eating it. I wanted to but no..I couldn't. I then ordered...as if I didn't have enough to eat...a chocolate tulip cup to end our wonderful lunch. It was good. Very pretty to look at. Very creamy and nice. All in all, it was a fabulous time at the Sole. A fine dining restaurant that's well established and well loved.
(4)
Rachael B.
Took my sister here for lunch while visiting. The food was good - i had the clam chowder and the salmon and my sis had a salad and the lobster roll. service was a little slow and a little awkward - our waitress just seemed a little out of place, lol. definitely a yummy lunch in worcestor!
(4)
Kevin H.
Easily my favorite restaurant since moving to the Worcester area. The food is outstanding, the service is great and they do a great job of mixing up the menu seasonally. Check often for specials like the $5 happy hour bar menu. Great way to have a few drinks and some really great sushi for little money. Also, lobsterfest is a great time for a $20 lobster dinner, although we seem to get talked into upsizing every time. I love sushi. Been to Japan quite a few times and the Sole has some of the best around.
(5)
Michael N.
I have eaten at the Sole Proprietor twice, and I would give it 10 stars each time. Most recently we went there a few weeks ago. The staff is amazingly friendly, helpful and courteous. They provide you with a lead waiter (so to speak) and a second waiter to help make sure every need is tended to. The waiter was helpful with recommending a bottle of wine. We had clam chowder - thick & delicious and lobster bisque, which had several chunks of lobster. For our entrees, we both had baked stuffed lobster. They allow you to specify the weight of the lobster, the stuffing, and whether you would like them to remove the lobster from its shell for you or if you would prefer to "do the work" yourself. This is a more upscale restaurant with great prices for the amount of food, its deliciousness and the ambience. I LOVE the Sole Proprietor.
(5)
Katie C.
I went here with a group of 6 for my roommate's birthday. When I saw the outside I did not expect it to be anything like what it was. It looked like a fancy clam shack. But it was so much more than that. Everything was top of the line. From the mussels appetizer to the clam chowder to the blackened swordfish and lastly to the tirimisu. The service was excellent. My waiter was very knowledgable about the entire menu and was able to answer all of our questions and he recommended me a wine that paired with my dish. The prices were a little steep for a typical night out for me, but very much worth it. For a special occasion I would absolutely go back again!
(5)
Alex H.
Yes, this is an (or the) upscale seafood place in the desert of Worcester. The food is on the higher end of the spectrum but certainly is well worth it. I took a group of about 30 people here, the check came to about 60$ per person. The service was quite good, as the 2 staff members were able to handle the group quite well. However, they attempted to cram us into a function room like sardines. The cold air from the vents bothered several of my guests. Overall, a fantastic experience, but a few little quirks to make a few people less than perfectly satisfied.
(4)
Jayde B.
This is a great spot for so many reasons. 1. The food is great. 2. Happy hour is a great way to get great prices on their food (Others have written the details in previous reviews) 3. The food is great. 4. The food is great. 5. The wine is delicious - even their cheapest glass! Waitstaff are knowledgeable and helpful. The seafood is wonderfully fresh and continually changes. The appetizers and main dishes are plentiful and the desserts are decadent! This place is a gem in the middle of Worcester. However, the wait can be long even on weeknights so call ahead! (There are no reservations for the bar however) Haven't had the sushi yet - I'll be trying that next happy hour!
(5)
Mike L.
I would give it a 4, but my meal just wasn't wonderful. Service was outstanding. Mike and Max were super attentive and exactly what I wanted in waiters (except for the rec). Can't complain there. I ordered the clam chowder and the lobster Newman. The newman is essentially a whole 1. 5 lb lobster cut up, cooked in a bisque like sauce, and covered with crumbled ritz crackers. Not as flavorful as I would have liked (mike's recommendation). I had food envy when I saw the lobster stir fry and the classic steamed lobster. The sushi menu and raw menu items looked pretty good too. I'd go back , but I'll be ordering differently.
(3)
Tani S.
If only we didn't live so far away from this great restaurant! Legal Seafoods (in our Cambridge neighborhood) doesn't come close! Such a tasteful interior, with wood tones and muted colors (comfortable chairs). We went for lunch on Saturday and enjoyed warm rolls and a stuffed sole dish and potato crusted trout. Both entrees were delightful (the pilaf accompanying the sole was flavorful) and we were more shocked that each dish with it's ample portions and well balanced flavors was only $11, roughly the same per dish as our normal breakfast places in Cambridge/Boston. We ended our wonderful meal with the indulgent whoopie pies. It was the perfect New England meal.
(5)
Theresa N.
Best happy hour ever. From 430-630pm Mon-Fri, Sole Proprietor has an amazing Happy hour featuring a $5 bar menu and 42 below martinis&cosmos. Made last minute plans to get drinks here with some friends and was pleasantly surprised. It's really crowded during happy hour and difficult to find parking in the small lot but there's some street parking in the neighborhood surrounding the restaurant. The 42below drinks weren't great but the food off the bar menu was impressive. We ordered the Tiger Eye and Scorpion Roll off the sushi portion of the bar menu. Surprisingly good for a restaurant that doesn't specialize solely in sushi. We also ordered mussels which were perfectly tender and extremely fresh. Service was pretty good given the fact that the bar area was so busy. I have yet to eat in the dining room but I love the bar there so much that i doubt that I'll ever make it all the way in for table service.
(4)
Jason C.
I stop by this place every time im in woosta and its still good every time. There are new items on the menu at every visit and the wait staff is friendly and attentive.
(4)
Patrick S.
The pinnacle of seafood in central mass. The food should largely speak for itself; but I'll say that they change up the menu seasonally, and they always have specials targeting a particular "in" fish. You'd do well to take advantage. I find the service here to be consistently amazing. Most recently, my drinks would be refreshed just -before- I put down the glass after finishing. I don't have much more to add. Food is great, and leave rom for dessert! Just go, if you haven't already!
(5)
Jess T.
The Sole is a place that has never let me down. I'm a seafood fanatic, and growing up on the ocean has made me slightly snobbish. Their seafood scampi medley is glorious and the portions are definitely plentiful. The decor is dark, sleek and sexy....three words one does not often use when talking about anything in downtown Worcester, but the Sole manages to bring some class to the city. My all time favorite item to order is the sushi platter. It runs about $22, but there's no way anyone can finish it in one sitting. I love to get that for dinner and then have the leftovers for lunch the next day. Their bloody Mary's are very tasty. Usually garnished with a jumbo shrimp, they are worth every penny. The only negative I have about the Sole is the parking. The lot is very small, and often very icy in the winter. The ownership needs to consider additional parking or investing in more rock salt otherwise they're bound to have a lawsuit on their hands one of these days.
(4)
Alison K.
Great food. Ate here during restaurant week so it wasn't too pricey.
(4)
Anne H.
Well, I have been here about nine months now. Tried a lot of new restaurants and still couldn't find something that really had that "wow' factor. I have been sticking with the Texas Roadhouse as the go to place. It was hubby's birthday and he loves seafood but we never can seem to find a good place to get some other than legal seafood. We went in at the busy lunch hour, which told me something right there, no parking, the place was packed. We did get a cozy booth. The atmosphere was surprising pleasant. We had two waiters that really knew how to keep the flow going and keep everyone happy. We were off to a good start. We had the fish chowder and my daughter had the clam chowder. Now, THAT is what heaven must taste like. Big chunks of fish, a rich, tasty broth. UUMMMM still dreaming of it two days later. The clam chowder had a smokey, bacon taste, and the most tender clams. Seriously, a bowl of this is a meal. The cup was $4.00 and the bowl, I think $6.00. Move on to the main course. We had the fish and chips, the haddock. Fresh, fresh, fresh. The shoe string fries were kind of a chintzy thing, but who cares. The fish portion was huge. Hubby had the salmon, the chef special of the day. He really enjoyed it so much. We will return. So much to try. I am now looking at the review next to mine with the $6.00 bar menu. Hello. Sounds like a plan next week. Had we not been so full, we would of been doing the happy dance on the way out. We had to home and recover from stuffing ourselves!
(5)
Mary Ann C.
Still an excellent seafood restaurant after all these years! Like an old friend, Sole Proprietor was still there and still serving up some old favorites as well as some new additions. I loved the Lobsterfest menu. They offer lobster with deviled eggs and lobster mac n cheese as well as many other appetizers and main courses. The lobsterbake was just the way it should be with steamed lobster,mussels, clams (I had mine raw on the half shell), potatoes and corn on the cob. By far the highlight of the meal were the clams. They were fresh, cold, salty and they gave me plenty of lemon wedges. The dinner included soup or salad but we had already had the clam chowder which was not Sole Proprieter's original recipe. What did they do to it??? I understand that they have renovated the place and modernized the menu but it would be nice if they offered the traditional thick chowder that tasted like a fisherman cooked it up on the docks! I was not impressed with the new recipe but it was not bad either. We picked salad and it was a delicious mix of field greens with cucumber and tomato. The honey mustard dressing was perfect. The maple glazed scallops looked more like an appetizer than a main course. I would not recommend it for anyone who is hungry, however the scallops were delicious. The lobster was not a female (sweeter) as requested and was overcooked. They quickly replaced it with another one that wasn't like rubber and were friendly about the concern. Overall I still love coming here when I am home visiting.
(4)
John P.
We were traveling home from Conn and we went on Yelp to research food along I290 in the Worcester area.....and this place was ranked highly. We arrived at 1pm on MLK holiday Monday, and the place was very busy. Small parking lot but located less than a mile off the highway. We secured the last 2 bar seats and began to admire the dish beside us of swordfish and veggies. The bartender was busy....there are more than 15 bar stools and she was full and pouring drinks for the restaurant too.....and it took a little bit for her to come over, but not bad. She was very pleasant and helpful, and made suggestions. We chose the fish taco app which was very good. The sesame shrimp was fresh and hot, but a little be batter-soaked/soggy, not super crispy. Still ok. Meals were 1-2.....my fried haddock was a thick cut piece fried to perfection in a light batter, although the fries are McDonald's/Burger king style. I loved the haddock. My wife tried a salad with crab meat and greens, and it came in the shape of a square...and it wasn't the best.....not awful, just not appealing. The reason we rate this place a 4 star was the seafood, and we can tell on future visits that the seafood is the way to go.....and service was good. They have 2 other places in town as well, Chop house 111, and , Via....so we may try those next. Overall a decent place for sure...especially in Worcester.
(4)
Joe B.
Best place for good quality seafood. Their oysters are wonderful and the sashimi tuna was incredible- melted in my mouth. The Newburg lobster though was a bit chewy. Great service!
(4)
Barbara S.
I don't know what all the hype is about! It was expensive and the food was just okay. Maybe my problem Is that I don't do sushi!
(2)
A H.
Decent food in a decent place, but not worth the price. A "nice dinner out," but nothing that special. A standard New England seafood restaurant.
(2)
Lia K.
Been here on a number of occasions and love the restaurateurs! The owners also manage 111 and Via. The only downside for the Sole is its a bit pricey. Below are some meals/food I've enjoyed. Cherrystones yum. surf and turf yum. Sushi rolls, not too bad. Shrimp salad with avocado. Love their happy hour bar menu. Service can be a bit off during peak hours but only on off-chance.
(4)
Susannah L.
Not a fan. I have NEVER had an outstanding meal at the Sole. EVER! The seafood is fresh and good - but not memorable. If I have to meet someone in this area of Worcester, I'll go here for a drink in the bar and a few oysters, but will not dine here anymore. The 111 Chop House and Via are amazing and owned by the same people. I would recommend either before suggesting the Sole to anyone.
(2)
Scott A.
Excellent service and the food was impressive. The bar staff was attentive and was nice...thank younger a greatbexperience!
(4)
Nicole M.
I was born and raised in MA eating tons of seafood. Every year on my birthday when I was kid, my family would take me out for lobster. Funny sidenote, I was totally grossed out by coleslaw and to drive me nuts (or maybe it was a genuine word pronunciation issue?) my sister would call it "Nicole slob". Cute right? Anyway, at 18 I moved to Boston and was vegan for the next 7 years. By the time I started eating meat again, I was living in New York and then Los Angeles. While I've had plenty of seafood over the past several years, it hasn't quite lived up to my extremely nostalgic memory of eating classic New England seafood. After driving cross country from LA back to Boston this week, I went to Sole Proprietor and was absolutely in heaven. I got the Seafood Saute which was chalk full of all my favorites-lobster, scallops & shrimp and it was amazing. I was transported back in time to the seafood eating heydays of my youth. Food rundown: Seafood Saute: amazing with good sized lobster chunks Jumbo King crab legs: ridiculously amazing, I will be getting this next time for sure Seared blackened tuna: fantastic, fresh and cooked perfectly Sides of steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes: delicious, only complaint is that the sweet potatoes were a bit more liquified than I prefer but that's a personal thing. They still tasted very good. Red Sangria: decent (tough act to follow after drinking a lot of sangria in LA) White Sangria: Sucked down by a few people at my table crazily fast with lots of discussion of how delicious it was, though I didn't try it myself. Key Lime Pie: Despite being completely stuffed, it was good enough that I managed my fair share along with everyone else at the table. Service: It was a very busy Saturday night and we were not neglected for even a second. Very impressed. Price: Yeah, it's not cheap, but it's seafood and everything had by my table was very obviously fresh and cooked perfectly so no complaints here. Absolutely worth every penny. Decor: Classic & tasteful. I especially loved the black walls with the light wood trim. Lots of great prints on the walls as well. I will definitely make an effort to eat here again before I leave in a few weeks and judging by some of the other reviews I should stick to the dinner service.
(5)
Kaytee T.
This is one place I will never go again. The food is INSANELY overpriced for what you get, the restaurant itself is full of stuffy people and the menu is very small and limited. Drinks were okay, it took out waiter a good 5 minutes to even greet us even though the place was dead. He also reeked of cigarette smoke which was pretty gross. I love seafood so I was majorly disappointed.
(1)
Paul M.
Love the Sole! It's been a while since I've had dinner here, and I was in the mood for seafood, so decided to head over. The day before Thanksgiving and the place was packed, but the maitre d' did say there was a table available, so I was promptly seated. The mustard bluefish looked appealing, so I ordered it. The mustard sauce was just a tad overpowering, but otherwise the fish was absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. The rice, grilled squash and asparagus was also very good. The ambiance was very elegant and the staff very professional. Prices can be a bit high, but the food and service are worth it. My favorite seafood restaurant in Central Mass.....
(4)
Ray Z.
Great Service, Good Food.
(4)
Kelly H.
sorry to rain on everyone's parade on this place... but it's not good! i've gone here twice in a week's time frame and was not impressed either times. the first time i was here, i was really excited to try their seafood saute as another yelper had indicated it's good... WRONG! the seafood is drenched in butter and oil... there's sand in the scallops... the shrimps are opaque... (and you know how i HATE that)... and the lobster is over cooked... the description of the dish sounds awesome... and i hate it when i get the opposite... second time i came here, decide to possibly get the lobster stir fry... less the batter... cuz u know stir fry w/"tempera" batter in a non japanese restaurant may just mean mush! so got my lobster stry fry naked... and again... disappointed. the presentation of the plate is just a plop of pasta with a lobster head... the lobster was slightly better than last time... but to me the lobster was not cooked to order... seems like they cooked the lobster probably hours before and then reheated... *shakes head* thank goodness i'm not the only one that thinks that the lobsters are not good... two of my dinner party got their lobster dinner and also stated that their lobsters were also over cooked... how can you be a seafood restaurant and over cook lobster?!?! only explanation is that the lobsters were ALREADY cooked in the morning... cracked... and then possibly reheated... tisk tisk and they want to charge over $25 bucks for that quality?? honestly, that's just horrible. how long does it really to dunk a live lobster into a hot pot... 10 min while i'm eating my salad? ugh... hate when restaurants can't cook seafood right when they are known as a seafood restaurant... the saving grace is that some others at the party ordered fish and enjoy that. So i guess the conclusion is order fish... they can't really mess up grilling a fillet of fish... i hope not! i may give this place another shot in looking at their bar menu... the bar menu looks decent... and with the lack of options in worcester... i'd prob be back to try it... but that might be the last time if i'm disappointed again...
(2)
Patrick K.
So, a little back story on this place...I have been trying to go there with my girlfriend for the better part of two years now. Yes, they accept reservations, I know, but it was always a spur the moment type of thing. Every single time, without exception, it was a 90 minute plus wait. Inevitably, we would end up at the Boynton, (a whole different review, but awesome...) Anyway, back to Sole...it is owned and operated by the same Group that has Via and 111 Chop, which I have been to both and find to be excellent. They are the best three restaurants in Worcester for sure. I think that the thing I like best is that each of the three restaurants have their own unique character. Other than the excellent service, high-quality meals, and over-priced (zing!) drink menu, they are all distinct. Again, back to Sole. So I finally got there. We were seated right on time with our reservation, which I always appreciate. We started off with a dozen Oysters, which were fresh and served with all of the fixin's. I had the Surf & Turf (Filet and Baked Stuffed Shrimp). And here in lies my only complaint for the evening. When I ordered the baked stuffed shrimp as the 'surf' portion, the waitress kindly informed me that the shrimp were not prepared in the traditional baked-stuffed fashion. She said that it was an all over batter, etc, etc. I said I couldn't wait to try it...but...and get this... when it was served to me it was basically fried shrimp! Fried f'n shrimp! Who the hell decided that such a quality establishment could even dream of getting away with this! If I wanted fried shrimp, I would have gone to Long John Silver's. Seriously, the GM of this place should take the Exec Chef aside and explain to him that when people are paying the cash that they charge, fried shrimp is a no go when pairing with a Filet. Seriously, I couldn't believe it. Even though the waitress flat out warned me it wasn't what I was thinking, I still find it unacceptable. What a chopper move this was...Chop City! Other than that, I have nothing bad to say about this place at all. I feel like if I were to make a better decision ordering, I would go with 5 stars, which could be in a future update. Also, parking is an absolute circus. They have a lot, just not nearly appropriately sized. Have fun with that one.
(4)
Sue B.
The crab stuffed huge Portabella mushroom was insane! Decadent, smokey and delish! I just love the bread to salad to meal to dessert. Ask the waiter what the knock your socks off items are and you won't be disappointed if you follow their recommendations.
(4)
Anthony S.
Good food, but the atmosphere has deterioated especially compared to its sibling restaurants - 111 chophouse and Via. Seems due for an updating. So, the food... Oysters were very nice. Tuna was good, but a bit overlooked for my taste. Haddock was very good. Deserts were large and very nice.
(3)
Dave U.
Best seafood in Central Mass. Great bar, friendly and helpful staff, good atmosphere in the restaurant. I'm a huge fan of the Angel Hair Bernardi.
(4)
Molly S.
I have been to the Sole about half a dozen times now, and I have some compliments, some complaints. I have little negative to say about the bar area and $5 happy hour menu. The sushi is very good (especially for $5 sushi), and the salads good. I'm underwhelmed by the drink offerings, especially the limited house cocktails, but it's fine. Service is prompt and friendly, which could always make up for any problems. One night my boyfriend and I dressed up and came in for a fancy meal, however. It was our anniversary and we wanted to have a really nice night. The problem was dinner did NOT go smoothly. My boyfriends "surf & turf", which you would think comes with a steak and a handful of shrimp, only came with ONE shrimp, and his steak was cooked incorrectly. His meal was missing one full side (asparagus) that had been advertised with the meal on the menu. It was an unbelievable failure of a meal. It was just before the kitchen closed, and I'm sure this had something to do with the rushing staff that made our meal. My boyfriend and I are both in foodservice, and we understand very well that when the end of a night comes, you want nothing more than to be done. But this does not excuse rushing through the last meal and screwing it up so terribly. We also understand that this has nothing to do with the waitstaff; our bumbling, meek waitress was terrified of us as we calming explained the problems. After apologizing profusely and sending over a manager, we were not granted any discount on the dinner. Although we did not act as outraged as we felt, we still feel we should have been given one in good faith. I'll be back for late-night cocktails and sushi, but I won't return to the Sole for a table-service meal.
(3)
Tom S.
Make a reservation here...come early and hang at the bar. Great wines, martinis and draft beers complemented by an open oyster bar! Yes this is "Worcester by the sea" believe it or not great seafood and sushi!! Fantastic menu, great apps, busy bar, nice dining experience here too with private rounded booths if you ask for them. Lunch is best in the high bar booths for faster service. Great Oyster selection. Hard to get a seat at the bar at happy hour ...
(4)
Crystal L.
Pescado Guisado con Arroz y Pan Tostado was great. Very flavorful. Downside is the mussels were a little sandy.
(4)
Kathryn P.
Really very good food. Expensive. However, they do have a $6 bar menu early in the evening. The sushi is super yummy. I have noticed that if you get the sushi for regular price, you get bigger pieces than the $6 menu. The rolls are great and there are crackers and cheese by the bar. Also great for a romantic dinner.
(4)
Tim C.
For a table, three stars. But sit at the bar, fours stars, at least. Get a drink, have some oysters, shrimp, and littlenecks and just enjoy yourself. Bartenders are attentive and helpful, the drinks are ample, and the seafood is first-class. At the bar you can get a limited menu at reduced prices at happy hour, and that's a real deal. Service at tables is less good; in my experience over several years it is uneven at best, sometimes just awful. The food is always very good, though.
(3)
Ryan G.
The Sole Proprietor is one of the upscale restaurants that is actually worth all the fuss. I have come here for dinner on several occasions and the food never disappoints. The restaurant is located in a nice building with a spacious private lot, rather rare and always a plus for Worcester! The interior has a classy yet homey feel and is broken up into several rooms, which helps keep down the noise. However, if you end up anywhere near the bar it is too loud, you can't even hear yourself think. As for the food, the menu offers an "eclectic" mix of seafood and includes some turf options for those land-lovers out there. I've tried their sushi, crab cakes, and various fish my favorite being the swordfish. The food is always fresh, tastes great, and is plated with the utmost care. It is far from bland and some of the dishes combine somewhat unorthodox flavors creating a unique dining experience. This is really impressive as a lot of upscale "non-ethnic" places simply rehash familiar dishes and jack up the price. The food is pricey, but I have had nothing but great food here--it is well worth the price. The only downside is the service, which can be rather spotty. For an upscale restaurant I expect fast and friendly service. I've had several great experiences, but also several poor ones. I also find it rather odd that you are assigned several people to wait on you, one is plenty. Spotty service aside, I highly recommend the Sole for the best seafood you will find in Worcester. Keep in mind that the place is usually packed, especially for holidays, so be sure to make a reservation at least a few days in advance.
(4)
Bryan D.
This place is delicious. If I was rating it for dinner, it would only get 4 stars. For lunch, it gets 5 though because the value is so good. Everything is delicious.
(5)
gus w.
Kind of a hidden gem near WPI. One of the nicest fish houses I've been to. We took some out of town family guests here, on a tuesday night -- it was packed. Had great service, the waiter was able to explain everything and gave some great recommendations. They have seperate staff handle water/bread. Everyone ordered something different -- all was great. They made some special preperations for us, no questions asked and everything came out perfectly. Prices are super reasonable for a fairly classy joint. Living not too far away, we'll be back for sure.
(4)
Joseph K.
Excellent fresh sea food. needs little bit of work on better preparation for serving the clams and oyster. (broken shell pieces inside the shell) Must visit place if you are into New England style sea food
(4)
Roger S.
The Sole is consistently excellent with a fantastic wine list. We've tried specials and menu standbys - Tuna Barcelona they were great. Good decor, bustling bar and overall good service.
(4)
Courtney M.
Best sushi in town!! We go here every year for dinner when we come to have a booth at the DCU Center for the Sporting Show. This place is great! They have almost all male waiters that are very attentive to your every need. I highly reccomend this place if you are in town. Make a reservation if you can. It is very busy there.
(5)
Shannon C.
I'm not into seafood but I'm into the Sole. I've never had trouble finding something on the menu for the non-seafaring type. I always order a salad or appetizer and the veggie roll and am never disappointed. The seasonal revisions to the menu are a refreshing welcome and often delicious. The service is amenable. The wine list is extensive. And the martinis are excellent, especially the $5 happy hour specials. I always enjoy myself here. The Sole is a gem amongst the usual Worcester fare.
(4)
Trauts N.
The only recommendation I would make is to stick with the basic grilled, roasted or fried fish selections. The sauces, coatings and marinades overpowered the fish. It was good though. And reasonable.
(4)
Emmy S.
For my dad and my traditional lobster birthday dinner, my mom introduced us to her favorite seafood restaurant in the Worcester area. I'm going to be straight up with this: the wait staff was so friendly and very attentive, the seafood was *fantastic* and wicked fresh, and I like the dressy atmosphere. One of those places you can go in jeans and a t-shirt, but if you feel like having a dressy night out, you still fit right in. We got everything from lobster, to clams, to shrimp; all amazing. I'm drooling a little bit just thinking about it. Oh, and the desserts are illegally fantastic. Oh, man, I'm killin' myself over here. Who's up for a trip to Worcester tonight?? I cannot wait to go back there again.
(5)
Tina S.
This place is very good and great for sushi, and tryin this thing called a fish bowl is a must...but be prepared to wait cause it gets packed
(4)
Mimi K.
The best seafood Worcester has to offer. Nuff sed.
(4)
Kevin S.
great lobster roll and the land and two seas dish was great, really tasty. didnt get much bleu cheese flavor from the potatoes but that wasnt a real problem. all in all a great meal.
(4)
X to the Z M.
Excellent restaurant with creative and innovative foods at a reasonable price. Well decorated restaurant that is both a blend of formal and casual. They occasionally offer special "late night deals" for college kids that help make it more affordable. Go for lunch and the food you get for the price is a steal.
(5)
MC L.
Down hill since the last time I went. Four dinners and everything from apps to entrees where just ok. Chicken for the non-fish lover was greasy. Fish ranged from no flavor, to fishy / not fresh. I was hoping for much better.
(2)
Russell O.
This is THE restaurant we compare all others with. Over the past 16 years that I have been a customer, I have never been disappointed. Food is the best with a wide variety of seafood, basically American cuisine with Asian touches. The service is impeccable with very low turnover amongst the wait-staff. I am sure it will be one of your favorites after your first time.
(5)
Doug M.
I hadn't been to the Sole Proprietor in about 15 years - shouldn't have stayed away for so long. Went a few Saturdays ago and loved the food. I had the fisherman's platter - excellent. My wife had the salmon which was very good (though my grilled salmon at home is better) and my son had the seafood alfredo, which was great. Service was really good and I have to say that prices were much better than I anticipated too.
(4)
Sugar J.
I have been here several times (unfortunately wasted my money too) and will NEVER go back. I think the reviewers who "love" this place truly have never left Worcester. Really. Most likely they've never been fortunate enough to experience a real nice seafood restaurant on the east coast , whether in Boston or Maine ??? Or, of course, San Francisco Bay. Really, it is all VERY relative. The Sole has gone way downhil IMO. It used to be passable in some ways, but now ? Like a huge, careless , common chain restaurant. It is always way too noisy. You are always seated next to a table of like 10 giggling, drunk men. (Yes really). Yuk. The service is very slow and careless. Certain dishes (fish, lamb chops) are always undercooked and NOT how we ordered them at all. The sides are tasteless, mostly. If you get a baked potato you will be safe ! My friend's fish was practically raw inside, and we had to send it back. What came out next, was a very dry fish in its place. Their fish chowders are overly fishy, gross. NO ambience. Just an atmosphere of a huge fast-food type joint, but NO "fast" service. Parking is horrendous. If you get take-out you are forced to wait in a rude crowd of pushers and near the bar, very loud and it all basically is a torturous experience. all around. These owners own Via and 111 Chophouse. Here's hoping they stop growing.
(1)
Brad H.
Our daughter attends WPI and this is a top choice of restaurants when we want a nice meal. We've been there often and have never been disappointed. Love the clam chowder.
(4)
David W.
One of the best seafood meals I've had. It was the sauteed Seafood Platter, with well prepared shrimp, scallops, and crab claw. The service was excellent and they were eager to substitute the sweet potato mash with the rice pilaf and vegetables.
(5)
Courtney D.
I went to the Sole Proprieter on a whim a few Saturdays ago at 8:30 after leaving another restaurant unhappily (see other review on Allora in Marlborough). I decided Worcester was my best bet for a decent dinner and I knew our options at 8:30 were going to be limited. We decided to take our chances at the Sole knowing we'd probably have to wait an hour to eat w/o a reservation. Well, we were right. The place was PACKED...like sardines in a can. The sizable bar area could not fit one more person in it if it tried. We ordered and smushed ourselves against the wall waiting for a table which we knew would be a long time coming. The bartender was happy to appease my request for something "fruity and non-alcoholic" being that I'm pregnant and am beyond bored with diet soda. Luckily, our table was ready after just about 45 minutes. The restaurant overall is actually a bit more casual and reasonably priced than I had imagined. Granted, a 3lb lobster or raw bar buffet will cost you, but overall I found their prices average. The restaurant is loud and I would say isn't really fine dining, but dressy casual. Our waitress was prompt, but you could tell at 9:15 on such a busy night, all she wanted to do was go home. They brought warm rolls and butter (just two, which we devoured before they even hit the table) and proceeded to peruse the very large and diverse menu. My husband ended up with a bbq flounder (which sounded interesting) and I, chicken. I know, I know...but I don't like any seafood. I was pleasantly surprised to see soup or salad was actually included with your meal which is rare these days. The chowder and salad were both very good. Our meals were good as well. Not "blow me off my chair" fantastic, but good. The place is average-above average. I would go back because I really liked their diverse menu. I'm a sucker for a big selection and the prices were appropriate. Overall, decent spot if you're in the area and want seafood.
(3)
Erin H.
My husband and I went here for our anniversary after doing a ton of research, and we couldn't have been happier! Our service was great--the food--to die for! And the price was really reasonable for what we got. Very pleased!
(5)
Stephen H.
I've eaten here many times. Always pleased with the food. My favorite would be the salmon with shrimp wasabi but I have never had anything but a great meal. Only negaitve is the noise - the restaurant gets a bit noisy when it is crowded. Best seafood in Worcester.
(5)
Anne A.
This is the best seafood restaurant in central and western Mass. Always excellent food, service and they always honor the reservation you have made. No waiting!
(5)
Brian G.
Great fresh fish! Late night menu is the best in town!
(5)
Shreedhar D.
This a consistently excellent seafood restaurant. The seafood is always fresh, perfectly cooked, and not too expensive. Last night I had the king salmon with lobster bacon slaw, pumpkin risotto, and sweet and spicy pumpkin seeds. The salmon melted in my mouth, the slaw was refreshing, the risotto was tasty and well spiced, and the seeds add nice texture. All in all, this is a great seafood place.
(5)
Stephanie M.
A favorite of our family for many years, this spot is a meeting place for drinks and apps around the bar or a large dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Love the Buffalo Chicken M-80s!
(4)
Angela G.
Being from Colorado we were looking for some great east coast sea food and this is the place. The New England Clam Chowder was delicious! Love that they take reservations because we had a party of 17! The fried clams are also very very good! Why can't this great sea food be all over the US??? Kind of difficult to find parking but there is an attendant in the parking lot helping you to park (yes it is free parking).
(5)
Jill F.
Went for lunch last Friday. Prices for lunch are very reasonable, but portions of the fish and chips were very small for the fish part. I had the fisherman's sandwich and my fish piece was much larger, for some reason. The simple sandwich and fries were very good. My sister-in-law had crab cakes that came with nicely cooked fresh veggies and she loved it. I have to say that the real star of the lunch was the Bloody Mary! SO delicious. Nicely seasoned, a skewer with olive, lime wedge and cherry tomato and a jumbo shrimp resting on the rim. YUM! Would love the recipe as it was different than ours at home.Excellent service from the wait staff. Would recommend!
(4)
Greg N.
Extremely overrated. For the prices I expect above average food. The meals are extremely average. The sushi is not good at all. Borderline awful. I can probably eat my bodyweight in food in one sitting, but the four times I have had the sushi from here I wasn't able to finish the roll. The only things I spend my money one now are the bar kettles which are decent, but more importantly served until 130am which is the real draw. Outside of not wanting to cook and wanting something besides pizza at 1230am, I would never go here.
(2)
Dan K.
Went for dinner on 12-30 with family that was in town. They sat us early for our 6:30 reservation and the service was great until a large party showed at a table near us, and then it fell apart. The food was great, but the service level you would expect at $25/plate was not there for the 2nd half of the meal. We ended up not having desert or coffee (because we had to basically ask them for those menus) Not sure if I'll go back, just based on how the service was.
(3)
Michael V.
The Sole is one of the best restaurants in Worcester. The parking lot is huge, decor is nice, service is good, and they serve good food. One of my favorites is the blackened tuna sashimi. Don't think twice just order it!!!
(4)
Zoe D.
Everything tastes wonderful and the plates are designed with brilliance. The lobster meat in the lobster ravioli melts in your mouth, and all the sushi rolls are flavorful, fresh, and tender. A full bar offering plenty of beers on tap and all the wine and mixers you want. The bar menu is great to order several items and share with a date. A great place for a date or to celebrate!
(5)
Serena's Mom W.
My absolute favorite restaurant! My husband introduced this place to me when we were dating (about 10 years ago) and it hasnt lost its touch for amazing food and service. When we lived in West Roxbury and Somerville and we craved the Sole, we got in the car for a well worth mini road trip. We are completely psyched now that we just moved to the area. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! **Excuse my review as it will be all over the place. The happiness of this place makes my head spin in a good way** My husband usually gets the Shogun Sushi Platter, which I am pretty sure is meant for a party of two or three - but he usually lays waste to it because it is so good! The sushi, albeit Americanized in that the pieces are so large, tastes amazing. Fresh fish and presentation is top notch. I usually order something like scallops with jasmine rice and the seasonal vegetable or like to try the specials...of course, only after I enjoy an app of fresh Jumbo shrimp and a cocktail. Each meal comes with a choice of soup or salad. The clam chowder is awesome but I highly recommend the seafood chowder. The blend of the different seafood is perfect - not overpowering. Shortly after you arrive, someone from your wait-team will bring over piping hot rolls - soooo goood. Hmmmmm...goood *Homer Simpson* I say wait-team because each table has a main waiter and that waiter has someone who will help them tend to your table. Its really great - you never feel bombarded with "how is everything?" and you are never left parched hoping your server will come back so you can order the next drink. The reason they do this, I believe, is they are very busy all the time. Having the double-team action allows them to continue to give the best service possible to their patrons, no matter how many people are in the restaurant. AND you are never, ever rushed along. I should also back up and address my comment about the restaurant being busy. It is a busy and popular place but I dont believe I have ever had to wait longer than 30 minutes (if that). And if you do have a wait, the atmosphere is just right for you to grab a drink at the bar while you wait for your table. And the meal is worth the wait any day. By the time my husband and I finish eating a roll, soup or salad, an app, and dinner and maybe an adult beverage or two we are so full of deliciousness we are not quite sure how we will manage to remove ourselves from the table to our car. BUT THEN - the waitperson will say that one word that will dangle in front of you and you cannot pass up the offer because everything to this point has been perfect - Hmmmmm DESSERT! The desserts are all fantastic - you really cant go wrong. A few years ago I decided I needed to be careful when I went out to dinner because I am such a foodie and tend to over indulge. The great thing about this place is that it IS totally possible to eat healthy feeling like you had a feast with no guilt. The menu is quite large offering any type of eater many options - including those who dont eat fish. For those who dont eat seafood - have no fear, they have a good amount of alternative dishes you can choose from. My brother in law only eats chicken (seriously) and he had an amazing statler chicken with wonderful veggies and sides to compliment. He was very happy. When we go with family or for special occassions we like to make a reservation for a table - otherwise, its the bar area for us. Reservations are recommended, especially over holidays weeks and on the weekend. The price is right for the service and probably the best meal of your life. ! I could go on - but I wont...just go and try it!
(5)
Sally Y.
Came here for an interview dinner and was pleasantly surprised. So far the best interview dinner I have been at. One of the people at the table compared it to Legal Seafoods, but cheaper, and I'd have to agree. I'll admit I didn't try to the shellfish which is what I often opt for at Legals, but I got the Maple Glazed Salmon which came with butternut squash ravioli and tomato basil soup. The tomato basil soup was delicious as was the salmon which was perfectly cooked. Although I was very full, we got dessert - the terrine seemed to be everyone's favorite. And, even though we were all stuffed, everyone commented on the fragrant smells coming from the sushi bar/kitchen on the way out.
(4)
Nicholas R.
I love this place. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. I really love the sushi, particularly the Fire Cracker (?) sushi.... it's delicious! I've never had a bad meal here and the waitstaff has always been courteous and professional.
(5)
Lesley D.
This restaurant is like Legal Seafoods with a smaller, more homey feel. Fresh, flavorful seafood paired with gourmet inspired flavors and sides, with a warm and social atmosphere and the prices to go with it. Definitely get reservations or you'll be waiting forever, depending on the day/time. There's a bar in the front which can be pretty noisy, but after you pass through there, there's a lovely dining area. I doubt that anything on this menu would be even remotely mediocre, but then again I'm kind of a sucker for seafood.
(5)
Lynne H.
We were very impressed by our evening at the Sole Proprietor. Every thing we ordered was delicious. The service was great. We had two waiters that worked together as a team. It was very busy for a Saturday night but we were called to our table faster then expected. We recommend the clam chowder, the fish taco's and Sushi combo. To bad I was to stuffed for dessert. Extra credit for the hot sour dough rolls we were served. Definitely will go back again real soon!
(4)
Jules P.
Underwhelming atmosphere, staff were sort of all over the place. Good fish, but that doesn't counterbalance the weaknesses that pop up on other parts of the menu.
(3)
P S.
Great about half the time. The quality varies, I have had some great meals, but have been disappointed by quite a few. I was amazed to watch a mouse run around the feet of customers without being spotted.
(3)
Frank G.
I lived across the street from this place for three years. Needless to say, I've gone many, many times and I can't recall ever being disappointed. The food is great and the drinks are great. It's actually a really fun place late at night, besides serving as a top-quality seafood restaurant.
(5)
B L.
We have consistently had excellent service, superb food and very satisfying experiences every time we have visited Sole Proprietor over a dozen and a half years. OUTSTANDING.
(5)
Amy ..
At first, I must admit I was a little annoyed to be sitting in traffic on the Xway *then* the Pike, driving to Worcester, and planning to pay $60 for slabs of raw fish... however, it *was* for a friend's birthday, so I sucked it up and moved on. My, oh my, was I pleasantly surprised. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect as I hadn't heard that Worcester was a crown jewel of fine cuisine or anything, but this place was a standout. The decor wasn't anything to write home about... if anything, they're trying a bit too hard. Yep, pretty sure you're still in a Worcester neighborhood, next to a triple decker and across from a laundromat. The waitstaff were attentive, smart and knowledgeable... for our table of about 20 they provided a rotating staff of four. I did get that "I feel like I'm being stalked by the waiter" safari feeling every once in awhile, but they were really just lurking to make sure everyone was happy I suppose. The wine list was stellar. The wines were fairly priced (but most, rats, still out of my price range...darn student loans) and they offered a good selection. They had an 05 Chardonnay from Frog's Leap in Napa which I couldn't resist and turned out to pair wonderfully with my equally exquisite....get this, Ginger Cranberry-Raspberry Swordfish. I know, sounds too sweet or something. It was, however, the perfect touch of spice, sweet and tang. Simply awesome! They desserts looked out of this world as well although I didn't indulge. Raw bar ranges from $2.50 each. Sushi ranges $11.99 per plate (around 6-8 pieces per plate) My recommendation...try the Firecracker...awesome! Apps are $5.99 and up Entrees $15.99 or so and up... includes a couple of chicken and steak dishes, but fish is their specialty. (My friend had chicken and wasn't impressed) Entrees include salad...get the house dressing! Desserts are $6.99 and up Extensive wine, bar, cordial selection Overall, a nice surprise... a diamond in the rough of Worcester one might say :)
(5)
Janice T.
Who knew? This place has EXCELLENT sushi. The rolls are pretty tasty and they serve them with real butter. A must visit if you are every in Worcester.
(5)
Cooper M.
Enjoyable meal here with my 'rents. Now I do not like seafood. I can enjoy small doses of sushi but the rest is just blah tasting texture. However, tonight's meal was very pleasant. Spicy tuna sushi app was yummy. Mom though the ginger was the best she has ever had. Then my main trout dish was good and dessert was as well. Nothing that spectacular and my vino had a little bug in it but warm rolls and cute, kind waitstaff make it all good.
(4)
Tux P.
The best seafood in central Mass, imho. Great food, excellent bar, and a good wine list. The only thing that prevents this place from getting 5 stars is the price. The sushi is good, but I think the raw bar, the superb fresh fish selection, and the desserts make this place shine. Keep your eyes open for the yearly Crab Festival too! Dungeness Crab rocks!
(4)
Eva B.
It is a nice restaurant, a little bit price up but it definitely worths it. I had steam lobster here for 2 times, it's pretty good and fresh. My husband had scallop and he loves it very much. Good place to go when you have something to celebrate. If you decide to go in holiday, don't forget to make reservation!
(4)
Noa O.
nice Clam chowder, sea food and also Whoopie pie!!
(4)
Elisa T.
Excellent seafood restaurant, best in Worcester. Great deals during their Lobster fest. Love their (bread) rolls, and their sushi rolls are really good too. The service is always friendly and attentive. I would recommend making reservations, as there always seems to be a wait without one. If you go during the summer, you can also see Buster, the world's largest inflatable crab.
(4)
Dorian G.
Legal what? You'll completely forget about that other seafood restaurant once you've dined at the Sole. It is a bit noisy and some menu items are a bit pricey, but they make up for those 2 small downfalls in creativity and flavor. The portions are massive as well. My favorite is the swordfish au poivre (light on the poivre, please!). Simple yet the flavors are better than any other swordfish dish I've ever had. The clam chowder is outstanding and they have a raw bar AND a sushi bar! P.S. Don't forget to make reservations if you planning on visiting on a weekend! You can easily wind up waiting an hour for a table, and the bar gets crowded quickly.
(5)
Ashley P.
So on my first visit to Worcester, my friend suggested we eat here for dinner. What a great choice! I had a sushi roll, called the "Sole Roll" which was delicious and very fresh. The portions were large for the money and the food was amazing. I had the surf and turf, and while the shrimp was a little boring, the steak and scallops were phenominal. My friend had the fish and chips which she loves and has gotten on many other occassions. While the food was good, I can't rave enough about the drinks! Not only were the cosmos tastey and well made, they were only $5! You can't beat that. And my friend got a "skinny mojito" which was less than 100 calories while still packing a punch in the liquor department. Service was amazing, and the host even apologized for the 30 seoncds we had to wait for our table. I would suggest that you make a reservation on a Friday or Saturday night because it looked pretty busy. I will be back!
(4)
William G.
My first time,my wife's second time,eating at this restaurant.Reservations for 6:30p.m. arrived on time,and were seated promptly.Ordered cocktails,and crab stuffed portabello mushrooms for an appetizer.The Cocktails were great,the stuffed mushroom was OK.I had a Pear and walnut salad,with bleu cheese,and cranberries.It was very good.For entrees, my wife had the Alaskan Halibut,with sugar snap peas,and roasted potatoes.It was very good.I had the "Blackened" fresh Idaho Rainbow Trout,with sweet potato,bacon Hash,and candied red onion slaw. The trout was very good,not too spicy,and the Hash was to "die for",although there was way to much hash ,and not enough of the delicious slaw.I had a second cocktail,and it was much "weaker" than the first one,and the server took my wife's drink,before she was finished (a real no no).When confronted about it,she did get my wife more of the drink,and said that she was very sorry.For dessert,we split the Chocolate terrine with two sauces.It was exceptional.All in all it ,was a very nice dining experience,and despite a no no,the server's were exceptional.We will not wait another four years to go back.Entree's are a little pricy,but the drinks,appetizer,and desserts are very reasonable.
(4)
Anna B.
OMG the food here is amazing! I am not the biggest fan of seafood, but the Sole has changed my mind. Their lobster ravioli is great, he sushi is fresh and tasty, and their clab sliders are absolutely DIVINE!
(5)
Melanie F.
we had a fairly decent time - the seafood quality was a bit of a let down. My Mahi-Mahi was a bit gamey and the mussels were not very good- pretty inedible actually. The Seafood pasta my husband had was delicious. They were extremely busy and the service was excellent.
(3)
Kathryn S.
I have been going for years. Better than legal seafood at least in price and also have a very large menu which changes frequently. Go in July when they have Crab Month and Buster the crab - huge blow up crab up on the roof. Their hot dinner rolls are killer good. Fish always fresh and tasty. Staff professional and service is good. Always crowded, and a bit loud, so go early or make reservations. The bar is also a hot spot - always packed, great bartenders. Easily my favorite restaurant in Worcester.
(5)
Mark C.
Been going here on and off for years. Good food, great drinks. The bar is ***LOUD*** and can be very crowed after work - between 7-9. The trick is to show up at 9:30 and have kettle meals at the bar.
(4)
Joe P.
I have never had a bad meal here. This place has the best seafood dishes in the area, and quite frankly, the best I have ever had. Everything is good here. The service isn't fantastic, which is the only reason it doesn't get 5 stars. The food itself does though.
(4)
Mary c.
This is the place to take a date or coworkers in the Worcester area. Attentive service, great food selection. It's on the pricey side but you get what you pay for here. ;)
(5)
Bethany B.
So happy birthday to me as we strolled into the Sole at 5 pm tonight. We knew that they offered their Bar Menu items for $5 (M-F 4pm-7pm). Living on one income w/ 2 kids has led us to search out the values where we can. Jeff had the Ketel One vodka martini on the rocks while mine was straight up. I forgot how much kick a real martini had. Each were $5 since they were the special drink of the evening. I started with 4 Wellfleet oysters while DH had the chowder. The oysters were perfect and their house cocktail sauce is a nice touch. The chowder was thick and had a heavy taste of bacon -- but not in a bad way. Nice chunks of clams and 'tatoes too. Keeping it light he had the shrimp w/ tomatoes over pasta in a light garlic white wine sauce. I chose the Dragon Maki roll. We both couldn't believe what great portions we got for price. We had tandem waitstaff (Jamol and Sarah). Very nice and just attentive enough . So 2 satiated people w/ a nice buzz for only $35 before tip? We promised each other that we'd return this week for more good grub!
(5)
Judd S.
A loyal customer of the Sole for years. My friends and I would go here for sushi, dessert, and drinks late at night when we were students at nearby WPI. My tip for you, go late. Get the late night Kettle Menu. Get some drinks, some appropriately priced sushi and just sit there with friends for hours. You won't be disappointed. It's the only business in Worcester I truly miss. I wish I could pick the whole place up and move it to Boston.
(4)
Jason A.
Great menu, seasonal specialties, and great service. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and I always try something new from the specials. The best tip I can give is to go there during lunch, the entrees are ~$9-10 and the portions are very generous! Going there for dinner is still my favorite, but the best bargain is during lunch!
(5)
Jennifer P.
again, like the chophouse, this restaurant surprised me that this is the best worcester has to offer. i think i did end up getting the wrong thing (why does this always happen to me??) in that my food buddy's dish was much better than mine. i got a salmon that was overcooked and slathered in hoisin sauce which was way too strong and salty. it was weird too eating fish with a sauce that is usually used in pho. the steamed vegetables were tasteless and could have been more tender. the highlight was the yummy cocktail i started with (named worcester drink or something like that).
(2)
kathy s.
a bit pricey but sooo good
(4)
Hannah K.
I wish I could give 3.5 stars. This place is GOOD, it's just not GREAT. Came here for my birthday and they had a special Sunday prix fixe menu that we all ordered from (not sure if that promotion is still applicable). Our salads and soups were good, our appetizers were incredible (I had mussels in a coconut curry sauce that completely made the meal) and the entrees were just OK. I honestly don't even remember what I had, no one was that impressed with their entrees. But I remember the fabulous mussels so I think your experience is going to depend a lot on ordering the right thing.
(3)
Timothy J.
Never had a bad meal here. Great food. The oysters are always the freshest you can get. Great drinks. Spend the dough
(4)
Laura D.
I ordered the North Atlantic salmon grilled and opted for spinach (steamed) and broccoli as sides and a salad as a first course. The salad wasn't anything special--1 tomato, 1 piece of cucumber, some lettuce--a bit sad looking. The fish was a large portion (2 meals) and nicely grilled, although not very flavorful. Both the broccoli and spinach were bland as well. I tried some of my sisters sweet potato mash, which I would recommend more. While the food wasn't phenomenal (especially for the steep prices), our server (Amy Lynne?) was very sweet and helpful!
(2)
Chad B.
Chad's eSCAPE Review. Service (+). They are always well staffed and the staff is very friendly. They are quick to offer seats at the bar and will come find patrons once their tables are ready. Cost (+). The restaurant is fairly pricy but this rating is on value not pure cost. The freshness, taste and variety is well worth what is charged. Atmosphere (+). It is appropriately decorated and boasts a very large bar area near the entrance. There are multiple seating areas that gives a different/view and perspective each time you return. Palate (+). The clam chowder, the raw bar, the bisque, the oysters, the fish are all amazing in flavor, spicing and freshness. It is very difficult in making just a single selection. (I didn't order all these during one setting, I am a repeat patron!!) Everything Else (+). I travel extensively both domestically and abroad and this is probably one of my favorite seafood fare restaurants. I have added this restaurant as a stop during long business trips even if it is hours out of my travel path. It is important to know that this place fills up very quick. If you prefer a more private dining experience, I recommend getting there about 430-500PM. If you are coming later, I strongly recommend reservations. Parking can be tricky. Remember, there is probably a reason all the people are coming here!!
(5)
Paul M.
The Sole Proprietor - Worcester MA On the outside, it has a warm feel to it and although I usually prefer meats or Lobstah, there was something about the look of this place that screams; "try the fish"... Nicely decorated with what appeared to be several rooms you get a sense that this is going to be good. The hostess busy on the phone greets you with a smile and immediately acknowledges your presence with a polite "I'll be right with you"... I like this place! And just like their sister restaurant I visited the other night, you have two servers at your disposal. Soon after seating, they serve you nice warm rolls. I would have liked to see the butter served in its own individual dish as it is in most fine restaurants as opposed to the gold colored packets but hey... There are bigger problems in life... I'll deal... I started with a hearty crock of rich and creamy Bisque... Nicely presented with large chunks of fresh Lobstah meat protruding from the top.. A bit on the thick side but flavorful none the less... Next up... The field greens, tomatoes, croutons and crumbled Bleu Cheese dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette... The Ora King Salmon will change everything you think you know about Salmon... Raised in the pristine waters of New Zealand's Marlborough Sound, this is by far the best tasting Salmon you will ever have the pleasure of consuming! It has a wonderful buttery taste and although the menu said herbed rice, mine was served over a bed of mashed potatoes garnished with chunks of crab meat, asparagus and drizzled with hollandaise sauce. Simply amazing... Mere words cannot convey how truly good this is... For dessert... Apple Brown Betty... Warm cinnamon apples topped with a brown sugar crumb, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You'd better get a towel for this one ;-) Over the top! From the ambiance, impeccable service, pace at which the food was served, presentation and flavour..., this place rocks! They earned every one of their 5 stars with me tonight! Highly... Highly recommended... In short..., you will love it! Wow
(5)
Jimmy M.
I was heading to a pizza place across the street and stumbled across this place. They had a huge parking lot so I figured I would just go eat here. The interior was very nice and the service was very friendly. I ordered the salmon with asparagus, calm chowder, cherry oyster and the apple crumble with ice cream. The cherry oyster was amazing. It tasted fresh, chewy and I could taste the saltyness. The salmon was cooked perfectly. It pretty much melted in my mouth with the crispy skin on the outside. It was done really well because I didn't have any burnt taste. The claim chowder was somewhat light. It really didn't have a strong taste and not much claim meat. I could have done without the claim chowder. The apple crumble was ok. The apples and the ice cream were good but the breading was too much. Overall not bad. It sacked that they put me alone in the corner with all other tables open but I guess that's to the only table for 1? I would have like to be put in a booth so I can people watch lol.
(4)
Laura S.
Everything was absolutely excellent - we will be back for the next special occasion! My husband and I selected this to celebrate our 3 year anniversary based on the reviews on OpenTable, and it exceeded our expectations. The service was attentive, charming, friendly and helpful. We knew we wanted to try the lobster chowder and a crab dish, and the waitress recommended one that was delicious - crab wrapped in a clever shaved cucumber "dish". It was fresh and playful. The lobster chowder was so rich and buttery with huge lobster pieces, yum! I ordered a margarita (which was also very good) and the king crab legs - pricey, but amazing. I would order it again. At the very end of the meal the server even brought out a special dessert plate with "happy anniversary" written in chocolate with strawberries and whipped cream... It was so thoughtful and lovely. I really enjoyed that extra touch.
(5)
Julia M.
My boyfriend took me there for Valentine's Day. We got there at 2:30pm and had to wait 30 minutes. Not complaining. Just shows you that the place was hopping at 2:30 in the afternoon. We had the smoked seafood plate for an appetizer and that was fantastic. Then I had the Ora King Salmon Oscar. That is the best salmon I have ever eaten! My boyfriend had the seafood saute. Excellent as well. The desserts are well executed and interesting. But, go for the fresh seafood. I want to return for the swordfish steaks. I saw a couple of them go by on platters and they looked really great!
(4)
David R.
I love this restaurant! Friendly staff, amazing food, and great prices. I'm addicted to their salmon dinner with garlic spinach and sweet mashed potatoes. I get take out all the time - and I'm always happy with my meal. They even write draw pictures and write positive messages like "Made with Extra Love!" on the takeout bag!
(5)
Sandor K.
Really good place for some fresh catch! Casual and elegant all in one! You wouldn't expect sushi rolls, but they have them - and they are divine! love the surf and turf roll! The Haddock with Lobster Newburg was mouth watering! Selection of craft beers on tap as well!
(5)
Lisa E.
Oh dear. First day of Buster was a bomb. Dijon crab stuffed flounder was a blanket of horseradish over a mild fish. The crab looked like it was there but I couldn't taste it. What did dijon have to do with anything either? People. I love your restaurant. Rethink this dish. Or call it horseradish flounder. The cheesecake was fantastic.
(2)
Nancy H.
Best seafood restaurant that I have ever been to. High class waitstaff, classy decor, and overall well prepared food. I have tried multiple of their specialty cocktails and they are all great. I loved the mojito! For appetizers, we tried a few and their sushi was what stuck out most. DELISH! all of our entrees were wonderful, both steak and seafood. Although our bill was hefty, it was well worth the price. We will definitely be returning on our next special occasion.
(5)
Jo H.
One of our most favorite places to dine in Worchester. Fresh. Clean food. Friendly service, exceptional service. If you want a great meal and fine dining this is the place to go.
(4)
Nathaniel L.
I always expect a solid meal and enjoyable dining experience at the Sole Proprietor. The service and food has been above average when I visit. The menu is pretty extensive and offers a variety of seafood options. The dining area and atmosphere is really nice as well.
(4)
Jackie F.
Something has happened to the food at this fine establishment. It has been a few years since we last dined here! The food was okay but nothing to write home about! The service was outstanding but the soup was tasteless, the fish dishes were so so! Maybe just a bad day for the Chef! Too bad as this was once a go back to place!
(3)
Adam R.
Sat in the bar area. We had two servers that were on point, service was snappy and friendly, even though the place was swamped. I started with oysters on the half, the vinaigrette they served with them perfect. I followed it with crab and corn chowder, which was somewhat bland and lacking much crab flavor. Entree was the Grilled Swordfish Colcannon. Perfectly cooked sword, with that crispy skin crust, topped with a sundried tomato tapenade, served over kale mixed with mash potatoes and sprinkled with pancetta. That was on point. A damn good plate. My accomplice had some sort of deep fried sushi roll that was pretty tasty as well. I'll be back for sure.
(4)
Patrick K.
This has been my favorite restaurant in Worcester for over twenty-five years. A terrific menu -- a wide range of selections. Fantastic seafood. Great drinks. Best atmosphere in Worcester. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
(5)
Cynthia P.
I have always loved this place & eaten there for years but had the worst meal in June. Ordered steamers; they were not cooked to order & were cold. The drawn butter was mixed with oil & was disgusting. Sent them back expecting freshly steamed clams but all they seemed to do was microwave the original steamers. Totally lost my appetite. The waitress & manager apologized & took it off the bill but I will never go there for dinner again.
(1)
Abbie K.
My first time there it was real busy but there's a reason for that. The food was unique and so delicious that the entire dinner conversation was just how awesome the food tasted in our mouths. Between apps and two meals we spent about $90 total but it was so worth it. I didn't even care about the wait or how packed and noisy it was, and our waiter was super friendly and totally attentive
(5)
Mandy K.
The Sole is always good. I have never had a bad meal here. My only real complaint is that I would like to see some of the appetizer items offered as entrees. Great place.
(4)
Katie K.
This is the third time we've been in as many years and each meal has been worse than the last. People rave about this place, which is the only reason we've given them a few tries, but this was the last time. The service was fine, but the food was horrible. I don't think I need to expound, that's how horrible it was.
(1)
Kelly H.
If you are looking for seafood in Worcester, this is the place to go! Every single dish is amazing. I take my friends here whenever they are in town and it never disappoints. Parts of the restaurant can be a little loud. But for any busy restaurant that is the case.
(5)
Bill H.
The food here has gone down hill for a bit now, it used to be insanely good. Just had the spiciest dish ever, seafood fra diavolo. I've had the dish before and while it is on the spicy side, it's not supposed to be, go buy some tums because your stomach feels terrible while you hiccup and sweat kinda hot. The service was great as usual but tonight, they dropped the ball pretty hard with this dish. Went here because of it's good food and reputation but that's something that needs to be relooked at.
(2)
John Z.
The only negative for this place is the noise level. I could hardly hear the friends sitting across from me at our table. The Food and service is superb. Very friendly and attentive. Priced reasonably. I just wish it was quieter.
(3)
Sara M.
Another exceptional dinner at the Sole. Went to sole for anniversary dinner. Fresh amazing food and excellent service. Our server was Cindy and she made our experience a pleasant one. Thanks so much!
(5)
Brandy S.
We dine here at least once a year and always for my husband's birthday. It's always packed and for good reason. The decor is upscale and because it's a seafood restaurant most of the artwork and accents are seafood or sea themed. Dark wood trim and lighting in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright. Very cozy and not overdone. From the Front of House to the wait staff everyone is welcoming and helpful. The wait staff know the menu and are happy to answer questions. As busy as this place gets, I would expect to feel rushed, but that is not the case. On a busy summer weekend, service does lag a little, but not to the point where food is not served in a timely manner. Never had bad service here. The bar is always hopping and is casual. Great place to grab a cocktail while you wait if you arrive early or just because. Reservations are a must. We were told that dinner service had 315 reservations made tonight. Seating is always prompt. Parking fills up super fast, so it's best to arrive a little early in case you have to wait for a space. The food is top notch. Fresh seafood, sizzling steaks, beautiful sushi. Nothing on the menu is bad. No matter what you order, it will be seasoned to perfection, cooked perfectly, and delight your tastebuds. The lobster bisque is the best I've ever had, my husband raves about the oysters. Steaks are spot on in terms of temperature which I'm picky about. The lobster dishes are always amazing. The wine list is extensive. No shortage of choices. The beer and cocktail selections are excellent too. It can be a little noisy on a busy night, but not to the point where you can't hear the conversation at your table. The ambiance is upscale and the dress code casual. Most people don't wear jeans, but in the summer nice shorts seem fine. Tonight, however, I saw a muscle shirt and cut offs. Don't be that person. Casual doesn't mean you dress like you're at the beach.
(5)
John H.
I've been here several times and have never been disappointed. Crab cakes are better than most in the area.
(4)
Lynda G.
Extremely accommodating service, and the best seafood I have ever had. And I eat a lot of seafood! The scallops were definitely the best I have ever had, and they broiled them for me in bread crumbs. The meal came with a salad, which I got a Caesar salad and the dressing was amazing. We had the clams casino as an appetizer, which I had never had before but they were enjoyable. The mojito I ordered was delicious and strong, and again the service was fast with drink orders and such. We took our time and didn't order everything at once because we didn't want to feel rushed. The servers got the hint and didn't rush us. I can't wait to go back and get the scallops again, and even try some of their sushi. Definitely a place for special occasions and it is expensive, but totally worth it.
(5)
Michael W.
Never thought it would come to this....this place used to be fantastic! Last night my pan roasted mahi was so overcooked it was horrible. The bread they served was burned nearly to black, the fish on the Shogun dinner should be renamed to the incredible shrinking sushi....is that pink dot on the middle of the rice ball tuna? Cut the shit, you people are way better than this. And what's with that disgusting vegetable slaw? Did someone actually ever see a slaw with large vegetables cut into paper thin sheets? The chowder is too thick all of a sudden as well! I'm not sure why this place chronically excels and then disappoints but it has been happening a lot. One week the meal is just fantastic and the next it borders on being below average....ownership needs to figure it out! You can't help but get the feeling that theSole has passed its prime!
(2)
Mrs B.
Eh, not the best, not the worst. Was disappointed that they use frozen seafood and lobster. I'm sure there are better places out there if you search a bit more.
(3)
Joe C.
Had a lovely night eating at the bar. Our server was classy and a pleasure. I had the Seafood stir fry and it was delicious. I like the charm of a classy Worcester building. A beautiful dinner for a reasonable price.
(4)
Yadi M.
My team and I were here to audit one of our companies and went to the Sole Proprietor TWICE, had the absolute YUMMY Lobster Bisque and I cannot say anything bad about it OMG, the best out there!!!!! I had the seafood Sautee the 1st time and then the Crab Cakes and enjoyed both very much along with both my Malbec glasses of wine which were perfect. I would definitely recommend this place espcially because both times the service was EXCELLENT!!! Wish i remember the names of both of them, i think last nights server, his name was Yori. its a must to stop by!
(5)
Michael E.
Although we live in New York we often travel to Massachusetts just to have dinner here. The hostess station leaves a little to be desired but the service and food make up for it. We love the special times when they have "Buster the Crab" for the month, or lobster or oysters. At those times the entire menu is devoted to these items. You won't be dissapointed
(5)
Alleah F.
The Sole Proprietor is a legit lunch spot. I've been twice now and have had a great experience both times. The service is very friendly and the place gets very busy at lunch. I've had the fish tacos which are really good and the shrimp/scallop pesto dish. They are pretty decadent and tasty. I wouldn't say it is the healthiest lunch spot...but maybe it's just the dishes I'm choosing. ;)
(4)
Rachel B.
Even though I've lived in Worcester for many years, I'm not big on seafood, so I had never been to the Sole before. I was attending a family member's birthday here, so I was excited to see what it was like! The ambiance and aesthetic is quite nice. The place was packed, but I like the fact that it's separated into smaller rooms- My party of 8 was able to chat without any issues of excess noise. I was concerned that there was nothing on the menu other than seafood and steak. I was hoping to see at least one chicken dish, however the waitress informed me that they had chicken breast and were able to substitute it for any of the fish dishes if I so desired. I was happy about that, and decided to order the parmesean crusted trout dish with chicken instead. While our waitress was very sweet, she seemed like she was either new, or not very good at her job. She continuously put the wrong plate of food in front of the wrong person starting with appetizers all the way to when our entrees finally came out. On top of that, she also brought our drinks out all at different times, and then did this again with our entrees with no explanation as to why they weren't all brought out at once. 2 of the people I was with had to wait almost 10 minutes to receive their plates while the rest of us were eating and at a nicer/higher priced restaurant, that is just a no-no. Myself and 2 of the people I was with ordered the same dish, which came with green beans for a side. I substituted asparagus on my plate in place of green beans, which I was told would be a $1 upcharge. For an almost $30 plate, I found that a little ridiculous, but whatever. When our plates arrived ALL of them had asparagus, rather than just mine. My salad was OK- nothing to rant or rave about. My fiance said his chicken noodle soup was the best he's ever had. Everyone that ordered seafood said it was absolutely delicious, although the Shrimp and grits was incredibly spicy even though that was not mentioned in the description of the dish. The clam strips were also mentioned to be a bit on the greasy side, and were brought out in a red and white paper bowl. Speaking on that- i was also pretty disappointed in the presentation of the plates. I know it's not supposed to be a gourmet, 5 star restaurant plating experience, but it looked like something I'd order at a chain restaurant- everything was just kind of tossed on the plate. Those of us that ordered chicken were left underwhelmed. it was heavily crusted, a little oily, and overcooked. My potatoes and vegetables were sub par and room temperature the moment they hit the table. All in all, the important thing is the seafood, which I was told was very good. My fiance also said his steak was cooked to perfection, although there was a bit too much fat for his liking. I think this is a decent restaurant, but they do have some issues. I don't think I'd return here on my own, as I feel like I can get a much better meal and better service for the price elsewhere in worcester.
Reservations highly recommended. We called on Good Friday for reservations that evening and received an 8:30 slot for three of us. The good news is that they appear to be hopping and thriving at that dinner hour. Menu options were many. I selected the broiled sea scallops which came with mashed potatoes and a steamed vegetable medley. I also selected a caesar salad. The dinner was very good; prices were to be expected (in the 25.00 range for entrees), ambiance was dressy without feeling we had to be dressed to the hilt, and service was very good. I do have to say that the presentation for both the price and ambiance was less than stellar. I did expect that part of the meal to be much better.
(4)
Michael S.
Food was outstanding. The Ora king oscar was outstanding Amy Lynne was great at service. First time here and will definitely come back.
(5)
Jep G.
==food: mediocre. we got: 1) Chilled Seafood Platter (guess the shrimps were ~ok). 2) Ora King Salmon Oscar (salmon per se was ~ok. not overcooked. the crab meat / sauce and rice were almost flavorless) 3) Wildflower Honey Brushed Arctic Char (as for the
(2)
Inigo M.
Classic old school Worcester seafood restaurant, that one gets the sense is struggling to keep up with the times. At one point this was THE place for seafood in Worcester, and it still is for many people. Its expensive, a tad on the fancy side, and happens to have a fabulous wine list to boot. You'll find classic New England favorites here and more contemporary takes on seafood. I've only had the pleasure of eating here twice, and thoroughly enjoyed what I had: local seafood prepared simply. High rollers like this place for power lunches/dinners. Its a date place as well, in a city with far fewer of those than you might think.
(4)
Ashley V.
I've been going here for 20 of my 27 years on this planet, and seafood does not get any better. My hometown is close to Worcester, so every time I come back to visit, I demand to eat here. My favorites are the signature cocktails, the clam chowder, any salmon dish they prepare, and the sushi (firecracker).
(5)
Michelle L.
Such a BIG DISAPPOINTMENT!! The prices for their quality of steak and veggies is OUTRAGEOUS!! They were soggy veggies, hard steak, when i ordered medium well, and when i asked for a mixed sangria bowl, it was like sipping on a big bowl of fruit, NO ALCOHOL!! BOOOOO!! Never coming here again.
(1)
Tiffany B.
I had the worst experience at this restaurant today. Our server was crystal and Toni, we had two servers yet the worst service ever. We had water at the table that was asked to be refilled three times and at the end of the meal we still did not get our waters refilled and just asked for the check. We spent about 20 minutes waiting to get out order. I understand it was busy but to have two servers and no one serving you was ridiculous. The food was okay they overcharged us for the lobster bisque and then had to go back and fix it. I wouldn't order it again. The crab sliders were good and they was probably the best thing. Their drinks are okay nothing out of the ordinary.
(1)
Brian H.
The food here is excellent. I ordered the surf and turf with the steam and stuffed shrimp and the quality itself is amazing. Also, the service was pretty good: water and drinks were refilled within minutes and the waitress replaces dishes when necessary. However, one minor objection would be that the food is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food, to a small extent, overshadows this minor flaw.
(5)
Rich C.
Great seafood. Plenty of choices. I had the land and two seas which consisted of a perfectly cooked filet and shrimp scallops with garlic blue cheese mashed potatoes and asparagus. Yum yum yum. Also for $3 I upgrade my salad to a goat cheese and fennel with Apple slices with an awesome balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Huge portion with very tasty food. Ask for Yuri he's the best. He made my night.
(5)
Scott S.
Found this place via Yelp! and it was great. Lobster roll was huge and fresh and the oysters were wonderful as well. My only negative is that it was a little pricy for lunch but otherwise it was great.
(5)
Queen B.
Absolutely unacceptable service by waitress and manager . Have been a regular for four years but never going back . Even though I love the food and ambience here ,I am taking my business elsewhere. SORRY Sole you lost a loyal customer.
(1)
Tim R.
Please do yourself a favor and do not eat at this establishment. The Management and staff are extremely rude and not accommodating at all. We had reservations for Father's Day, which were made last Monday. My Mother-in law called yesterday morning and politely asked the lady who answered the phone that we would need to add one more person to our party of 4. The lady, without even checking immediately said we cant do that (with an attitude). Then we asked to speak with a manager and the manager said the same exact thing very rudely. He explained that they overbooked and could not accommodate us. I don't own/manage a restaurant, but I cant imagine adding 1 chair to the end of table being a problem but I guess I was wrong. If you like good food and being treated terribly by management and staff this is the best restaurant in town. The Sole Proprietor definitely lost a customer yesterday.
(1)
Kent C.
Had a work dinner here so we had a table of 10. Service was a little lacking and the food well we can break that down... Oysters, well the one I got had a piece of meat that was so small my fork couldn't even get it out of the half shell... I ordered the black and blue swordfish. Was alright.. Fish was a little bit too charred. My side broccoli was overcooked. The lobster bisque, had incredibly large pieces of lobster but the bisque itself was overly saltly and well had some separately liquid ontop... I hope it was water? Lemon sorbet was overwhelmingly large and definitely the best part of my meal other than the beer.
(2)
Kim N.
Went to visit my sister who is going to school out here. She said there wasn't much to do in the area. And she was right. But then...she took us to this gem of a place. The parking lot was easy to navigate. They greet you very nicely and walk you to your table quickly. The place looks very upscale. But there's a diverse crowd. You can see people in evening attire, or in hawaiian print shirts and flip flops. I was a bit confused. Servers were attentive and had good descriptions of the specials. The oysters came out quickly and were yummy. (It helped that the server kind of knew what was good for the day.) The clam chowder was good and I enjoyed it, but it was nothing amazing. I'd still order again. When the steaks came, I loved that the chef came out and asked us to cut into it to see if it was prepared to our liking. Big points for that! And so friendly! I ordered the surf and turf and it was delicious. They almost convinced us to go for a dessert, but we already had some waiting at home. Everything was so well-priced too! You would probably pay 2 times as much for the same thing in Boston! This is a good place to take visitors. I'm from out of state and Worcester can be a bit....out there. Since there are a lot of students here, I would definitely recommend this place for when family comes to visit.
(5)
Tim H.
I loved everything about Sole Proprietorship. The friendly service, the excellent food and the promptness. Food is presented well and tastes excellent. Vast selection of wine and expanded menu. You cannot go wrong with anything you choose. It gets full, so I recommend making a reservation.
(5)
Angel F.
Came for lunch. Great experience. I haven't been to a real restaurant in a while now, one that recalls what a good dining experience should be. Our waiter was superb, made recommendations and was very funny, but not over the top! He took all of our orders from memory. Decor and lighting are great, nice size tables and chairs. I hate restaurants that try to squeeze everybody too close together. Food was excellent. I had salmon, was probably the best cooked salmon I've ever had. My sister's was even better, was so buttery and fatty it melted in your mouth. I think it was the salmon masala so check that out when you come. There were 5 of us and everyone loved their food. Anyway very reasonable for what is a great restaurant. I can see why they've been on top for years.
(5)
Ann I.
Great seafood restaurant with wonderful service! I came here on a work function that was about 20+ people. The wait staff was on it! They tag teamed and made sure everyone was taken care of. The menu had a lot to choose from, it was Lobster fest so of course I had lobster. It was cooked to perfection and the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes were to die for. Had the cheesecake for dessert and it was also delicious. Kudos to the waiters and waitresses to helped us that night, they were super friendly and always kept the drinks coming!
They have the absolute best seafood I have ever eaten in my entire life. The seafood is not only fresh, but the creativity of the menu is exceptional. It's not the type of place that changes its menu every month, but there's enough on the menu that allows you to switch up your orders upon every visit. Most diners find their special dish and stick with it until they stop making it. In my case, I ordered the same tuna dish from 2003-2006, then after they switched up the protein aspect of the dish from tuna to scallops, they allowed me to special order the same dish from 2006 until my graduation from college in the area in 2007. I recently returned to "The Sole" a few days and found that my favorite dish was no longer on the menu, but I was pleasantly surprised with what I had ordered. The crab cakes were phenomenal as they were served with a cumin-infused slaw and the Arctic char served with pumpkin risotto was so perfectly autumnal in every comforting way. You can't go wrong with whatever you order here. The food is impeccable as is the service. How I wish there was another place comparable to The Sole elsewhere in the country. For goodness sake, I live right outside NYC, and I have yet to find anything like it ANYWHERE in my travels. I miss The Sole =(
(5)
Nicole L.
Really the only thing that is bad about this place is that the prices are high. The reality is who cares. Service and food are worth it. We had Amy and Nicole wait on us. Service was prompt and fabulous. Glasses were not empty before they were refilled. Food was awesome. We are here at restaurant week. The shrimp app was spicy but perfect. House salad was boring but as expected. The haddock Newburg was very tasty. Hubby had the NY strip. Cooked to perfection. Black tie for dessert was huge and he said it was great. There are multiple cuts of meat and chicken plates that are made to order so ask if you are not into seafood.
(5)
Catherine A.
Slammed pack but not the service I received at One 11 Chophouse. The $4.99 clam chowder was good. The spicy tuna roll was chewy. Although the large piece of tuna was nice. The cocktail wasn't strong. I would have ordered another but they never asked. I also would have ordered an entree but they never asked so when I caught their attention I just settled for sushi. I was willing to drop money but no one was attentive. Ill return to one 11 but since its the same owners they prob wont care I converted to the other concept.
(2)
Crystal N.
The lobster bisque was the best. Our waitress, Amelia, was the sweetest person - the restaurant is lucky to have her be a part of their team. She was so patient with us because we took light years to decide on what we wanted, provided our party with the best service and made sure all of our glasses were full throughout our entire meal. My boyfriend and his brother were adamant about offering her a job to handle their customer service department! Unfortunately, Amelia would have to relocate to California so the guys didn't get to propose the idea to her, lol. We ordered 4lbs (2lbs per plate) of the stuffed lobster. The lobster was topped with scallops and the scallops were lightly battered and cooked to perfection. The hard shell lobsters were delicious, meaty and fresh. I was looking forward to the Ora King Salmon plate but it was a big let down. The salmon was overcooked and wasn't worth what previous reviews have hyped it up to be. I recommend sticking to the lobster dishes here at the Sole Proprietor. The fresh oysters here were great. It came with several sauces, some seemed to be house special sauces that complimented the oysters really well. The Sole Proprietor would be a great place for a date or birthday dinner - the ambiance was really nice and Amelia, our waitress was seriously, Boston's angel.
(4)
Warren L.
We were here last night, August 11th, 2015. Normally restaurants need to make excuses for bad service during Worcester Restaurant week. No need here. Everything, and I mean everything from service, to food, to the kitchen, to the room was over the top. If I had a 6 star option that I could only use once a year, I would have awarded it here. Recently we went to one of this restaurants sisters, 111 Chop House, and I ordered the steak. The steak here tasted better, was cooked correctly, and didn't take 45 minutes. (I don't eat seafood.) Honestly, I can't come up with any negative. Highly recommend for special occasions. This is the best restaurant in Worcester in my opinion (and remember, I don't eat seafood.)
(5)
Kim S.
After being stuck in HOURS of traffic on our way back from NYC, my friend and I decided to make a pit stop for dinner. We visited on a Thursday night and the parking lot was full. I asked the hostess if there was a private event going on and she responded that it was their typical night. I guess they are a super busy establishment. We started off with a round of drinks before ordering dinner. Warm crusty rolls were brought to our table. There were too many apps that looked intriguing so I made a meal out of apps in lieu of a standard dinner. I started off with the lobster bisque that was OUT OF THIS WORLD! It has got to be the best lobster bisque in my life! There were huge lobster chunks and the consistency was on point. I'm a huge fan of fish tacos but it was only on the appetizer menu. I went ahead and ordered the fried white fish tacos with chipotle aioli. The three fish tacos was a steal at only $9.95. It was a meal within itself. The tacos were pretty good with large chunks of fried fish. The combination of fig, onion, walnut and balsamic vinaigrette in the goat cheese cake was amazing. It was sweet and salty. The toasted sliced baguettes were crispy and fresh. I thought there was more bread than cheese though. All my choices were amazing. My friend also recommended their sushi maki rolls and said they were great. He strongly recommended the "Tiger Eye" which is battered, fried and topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Sounds right up my alley. The rest of the group stuck with traditional entrees from the dinner menu. My friend raved about the Tuna Steak Barcelona which is a seared tuna steak stuffed with feta cheese and sun dried tomatoes. The meal was fantastic and if I am ever back in the area, Id definitely stop in. Great food, great service! Kudos to my friend for the recommendation !
(4)
Bey F.
This restaurant has forever been a popular meeting place for professionals. The staff are great, it is always lively, I really enjoy the location of the restaurant, but the food is really a disappointment. I suggest an updated menu.
(3)
Bryan N.
I came here for my birthday dinner with my girlfriend and I must say I was a happy birthday boy! I love seafood and this place is a haven for seafood lovers. Luckily, we came here during restaurant week, so I had a chance to order from the prefixe menu to try a 3 course meal. I ended up going with the grilled shrimp skewers w mango salsa, clam chowder, and the haddock topped w lobster in Newbury sauce. Everything was pretty delicious, however I wasn't super impressed with the haddock. I would come back, but probably try some of their other fresh seafood menu options. I really like the ambience of the Sole Proprietor. Our waitress, Tori, was awesome and on top of everything; I was impressed.
(4)
judy k.
We had fixed price Sunday menu. While service was great and food was fresh I have to comment on the "lobster with creamy newburg sauce with crumbs." The sauce was sweet and tomato based. No cream. No crumbs. Very weird. Off night? I didn't think the key lime pie was tart enough and found that the whipped cream overwhelmed the tart. It was okay. I was a little disappointed. For $100, I think I can do better elsewhere. I don't think the restaurant is as good as I used to think it was. (PS I wrote a comment to the restaurant but got no response.)
(3)
Chris L.
Recently went here with my family and my nephew visiting from Arizona...he loves to get seafood when he comes out to the area... The evening started off well, with a great waitress, good drinks and great company....however it all turned a little strange when a mouse or rat (not sure as it moved pretty fast....but it was big) Bolted right by us, under our table, and then right into the main dining area...under some of the booths. A few of the wait staff saw it, as did a party that was just leaving....we grabbed our waitress right away and made her aware of the situation. One of the management staff came over a little while later and said that sometimes, patrons enter into the garden thinking it is a smoking area, and they leave the door open and that allows the rodents to come in... I am not buying it...while we did get comp'd for dessert..I have to say...mouse or no mouse....the food was really bland....my sister ordered salmon/lobster special and it was cold and it was a mission to find the lobster. I had the same Salmon dish and mine was warm, not hot, but it also had next to no taste and was slightly over cooked....which with salmon just kind of dries it out. Mine had about 3 pieces of lobster, and were hard to find..but they were there. My wife had shrimp, and those were over cooked and very tough...which left alot to be desired on flavor. Best part of the meal was the Sushi, which was great...but the main courses left alot to be desired. I was truly disappointed....
(2)
Nicole L.
After reading many reviews about The Sole Proprietor, I wasn't sure it would live up to my expectations; however, it did more than just live up to its acclaim!! The food was incredible! The coconut shrimp, crab cakes, and clams casino were a perfect starting point for the meal. Because there were five of us dining I was able to taste the Tempura Soft Shell Crab, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Rare Tuna Steak, and Blackened Haddock!! All of the dishes were incredibly different, but SO delicious! We also loved our server, Randy!! Very attentive with a great personality! If you are in Worcester for any reason at all, definitely dine here!
(5)
Lawrence B.
One of the finest meals I have ever enjoyed. Lobster bisque was out of this world with gigantic pieces of lobster, clam chowder was equally awesome. The seafood was incredibly fresh, piping hot and prepared to perfection. I usually find fault with everything, everywhere I go and Sole Proprieter exceeded my expectations and standards by a mile. This is a fabulous restaurant with an excellent menu prepared to perfection.
(5)
Tran T.
Made reservations, came 45 mins prior to rsvp... And they gave our table to another group because it was more "convenient" for them. Now it's 25 mins past our RSVP and still no table. I am very tempted to walk out of here now.... My parents are in town and I thought I'd take them to the most raved restaurant in town. So far not impressed by their service but I'm sure the food is impeccable... Will update this review as soon as I get to taste their food.
(1)
Cora B.
We were greeted by a big, cheesy, inflatable crab draped over the entrance. Our party of four went with the intention of talking over dinner. We were told it would be a half hour wait, and we accepted. 10 minutes later, they seated us in the bar. Had we known, we would have asked to keep waiting for a table in a dining area. Bar was so loud and crowded we ended up not really talking. Since we had to shout. My cocktail was superb, that's how they got an extra star from me. My lobster bisque was bland, underseasoned, and had been reheated too harshly so all the bisque-ness was gone. Just slop. It had some very nice pieces of meat for a garnish. Such a shame. Our waiter did take notice that I hadn't enjoyed it and was kind enough to comp that. My swordfish was slightly overdone but the blackened seasoning was nice. Boring mashed potatoes and overcooked zucchini and squash were reminiscent of my work cafeteria. My partner's broiled scallops were unseasoned and overcooked. Again, a shame. My friend across from me had opted for spinach. It was a mess. The stems were left on and it was overcooked and.... you guessed it! Underseasoned. We weren't wowed. Dishes here are not a good value. We appreciated that it was quality and we weren't made sick but I feel that the bill was about $20 more than it should have been for such a mediocre experience.
(2)
Susan W.
Please sit at the bar and ask for Raphael. He is super knowledgable and attentive plus he make the most amazing drinks. Try the last retort and artic chat with honey. Amaze ballz.
(5)
John B.
This was truly an awesome meal. The raw bar is ultra-fresh and tasty. They are running a lobster special that for $10 more you can add a small lobster to an entree. The wait staff was 100% on their game. Very efficient and knowledgeable. It was crowded but we were not rushed. Good off-street parking with an attendant. We are definitely going back!!!
(5)
Kostia G.
Horrible. Went for the first time in 20 years in the area for dinner around 8pm. Always heard good things, to be so greatly disappointed. Parking is tough especially after the snow storm, or not, but it was hard to find parking on Saturday night. Atmosphere is nice, lots of people, not too loud. dogfish head -ran out ordered a bottle of wine, apparently last one ... Now for the food, clam chowder was good. Sushi rolls not good. Goat cheese cake, hmmm... cheese was good everything else on the plate not so much. Calamari, way too much oil. Decided to order fish given that we were at seafood restaurant, ordered special Grilled Trout... was brought something deep fried, overcooked... Very disappointed. Everyone else in the party of 4 feels the same way. None of the dishes served were good. Feel like Boynton across the street for food would have been bar far a better choice. Service was good that is why there is 1 star.
(1)
Gia G.
I have been going to the Sole for 20 years. I love the food there. Sushi is amazing. Love the shrimp scampi. Great wine list. ... But I just think the service had gone downhill over the years. I find I sit there waiting a long time for a second drink.
(3)
Colleen S.
In Food SERVICE, a Pro-Active approach is always best! That is why I don't understand why when I told the manager, on the way out that we had seen a waitress come out of the bathroom without washing her hands, he got defensive, and told us that women! Go in the bathroom and look at themselves in the mirror,and touch their hair, or tuck their blouse into their pants...Touch touch touch!! Touch the bathroom doorknob, if nothing else!? What does the sign say in every bathroom? ALL employees must wash their hands! This employee did use the toilet stall! We saw it! One has to wonder about the quality of sanitation training in a place where the manager has an attitude like this!? And, it's really too bad, because the service, by two young, friendly, attentive MEN, was outstanding! And, the food was delicious! And the price was very reasonable! Try again, Mr. "manager"!
(1)
Reid F.
A very good seafood place with a strange but interesting take on stuffed lobster--they take out the lobster meat and fill the shell with either scallops, shrimp, or lobster that has been baked in cracker crumbs. The oysters are also very good, but the lobster ravioli is just OK.
(4)
jeffrey e.
Went here with a group of coworkers who were visiting the area based on the yelp reviews. I had high hopes based on the menu and the reviews here on Yelp. Upon first arriving I was a little put off by the fact that private lot for the restaurant was full. I drove around the block a few times and finding street parking looked a bit unpromising. Eventually I was able to find a spot in the restaurants lot. After making my way through throng of people in the circus like atmosphere of the main entranceway, I gave my name and informed them I was there for out 7:30 reservation. I was told that it was going to be a few minutes before our table was ready. Our group of 3 decided to wait outside because there was really no place to wait inside. Wow, who knew that so many people go out to dinner at a restaurant in Worcester at 7:30 on a Wednesday night. The place was a zoo. About 10minutes later we were finally escorted to our table. Turns out it was restaurant week, they had special 3 courses meals for $24. Not sure if this was the reason for the crowd or not but it seemed like a good deal. I ordered the three course meal, which consisted of the house salad, a shrimp appetizer and the Lobster Newburgh. My coworker ordered a tuna steak and a regular NY Strip. My meal was pretty middle of the road, the shrimp were nothing special and the salad was just a pile of lettuce with blue cheese dressing. The entree was pretty tasty but uninspiring. My coworkers seemed pretty much in agreement in relation to their meals. The Service was very good, everything was brought in a timely fashion. Overall, I thought it was a good meal for the price, but the crowd was way to much. It was difficult even to get into the restaurant. If I am in the area I would give it another go, but I would probably avoid it if they are running a restaurant week promo again.
(3)
Dan R.
I have gone here the times within the last two months. I love the seafood, from there surf and turf to raw bar... yum yum yum. Never had a problem with seating, the service staff are the greatest. We were well taken care of. If you want to make sure you have a table ready use open table for your reservation. This place is one of the reasons I love worcester restaurants... I love my town.
(5)
Lauren M.
My husband made reservations for two at The Sole for Saturday night, October 18th. It was my 40th birthday, and he mentioned this to the host when he called. Upon arrival, we noticed how cramped/awkward the host station area is, even after all these years in operation. We had been to The Sole before, but it had been a while...a couple of years, probably. When I worked for a mortgage company in Worcester, I'd dine at the bar for lunch from time to time. We've been choosing either Baba Sushi or Armsby Abbey mostly in the last year or so, and wanted to revisit what we remembered as a good restaurant. ANYWAY, the frontage of the restaurant and the bar area are modern and cool to look at, even though it's always ridic crowded. And seriously Worcester, this is supposed to be fine dining...dress up a little. Ok...I'll try to stay focused here. So the host station was crowded, and we gave our names/reservation to the kids at the desk, and got an "OK". Um, ok what, exactly? I said, "About how long?", and was told, "Not long, you can wait at the bar". We ordered drinks at the bar, (my martini was a highlight...clearly the bar-tender was a pro, and really listened to my order...tough to get a perfect slightly dirty glass of delish to make me smile), and before my husband could pay, a different hostess came over to us, and said to me that she'd take me to my table and my husband could come along after, (This was strange to me). The room she brought us to was one of the worst parts of the experience...there's an old, run-down room off the bar in the back that takes you right back to the late 70's. Old booths, outdated paintings, etc...really really tacky. I guess we could've asked to be seated in one of the other rooms, but like I said it was crowded, and we were hungry, and now holding drinks, so we stayed. We were all dolled up and wanted to see and be seen...this room certainly wasn't made for people watching. Sigh. Our waiter/waitress combo was a couple of older (50's?) servers, who made corny comments throughout our whole meal, and chatted loudly behind us at the service station about themselves...seriously, shhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Speaking of our meal...here it goes: The appetizer I ordered was one of the reasons I wanted to come to The Sole again. I remember The Firecracker sushi roll being nothing sort of amazing back in the day. Well, not so much, anymore. What once was a huge beautiful tempura lobster tail in a fresh sushi roll displayed like art on a cool plate was now a flimsy, warm, run of the mill mini-roll which tasted...well, the word "meh" comes to mind. I ordered swordfish, which was over-done, and my hubby ordered salmon, which was a tad pungent. Neither dish was awful, neither dish was good. When the waiter brought over the dessert menu, my husband tried to give him "the look" to see if he knew about my bday, and he did not. This annoyed my husband, but we ordered the key lime pie, and they were nice to write Happy Birthday on it. The pie was delicious BTW...really good. SO, all in all, not great. Not even close. We won't be back, and won't recommend this place to anyone. For well over a hundred dollars, I'd now take many other restaurants over The Sole Proprietor, which once was a favorite of mine. NEXT.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Classy Noise Level : Average Good For Dancing : No Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Wed, Thu, Fri Coat Check : No Smoking : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Betsy M.
Wow...we had heard for years how terrific the food at Sole was but hadn't ventured until last week. It was nothing less than FABULOUS. So impressed with the waitstaff too, who were so knowledgeable about the expansive menu! But the food was to die for great and we will be coming back. Loved the cozy atmosphere in the room past the bar...the light was low and it just created the nicest, warm and inviting atmosphere. My husband had Nantucket scallops that were very sweet and delicious, my daughter had salmon that I will order next, and I had stuff flounder that was the best anywhere...it had large chucks of shrimp and scallops and the fish was so fresh and delicious. All in all a terrific place for dinner (or lunch, as I hear the prices are a bit less then), and a nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)Jade R.
Quick overview: Service: booo!! Food: Good, not Great. Recommendations: Cherry Peppered Squid Awkward service, but good food. The 3 stars are primarily due to the weird service we had. He was rushed when speaking, asked for food orders before our drinks came (Who does that??!), lacked knowledge on items/drinks, forgot to put our food in the system... Apps: Cherry Peppered Squid - perfectly fried, not chewy at all!! Only wish there was some dipping sauce with it.. Firecracker Roll - meh, pass. I was so intrigued with the fried sweet potato, but if you are a die-hard sushi fan, this is so not for you... With that said, check out who is in charge of the roll station.. the night we went, it was a 25 year old white female... That doesn't ring sushi to me! Clams Casino- it was the first time i've tried them, so I can't accurately judge. Not something I'd order again though... seemed soggy. Dinner: Sweet Chili Glazed Mahi Mahi - the rice, wasn't as coconut-y as I would have liked, but hey, I still ate it all.. And the fish was perfectly cooked. Blackened Tuna Steak Sashimi - I love tuna steak sashimi. If you're looking for just a protein packed dish, this is it. It's two whopping portions of tuna steak and a dime size about of seaweed salad. Both were really fresh, nothing of a "wow" factor. Overall, I would come back to give this another shot, since a lot of the yelpers seem to love it.
(3)Kel S.
Went back for a second try... and wow. My expectations were exceeded. Amazing oysters, one of the best lobster bisques I have ever had. We were a party of 16 and were taken care of with ease. Everyone sitting in proximity of me was jealous and rightfully so. I have never seen so much lobster meat in bisque before in MY ENTIRE LIFE. An entire, in-tact claw was in my cup of soup. The drinks I tried were great (Pomegranate Cosmo and Lime Ricky). The seared tuna was also good, but it was too much food having shared appetizers. It also arrived as 3 steaks. I would suggest making it 2 steaks or slicing it into thin strips so it doesn't appear to be just "hunks of meat" on the plate. Everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their entrees as well. Overall, very well done SP!!!
(4)Nicholas C.
I was disappointed, very disappointed. I've been here several times for family's sake, but the last visit was the final straw. A review just had to be made. Despite all of past declining visits and the last FOH service, I'll just concentrate on the food on this one (Keep in mind that I'm a chef who has also worked in seafood). The sourdough rolls- Reheated improperly, fully toasting half of the rolls and melting the butter. That was a surprise when I opened one of them spilling liquid butter on myself (luckily, my napkin was on my lap). It's annoying when you have crumbs flying everywhere because your dinner knife isn't made to cut toasted bread. Although complimentary, the proofing and scoring was laughable. The smoked appetizer. The blue fish was severely over-smoked and all you could taste was the wood. Don't get me wrong, hickory's great, but you mind as well smoke cheap anchovies & sardines (yes, blue fish are cheap too, but are a pain to ship farther inland) and call it a day if you're going to remove of the fish's flavour. The wine list- I only found one Spanish wine for this seafood restaurant. Go hire a certified higher level sommelier for a day and redo that wine menu. Yes, you have a couple great bottles and for some reason Wine Spectator praises you, but a good number of those labels on the list are available in most packeys, making your list dull and uninspiring. Despite the bore, I do appreciate that you only marked up one of the labels about 300% (most restaurants do at least 400%) from the individual retail price. Clam Chowder- Was it supposed to be that watery? That under seasoned? Your potatoes were over cooked by the way (potatoes can be tricky sometimes, so it's not too bad). Entree- Plate was warm, but you can tell that it sat under the heat lamp for way too long. There was a significant layer of film on top of my sauce and everything was cold to lukewarm. Nothing was seasoned and the prep/line cook did not (or forgot to) season the water before cooking the linguine I requested, making the pasta bland too (quick tip: if you didn't season the water, add a bit of oil and a considerable amount of salt in a hot pan, and toss the pasta in it). The haddock was sadly over done as well. By the way, do you guys use Sysco for your frozen lobster claws? Those looked awfully familiar. The vegetables were also over done except for the zucchini, but those were ice cold and under seasoned. BoH- I'm almost certain your line cooks have their own bathroom (or they should), and that they shouldn't be going to the ones meant for costumers. Oh, and coworkers should probably off their aprons before going in. Dessert- Flourless Chocolate Cake- I know this is silly, but you need to re-teach whoever plates your dessert how to handle slices. The flavour was okay, but the execution had plenty of room for improvement. Sole, you used to be well-known, what happened? This made me want to bust out of retirement just to yell at kick your BoH staff.
(1)Christian P.
This place is one of the only reliably good restaurants in town. Problem is, everyone knows it. Ever experience traffic in downtown New Delhi? That's how I feel when I'm here. Packed, loud as hell, the crushing closeness of strangers and the lingering smell of fish. It's anarchy. And a reservation doesn't necessarily mean you'll actually get a table at the "reserved" time. It may mean you wait 20 minutes less than some other poor fool. But the food and service is great, so we cope with it.
(4)Amy A.
What a terrible experience tonight. Have been here several times in the past and had decent meals and good overall experience. After tonight, I will not be going back. There were 6 in my reservation... 6 very good friends (40's and 50's) who hang out all the time and wanted to have dinner here for one of my our birthdays. We ended up at a very small table for 6 in a middle room. And next to us was a table of 8 or 10 "men" who were having a bachelor party. Who sticks a bachelor party right smack in the middle of the restaurant where most people are looking for a quiet evening with friends???The drinks were certainly flowing at their table! They proceeded to get louder and louder with each drink. Did I mention we were not sitting at the bar? The bar (which was jam packed) was quieter than the very small middle room they jammed us in with the bachelor party. When one if us made a comment to the waitress, we were told she has two small children at home so she guessed she was used to noise. We decided it was time to go after a wine glass shattered at their table. When one of us complained to the manager at the front on our way out, he tried to blow him off and say they can't predict how people will act. True, but when decent people come in for a quiet meal and get shoved in with the loud and obnoxious riff raff, we complain and are basically told "too bad", you can be sure the decent people won't be back.
(1)Victor V.
Great seafood in a classy atmosphere! We went over for lunch (on our way from Maine to NY, Sole is conveniently located not too far from the highway) and enjoyed both daily specials and from the main menu. Definately a place to come back for a (formal) dinner when we're around!
(5)Toni M.
Great $6 Happy Hour menu 4-6:30 Monday - Friday. All bar menu items $6 and $6 Vodka drinks. You can't get a better meal for $6. The food is great, the bartenders are friendly and attentive, the bar area is HUGE with really big comfy booths, and atmosphere is great. Sushi, tacos, crab sliders, oysters (6 for $6), sauteed mussels, clam chowder, the menu goes on and on. On weekends they have a late night menu after 11pm Get here early or you won't get a seat!
(5)Aman S.
Pretty good seafood place. I would have given them more stars, but when I asked for the fish without oil or butter drizzed on it, they said - sure not a problem. I got my "baked" fish that was lightly crusted and pan sautéed in oil!!! What a disapointment. Maybe I was not direct enough. I will have to try it again. The apps were really good - good crab cake and fish burger patty.
(2)Wanda W.
Love the Sole Proprietor....We do Happy Hour often and it is always a wonderful experience...The food is great with chefs making your entree right in front of you. The staff and bartender are treating you like first class and fulfilling all of your need....The bartender MARK is the best!!!! He makes us feel so welcome and the service is impeccable!!!! If you have a chance to go to the Sole's Happy Hour or just to dine, please do, It is always a Fabulous time at the Sole!
(5)Veronica F.
Crab Fest - my darling, how I've missed you. Really excellent food, great service, and worth the price.
(4)Rui W.
This place is very nice, I feel bad I didn't find this place earlier. Compare to Sole, I think Legal Seafood is both over priced and over cooked. I went to Sole with my wife, mother and bro. With a doz of oysters to start, four entrees (Sicilian Swordfish, Jamaican Jerk Bluefish, BBQ Idaho Trout & Seared Scallops, Thai Curry Seafood Pasta) and two deserts, total bill was ~$120. The portions are large and tastes are delicious. BTW, clam chowder and Seafood chowder that came with the entree are rich in flavor as well. Be sure to make reservation on weekend night or the wait would be 30+ min.
(5)Sean J.
Go here for the late night menu! On weekends after 11pm they have a special late night menu in the bar area. Everything is 50% off and you can stuff you face with oysters for nothing. Great spot to hit with a group after the bars! My one complaint was the service. Our waiter seemed very over-worked and was not too friendly.
(4)J D.
ok, I was prepared to be disappointed. I was ready to snub this place - but damn, didn't they execute on everything wonderfully here. The place was jam packed, the bar too - but I was able to get a drink and settle in. Once seated, things moved along at the right pace, quick enough for us to enjoy the menu, sip drinks and take the place in - and get down to the food. Everything brought to the table was prepared really really well, things looked good, tasted great made the evening a real success cuisine wise. The service was top notch, friendly and attentive. Thanks for wowing me - and yes, I will be back.
(4)Jason M.
This place was a joke.. Been wanting to go here for almost 5 years, finally had an excuse to go. It started as soon as we walked in, we had to find some one never mind being greeted, we were sat right away as we had a reservation. We ordered apps, ONE came out promptly, the others took over 25 minutes after the first app was already eaten, I had to ask where the rest of the food was.. then about another 20 min after that our food came.. took almost an hour to get our food. I got the King Salmon and my wife got the new your strip. Steak was cooked the way she wanted it no complaints for her. My Salmon was good minus the fact I almost choked on the 6 bones I found in it, it came with these little crab cakes.. they SUCKED!! all filler and they were over cooked, just junk I didn't even eat them ( or finnish the salmon.. All wasted). Our waitress sucked so bad, she forgot my 10 dollar side dish.. I didnt even want to waste my breath complaining I just wanted her to come back so i could pay and leave. 100 bucks later and almost 3 hours we left. what a joke, screw this place, Ill never go back. 111 is my only option for the "high end Worcester trio". I would not recommend this place to anyone.. Anyone that thinks this place is good is just a yuppy with money to spend at a place like this. Hell I can get a better a piece of fish at olive garden, and better service too! I feel so ripped off after eating here..
(1)Amanda Z.
My husband and I went to this establishment for our anniversary. We have heard good things and were interested to try this restaurant out. It was so busy even with reservations we had to wait a little bit but not too long. We were seated in the back with in a line of open tables that were tight in between booth tables. Being a busy restaurant there was constant traffic surrounding me that we had to ask to switch to a booth. The food was delicious and the waitress was very sweet. and accommodating. I enjoyed the meal but the environment was loud and tight.
(3)Brian M.
after a recommendation from a coworker I decided to drive out after work. I had a crab cake app and a bowl of seafood chowder. The crab cake was tiny, the crab tasted a little old, it was quite spicy too. The seafood chowder tasted very fishy without much else for flavor. One piece of clam was inedible it was so chewy and foul tasting. The place left me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling unsatisfied. The Wachusetts County Ale was great, the servers were ok but not terribly friendly. Maybe I visited the wrong time of year, but the haddock I had at the Holidy Inn I would take over that chowder any day.
(2)Amnon S.
My family and I were on a trip for Presidents Week. We were all in the mood for sushi; so, we decided to look for a place to eat. While we were looking we stumbled across a place called "Sole Proprietor." We sat down at a comfortable, elegant, beautiful table. We ordered food; such as the "Tuna Crunch", the Ora King Salmon, the Cagin Trout, and the Shrimp California Roll. Plus, for the kids we ordered spaghetti from an out-of-this-World kids menu. It came with crayons and a lot of space to draw . Everything was simply divine!!!! We enjoyed every moment and they had amazing service!!!! After we thought it couldn't get any better; well, let's just say it did. Desert was delicious. All we asked for was a Chocolate Tulip cup. It was Heaven. Also, they have lots of free parking space!!!! All-In-all it was GREAT!
(5)A Z.
Best Fish place in Central Mass very good lunch specials. friendly staff. good as well for larger parties
(5)Pierre T.
Cannot go wrong with The Sole. Everytime we dine here the food is fresh and tasty. We were here last Sunday and arrived just as they were opening. Got seated quickly service was great. The waitress overheard my Mom talking about a smaller portion and suggested a lunch menu item for her instead. I would recommend this place to anyone seeking fresh quality seafood.
(5)Rich W.
I took a date here b/c I've heard so many good things. Other then that fluorescent sign outside, everything was great! The service was excellent! I think our waiter's name was Joe, he was very nice, very willing to recommend dishes, and was phenomenal. The decor and ambience I thought looked very neat. Considering it was a seafood place the decor was very fitting. It gives you the vibe like you are on a sailboat or fishing vessel w/o the stench! The food was great, everything was cooked well and we didn't have to wait that long. We ordered some tapas and had the clam chowder, the caesar salad, some sushi, and other smaller dishes which were very good. I highly recommend this place to anybody who is looking to take a date here, or looking for a nice place for dinner on Friday night. It is a little on the expensive side, but I have no problem paying for quality.
(4)Omar Z.
This is a traditional New England fish house. If it were any place else, kudos would be flying off the shelf for the perfectly cooked fish, but here it is necessary for three stars. And they take some baby steps towards four: 1) Creativity. A lobster stir fry done with a whole lobster leaves you feeling a bit heavy with a disproportionate amount of pasta. Appreciative for the effort and presentation though. 2) Elegance of flavor. Cherrystones on the half shell are well selected and served with finely chopped red onion in addition to the more standard horse radish. 3) Hitting on the standards: A solid selection of raw oysters, chowders (the clam one being a tad too potatoey), and interestingly enough for a traditional New England fish house: Sushi. And the bread rolls were nice and soft. 4) Variety of fresh fish. The Ocean Catfish being heavily sold was almost worthy of the hype in texture but far from it in flavor. Disappointingly few preparations, though. 5) Great, professional waitstaff. If you've ever compared Boston television local news to any other news show in the country, you can begin to understand and appreciate good, serious New England service. Two servers per table here. 6) Proportions: Uber large. It's fine dining in a working class city. Fill 'em up. Those four filets of sole seemed a bit excessive though, even given the Restaurant's name. This place has a fine reputation, and actually, it had been on our list for years! But, know that this is not the type of place that really goes the extra mile to dazzle your buds. It just does a solid, and more than workmanlike job at giving you a well cooked seafood meal which you will find memorable in some way or another. And it works well in the community, setting up all the right elements and a few "stretch goals" for a special family occasion. Happy Birthday, Mom. Thanks, Dad! We loved it. Looking forward to the next one. Love, OZ.
(4)Serena's Mom W.
My absolute favorite restaurant! My husband introduced this place to me when we were dating (about 10 years ago) and it hasnt lost its touch for amazing food and service. When we lived in West Roxbury and Somerville and we craved the Sole, we got in the car for a well worth mini road trip. We are completely psyched now that we just moved to the area. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! **Excuse my review as it will be all over the place. The happiness of this place makes my head spin in a good way** My husband usually gets the Shogun Sushi Platter, which I am pretty sure is meant for a party of two or three - but he usually lays waste to it because it is so good! The sushi, albeit Americanized in that the pieces are so large, tastes amazing. Fresh fish and presentation is top notch. I usually order something like scallops with jasmine rice and the seasonal vegetable or like to try the specials...of course, only after I enjoy an app of fresh Jumbo shrimp and a cocktail. Each meal comes with a choice of soup or salad. The clam chowder is awesome but I highly recommend the seafood chowder. The blend of the different seafood is perfect - not overpowering. Shortly after you arrive, someone from your wait-team will bring over piping hot rolls - soooo goood. Hmmmmm...goood *Homer Simpson* I say wait-team because each table has a main waiter and that waiter has someone who will help them tend to your table. Its really great - you never feel bombarded with "how is everything?" and you are never left parched hoping your server will come back so you can order the next drink. The reason they do this, I believe, is they are very busy all the time. Having the double-team action allows them to continue to give the best service possible to their patrons, no matter how many people are in the restaurant. AND you are never, ever rushed along. I should also back up and address my comment about the restaurant being busy. It is a busy and popular place but I dont believe I have ever had to wait longer than 30 minutes (if that). And if you do have a wait, the atmosphere is just right for you to grab a drink at the bar while you wait for your table. And the meal is worth the wait any day. By the time my husband and I finish eating a roll, soup or salad, an app, and dinner and maybe an adult beverage or two we are so full of deliciousness we are not quite sure how we will manage to remove ourselves from the table to our car. BUT THEN - the waitperson will say that one word that will dangle in front of you and you cannot pass up the offer because everything to this point has been perfect - Hmmmmm DESSERT! The desserts are all fantastic - you really cant go wrong. A few years ago I decided I needed to be careful when I went out to dinner because I am such a foodie and tend to over indulge. The great thing about this place is that it IS totally possible to eat healthy feeling like you had a feast with no guilt. The menu is quite large offering any type of eater many options - including those who dont eat fish. For those who dont eat seafood - have no fear, they have a good amount of alternative dishes you can choose from. My brother in law only eats chicken (seriously) and he had an amazing statler chicken with wonderful veggies and sides to compliment. He was very happy. When we go with family or for special occassions we like to make a reservation for a table - otherwise, its the bar area for us. Reservations are recommended, especially over holidays weeks and on the weekend. The price is right for the service and probably the best meal of your life. ! I could go on - but I wont...just go and try it!
(5)Greg N.
Extremely overrated. For the prices I expect above average food. The meals are extremely average. The sushi is not good at all. Borderline awful. I can probably eat my bodyweight in food in one sitting, but the four times I have had the sushi from here I wasn't able to finish the roll. The only things I spend my money one now are the bar kettles which are decent, but more importantly served until 130am which is the real draw. Outside of not wanting to cook and wanting something besides pizza at 1230am, I would never go here.
(2)Dan K.
Went for dinner on 12-30 with family that was in town. They sat us early for our 6:30 reservation and the service was great until a large party showed at a table near us, and then it fell apart. The food was great, but the service level you would expect at $25/plate was not there for the 2nd half of the meal. We ended up not having desert or coffee (because we had to basically ask them for those menus) Not sure if I'll go back, just based on how the service was.
(3)Michael V.
The Sole is one of the best restaurants in Worcester. The parking lot is huge, decor is nice, service is good, and they serve good food. One of my favorites is the blackened tuna sashimi. Don't think twice just order it!!!
(4)Zoe D.
Everything tastes wonderful and the plates are designed with brilliance. The lobster meat in the lobster ravioli melts in your mouth, and all the sushi rolls are flavorful, fresh, and tender. A full bar offering plenty of beers on tap and all the wine and mixers you want. The bar menu is great to order several items and share with a date. A great place for a date or to celebrate!
(5)Sally Y.
Came here for an interview dinner and was pleasantly surprised. So far the best interview dinner I have been at. One of the people at the table compared it to Legal Seafoods, but cheaper, and I'd have to agree. I'll admit I didn't try to the shellfish which is what I often opt for at Legals, but I got the Maple Glazed Salmon which came with butternut squash ravioli and tomato basil soup. The tomato basil soup was delicious as was the salmon which was perfectly cooked. Although I was very full, we got dessert - the terrine seemed to be everyone's favorite. And, even though we were all stuffed, everyone commented on the fragrant smells coming from the sushi bar/kitchen on the way out.
(4)Nicholas R.
I love this place. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. I really love the sushi, particularly the Fire Cracker (?) sushi.... it's delicious! I've never had a bad meal here and the waitstaff has always been courteous and professional.
(5)Lesley D.
This restaurant is like Legal Seafoods with a smaller, more homey feel. Fresh, flavorful seafood paired with gourmet inspired flavors and sides, with a warm and social atmosphere and the prices to go with it. Definitely get reservations or you'll be waiting forever, depending on the day/time. There's a bar in the front which can be pretty noisy, but after you pass through there, there's a lovely dining area. I doubt that anything on this menu would be even remotely mediocre, but then again I'm kind of a sucker for seafood.
(5)Lynne H.
We were very impressed by our evening at the Sole Proprietor. Every thing we ordered was delicious. The service was great. We had two waiters that worked together as a team. It was very busy for a Saturday night but we were called to our table faster then expected. We recommend the clam chowder, the fish taco's and Sushi combo. To bad I was to stuffed for dessert. Extra credit for the hot sour dough rolls we were served. Definitely will go back again real soon!
(4)Amy ..
At first, I must admit I was a little annoyed to be sitting in traffic on the Xway *then* the Pike, driving to Worcester, and planning to pay $60 for slabs of raw fish... however, it *was* for a friend's birthday, so I sucked it up and moved on. My, oh my, was I pleasantly surprised. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect as I hadn't heard that Worcester was a crown jewel of fine cuisine or anything, but this place was a standout. The decor wasn't anything to write home about... if anything, they're trying a bit too hard. Yep, pretty sure you're still in a Worcester neighborhood, next to a triple decker and across from a laundromat. The waitstaff were attentive, smart and knowledgeable... for our table of about 20 they provided a rotating staff of four. I did get that "I feel like I'm being stalked by the waiter" safari feeling every once in awhile, but they were really just lurking to make sure everyone was happy I suppose. The wine list was stellar. The wines were fairly priced (but most, rats, still out of my price range...darn student loans) and they offered a good selection. They had an 05 Chardonnay from Frog's Leap in Napa which I couldn't resist and turned out to pair wonderfully with my equally exquisite....get this, Ginger Cranberry-Raspberry Swordfish. I know, sounds too sweet or something. It was, however, the perfect touch of spice, sweet and tang. Simply awesome! They desserts looked out of this world as well although I didn't indulge. Raw bar ranges from $2.50 each. Sushi ranges $11.99 per plate (around 6-8 pieces per plate) My recommendation...try the Firecracker...awesome! Apps are $5.99 and up Entrees $15.99 or so and up... includes a couple of chicken and steak dishes, but fish is their specialty. (My friend had chicken and wasn't impressed) Entrees include salad...get the house dressing! Desserts are $6.99 and up Extensive wine, bar, cordial selection Overall, a nice surprise... a diamond in the rough of Worcester one might say :)
(5)Janice T.
Who knew? This place has EXCELLENT sushi. The rolls are pretty tasty and they serve them with real butter. A must visit if you are every in Worcester.
(5)Cooper M.
Enjoyable meal here with my 'rents. Now I do not like seafood. I can enjoy small doses of sushi but the rest is just blah tasting texture. However, tonight's meal was very pleasant. Spicy tuna sushi app was yummy. Mom though the ginger was the best she has ever had. Then my main trout dish was good and dessert was as well. Nothing that spectacular and my vino had a little bug in it but warm rolls and cute, kind waitstaff make it all good.
(4)Tux P.
The best seafood in central Mass, imho. Great food, excellent bar, and a good wine list. The only thing that prevents this place from getting 5 stars is the price. The sushi is good, but I think the raw bar, the superb fresh fish selection, and the desserts make this place shine. Keep your eyes open for the yearly Crab Festival too! Dungeness Crab rocks!
(4)Eva B.
It is a nice restaurant, a little bit price up but it definitely worths it. I had steam lobster here for 2 times, it's pretty good and fresh. My husband had scallop and he loves it very much. Good place to go when you have something to celebrate. If you decide to go in holiday, don't forget to make reservation!
(4)Jules P.
Underwhelming atmosphere, staff were sort of all over the place. Good fish, but that doesn't counterbalance the weaknesses that pop up on other parts of the menu.
(3)P S.
Great about half the time. The quality varies, I have had some great meals, but have been disappointed by quite a few. I was amazed to watch a mouse run around the feet of customers without being spotted.
(3)Frank G.
I lived across the street from this place for three years. Needless to say, I've gone many, many times and I can't recall ever being disappointed. The food is great and the drinks are great. It's actually a really fun place late at night, besides serving as a top-quality seafood restaurant.
(5)B L.
We have consistently had excellent service, superb food and very satisfying experiences every time we have visited Sole Proprietor over a dozen and a half years. OUTSTANDING.
(5)Noa O.
nice Clam chowder, sea food and also Whoopie pie!!
(4)Elisa T.
Excellent seafood restaurant, best in Worcester. Great deals during their Lobster fest. Love their (bread) rolls, and their sushi rolls are really good too. The service is always friendly and attentive. I would recommend making reservations, as there always seems to be a wait without one. If you go during the summer, you can also see Buster, the world's largest inflatable crab.
(4)Dorian G.
Legal what? You'll completely forget about that other seafood restaurant once you've dined at the Sole. It is a bit noisy and some menu items are a bit pricey, but they make up for those 2 small downfalls in creativity and flavor. The portions are massive as well. My favorite is the swordfish au poivre (light on the poivre, please!). Simple yet the flavors are better than any other swordfish dish I've ever had. The clam chowder is outstanding and they have a raw bar AND a sushi bar! P.S. Don't forget to make reservations if you planning on visiting on a weekend! You can easily wind up waiting an hour for a table, and the bar gets crowded quickly.
(5)Ashley P.
So on my first visit to Worcester, my friend suggested we eat here for dinner. What a great choice! I had a sushi roll, called the "Sole Roll" which was delicious and very fresh. The portions were large for the money and the food was amazing. I had the surf and turf, and while the shrimp was a little boring, the steak and scallops were phenominal. My friend had the fish and chips which she loves and has gotten on many other occassions. While the food was good, I can't rave enough about the drinks! Not only were the cosmos tastey and well made, they were only $5! You can't beat that. And my friend got a "skinny mojito" which was less than 100 calories while still packing a punch in the liquor department. Service was amazing, and the host even apologized for the 30 seoncds we had to wait for our table. I would suggest that you make a reservation on a Friday or Saturday night because it looked pretty busy. I will be back!
(4)William G.
My first time,my wife's second time,eating at this restaurant.Reservations for 6:30p.m. arrived on time,and were seated promptly.Ordered cocktails,and crab stuffed portabello mushrooms for an appetizer.The Cocktails were great,the stuffed mushroom was OK.I had a Pear and walnut salad,with bleu cheese,and cranberries.It was very good.For entrees, my wife had the Alaskan Halibut,with sugar snap peas,and roasted potatoes.It was very good.I had the "Blackened" fresh Idaho Rainbow Trout,with sweet potato,bacon Hash,and candied red onion slaw. The trout was very good,not too spicy,and the Hash was to "die for",although there was way to much hash ,and not enough of the delicious slaw.I had a second cocktail,and it was much "weaker" than the first one,and the server took my wife's drink,before she was finished (a real no no).When confronted about it,she did get my wife more of the drink,and said that she was very sorry.For dessert,we split the Chocolate terrine with two sauces.It was exceptional.All in all it ,was a very nice dining experience,and despite a no no,the server's were exceptional.We will not wait another four years to go back.Entree's are a little pricy,but the drinks,appetizer,and desserts are very reasonable.
(4)Anna B.
OMG the food here is amazing! I am not the biggest fan of seafood, but the Sole has changed my mind. Their lobster ravioli is great, he sushi is fresh and tasty, and their clab sliders are absolutely DIVINE!
(5)Melanie F.
we had a fairly decent time - the seafood quality was a bit of a let down. My Mahi-Mahi was a bit gamey and the mussels were not very good- pretty inedible actually. The Seafood pasta my husband had was delicious. They were extremely busy and the service was excellent.
(3)Kathryn S.
I have been going for years. Better than legal seafood at least in price and also have a very large menu which changes frequently. Go in July when they have Crab Month and Buster the crab - huge blow up crab up on the roof. Their hot dinner rolls are killer good. Fish always fresh and tasty. Staff professional and service is good. Always crowded, and a bit loud, so go early or make reservations. The bar is also a hot spot - always packed, great bartenders. Easily my favorite restaurant in Worcester.
(5)Mark C.
Been going here on and off for years. Good food, great drinks. The bar is ***LOUD*** and can be very crowed after work - between 7-9. The trick is to show up at 9:30 and have kettle meals at the bar.
(4)Joe P.
I have never had a bad meal here. This place has the best seafood dishes in the area, and quite frankly, the best I have ever had. Everything is good here. The service isn't fantastic, which is the only reason it doesn't get 5 stars. The food itself does though.
(4)Mary c.
This is the place to take a date or coworkers in the Worcester area. Attentive service, great food selection. It's on the pricey side but you get what you pay for here. ;)
(5)Bethany B.
So happy birthday to me as we strolled into the Sole at 5 pm tonight. We knew that they offered their Bar Menu items for $5 (M-F 4pm-7pm). Living on one income w/ 2 kids has led us to search out the values where we can. Jeff had the Ketel One vodka martini on the rocks while mine was straight up. I forgot how much kick a real martini had. Each were $5 since they were the special drink of the evening. I started with 4 Wellfleet oysters while DH had the chowder. The oysters were perfect and their house cocktail sauce is a nice touch. The chowder was thick and had a heavy taste of bacon -- but not in a bad way. Nice chunks of clams and 'tatoes too. Keeping it light he had the shrimp w/ tomatoes over pasta in a light garlic white wine sauce. I chose the Dragon Maki roll. We both couldn't believe what great portions we got for price. We had tandem waitstaff (Jamol and Sarah). Very nice and just attentive enough . So 2 satiated people w/ a nice buzz for only $35 before tip? We promised each other that we'd return this week for more good grub!
(5)Judd S.
A loyal customer of the Sole for years. My friends and I would go here for sushi, dessert, and drinks late at night when we were students at nearby WPI. My tip for you, go late. Get the late night Kettle Menu. Get some drinks, some appropriately priced sushi and just sit there with friends for hours. You won't be disappointed. It's the only business in Worcester I truly miss. I wish I could pick the whole place up and move it to Boston.
(4)Jason A.
Great menu, seasonal specialties, and great service. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and I always try something new from the specials. The best tip I can give is to go there during lunch, the entrees are ~$9-10 and the portions are very generous! Going there for dinner is still my favorite, but the best bargain is during lunch!
(5)Jennifer P.
again, like the chophouse, this restaurant surprised me that this is the best worcester has to offer. i think i did end up getting the wrong thing (why does this always happen to me??) in that my food buddy's dish was much better than mine. i got a salmon that was overcooked and slathered in hoisin sauce which was way too strong and salty. it was weird too eating fish with a sauce that is usually used in pho. the steamed vegetables were tasteless and could have been more tender. the highlight was the yummy cocktail i started with (named worcester drink or something like that).
(2)kathy s.
a bit pricey but sooo good
(4)Crystal N.
The lobster bisque was the best. Our waitress, Amelia, was the sweetest person - the restaurant is lucky to have her be a part of their team. She was so patient with us because we took light years to decide on what we wanted, provided our party with the best service and made sure all of our glasses were full throughout our entire meal. My boyfriend and his brother were adamant about offering her a job to handle their customer service department! Unfortunately, Amelia would have to relocate to California so the guys didn't get to propose the idea to her, lol. We ordered 4lbs (2lbs per plate) of the stuffed lobster. The lobster was topped with scallops and the scallops were lightly battered and cooked to perfection. The hard shell lobsters were delicious, meaty and fresh. I was looking forward to the Ora King Salmon plate but it was a big let down. The salmon was overcooked and wasn't worth what previous reviews have hyped it up to be. I recommend sticking to the lobster dishes here at the Sole Proprietor. The fresh oysters here were great. It came with several sauces, some seemed to be house special sauces that complimented the oysters really well. The Sole Proprietor would be a great place for a date or birthday dinner - the ambiance was really nice and Amelia, our waitress was seriously, Boston's angel.
(4)Warren L.
We were here last night, August 11th, 2015. Normally restaurants need to make excuses for bad service during Worcester Restaurant week. No need here. Everything, and I mean everything from service, to food, to the kitchen, to the room was over the top. If I had a 6 star option that I could only use once a year, I would have awarded it here. Recently we went to one of this restaurants sisters, 111 Chop House, and I ordered the steak. The steak here tasted better, was cooked correctly, and didn't take 45 minutes. (I don't eat seafood.) Honestly, I can't come up with any negative. Highly recommend for special occasions. This is the best restaurant in Worcester in my opinion (and remember, I don't eat seafood.)
(5)Nicole L.
Really the only thing that is bad about this place is that the prices are high. The reality is who cares. Service and food are worth it. We had Amy and Nicole wait on us. Service was prompt and fabulous. Glasses were not empty before they were refilled. Food was awesome. We are here at restaurant week. The shrimp app was spicy but perfect. House salad was boring but as expected. The haddock Newburg was very tasty. Hubby had the NY strip. Cooked to perfection. Black tie for dessert was huge and he said it was great. There are multiple cuts of meat and chicken plates that are made to order so ask if you are not into seafood.
(5)Kim S.
After being stuck in HOURS of traffic on our way back from NYC, my friend and I decided to make a pit stop for dinner. We visited on a Thursday night and the parking lot was full. I asked the hostess if there was a private event going on and she responded that it was their typical night. I guess they are a super busy establishment. We started off with a round of drinks before ordering dinner. Warm crusty rolls were brought to our table. There were too many apps that looked intriguing so I made a meal out of apps in lieu of a standard dinner. I started off with the lobster bisque that was OUT OF THIS WORLD! It has got to be the best lobster bisque in my life! There were huge lobster chunks and the consistency was on point. I'm a huge fan of fish tacos but it was only on the appetizer menu. I went ahead and ordered the fried white fish tacos with chipotle aioli. The three fish tacos was a steal at only $9.95. It was a meal within itself. The tacos were pretty good with large chunks of fried fish. The combination of fig, onion, walnut and balsamic vinaigrette in the goat cheese cake was amazing. It was sweet and salty. The toasted sliced baguettes were crispy and fresh. I thought there was more bread than cheese though. All my choices were amazing. My friend also recommended their sushi maki rolls and said they were great. He strongly recommended the "Tiger Eye" which is battered, fried and topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Sounds right up my alley. The rest of the group stuck with traditional entrees from the dinner menu. My friend raved about the Tuna Steak Barcelona which is a seared tuna steak stuffed with feta cheese and sun dried tomatoes. The meal was fantastic and if I am ever back in the area, Id definitely stop in. Great food, great service! Kudos to my friend for the recommendation !
(4)Bey F.
This restaurant has forever been a popular meeting place for professionals. The staff are great, it is always lively, I really enjoy the location of the restaurant, but the food is really a disappointment. I suggest an updated menu.
(3)Bryan N.
I came here for my birthday dinner with my girlfriend and I must say I was a happy birthday boy! I love seafood and this place is a haven for seafood lovers. Luckily, we came here during restaurant week, so I had a chance to order from the prefixe menu to try a 3 course meal. I ended up going with the grilled shrimp skewers w mango salsa, clam chowder, and the haddock topped w lobster in Newbury sauce. Everything was pretty delicious, however I wasn't super impressed with the haddock. I would come back, but probably try some of their other fresh seafood menu options. I really like the ambience of the Sole Proprietor. Our waitress, Tori, was awesome and on top of everything; I was impressed.
(4)Chris L.
Recently went here with my family and my nephew visiting from Arizona...he loves to get seafood when he comes out to the area... The evening started off well, with a great waitress, good drinks and great company....however it all turned a little strange when a mouse or rat (not sure as it moved pretty fast....but it was big) Bolted right by us, under our table, and then right into the main dining area...under some of the booths. A few of the wait staff saw it, as did a party that was just leaving....we grabbed our waitress right away and made her aware of the situation. One of the management staff came over a little while later and said that sometimes, patrons enter into the garden thinking it is a smoking area, and they leave the door open and that allows the rodents to come in... I am not buying it...while we did get comp'd for dessert..I have to say...mouse or no mouse....the food was really bland....my sister ordered salmon/lobster special and it was cold and it was a mission to find the lobster. I had the same Salmon dish and mine was warm, not hot, but it also had next to no taste and was slightly over cooked....which with salmon just kind of dries it out. Mine had about 3 pieces of lobster, and were hard to find..but they were there. My wife had shrimp, and those were over cooked and very tough...which left alot to be desired on flavor. Best part of the meal was the Sushi, which was great...but the main courses left alot to be desired. I was truly disappointed....
(2)Nicole L.
After reading many reviews about The Sole Proprietor, I wasn't sure it would live up to my expectations; however, it did more than just live up to its acclaim!! The food was incredible! The coconut shrimp, crab cakes, and clams casino were a perfect starting point for the meal. Because there were five of us dining I was able to taste the Tempura Soft Shell Crab, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Rare Tuna Steak, and Blackened Haddock!! All of the dishes were incredibly different, but SO delicious! We also loved our server, Randy!! Very attentive with a great personality! If you are in Worcester for any reason at all, definitely dine here!
(5)Hannah K.
I wish I could give 3.5 stars. This place is GOOD, it's just not GREAT. Came here for my birthday and they had a special Sunday prix fixe menu that we all ordered from (not sure if that promotion is still applicable). Our salads and soups were good, our appetizers were incredible (I had mussels in a coconut curry sauce that completely made the meal) and the entrees were just OK. I honestly don't even remember what I had, no one was that impressed with their entrees. But I remember the fabulous mussels so I think your experience is going to depend a lot on ordering the right thing.
(3)Timothy J.
Never had a bad meal here. Great food. The oysters are always the freshest you can get. Great drinks. Spend the dough
(4)Chad B.
Chad's eSCAPE Review. Service (+). They are always well staffed and the staff is very friendly. They are quick to offer seats at the bar and will come find patrons once their tables are ready. Cost (+). The restaurant is fairly pricy but this rating is on value not pure cost. The freshness, taste and variety is well worth what is charged. Atmosphere (+). It is appropriately decorated and boasts a very large bar area near the entrance. There are multiple seating areas that gives a different/view and perspective each time you return. Palate (+). The clam chowder, the raw bar, the bisque, the oysters, the fish are all amazing in flavor, spicing and freshness. It is very difficult in making just a single selection. (I didn't order all these during one setting, I am a repeat patron!!) Everything Else (+). I travel extensively both domestically and abroad and this is probably one of my favorite seafood fare restaurants. I have added this restaurant as a stop during long business trips even if it is hours out of my travel path. It is important to know that this place fills up very quick. If you prefer a more private dining experience, I recommend getting there about 430-500PM. If you are coming later, I strongly recommend reservations. Parking can be tricky. Remember, there is probably a reason all the people are coming here!!
(5)Paul M.
The Sole Proprietor - Worcester MA On the outside, it has a warm feel to it and although I usually prefer meats or Lobstah, there was something about the look of this place that screams; "try the fish"... Nicely decorated with what appeared to be several rooms you get a sense that this is going to be good. The hostess busy on the phone greets you with a smile and immediately acknowledges your presence with a polite "I'll be right with you"... I like this place! And just like their sister restaurant I visited the other night, you have two servers at your disposal. Soon after seating, they serve you nice warm rolls. I would have liked to see the butter served in its own individual dish as it is in most fine restaurants as opposed to the gold colored packets but hey... There are bigger problems in life... I'll deal... I started with a hearty crock of rich and creamy Bisque... Nicely presented with large chunks of fresh Lobstah meat protruding from the top.. A bit on the thick side but flavorful none the less... Next up... The field greens, tomatoes, croutons and crumbled Bleu Cheese dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette... The Ora King Salmon will change everything you think you know about Salmon... Raised in the pristine waters of New Zealand's Marlborough Sound, this is by far the best tasting Salmon you will ever have the pleasure of consuming! It has a wonderful buttery taste and although the menu said herbed rice, mine was served over a bed of mashed potatoes garnished with chunks of crab meat, asparagus and drizzled with hollandaise sauce. Simply amazing... Mere words cannot convey how truly good this is... For dessert... Apple Brown Betty... Warm cinnamon apples topped with a brown sugar crumb, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You'd better get a towel for this one ;-) Over the top! From the ambiance, impeccable service, pace at which the food was served, presentation and flavour..., this place rocks! They earned every one of their 5 stars with me tonight! Highly... Highly recommended... In short..., you will love it! Wow
(5)Laura D.
I ordered the North Atlantic salmon grilled and opted for spinach (steamed) and broccoli as sides and a salad as a first course. The salad wasn't anything special--1 tomato, 1 piece of cucumber, some lettuce--a bit sad looking. The fish was a large portion (2 meals) and nicely grilled, although not very flavorful. Both the broccoli and spinach were bland as well. I tried some of my sisters sweet potato mash, which I would recommend more. While the food wasn't phenomenal (especially for the steep prices), our server (Amy Lynne?) was very sweet and helpful!
(2)Jimmy M.
I was heading to a pizza place across the street and stumbled across this place. They had a huge parking lot so I figured I would just go eat here. The interior was very nice and the service was very friendly. I ordered the salmon with asparagus, calm chowder, cherry oyster and the apple crumble with ice cream. The cherry oyster was amazing. It tasted fresh, chewy and I could taste the saltyness. The salmon was cooked perfectly. It pretty much melted in my mouth with the crispy skin on the outside. It was done really well because I didn't have any burnt taste. The claim chowder was somewhat light. It really didn't have a strong taste and not much claim meat. I could have done without the claim chowder. The apple crumble was ok. The apples and the ice cream were good but the breading was too much. Overall not bad. It sacked that they put me alone in the corner with all other tables open but I guess that's to the only table for 1? I would have like to be put in a booth so I can people watch lol.
(4)Laura S.
Everything was absolutely excellent - we will be back for the next special occasion! My husband and I selected this to celebrate our 3 year anniversary based on the reviews on OpenTable, and it exceeded our expectations. The service was attentive, charming, friendly and helpful. We knew we wanted to try the lobster chowder and a crab dish, and the waitress recommended one that was delicious - crab wrapped in a clever shaved cucumber "dish". It was fresh and playful. The lobster chowder was so rich and buttery with huge lobster pieces, yum! I ordered a margarita (which was also very good) and the king crab legs - pricey, but amazing. I would order it again. At the very end of the meal the server even brought out a special dessert plate with "happy anniversary" written in chocolate with strawberries and whipped cream... It was so thoughtful and lovely. I really enjoyed that extra touch.
(5)Julia M.
My boyfriend took me there for Valentine's Day. We got there at 2:30pm and had to wait 30 minutes. Not complaining. Just shows you that the place was hopping at 2:30 in the afternoon. We had the smoked seafood plate for an appetizer and that was fantastic. Then I had the Ora King Salmon Oscar. That is the best salmon I have ever eaten! My boyfriend had the seafood saute. Excellent as well. The desserts are well executed and interesting. But, go for the fresh seafood. I want to return for the swordfish steaks. I saw a couple of them go by on platters and they looked really great!
(4)David R.
I love this restaurant! Friendly staff, amazing food, and great prices. I'm addicted to their salmon dinner with garlic spinach and sweet mashed potatoes. I get take out all the time - and I'm always happy with my meal. They even write draw pictures and write positive messages like "Made with Extra Love!" on the takeout bag!
(5)Sandor K.
Really good place for some fresh catch! Casual and elegant all in one! You wouldn't expect sushi rolls, but they have them - and they are divine! love the surf and turf roll! The Haddock with Lobster Newburg was mouth watering! Selection of craft beers on tap as well!
(5)Lisa E.
Oh dear. First day of Buster was a bomb. Dijon crab stuffed flounder was a blanket of horseradish over a mild fish. The crab looked like it was there but I couldn't taste it. What did dijon have to do with anything either? People. I love your restaurant. Rethink this dish. Or call it horseradish flounder. The cheesecake was fantastic.
(2)Nancy H.
Best seafood restaurant that I have ever been to. High class waitstaff, classy decor, and overall well prepared food. I have tried multiple of their specialty cocktails and they are all great. I loved the mojito! For appetizers, we tried a few and their sushi was what stuck out most. DELISH! all of our entrees were wonderful, both steak and seafood. Although our bill was hefty, it was well worth the price. We will definitely be returning on our next special occasion.
(5)Jo H.
One of our most favorite places to dine in Worchester. Fresh. Clean food. Friendly service, exceptional service. If you want a great meal and fine dining this is the place to go.
(4)Nathaniel L.
I always expect a solid meal and enjoyable dining experience at the Sole Proprietor. The service and food has been above average when I visit. The menu is pretty extensive and offers a variety of seafood options. The dining area and atmosphere is really nice as well.
(4)Jackie F.
Something has happened to the food at this fine establishment. It has been a few years since we last dined here! The food was okay but nothing to write home about! The service was outstanding but the soup was tasteless, the fish dishes were so so! Maybe just a bad day for the Chef! Too bad as this was once a go back to place!
(3)Adam R.
Sat in the bar area. We had two servers that were on point, service was snappy and friendly, even though the place was swamped. I started with oysters on the half, the vinaigrette they served with them perfect. I followed it with crab and corn chowder, which was somewhat bland and lacking much crab flavor. Entree was the Grilled Swordfish Colcannon. Perfectly cooked sword, with that crispy skin crust, topped with a sundried tomato tapenade, served over kale mixed with mash potatoes and sprinkled with pancetta. That was on point. A damn good plate. My accomplice had some sort of deep fried sushi roll that was pretty tasty as well. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Patrick K.
This has been my favorite restaurant in Worcester for over twenty-five years. A terrific menu -- a wide range of selections. Fantastic seafood. Great drinks. Best atmosphere in Worcester. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Cynthia P.
I have always loved this place & eaten there for years but had the worst meal in June. Ordered steamers; they were not cooked to order & were cold. The drawn butter was mixed with oil & was disgusting. Sent them back expecting freshly steamed clams but all they seemed to do was microwave the original steamers. Totally lost my appetite. The waitress & manager apologized & took it off the bill but I will never go there for dinner again.
(1)Abbie K.
My first time there it was real busy but there's a reason for that. The food was unique and so delicious that the entire dinner conversation was just how awesome the food tasted in our mouths. Between apps and two meals we spent about $90 total but it was so worth it. I didn't even care about the wait or how packed and noisy it was, and our waiter was super friendly and totally attentive
(5)Mandy K.
The Sole is always good. I have never had a bad meal here. My only real complaint is that I would like to see some of the appetizer items offered as entrees. Great place.
(4)Katie K.
This is the third time we've been in as many years and each meal has been worse than the last. People rave about this place, which is the only reason we've given them a few tries, but this was the last time. The service was fine, but the food was horrible. I don't think I need to expound, that's how horrible it was.
(1)Kelly H.
If you are looking for seafood in Worcester, this is the place to go! Every single dish is amazing. I take my friends here whenever they are in town and it never disappoints. Parts of the restaurant can be a little loud. But for any busy restaurant that is the case.
(5)Brandy S.
We dine here at least once a year and always for my husband's birthday. It's always packed and for good reason. The decor is upscale and because it's a seafood restaurant most of the artwork and accents are seafood or sea themed. Dark wood trim and lighting in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright. Very cozy and not overdone. From the Front of House to the wait staff everyone is welcoming and helpful. The wait staff know the menu and are happy to answer questions. As busy as this place gets, I would expect to feel rushed, but that is not the case. On a busy summer weekend, service does lag a little, but not to the point where food is not served in a timely manner. Never had bad service here. The bar is always hopping and is casual. Great place to grab a cocktail while you wait if you arrive early or just because. Reservations are a must. We were told that dinner service had 315 reservations made tonight. Seating is always prompt. Parking fills up super fast, so it's best to arrive a little early in case you have to wait for a space. The food is top notch. Fresh seafood, sizzling steaks, beautiful sushi. Nothing on the menu is bad. No matter what you order, it will be seasoned to perfection, cooked perfectly, and delight your tastebuds. The lobster bisque is the best I've ever had, my husband raves about the oysters. Steaks are spot on in terms of temperature which I'm picky about. The lobster dishes are always amazing. The wine list is extensive. No shortage of choices. The beer and cocktail selections are excellent too. It can be a little noisy on a busy night, but not to the point where you can't hear the conversation at your table. The ambiance is upscale and the dress code casual. Most people don't wear jeans, but in the summer nice shorts seem fine. Tonight, however, I saw a muscle shirt and cut offs. Don't be that person. Casual doesn't mean you dress like you're at the beach.
(5)John H.
I've been here several times and have never been disappointed. Crab cakes are better than most in the area.
(4)Lynda G.
Extremely accommodating service, and the best seafood I have ever had. And I eat a lot of seafood! The scallops were definitely the best I have ever had, and they broiled them for me in bread crumbs. The meal came with a salad, which I got a Caesar salad and the dressing was amazing. We had the clams casino as an appetizer, which I had never had before but they were enjoyable. The mojito I ordered was delicious and strong, and again the service was fast with drink orders and such. We took our time and didn't order everything at once because we didn't want to feel rushed. The servers got the hint and didn't rush us. I can't wait to go back and get the scallops again, and even try some of their sushi. Definitely a place for special occasions and it is expensive, but totally worth it.
(5)Michael W.
Never thought it would come to this....this place used to be fantastic! Last night my pan roasted mahi was so overcooked it was horrible. The bread they served was burned nearly to black, the fish on the Shogun dinner should be renamed to the incredible shrinking sushi....is that pink dot on the middle of the rice ball tuna? Cut the shit, you people are way better than this. And what's with that disgusting vegetable slaw? Did someone actually ever see a slaw with large vegetables cut into paper thin sheets? The chowder is too thick all of a sudden as well! I'm not sure why this place chronically excels and then disappoints but it has been happening a lot. One week the meal is just fantastic and the next it borders on being below average....ownership needs to figure it out! You can't help but get the feeling that theSole has passed its prime!
(2)Mrs B.
Eh, not the best, not the worst. Was disappointed that they use frozen seafood and lobster. I'm sure there are better places out there if you search a bit more.
(3)Joe C.
Had a lovely night eating at the bar. Our server was classy and a pleasure. I had the Seafood stir fry and it was delicious. I like the charm of a classy Worcester building. A beautiful dinner for a reasonable price.
(4)Yadi M.
My team and I were here to audit one of our companies and went to the Sole Proprietor TWICE, had the absolute YUMMY Lobster Bisque and I cannot say anything bad about it OMG, the best out there!!!!! I had the seafood Sautee the 1st time and then the Crab Cakes and enjoyed both very much along with both my Malbec glasses of wine which were perfect. I would definitely recommend this place espcially because both times the service was EXCELLENT!!! Wish i remember the names of both of them, i think last nights server, his name was Yori. its a must to stop by!
(5)Michael E.
Although we live in New York we often travel to Massachusetts just to have dinner here. The hostess station leaves a little to be desired but the service and food make up for it. We love the special times when they have "Buster the Crab" for the month, or lobster or oysters. At those times the entire menu is devoted to these items. You won't be dissapointed
(5)Alleah F.
The Sole Proprietor is a legit lunch spot. I've been twice now and have had a great experience both times. The service is very friendly and the place gets very busy at lunch. I've had the fish tacos which are really good and the shrimp/scallop pesto dish. They are pretty decadent and tasty. I wouldn't say it is the healthiest lunch spot...but maybe it's just the dishes I'm choosing. ;)
(4)Bill H.
The food here has gone down hill for a bit now, it used to be insanely good. Just had the spiciest dish ever, seafood fra diavolo. I've had the dish before and while it is on the spicy side, it's not supposed to be, go buy some tums because your stomach feels terrible while you hiccup and sweat kinda hot. The service was great as usual but tonight, they dropped the ball pretty hard with this dish. Went here because of it's good food and reputation but that's something that needs to be relooked at.
(2)Rachel B.
Even though I've lived in Worcester for many years, I'm not big on seafood, so I had never been to the Sole before. I was attending a family member's birthday here, so I was excited to see what it was like! The ambiance and aesthetic is quite nice. The place was packed, but I like the fact that it's separated into smaller rooms- My party of 8 was able to chat without any issues of excess noise. I was concerned that there was nothing on the menu other than seafood and steak. I was hoping to see at least one chicken dish, however the waitress informed me that they had chicken breast and were able to substitute it for any of the fish dishes if I so desired. I was happy about that, and decided to order the parmesean crusted trout dish with chicken instead. While our waitress was very sweet, she seemed like she was either new, or not very good at her job. She continuously put the wrong plate of food in front of the wrong person starting with appetizers all the way to when our entrees finally came out. On top of that, she also brought our drinks out all at different times, and then did this again with our entrees with no explanation as to why they weren't all brought out at once. 2 of the people I was with had to wait almost 10 minutes to receive their plates while the rest of us were eating and at a nicer/higher priced restaurant, that is just a no-no. Myself and 2 of the people I was with ordered the same dish, which came with green beans for a side. I substituted asparagus on my plate in place of green beans, which I was told would be a $1 upcharge. For an almost $30 plate, I found that a little ridiculous, but whatever. When our plates arrived ALL of them had asparagus, rather than just mine. My salad was OK- nothing to rant or rave about. My fiance said his chicken noodle soup was the best he's ever had. Everyone that ordered seafood said it was absolutely delicious, although the Shrimp and grits was incredibly spicy even though that was not mentioned in the description of the dish. The clam strips were also mentioned to be a bit on the greasy side, and were brought out in a red and white paper bowl. Speaking on that- i was also pretty disappointed in the presentation of the plates. I know it's not supposed to be a gourmet, 5 star restaurant plating experience, but it looked like something I'd order at a chain restaurant- everything was just kind of tossed on the plate. Those of us that ordered chicken were left underwhelmed. it was heavily crusted, a little oily, and overcooked. My potatoes and vegetables were sub par and room temperature the moment they hit the table. All in all, the important thing is the seafood, which I was told was very good. My fiance also said his steak was cooked to perfection, although there was a bit too much fat for his liking. I think this is a decent restaurant, but they do have some issues. I don't think I'd return here on my own, as I feel like I can get a much better meal and better service for the price elsewhere in worcester.
(3)Ron S.
Service was much better that my food. I ordered the clam strip dinner with macaroni/cheese and sautéed mushrooms as sides. Both sides were lukewarm and tasteless. The strips were more like belly than strips that I ordered. I finally mentioned to a server about the sides and was offered to have them warmed up or new ones for take out, which I declined. The manager came by and asked what he could do. Rather than tell him I chose to see what would he would do on his own. Mistake! A desert was comped. For a $120.00 meal (tip included) I am disappointed...
(3)John Z.
The only negative for this place is the noise level. I could hardly hear the friends sitting across from me at our table. The Food and service is superb. Very friendly and attentive. Priced reasonably. I just wish it was quieter.
(3)Sara M.
Another exceptional dinner at the Sole. Went to sole for anniversary dinner. Fresh amazing food and excellent service. Our server was Cindy and she made our experience a pleasant one. Thanks so much!
(5)Brenda W.
Reservations highly recommended. We called on Good Friday for reservations that evening and received an 8:30 slot for three of us. The good news is that they appear to be hopping and thriving at that dinner hour. Menu options were many. I selected the broiled sea scallops which came with mashed potatoes and a steamed vegetable medley. I also selected a caesar salad. The dinner was very good; prices were to be expected (in the 25.00 range for entrees), ambiance was dressy without feeling we had to be dressed to the hilt, and service was very good. I do have to say that the presentation for both the price and ambiance was less than stellar. I did expect that part of the meal to be much better.
(4)Michael S.
Food was outstanding. The Ora king oscar was outstanding Amy Lynne was great at service. First time here and will definitely come back.
(5)Jep G.
==food: mediocre. we got: 1) Chilled Seafood Platter (guess the shrimps were ~ok). 2) Ora King Salmon Oscar (salmon per se was ~ok. not overcooked. the crab meat / sauce and rice were almost flavorless) 3) Wildflower Honey Brushed Arctic Char (as for the
(2)Inigo M.
Classic old school Worcester seafood restaurant, that one gets the sense is struggling to keep up with the times. At one point this was THE place for seafood in Worcester, and it still is for many people. Its expensive, a tad on the fancy side, and happens to have a fabulous wine list to boot. You'll find classic New England favorites here and more contemporary takes on seafood. I've only had the pleasure of eating here twice, and thoroughly enjoyed what I had: local seafood prepared simply. High rollers like this place for power lunches/dinners. Its a date place as well, in a city with far fewer of those than you might think.
(4)Ashley V.
I've been going here for 20 of my 27 years on this planet, and seafood does not get any better. My hometown is close to Worcester, so every time I come back to visit, I demand to eat here. My favorites are the signature cocktails, the clam chowder, any salmon dish they prepare, and the sushi (firecracker).
(5)Michelle L.
Such a BIG DISAPPOINTMENT!! The prices for their quality of steak and veggies is OUTRAGEOUS!! They were soggy veggies, hard steak, when i ordered medium well, and when i asked for a mixed sangria bowl, it was like sipping on a big bowl of fruit, NO ALCOHOL!! BOOOOO!! Never coming here again.
(1)Tiffany B.
I had the worst experience at this restaurant today. Our server was crystal and Toni, we had two servers yet the worst service ever. We had water at the table that was asked to be refilled three times and at the end of the meal we still did not get our waters refilled and just asked for the check. We spent about 20 minutes waiting to get out order. I understand it was busy but to have two servers and no one serving you was ridiculous. The food was okay they overcharged us for the lobster bisque and then had to go back and fix it. I wouldn't order it again. The crab sliders were good and they was probably the best thing. Their drinks are okay nothing out of the ordinary.
(1)Brian H.
The food here is excellent. I ordered the surf and turf with the steam and stuffed shrimp and the quality itself is amazing. Also, the service was pretty good: water and drinks were refilled within minutes and the waitress replaces dishes when necessary. However, one minor objection would be that the food is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food, to a small extent, overshadows this minor flaw.
(5)Rich C.
Great seafood. Plenty of choices. I had the land and two seas which consisted of a perfectly cooked filet and shrimp scallops with garlic blue cheese mashed potatoes and asparagus. Yum yum yum. Also for $3 I upgrade my salad to a goat cheese and fennel with Apple slices with an awesome balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Huge portion with very tasty food. Ask for Yuri he's the best. He made my night.
(5)Scott S.
Found this place via Yelp! and it was great. Lobster roll was huge and fresh and the oysters were wonderful as well. My only negative is that it was a little pricy for lunch but otherwise it was great.
(5)Queen B.
Absolutely unacceptable service by waitress and manager . Have been a regular for four years but never going back . Even though I love the food and ambience here ,I am taking my business elsewhere. SORRY Sole you lost a loyal customer.
(1)Tim R.
Please do yourself a favor and do not eat at this establishment. The Management and staff are extremely rude and not accommodating at all. We had reservations for Father's Day, which were made last Monday. My Mother-in law called yesterday morning and politely asked the lady who answered the phone that we would need to add one more person to our party of 4. The lady, without even checking immediately said we cant do that (with an attitude). Then we asked to speak with a manager and the manager said the same exact thing very rudely. He explained that they overbooked and could not accommodate us. I don't own/manage a restaurant, but I cant imagine adding 1 chair to the end of table being a problem but I guess I was wrong. If you like good food and being treated terribly by management and staff this is the best restaurant in town. The Sole Proprietor definitely lost a customer yesterday.
(1)Kent C.
Had a work dinner here so we had a table of 10. Service was a little lacking and the food well we can break that down... Oysters, well the one I got had a piece of meat that was so small my fork couldn't even get it out of the half shell... I ordered the black and blue swordfish. Was alright.. Fish was a little bit too charred. My side broccoli was overcooked. The lobster bisque, had incredibly large pieces of lobster but the bisque itself was overly saltly and well had some separately liquid ontop... I hope it was water? Lemon sorbet was overwhelmingly large and definitely the best part of my meal other than the beer.
(2)Kim N.
Went to visit my sister who is going to school out here. She said there wasn't much to do in the area. And she was right. But then...she took us to this gem of a place. The parking lot was easy to navigate. They greet you very nicely and walk you to your table quickly. The place looks very upscale. But there's a diverse crowd. You can see people in evening attire, or in hawaiian print shirts and flip flops. I was a bit confused. Servers were attentive and had good descriptions of the specials. The oysters came out quickly and were yummy. (It helped that the server kind of knew what was good for the day.) The clam chowder was good and I enjoyed it, but it was nothing amazing. I'd still order again. When the steaks came, I loved that the chef came out and asked us to cut into it to see if it was prepared to our liking. Big points for that! And so friendly! I ordered the surf and turf and it was delicious. They almost convinced us to go for a dessert, but we already had some waiting at home. Everything was so well-priced too! You would probably pay 2 times as much for the same thing in Boston! This is a good place to take visitors. I'm from out of state and Worcester can be a bit....out there. Since there are a lot of students here, I would definitely recommend this place for when family comes to visit.
(5)Tim H.
I loved everything about Sole Proprietorship. The friendly service, the excellent food and the promptness. Food is presented well and tastes excellent. Vast selection of wine and expanded menu. You cannot go wrong with anything you choose. It gets full, so I recommend making a reservation.
(5)Angel F.
Came for lunch. Great experience. I haven't been to a real restaurant in a while now, one that recalls what a good dining experience should be. Our waiter was superb, made recommendations and was very funny, but not over the top! He took all of our orders from memory. Decor and lighting are great, nice size tables and chairs. I hate restaurants that try to squeeze everybody too close together. Food was excellent. I had salmon, was probably the best cooked salmon I've ever had. My sister's was even better, was so buttery and fatty it melted in your mouth. I think it was the salmon masala so check that out when you come. There were 5 of us and everyone loved their food. Anyway very reasonable for what is a great restaurant. I can see why they've been on top for years.
(5)Ann I.
Great seafood restaurant with wonderful service! I came here on a work function that was about 20+ people. The wait staff was on it! They tag teamed and made sure everyone was taken care of. The menu had a lot to choose from, it was Lobster fest so of course I had lobster. It was cooked to perfection and the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes were to die for. Had the cheesecake for dessert and it was also delicious. Kudos to the waiters and waitresses to helped us that night, they were super friendly and always kept the drinks coming!
(4)Kelsey V.
I came here for the first time a while back and had the New England lobster bake. It was good, just boiled seafood. My boyfriend had the surf and turf and absolutely hated it, the meat was like two little pieces of burnt rubber. He wasn't happy. But tonight we decided to try it again. We had a lovely waitress, Santana who defiantly knew her stuff! She could recite the menu back to us and that was awesome. So back to my second time around. Love their rolls, love the choice between soup or salad. I started with kamata oysters, and they were delicious. You could literally taste the ocean in how fresh it was. My boyfriend had the crab cake, and it was pretty good. Really small but good. I had the Ora salmon (suppose to be the best salmon they have) while he had the seafood sautée. His was a mixture of lobster scallops and shrimp in an amazing creamy sauce. However he asked for garlic mashed potatoes instead of squash, and still got the squash.. But that's ok. My salmon was good. Flavor was there. And I get the prices cause I'm paying for the freshness of the seafood. Overall this time, way better than last time. As a young adult, will I go again? Probably not. For elders, good choice.
(3)judy k.
We had fixed price Sunday menu. While service was great and food was fresh I have to comment on the "lobster with creamy newburg sauce with crumbs." The sauce was sweet and tomato based. No cream. No crumbs. Very weird. Off night? I didn't think the key lime pie was tart enough and found that the whipped cream overwhelmed the tart. It was okay. I was a little disappointed. For $100, I think I can do better elsewhere. I don't think the restaurant is as good as I used to think it was. (PS I wrote a comment to the restaurant but got no response.)
(3)Tracy E.
They have the absolute best seafood I have ever eaten in my entire life. The seafood is not only fresh, but the creativity of the menu is exceptional. It's not the type of place that changes its menu every month, but there's enough on the menu that allows you to switch up your orders upon every visit. Most diners find their special dish and stick with it until they stop making it. In my case, I ordered the same tuna dish from 2003-2006, then after they switched up the protein aspect of the dish from tuna to scallops, they allowed me to special order the same dish from 2006 until my graduation from college in the area in 2007. I recently returned to "The Sole" a few days and found that my favorite dish was no longer on the menu, but I was pleasantly surprised with what I had ordered. The crab cakes were phenomenal as they were served with a cumin-infused slaw and the Arctic char served with pumpkin risotto was so perfectly autumnal in every comforting way. You can't go wrong with whatever you order here. The food is impeccable as is the service. How I wish there was another place comparable to The Sole elsewhere in the country. For goodness sake, I live right outside NYC, and I have yet to find anything like it ANYWHERE in my travels. I miss The Sole =(
(5)Colleen S.
In Food SERVICE, a Pro-Active approach is always best! That is why I don't understand why when I told the manager, on the way out that we had seen a waitress come out of the bathroom without washing her hands, he got defensive, and told us that women! Go in the bathroom and look at themselves in the mirror,and touch their hair, or tuck their blouse into their pants...Touch touch touch!! Touch the bathroom doorknob, if nothing else!? What does the sign say in every bathroom? ALL employees must wash their hands! This employee did use the toilet stall! We saw it! One has to wonder about the quality of sanitation training in a place where the manager has an attitude like this!? And, it's really too bad, because the service, by two young, friendly, attentive MEN, was outstanding! And, the food was delicious! And the price was very reasonable! Try again, Mr. "manager"!
(1)Reid F.
A very good seafood place with a strange but interesting take on stuffed lobster--they take out the lobster meat and fill the shell with either scallops, shrimp, or lobster that has been baked in cracker crumbs. The oysters are also very good, but the lobster ravioli is just OK.
(4)Catherine A.
Slammed pack but not the service I received at One 11 Chophouse. The $4.99 clam chowder was good. The spicy tuna roll was chewy. Although the large piece of tuna was nice. The cocktail wasn't strong. I would have ordered another but they never asked. I also would have ordered an entree but they never asked so when I caught their attention I just settled for sushi. I was willing to drop money but no one was attentive. Ill return to one 11 but since its the same owners they prob wont care I converted to the other concept.
(2)Gia G.
I have been going to the Sole for 20 years. I love the food there. Sushi is amazing. Love the shrimp scampi. Great wine list. ... But I just think the service had gone downhill over the years. I find I sit there waiting a long time for a second drink.
(3)Lauren M.
My husband made reservations for two at The Sole for Saturday night, October 18th. It was my 40th birthday, and he mentioned this to the host when he called. Upon arrival, we noticed how cramped/awkward the host station area is, even after all these years in operation. We had been to The Sole before, but it had been a while...a couple of years, probably. When I worked for a mortgage company in Worcester, I'd dine at the bar for lunch from time to time. We've been choosing either Baba Sushi or Armsby Abbey mostly in the last year or so, and wanted to revisit what we remembered as a good restaurant. ANYWAY, the frontage of the restaurant and the bar area are modern and cool to look at, even though it's always ridic crowded. And seriously Worcester, this is supposed to be fine dining...dress up a little. Ok...I'll try to stay focused here. So the host station was crowded, and we gave our names/reservation to the kids at the desk, and got an "OK". Um, ok what, exactly? I said, "About how long?", and was told, "Not long, you can wait at the bar". We ordered drinks at the bar, (my martini was a highlight...clearly the bar-tender was a pro, and really listened to my order...tough to get a perfect slightly dirty glass of delish to make me smile), and before my husband could pay, a different hostess came over to us, and said to me that she'd take me to my table and my husband could come along after, (This was strange to me). The room she brought us to was one of the worst parts of the experience...there's an old, run-down room off the bar in the back that takes you right back to the late 70's. Old booths, outdated paintings, etc...really really tacky. I guess we could've asked to be seated in one of the other rooms, but like I said it was crowded, and we were hungry, and now holding drinks, so we stayed. We were all dolled up and wanted to see and be seen...this room certainly wasn't made for people watching. Sigh. Our waiter/waitress combo was a couple of older (50's?) servers, who made corny comments throughout our whole meal, and chatted loudly behind us at the service station about themselves...seriously, shhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Speaking of our meal...here it goes: The appetizer I ordered was one of the reasons I wanted to come to The Sole again. I remember The Firecracker sushi roll being nothing sort of amazing back in the day. Well, not so much, anymore. What once was a huge beautiful tempura lobster tail in a fresh sushi roll displayed like art on a cool plate was now a flimsy, warm, run of the mill mini-roll which tasted...well, the word "meh" comes to mind. I ordered swordfish, which was over-done, and my hubby ordered salmon, which was a tad pungent. Neither dish was awful, neither dish was good. When the waiter brought over the dessert menu, my husband tried to give him "the look" to see if he knew about my bday, and he did not. This annoyed my husband, but we ordered the key lime pie, and they were nice to write Happy Birthday on it. The pie was delicious BTW...really good. SO, all in all, not great. Not even close. We won't be back, and won't recommend this place to anyone. For well over a hundred dollars, I'd now take many other restaurants over The Sole Proprietor, which once was a favorite of mine. NEXT.
(2)jeffrey e.
Went here with a group of coworkers who were visiting the area based on the yelp reviews. I had high hopes based on the menu and the reviews here on Yelp. Upon first arriving I was a little put off by the fact that private lot for the restaurant was full. I drove around the block a few times and finding street parking looked a bit unpromising. Eventually I was able to find a spot in the restaurants lot. After making my way through throng of people in the circus like atmosphere of the main entranceway, I gave my name and informed them I was there for out 7:30 reservation. I was told that it was going to be a few minutes before our table was ready. Our group of 3 decided to wait outside because there was really no place to wait inside. Wow, who knew that so many people go out to dinner at a restaurant in Worcester at 7:30 on a Wednesday night. The place was a zoo. About 10minutes later we were finally escorted to our table. Turns out it was restaurant week, they had special 3 courses meals for $24. Not sure if this was the reason for the crowd or not but it seemed like a good deal. I ordered the three course meal, which consisted of the house salad, a shrimp appetizer and the Lobster Newburgh. My coworker ordered a tuna steak and a regular NY Strip. My meal was pretty middle of the road, the shrimp were nothing special and the salad was just a pile of lettuce with blue cheese dressing. The entree was pretty tasty but uninspiring. My coworkers seemed pretty much in agreement in relation to their meals. The Service was very good, everything was brought in a timely fashion. Overall, I thought it was a good meal for the price, but the crowd was way to much. It was difficult even to get into the restaurant. If I am in the area I would give it another go, but I would probably avoid it if they are running a restaurant week promo again.
(3)Dan R.
I have gone here the times within the last two months. I love the seafood, from there surf and turf to raw bar... yum yum yum. Never had a problem with seating, the service staff are the greatest. We were well taken care of. If you want to make sure you have a table ready use open table for your reservation. This place is one of the reasons I love worcester restaurants... I love my town.
(5)Lawrence B.
One of the finest meals I have ever enjoyed. Lobster bisque was out of this world with gigantic pieces of lobster, clam chowder was equally awesome. The seafood was incredibly fresh, piping hot and prepared to perfection. I usually find fault with everything, everywhere I go and Sole Proprieter exceeded my expectations and standards by a mile. This is a fabulous restaurant with an excellent menu prepared to perfection.
(5)Tran T.
Made reservations, came 45 mins prior to rsvp... And they gave our table to another group because it was more "convenient" for them. Now it's 25 mins past our RSVP and still no table. I am very tempted to walk out of here now.... My parents are in town and I thought I'd take them to the most raved restaurant in town. So far not impressed by their service but I'm sure the food is impeccable... Will update this review as soon as I get to taste their food.
(1)Cora B.
We were greeted by a big, cheesy, inflatable crab draped over the entrance. Our party of four went with the intention of talking over dinner. We were told it would be a half hour wait, and we accepted. 10 minutes later, they seated us in the bar. Had we known, we would have asked to keep waiting for a table in a dining area. Bar was so loud and crowded we ended up not really talking. Since we had to shout. My cocktail was superb, that's how they got an extra star from me. My lobster bisque was bland, underseasoned, and had been reheated too harshly so all the bisque-ness was gone. Just slop. It had some very nice pieces of meat for a garnish. Such a shame. Our waiter did take notice that I hadn't enjoyed it and was kind enough to comp that. My swordfish was slightly overdone but the blackened seasoning was nice. Boring mashed potatoes and overcooked zucchini and squash were reminiscent of my work cafeteria. My partner's broiled scallops were unseasoned and overcooked. Again, a shame. My friend across from me had opted for spinach. It was a mess. The stems were left on and it was overcooked and.... you guessed it! Underseasoned. We weren't wowed. Dishes here are not a good value. We appreciated that it was quality and we weren't made sick but I feel that the bill was about $20 more than it should have been for such a mediocre experience.
(2)Susan W.
Please sit at the bar and ask for Raphael. He is super knowledgable and attentive plus he make the most amazing drinks. Try the last retort and artic chat with honey. Amaze ballz.
(5)John B.
This was truly an awesome meal. The raw bar is ultra-fresh and tasty. They are running a lobster special that for $10 more you can add a small lobster to an entree. The wait staff was 100% on their game. Very efficient and knowledgeable. It was crowded but we were not rushed. Good off-street parking with an attendant. We are definitely going back!!!
(5)Kostia G.
Horrible. Went for the first time in 20 years in the area for dinner around 8pm. Always heard good things, to be so greatly disappointed. Parking is tough especially after the snow storm, or not, but it was hard to find parking on Saturday night. Atmosphere is nice, lots of people, not too loud. dogfish head -ran out ordered a bottle of wine, apparently last one ... Now for the food, clam chowder was good. Sushi rolls not good. Goat cheese cake, hmmm... cheese was good everything else on the plate not so much. Calamari, way too much oil. Decided to order fish given that we were at seafood restaurant, ordered special Grilled Trout... was brought something deep fried, overcooked... Very disappointed. Everyone else in the party of 4 feels the same way. None of the dishes served were good. Feel like Boynton across the street for food would have been bar far a better choice. Service was good that is why there is 1 star.
(1)David S.
I had stuffed flounder. Delicious. My wife had the seared tuna. Also delicious. Lobster bisque was different than what I'm used to (ok... what I used to make when I worked in a restaurant) but it was very tasty. We sat at the bar. The bartender was super nice and very attentive, especially since it was a very busy Saturday night. This place has been great for as long as I can remember... Keep it up!
(5)Cara W.
I came here several weeks ago with my parents and boyfriend for lunch. I've been here many times, and although I never have any complaints about the food, the restaurant is just not something that I crave or yearn for. The food is always good, but the atmosphere tends to be dark and boding. The benefits to The Sole are that it can accommodate large parties. Like its sister restaurants, its more of a "crowd-pleasing" atmosphere than somewhere I would suggest for a more intimate evening. We shared some good raw oysters, fish tacos, and a sushi plate. I don't have any complaints about the food or service.
(3)David H.
My girlfriend chose SP for us last night...and it was just outstanding. The service was excellent, really excellent. A well thought out wine list, and C's cocktail was soooo good, she had to grab another. We didn't want anything too elaborate so went straight to the entrée....with the grilled salmon and I had a NY sirloin which was juicy, tender and super tasty. I had some of her salmon and it was buttery soft and full of flavor. The place is decorated well....A very diverse crowd...and full for a Monday night...A good indication that fellow yelpers who live outside of Worcester should make the journey. Prices are about 10-20% off Boston equivalents. It was probably the company, that sparked this upbeat review, but they run a slick show and deserve this review.
(5)Lisa M.
Best seafood around, great atmosphere. Only downside is the parking lot - not big enough!
(5)Leigh S.
I make it a habit to try salmon all over the world and I have to say I had the best piece of salmon right here. Crisp and seasoned on top but buttery and delicious inside cooked to perfection . My daughter has the steak and lobster tail, first east coast lobster for her and it was great. Nicely grilled and tender, the steak was super and very well cooked & seasoned. The lobster bisque s was a bit sweet for me but had 2 whole claws in it and the meat was great. Sadly too full for desert.
(5)Jocelyn K.
I have been here several times. The selection of seafood choices are bountiful! Service is impeccable! My only complaint is that it is a bit pricey, so I can't go as often as I would like. But nonetheless, everything is outstanding.
(4)Donny W.
Love the chowder, and...everything else here. I've yet to have a bad experience at this place! Great food, attentive staff. Get here!
(4)Jim O.
The menu selections, staff and food were all very good. Would not hesitate to return or recommend this place to friends and family.
(4)Nicolas D.
Wow. I had a delicious meal at this establishment! The menu is huge, with so many options, great wine selection, full bar, all the bells and whistles. The "teamed up" waiters are so helpful and friendly and so happy to help steer you in the right direction of a wonderful evening. From the second we sat down to the second we left, my experience was fully enjoyable. I wish I could give this place half stars, because I would like to rate this place 4.5 stars. The only reason why I take a star off is because of the lack of originality and choice in the craft cocktail section. You can get a cosmo and martini anywhere. When I go and spend a pretty penny on food and drinks, I'd like to have a fun "aperitif" that opens up my palate and has fun. A tequila or gin drink on the menu would've been fun, but it was just the classics. Oh well, what they lack in originality in the cocktail menu, they make up in choice in all seafood. We shared a dozen oysters, all wonderful, fresh and delicious, sushi was ordered as well (nothing to write Japan about, it was actually nothing spectacular), and our entrees were delicious, stuffed flounders and lobster tails. The lobster was flaky and grilled perfectly. Desserts were good, but again here was another spot where they could've been a little more imaginative and surprised us with something different instead of the usuals. What can I say, I expect amazing things for my 5 star reviews! But definitely not to miss. Probably the best seafood restaurant in Worcester.
(4)Nicole L.
the service is awesome - we had a great experience at the restaurant with a wonderful waiter who was very attentive to our large party, all of whom have different food allergies to deal with :) the food was OK - i've been to many better seafood places. i'd say legal seafoods is still my favorite and hard to compare with.
(3)Julianna J.
Father's Day can be a challenge. My Dad is 97 and walks with a walker, We requested seating near the door and off the bar area.The request was granted and We were on our way to a great dining experience,not unusual for the Sole. We started with the chilled seafood platter fresh and tasty as usual. Our entrees were varied from the fried scallops to the blackened tuna and grilled salmon, The service was professional,and on spot from a clear understanding of the menu to the recommendation for a wine selection. Father's Day was great and we will be sure to choose the sole for our next special occasion,( if not before ).
(5)Brandon S.
Great restaurant with fair pricing for seafood. The stuffed lobster with scallops was excellent. I also had lobster bisque which was really great and a must try, it is not as rich as most places I have tried in the past. Also had the tiramisu for dessert and it was really great....this is a must have.We went on a Tuesday night and we wished we would have made reservations because we ended up waiting close to and hour for a table of 3. Learn from our mistake get reservations!
(4)Sarah C.
Came here for the first time on the last Friday of lent - thought I might have been crazy! We had a reservation but ended up being 20 minutes late - they were quite busy but didn't seem upset we were late and sat us right away (Not my fault we were late and I felt really bad about it!) The waitress situation was confusing - one minute we had one girl waiting on us and another it was a different girl. I know they were fairly busy but the service was incredibly slow and not at all friendly or helpful. I had the lobster bisque as an app and the lobster newburg as my meal. The lobster bisque was good and had chunks of lobster but it had a slightly different taste than I have ever tried. The newburg was OK but the lobster was a bit chewy - the side of rice and veggies was so small it didn't even fill the bowl it came in. I wasn't expecting huge portions from a place like this but if you are going to serve something in a specific small dish it should fill the dish. My friend had the lobster sesame stir fry which I kept stealing bites from because it was so good and the portion was HUGE - only thing I didn't like was the deep fried lobster in it. My other friend had the fish and chips which I also kept stealing bites from because it was really good too. For dessert we split the black bottom pie. It was an oreo crust with a mango sorbet. It was to die for - and I had fought my friends not to order it thinking oreo and mango don't mix. It had a light mango flavor but was perfect with the oreo crust. They are pricey than other places but for the portion sizes and the quality of food it is definitely worth it. The parking lot is kind of a nightmare...
(3)Jon R.
One of the 3 best restaurants in Worcester! The service is excellent, the food is dynamite, atmosphere and ambiance are very nice as well. If you like Seafood or Sushi and you are in Worcester, you can't miss going to The Sole. The bar is a great place to have a cocktail and grab an app or a meal.. This restaurant group knows how to do it, they run a tight ship! If you are more in the mood for a steak go to their sister " The 111 Chop House.. If you want Italian, you can't go wrong (most of the time) at their Italian place VIA
(5)Arthur L.
Varied and interesting menu. Enjoyed the meal but can't say I like the aroma of the place.
(3)Karen B.
My mother and I went here for restaurant week. It was delicious! It really wasnt as fancy as people made it sound, but the food was great. Atmosphere was ok... I had a butternut squash soup that was to die for. Reasonable prices, and a decent place to take the kids.
(4)Walerz B.
- Thorough and friendly service. - Pretty venue with an open kitchen. - Steamed clams with drawn butter was delicious - Coconut shrimp and fried calamari were under seasoned and not as crispy as they could've been. BD doesn't really eat seafood but ate so
(2)Bremen S.
Best seafood restaurant in Worcester hands down! Little too noisy and chaotic for an upscale restaurant but you won't remember any of it because the food is paradise. Portions are generous and if you feel your food doesn't taste like you want it to, do tell them. They'll make every effort to accommodate you. Personally, I always get the salmon but friends/family have tried other fish and they all taste super and fresh!
(5)K B.
I've been going to the Sole for years but it's the first time I ever ordered fish & chips. The entree was delicious but shocked that they don't offer malt vinegar for the traditional English fare. Sorry but balsamic or red wine vinegar is a disgusting alternative, don 't bother offering it... Just say you don't have it or better yet, start offering it. Smoked platter and sushi was delicious, as usual.
(5)Eric C.
I had one night in Worcester and this restaurant was recommended to me by my interviewer. I asked for the best restaurant you could have me try here and he said "You can find no better seafood in town and it will rival anything you would find in Boston." So I guess it's a must try then huh! I made a reservation because they actually are usually very busy even though this was for a party of 1. I went around 6:30pm and there were plenty of open seats but once 7pm hit, then the place filled up and I agree that a reservation was a must! If you're like me, you always panic about whether there is adequate parking. There is plenty of parking in their lot. As you drive down from Umass medical center, they will be on the right and you can easily turn in without any issues. So I decided to wait for the waiter to help me choose my courses for the night. So I started out with the clams casino, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder. The clams for the clams casino were about the size of my palm. Delicious, flavorful, juicy and obviously fresh. No fishy taste and smothered in cheese and bacon. Probably the best casinos I've had! Shrimp cocktail was fresh and juicy. The clam chowder was thick and perfectly seasoned. After this "first" course I thought the restaurant was off to a great start! As for the main course, I was told that everything else on the menu would pale in comparison to the fresh Nantucket scallops that are only served from October to March. They were right! Served on top of perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked risotto cake, these small sized scalloped were sweet and succulent. The tomatoes were a nice addition giving the dish a nice dose of acid. At this point I'm stuffed. Like I need to unbutton my pants full. But they again insisted that I try the black bottom pie. Each day they have a different flavor of ice cream as the main make up of the pie. Tonight it was pumpkin. The "black bottom" is an oreo crust that was specially made for them. If the ice cream were coffee then this would be your typical mud pie, but the pumpkin was just so unusual, different and awesome that I left happier than ever... even though I think they needed a forklift to get me out of there. This place will easily make my top 5 favorite seafood places ever. Great service, great food. Loved it.
(5)James K. G.
Very disappointed, dry, over cooked, musty dining room,(baked lobrs laterster and swordfish)Very dissapointed food was dry and lobster was musty with barnicles attached! 125 dollars for a nasty meal
(1)Carol M.
I've been here twice. First time was so great, it demanded a return visit. There's a goat cheese appetizer that is amazing. Salads are decent. I thought the dressing on the Cesear was a bit "goopy" for my taste, but I prefer a lightly dressed salad in general. Crab cakes were amazing! Sweet, but not cloyingly so and not loaded with filler. I had one leftover and reheated it the next day on my stovetop at home and it was just as delcious. They are also have a lovely selection of sides. If your server doesn't offer, you can swap out the sides listed on the menu for each entree with any of the sides they have listed, which is great. My dining partner and I split the flourless chocolate cake for dessert. It was good. Pretty standard for a restaurant of this caliber. I'm sure we'll be back!
(4)Basil W.
I went to the SP last night with friends for dinner. I've been many times before ( and frequent Via and 111 Chophouse too). The service is fantastic. I got the honeyed char -- it was tasty but not great. I really object to the smell of SP, slightly musty and fishy. I also find that I never feel well (tummy-wise) after eating at SP, Via, or Chophouse. I don't what it is-- other restaurants don't effect me this way. For most purposes, the ambient noise level is ridiculous. You can't carry on a conversation without shouting. In my book, SP only rates as a "fair" restaurant. Food isn't worth the price, nor is the atmosphere.
(1)Laura Y.
Absolutely perfect! My boyfriend and I were on vacation from So. Cal. and on our way to see Pearl Jam at the DCU Center. We wanted to have what Massachusetts is known for - excellent seafood so I consulted Yelp. Appetizers: Half a dozen Wellfleet oysters - these are now my favorite oysters. You can't find oysters even remotely this yummy in California. A dozen shrimp cocktail - wow! So large and fresh. Entrée: New England Lobster Bake - my boyfriend is not a lobster person but he is now - well, if it's lobster from Sole Proprietor. The lobster, clams and mussels were steamed perfectly. The potato was perfectly cooked as well and provided just the right amount of carb. Dessert: Raspberry sorbet - super fresh and such a large portion. Very refreshing way to end our meal. Service: Timmy, our server, was absolutely lovely. We told him we were from out of town and he gave us recommendations for every course. He was very informative, very professional and had a fantastic sense of humor. It's obvious he loves what he does and loves where he works. Be sure to ask for Timmy when dining here. Thank you, Sole Proprietor, for a perfect dinner in Massachusetts.
(5)Tommy W.
This is one of the places I like to go for special occasions. With drinks, an app, dessert and tip its an easy $100 for two people. Regardless of the price the seafood is frackin great! I can't say I order the same thing since the menu changes seasonally. Honestly though, I like that they change the menu based on what type of fish is fresh for the time of year. Makes me think they serve mostly wild caught, which arguably tastes a lot better than farm raised. I could be wrong in this assumption, but based on all my positive experiences I'd say they are doing something right.
(4)P T.
I had a very tasty Ceasar Salad, though was a bit taken aback by the price. I won't knock that though, I had come here with a friend's recommendation. I was impressed with the service and decor. The parking lot was a bit of a fiasco, but I could see myself coming again.
(4)Hubert H.
I have to say it was okay. For the price one pays: The stuffed flounder was a bit mushy, not as fresh as I think it could have been. The lobster bits were a bit tough. The clam chowder could have been more flavorful. Nonetheless, the restaurant has a 'classic seafood' restaurant feel to it, and is clearly very popular. The ambiance is classy, and it's easy to talk to your mates in the space.
(3)Colleen B.
What are people talking about? I've heard good things about the Sole and decided to try it myself last night. The food was mediocre at best. Started with shrimp cocktail- very fresh and the best part of our meal. The lobster bisque was just ok- rather bland. However the big disappointment was the mahi mahi . Under cooked with no seasoning. The vegetables were too chunky and under cooked as well. Three bites and I was done. My husband had a lobster which he said was pretty good. Spent $140 and left hungry knowing I'd never return. I wish the entree could have been presented at a cooking competition so the chef could hear all that was wrong with it. I love a great meal but this was not it. I will say the service was good though. Completely surprised at what a bad meal this was!
(1)Michele M.
If you like seafood, you should try this place. Started with a variety of oysters, which were really tasty! The grilled cajun swordfish was really fresh and delicious. My husband's sirloin steak was a little overcooked, but the lobster tails were a nice addition to the dish..Its a comfortable atmosphere at the bar with excellent service..We will be back to try other dishes on their extensive menu!!!
(4)K V.
Probably my worst experience a a restaurant. The waitress behaved like she was doing us a favor by serving us food. They got the food out right in the middle of appetizers and blamed us for eating slow. What restaurant does that? The food was ok but the service sucked. Not going back. Definitely.
(1)Eric J.
Great food, try the salmon with citrus shrimp....delicious!!! The clam chowder was also very good along with the Mai tai's.
(4)Lawrence L.
I was told this is the best restaurant in Worcester MA... After enjoying a nice dinner here with good company, I was in agreement (although, it is the only dinner I had in Worcester MA)... But, having dined in a nice spot in Boston the previous night, this place was very comparable. We arrived with a small party, and had some time to wait at the bar. Several beers on tap, including some local brews (Wachusett Country Ale, and Harpoon IPA). I tried their Harpoon (nice mellow hoppiness with smooth finish). Wait was pretty short, even though the place was already pretty packed. We started with a dozen blue point oysters (Long Island NY) - sweet and tasty. I ordered up the Baked Haddock with Lobster Newburgh - moist and flaky with sweet and tender lobster craw meat. Had a side of "chowdah" - loved it. My colleagues had the 1.5 lb lobster served up with some nice melted butter - looked great, and the sushi plate - a ton of maki rolls. This place does seafood right! Service was 100% on point, and friendly. Always had our tables cleaned up from the empty plates, and drinks were always ready to be had. tons of parking in their own private lot. I definitely would recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area.
(4)John A.
This is without doubt my favorite restaurant in Worcester. Never a bad meal. Always fresh. Excellent service. Good drinks to go with meal. As good if not better than any seafood restaurant I have been to in Boston, New York or any where for that matter. I can't even begin to mention favorite meals as they are all wonderful and I often struggle making choice. A must place to eat if in Worcester.
(5)Peter R.
The food here is phenomenal. Love seafood even more now. Try the Salmon special, ora king salmon. This is a great dish. Sushi is really good here too! Manager, Max is a dumbass though... doesn't really know how to manage just how to speak down to his employees. He was the only thing that employees complained about. We were close enough to a service area to hear and we witnessed first hand his arrogance. Food was so good I still gave them 5 stars.
(5)Tasha S.
My go to date night restaurant. The wait can be lengthy but it's usually always worth it. Professional, classy, service with great food especially anything lobster.
(4)H O.
My family and I came here because the reviews seemed really good but we were very disappointed. The menu also looked really tasty. However the food lacked flavor and it wasn't even warm. We had to send back 2 dishes and the replacements weren't much better. However the service was excellent and staff were kind to replace our dishes. Overall go to Red Lobster instead. No joke Red Lobster is better.
(1)Stephen B.
This week I had my second meal at Sole Proprietor in about the same number of years. Both experiences were very nice and not knowing too much about Worcester, this is a placeto go. It's a fairly large room and contemporary, not an old salty dog, woody seafood decor. Nice place. The food quality was very good. The clams on the half shell were very fresh and small (as they should be). The calamari and shrimp appetizers were excellent and of course the New England clam chowder met the standards. The main courses were also very good with people ordering a large cross section of the menu. Very happy and full after the meal. When in "Woostah", the is a great choice.
(4)Meredith B.
I used to be anti-seafood, but when I decided I no longer wanted the palette of a 5 year old, I went straight to the Sole. Amazing tuna barcelona, shrimp cocktail, lobster and CRAB! Best seafood around... Easy!
(5)Mark H.
The food was disappointing. There was a slaw in the crab cake that was really an inedible mess. Pretty good place for a business dinner though, the atmosphere is sophisticated.
(3)Shaun G.
The land and two seas was fantastic. The scallops delicious and the firecracker sushi divine. Once you get to dessert it's so hard to finish but I recommend doing it because of course it's also ....Delish!
(4)Elisabeth M.
Lunch for three during oysterfest. Service was prompt and friendly. Oysters were fresh, chowder was creamy, and everything else we ordered was quite good. Would be happy to dine here again.
(4)Veronica R.
The food was good, especially the sushi
(5)Andrea L.
I learned to love Sole Proprietor when I was a student at Holy Cross and was always at WPI for various reasons. As a native New Englander from a Portuguese family, I love fish and having this seafood restaurant in Worcester while I was in college was amazing. There is quite a range in prices from the 5 dollar happy hours where you can get the bar menu plus sushi and select cocktails for 5 dollars a piece for the college budget to the $22+ entrées, you cannot go wrong. The portions are large and the food never disappointed me. Their desserts are also worthwhile to taste. The service there is incredible. The waitstaff is professional, quick and courteous and say a lot about the front of the house staff. Another cool thing about the Sole is that you can do take out and also have the lunch menu at any time of the day! Now that I've moved away from New England, I can definitely say that I miss the wonderful Sole Proprietor.
(4)Bethany B.
You had me at Buster, the inflatable crab on your rooftop: yelp.com/biz_photos/-2lc… . I love the Nautical décor throughout the restaurant; It's classy without seeming stuffy. The bar area is pretty large, with lots of seating for groups (which works out well if you order a Sole Bowl). Their house Sangria is really great. There are a few separate "rooms" for dining, and I have had wonderful service in all of them. The servers are knowledgeable and have the ability to address your needs quickly (like refilling your water) without feeling like they are standing over you and watching you dine. The food has never disappointed, and I love their selection of oysters on the half shell. The clam chowder is reliably awesome, and they have some fairly standard (but delicious) choices for sushi.
(5)Jayde B.
This is a great spot for so many reasons. 1. The food is great. 2. Happy hour is a great way to get great prices on their food (Others have written the details in previous reviews) 3. The food is great. 4. The food is great. 5. The wine is delicious - even their cheapest glass! Waitstaff are knowledgeable and helpful. The seafood is wonderfully fresh and continually changes. The appetizers and main dishes are plentiful and the desserts are decadent! This place is a gem in the middle of Worcester. However, the wait can be long even on weeknights so call ahead! (There are no reservations for the bar however) Haven't had the sushi yet - I'll be trying that next happy hour!
(5)Mike L.
I would give it a 4, but my meal just wasn't wonderful. Service was outstanding. Mike and Max were super attentive and exactly what I wanted in waiters (except for the rec). Can't complain there. I ordered the clam chowder and the lobster Newman. The newman is essentially a whole 1. 5 lb lobster cut up, cooked in a bisque like sauce, and covered with crumbled ritz crackers. Not as flavorful as I would have liked (mike's recommendation). I had food envy when I saw the lobster stir fry and the classic steamed lobster. The sushi menu and raw menu items looked pretty good too. I'd go back , but I'll be ordering differently.
(3)Tani S.
If only we didn't live so far away from this great restaurant! Legal Seafoods (in our Cambridge neighborhood) doesn't come close! Such a tasteful interior, with wood tones and muted colors (comfortable chairs). We went for lunch on Saturday and enjoyed warm rolls and a stuffed sole dish and potato crusted trout. Both entrees were delightful (the pilaf accompanying the sole was flavorful) and we were more shocked that each dish with it's ample portions and well balanced flavors was only $11, roughly the same per dish as our normal breakfast places in Cambridge/Boston. We ended our wonderful meal with the indulgent whoopie pies. It was the perfect New England meal.
(5)Theresa N.
Best happy hour ever. From 430-630pm Mon-Fri, Sole Proprietor has an amazing Happy hour featuring a $5 bar menu and 42 below martinis&cosmos. Made last minute plans to get drinks here with some friends and was pleasantly surprised. It's really crowded during happy hour and difficult to find parking in the small lot but there's some street parking in the neighborhood surrounding the restaurant. The 42below drinks weren't great but the food off the bar menu was impressive. We ordered the Tiger Eye and Scorpion Roll off the sushi portion of the bar menu. Surprisingly good for a restaurant that doesn't specialize solely in sushi. We also ordered mussels which were perfectly tender and extremely fresh. Service was pretty good given the fact that the bar area was so busy. I have yet to eat in the dining room but I love the bar there so much that i doubt that I'll ever make it all the way in for table service.
(4)Jason C.
I stop by this place every time im in woosta and its still good every time. There are new items on the menu at every visit and the wait staff is friendly and attentive.
(4)Patrick S.
The pinnacle of seafood in central mass. The food should largely speak for itself; but I'll say that they change up the menu seasonally, and they always have specials targeting a particular "in" fish. You'd do well to take advantage. I find the service here to be consistently amazing. Most recently, my drinks would be refreshed just -before- I put down the glass after finishing. I don't have much more to add. Food is great, and leave rom for dessert! Just go, if you haven't already!
(5)Jess T.
The Sole is a place that has never let me down. I'm a seafood fanatic, and growing up on the ocean has made me slightly snobbish. Their seafood scampi medley is glorious and the portions are definitely plentiful. The decor is dark, sleek and sexy....three words one does not often use when talking about anything in downtown Worcester, but the Sole manages to bring some class to the city. My all time favorite item to order is the sushi platter. It runs about $22, but there's no way anyone can finish it in one sitting. I love to get that for dinner and then have the leftovers for lunch the next day. Their bloody Mary's are very tasty. Usually garnished with a jumbo shrimp, they are worth every penny. The only negative I have about the Sole is the parking. The lot is very small, and often very icy in the winter. The ownership needs to consider additional parking or investing in more rock salt otherwise they're bound to have a lawsuit on their hands one of these days.
(4)Alison K.
Great food. Ate here during restaurant week so it wasn't too pricey.
(4)Anne H.
Well, I have been here about nine months now. Tried a lot of new restaurants and still couldn't find something that really had that "wow' factor. I have been sticking with the Texas Roadhouse as the go to place. It was hubby's birthday and he loves seafood but we never can seem to find a good place to get some other than legal seafood. We went in at the busy lunch hour, which told me something right there, no parking, the place was packed. We did get a cozy booth. The atmosphere was surprising pleasant. We had two waiters that really knew how to keep the flow going and keep everyone happy. We were off to a good start. We had the fish chowder and my daughter had the clam chowder. Now, THAT is what heaven must taste like. Big chunks of fish, a rich, tasty broth. UUMMMM still dreaming of it two days later. The clam chowder had a smokey, bacon taste, and the most tender clams. Seriously, a bowl of this is a meal. The cup was $4.00 and the bowl, I think $6.00. Move on to the main course. We had the fish and chips, the haddock. Fresh, fresh, fresh. The shoe string fries were kind of a chintzy thing, but who cares. The fish portion was huge. Hubby had the salmon, the chef special of the day. He really enjoyed it so much. We will return. So much to try. I am now looking at the review next to mine with the $6.00 bar menu. Hello. Sounds like a plan next week. Had we not been so full, we would of been doing the happy dance on the way out. We had to home and recover from stuffing ourselves!
(5)A H.
Decent food in a decent place, but not worth the price. A "nice dinner out," but nothing that special. A standard New England seafood restaurant.
(2)Lia K.
Been here on a number of occasions and love the restaurateurs! The owners also manage 111 and Via. The only downside for the Sole is its a bit pricey. Below are some meals/food I've enjoyed. Cherrystones yum. surf and turf yum. Sushi rolls, not too bad. Shrimp salad with avocado. Love their happy hour bar menu. Service can be a bit off during peak hours but only on off-chance.
(4)Mary Ann C.
Still an excellent seafood restaurant after all these years! Like an old friend, Sole Proprietor was still there and still serving up some old favorites as well as some new additions. I loved the Lobsterfest menu. They offer lobster with deviled eggs and lobster mac n cheese as well as many other appetizers and main courses. The lobsterbake was just the way it should be with steamed lobster,mussels, clams (I had mine raw on the half shell), potatoes and corn on the cob. By far the highlight of the meal were the clams. They were fresh, cold, salty and they gave me plenty of lemon wedges. The dinner included soup or salad but we had already had the clam chowder which was not Sole Proprieter's original recipe. What did they do to it??? I understand that they have renovated the place and modernized the menu but it would be nice if they offered the traditional thick chowder that tasted like a fisherman cooked it up on the docks! I was not impressed with the new recipe but it was not bad either. We picked salad and it was a delicious mix of field greens with cucumber and tomato. The honey mustard dressing was perfect. The maple glazed scallops looked more like an appetizer than a main course. I would not recommend it for anyone who is hungry, however the scallops were delicious. The lobster was not a female (sweeter) as requested and was overcooked. They quickly replaced it with another one that wasn't like rubber and were friendly about the concern. Overall I still love coming here when I am home visiting.
(4)John P.
We were traveling home from Conn and we went on Yelp to research food along I290 in the Worcester area.....and this place was ranked highly. We arrived at 1pm on MLK holiday Monday, and the place was very busy. Small parking lot but located less than a mile off the highway. We secured the last 2 bar seats and began to admire the dish beside us of swordfish and veggies. The bartender was busy....there are more than 15 bar stools and she was full and pouring drinks for the restaurant too.....and it took a little bit for her to come over, but not bad. She was very pleasant and helpful, and made suggestions. We chose the fish taco app which was very good. The sesame shrimp was fresh and hot, but a little be batter-soaked/soggy, not super crispy. Still ok. Meals were 1-2.....my fried haddock was a thick cut piece fried to perfection in a light batter, although the fries are McDonald's/Burger king style. I loved the haddock. My wife tried a salad with crab meat and greens, and it came in the shape of a square...and it wasn't the best.....not awful, just not appealing. The reason we rate this place a 4 star was the seafood, and we can tell on future visits that the seafood is the way to go.....and service was good. They have 2 other places in town as well, Chop house 111, and , Via....so we may try those next. Overall a decent place for sure...especially in Worcester.
(4)Joe B.
Best place for good quality seafood. Their oysters are wonderful and the sashimi tuna was incredible- melted in my mouth. The Newburg lobster though was a bit chewy. Great service!
(4)Barbara S.
I don't know what all the hype is about! It was expensive and the food was just okay. Maybe my problem Is that I don't do sushi!
(2)Nicole M.
I was born and raised in MA eating tons of seafood. Every year on my birthday when I was kid, my family would take me out for lobster. Funny sidenote, I was totally grossed out by coleslaw and to drive me nuts (or maybe it was a genuine word pronunciation issue?) my sister would call it "Nicole slob". Cute right? Anyway, at 18 I moved to Boston and was vegan for the next 7 years. By the time I started eating meat again, I was living in New York and then Los Angeles. While I've had plenty of seafood over the past several years, it hasn't quite lived up to my extremely nostalgic memory of eating classic New England seafood. After driving cross country from LA back to Boston this week, I went to Sole Proprietor and was absolutely in heaven. I got the Seafood Saute which was chalk full of all my favorites-lobster, scallops & shrimp and it was amazing. I was transported back in time to the seafood eating heydays of my youth. Food rundown: Seafood Saute: amazing with good sized lobster chunks Jumbo King crab legs: ridiculously amazing, I will be getting this next time for sure Seared blackened tuna: fantastic, fresh and cooked perfectly Sides of steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes: delicious, only complaint is that the sweet potatoes were a bit more liquified than I prefer but that's a personal thing. They still tasted very good. Red Sangria: decent (tough act to follow after drinking a lot of sangria in LA) White Sangria: Sucked down by a few people at my table crazily fast with lots of discussion of how delicious it was, though I didn't try it myself. Key Lime Pie: Despite being completely stuffed, it was good enough that I managed my fair share along with everyone else at the table. Service: It was a very busy Saturday night and we were not neglected for even a second. Very impressed. Price: Yeah, it's not cheap, but it's seafood and everything had by my table was very obviously fresh and cooked perfectly so no complaints here. Absolutely worth every penny. Decor: Classic & tasteful. I especially loved the black walls with the light wood trim. Lots of great prints on the walls as well. I will definitely make an effort to eat here again before I leave in a few weeks and judging by some of the other reviews I should stick to the dinner service.
(5)Kaytee T.
This is one place I will never go again. The food is INSANELY overpriced for what you get, the restaurant itself is full of stuffy people and the menu is very small and limited. Drinks were okay, it took out waiter a good 5 minutes to even greet us even though the place was dead. He also reeked of cigarette smoke which was pretty gross. I love seafood so I was majorly disappointed.
(1)Paul M.
Love the Sole! It's been a while since I've had dinner here, and I was in the mood for seafood, so decided to head over. The day before Thanksgiving and the place was packed, but the maitre d' did say there was a table available, so I was promptly seated. The mustard bluefish looked appealing, so I ordered it. The mustard sauce was just a tad overpowering, but otherwise the fish was absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. The rice, grilled squash and asparagus was also very good. The ambiance was very elegant and the staff very professional. Prices can be a bit high, but the food and service are worth it. My favorite seafood restaurant in Central Mass.....
(4)Ray Z.
Great Service, Good Food.
(4)Kelly H.
sorry to rain on everyone's parade on this place... but it's not good! i've gone here twice in a week's time frame and was not impressed either times. the first time i was here, i was really excited to try their seafood saute as another yelper had indicated it's good... WRONG! the seafood is drenched in butter and oil... there's sand in the scallops... the shrimps are opaque... (and you know how i HATE that)... and the lobster is over cooked... the description of the dish sounds awesome... and i hate it when i get the opposite... second time i came here, decide to possibly get the lobster stir fry... less the batter... cuz u know stir fry w/"tempera" batter in a non japanese restaurant may just mean mush! so got my lobster stry fry naked... and again... disappointed. the presentation of the plate is just a plop of pasta with a lobster head... the lobster was slightly better than last time... but to me the lobster was not cooked to order... seems like they cooked the lobster probably hours before and then reheated... *shakes head* thank goodness i'm not the only one that thinks that the lobsters are not good... two of my dinner party got their lobster dinner and also stated that their lobsters were also over cooked... how can you be a seafood restaurant and over cook lobster?!?! only explanation is that the lobsters were ALREADY cooked in the morning... cracked... and then possibly reheated... tisk tisk and they want to charge over $25 bucks for that quality?? honestly, that's just horrible. how long does it really to dunk a live lobster into a hot pot... 10 min while i'm eating my salad? ugh... hate when restaurants can't cook seafood right when they are known as a seafood restaurant... the saving grace is that some others at the party ordered fish and enjoy that. So i guess the conclusion is order fish... they can't really mess up grilling a fillet of fish... i hope not! i may give this place another shot in looking at their bar menu... the bar menu looks decent... and with the lack of options in worcester... i'd prob be back to try it... but that might be the last time if i'm disappointed again...
(2)Susannah L.
Not a fan. I have NEVER had an outstanding meal at the Sole. EVER! The seafood is fresh and good - but not memorable. If I have to meet someone in this area of Worcester, I'll go here for a drink in the bar and a few oysters, but will not dine here anymore. The 111 Chop House and Via are amazing and owned by the same people. I would recommend either before suggesting the Sole to anyone.
(2)Scott A.
Excellent service and the food was impressive. The bar staff was attentive and was nice...thank younger a greatbexperience!
(4)Anthony S.
Good food, but the atmosphere has deterioated especially compared to its sibling restaurants - 111 chophouse and Via. Seems due for an updating. So, the food... Oysters were very nice. Tuna was good, but a bit overlooked for my taste. Haddock was very good. Deserts were large and very nice.
(3)Dave U.
Best seafood in Central Mass. Great bar, friendly and helpful staff, good atmosphere in the restaurant. I'm a huge fan of the Angel Hair Bernardi.
(4)Patrick K.
So, a little back story on this place...I have been trying to go there with my girlfriend for the better part of two years now. Yes, they accept reservations, I know, but it was always a spur the moment type of thing. Every single time, without exception, it was a 90 minute plus wait. Inevitably, we would end up at the Boynton, (a whole different review, but awesome...) Anyway, back to Sole...it is owned and operated by the same Group that has Via and 111 Chop, which I have been to both and find to be excellent. They are the best three restaurants in Worcester for sure. I think that the thing I like best is that each of the three restaurants have their own unique character. Other than the excellent service, high-quality meals, and over-priced (zing!) drink menu, they are all distinct. Again, back to Sole. So I finally got there. We were seated right on time with our reservation, which I always appreciate. We started off with a dozen Oysters, which were fresh and served with all of the fixin's. I had the Surf & Turf (Filet and Baked Stuffed Shrimp). And here in lies my only complaint for the evening. When I ordered the baked stuffed shrimp as the 'surf' portion, the waitress kindly informed me that the shrimp were not prepared in the traditional baked-stuffed fashion. She said that it was an all over batter, etc, etc. I said I couldn't wait to try it...but...and get this... when it was served to me it was basically fried shrimp! Fried f'n shrimp! Who the hell decided that such a quality establishment could even dream of getting away with this! If I wanted fried shrimp, I would have gone to Long John Silver's. Seriously, the GM of this place should take the Exec Chef aside and explain to him that when people are paying the cash that they charge, fried shrimp is a no go when pairing with a Filet. Seriously, I couldn't believe it. Even though the waitress flat out warned me it wasn't what I was thinking, I still find it unacceptable. What a chopper move this was...Chop City! Other than that, I have nothing bad to say about this place at all. I feel like if I were to make a better decision ordering, I would go with 5 stars, which could be in a future update. Also, parking is an absolute circus. They have a lot, just not nearly appropriately sized. Have fun with that one.
(4)Sue B.
The crab stuffed huge Portabella mushroom was insane! Decadent, smokey and delish! I just love the bread to salad to meal to dessert. Ask the waiter what the knock your socks off items are and you won't be disappointed if you follow their recommendations.
(4)Shannon C.
I'm not into seafood but I'm into the Sole. I've never had trouble finding something on the menu for the non-seafaring type. I always order a salad or appetizer and the veggie roll and am never disappointed. The seasonal revisions to the menu are a refreshing welcome and often delicious. The service is amenable. The wine list is extensive. And the martinis are excellent, especially the $5 happy hour specials. I always enjoy myself here. The Sole is a gem amongst the usual Worcester fare.
(4)Trauts N.
The only recommendation I would make is to stick with the basic grilled, roasted or fried fish selections. The sauces, coatings and marinades overpowered the fish. It was good though. And reasonable.
(4)Molly S.
I have been to the Sole about half a dozen times now, and I have some compliments, some complaints. I have little negative to say about the bar area and $5 happy hour menu. The sushi is very good (especially for $5 sushi), and the salads good. I'm underwhelmed by the drink offerings, especially the limited house cocktails, but it's fine. Service is prompt and friendly, which could always make up for any problems. One night my boyfriend and I dressed up and came in for a fancy meal, however. It was our anniversary and we wanted to have a really nice night. The problem was dinner did NOT go smoothly. My boyfriends "surf & turf", which you would think comes with a steak and a handful of shrimp, only came with ONE shrimp, and his steak was cooked incorrectly. His meal was missing one full side (asparagus) that had been advertised with the meal on the menu. It was an unbelievable failure of a meal. It was just before the kitchen closed, and I'm sure this had something to do with the rushing staff that made our meal. My boyfriend and I are both in foodservice, and we understand very well that when the end of a night comes, you want nothing more than to be done. But this does not excuse rushing through the last meal and screwing it up so terribly. We also understand that this has nothing to do with the waitstaff; our bumbling, meek waitress was terrified of us as we calming explained the problems. After apologizing profusely and sending over a manager, we were not granted any discount on the dinner. Although we did not act as outraged as we felt, we still feel we should have been given one in good faith. I'll be back for late-night cocktails and sushi, but I won't return to the Sole for a table-service meal.
(3)Tom S.
Make a reservation here...come early and hang at the bar. Great wines, martinis and draft beers complemented by an open oyster bar! Yes this is "Worcester by the sea" believe it or not great seafood and sushi!! Fantastic menu, great apps, busy bar, nice dining experience here too with private rounded booths if you ask for them. Lunch is best in the high bar booths for faster service. Great Oyster selection. Hard to get a seat at the bar at happy hour ...
(4)Crystal L.
Pescado Guisado con Arroz y Pan Tostado was great. Very flavorful. Downside is the mussels were a little sandy.
(4)Kathryn P.
Really very good food. Expensive. However, they do have a $6 bar menu early in the evening. The sushi is super yummy. I have noticed that if you get the sushi for regular price, you get bigger pieces than the $6 menu. The rolls are great and there are crackers and cheese by the bar. Also great for a romantic dinner.
(4)Tim C.
For a table, three stars. But sit at the bar, fours stars, at least. Get a drink, have some oysters, shrimp, and littlenecks and just enjoy yourself. Bartenders are attentive and helpful, the drinks are ample, and the seafood is first-class. At the bar you can get a limited menu at reduced prices at happy hour, and that's a real deal. Service at tables is less good; in my experience over several years it is uneven at best, sometimes just awful. The food is always very good, though.
(3)Ryan G.
The Sole Proprietor is one of the upscale restaurants that is actually worth all the fuss. I have come here for dinner on several occasions and the food never disappoints. The restaurant is located in a nice building with a spacious private lot, rather rare and always a plus for Worcester! The interior has a classy yet homey feel and is broken up into several rooms, which helps keep down the noise. However, if you end up anywhere near the bar it is too loud, you can't even hear yourself think. As for the food, the menu offers an "eclectic" mix of seafood and includes some turf options for those land-lovers out there. I've tried their sushi, crab cakes, and various fish my favorite being the swordfish. The food is always fresh, tastes great, and is plated with the utmost care. It is far from bland and some of the dishes combine somewhat unorthodox flavors creating a unique dining experience. This is really impressive as a lot of upscale "non-ethnic" places simply rehash familiar dishes and jack up the price. The food is pricey, but I have had nothing but great food here--it is well worth the price. The only downside is the service, which can be rather spotty. For an upscale restaurant I expect fast and friendly service. I've had several great experiences, but also several poor ones. I also find it rather odd that you are assigned several people to wait on you, one is plenty. Spotty service aside, I highly recommend the Sole for the best seafood you will find in Worcester. Keep in mind that the place is usually packed, especially for holidays, so be sure to make a reservation at least a few days in advance.
(4)Bryan D.
This place is delicious. If I was rating it for dinner, it would only get 4 stars. For lunch, it gets 5 though because the value is so good. Everything is delicious.
(5)gus w.
Kind of a hidden gem near WPI. One of the nicest fish houses I've been to. We took some out of town family guests here, on a tuesday night -- it was packed. Had great service, the waiter was able to explain everything and gave some great recommendations. They have seperate staff handle water/bread. Everyone ordered something different -- all was great. They made some special preperations for us, no questions asked and everything came out perfectly. Prices are super reasonable for a fairly classy joint. Living not too far away, we'll be back for sure.
(4)Joseph K.
Excellent fresh sea food. needs little bit of work on better preparation for serving the clams and oyster. (broken shell pieces inside the shell) Must visit place if you are into New England style sea food
(4)Roger S.
The Sole is consistently excellent with a fantastic wine list. We've tried specials and menu standbys - Tuna Barcelona they were great. Good decor, bustling bar and overall good service.
(4)Courtney M.
Best sushi in town!! We go here every year for dinner when we come to have a booth at the DCU Center for the Sporting Show. This place is great! They have almost all male waiters that are very attentive to your every need. I highly reccomend this place if you are in town. Make a reservation if you can. It is very busy there.
(5)Emmy S.
For my dad and my traditional lobster birthday dinner, my mom introduced us to her favorite seafood restaurant in the Worcester area. I'm going to be straight up with this: the wait staff was so friendly and very attentive, the seafood was *fantastic* and wicked fresh, and I like the dressy atmosphere. One of those places you can go in jeans and a t-shirt, but if you feel like having a dressy night out, you still fit right in. We got everything from lobster, to clams, to shrimp; all amazing. I'm drooling a little bit just thinking about it. Oh, and the desserts are illegally fantastic. Oh, man, I'm killin' myself over here. Who's up for a trip to Worcester tonight?? I cannot wait to go back there again.
(5)Tina S.
This place is very good and great for sushi, and tryin this thing called a fish bowl is a must...but be prepared to wait cause it gets packed
(4)Mimi K.
The best seafood Worcester has to offer. Nuff sed.
(4)Kevin S.
great lobster roll and the land and two seas dish was great, really tasty. didnt get much bleu cheese flavor from the potatoes but that wasnt a real problem. all in all a great meal.
(4)X to the Z M.
Excellent restaurant with creative and innovative foods at a reasonable price. Well decorated restaurant that is both a blend of formal and casual. They occasionally offer special "late night deals" for college kids that help make it more affordable. Go for lunch and the food you get for the price is a steal.
(5)MC L.
Down hill since the last time I went. Four dinners and everything from apps to entrees where just ok. Chicken for the non-fish lover was greasy. Fish ranged from no flavor, to fishy / not fresh. I was hoping for much better.
(2)Russell O.
This is THE restaurant we compare all others with. Over the past 16 years that I have been a customer, I have never been disappointed. Food is the best with a wide variety of seafood, basically American cuisine with Asian touches. The service is impeccable with very low turnover amongst the wait-staff. I am sure it will be one of your favorites after your first time.
(5)Doug M.
I hadn't been to the Sole Proprietor in about 15 years - shouldn't have stayed away for so long. Went a few Saturdays ago and loved the food. I had the fisherman's platter - excellent. My wife had the salmon which was very good (though my grilled salmon at home is better) and my son had the seafood alfredo, which was great. Service was really good and I have to say that prices were much better than I anticipated too.
(4)Sugar J.
I have been here several times (unfortunately wasted my money too) and will NEVER go back. I think the reviewers who "love" this place truly have never left Worcester. Really. Most likely they've never been fortunate enough to experience a real nice seafood restaurant on the east coast , whether in Boston or Maine ??? Or, of course, San Francisco Bay. Really, it is all VERY relative. The Sole has gone way downhil IMO. It used to be passable in some ways, but now ? Like a huge, careless , common chain restaurant. It is always way too noisy. You are always seated next to a table of like 10 giggling, drunk men. (Yes really). Yuk. The service is very slow and careless. Certain dishes (fish, lamb chops) are always undercooked and NOT how we ordered them at all. The sides are tasteless, mostly. If you get a baked potato you will be safe ! My friend's fish was practically raw inside, and we had to send it back. What came out next, was a very dry fish in its place. Their fish chowders are overly fishy, gross. NO ambience. Just an atmosphere of a huge fast-food type joint, but NO "fast" service. Parking is horrendous. If you get take-out you are forced to wait in a rude crowd of pushers and near the bar, very loud and it all basically is a torturous experience. all around. These owners own Via and 111 Chophouse. Here's hoping they stop growing.
(1)Brad H.
Our daughter attends WPI and this is a top choice of restaurants when we want a nice meal. We've been there often and have never been disappointed. Love the clam chowder.
(4)David W.
One of the best seafood meals I've had. It was the sauteed Seafood Platter, with well prepared shrimp, scallops, and crab claw. The service was excellent and they were eager to substitute the sweet potato mash with the rice pilaf and vegetables.
(5)Stephanie M.
A favorite of our family for many years, this spot is a meeting place for drinks and apps around the bar or a large dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Love the Buffalo Chicken M-80s!
(4)Angela G.
Being from Colorado we were looking for some great east coast sea food and this is the place. The New England Clam Chowder was delicious! Love that they take reservations because we had a party of 17! The fried clams are also very very good! Why can't this great sea food be all over the US??? Kind of difficult to find parking but there is an attendant in the parking lot helping you to park (yes it is free parking).
(5)Jill F.
Went for lunch last Friday. Prices for lunch are very reasonable, but portions of the fish and chips were very small for the fish part. I had the fisherman's sandwich and my fish piece was much larger, for some reason. The simple sandwich and fries were very good. My sister-in-law had crab cakes that came with nicely cooked fresh veggies and she loved it. I have to say that the real star of the lunch was the Bloody Mary! SO delicious. Nicely seasoned, a skewer with olive, lime wedge and cherry tomato and a jumbo shrimp resting on the rim. YUM! Would love the recipe as it was different than ours at home.Excellent service from the wait staff. Would recommend!
(4)Courtney D.
I went to the Sole Proprieter on a whim a few Saturdays ago at 8:30 after leaving another restaurant unhappily (see other review on Allora in Marlborough). I decided Worcester was my best bet for a decent dinner and I knew our options at 8:30 were going to be limited. We decided to take our chances at the Sole knowing we'd probably have to wait an hour to eat w/o a reservation. Well, we were right. The place was PACKED...like sardines in a can. The sizable bar area could not fit one more person in it if it tried. We ordered and smushed ourselves against the wall waiting for a table which we knew would be a long time coming. The bartender was happy to appease my request for something "fruity and non-alcoholic" being that I'm pregnant and am beyond bored with diet soda. Luckily, our table was ready after just about 45 minutes. The restaurant overall is actually a bit more casual and reasonably priced than I had imagined. Granted, a 3lb lobster or raw bar buffet will cost you, but overall I found their prices average. The restaurant is loud and I would say isn't really fine dining, but dressy casual. Our waitress was prompt, but you could tell at 9:15 on such a busy night, all she wanted to do was go home. They brought warm rolls and butter (just two, which we devoured before they even hit the table) and proceeded to peruse the very large and diverse menu. My husband ended up with a bbq flounder (which sounded interesting) and I, chicken. I know, I know...but I don't like any seafood. I was pleasantly surprised to see soup or salad was actually included with your meal which is rare these days. The chowder and salad were both very good. Our meals were good as well. Not "blow me off my chair" fantastic, but good. The place is average-above average. I would go back because I really liked their diverse menu. I'm a sucker for a big selection and the prices were appropriate. Overall, decent spot if you're in the area and want seafood.
(3)Erin H.
My husband and I went here for our anniversary after doing a ton of research, and we couldn't have been happier! Our service was great--the food--to die for! And the price was really reasonable for what we got. Very pleased!
(5)Stephen H.
I've eaten here many times. Always pleased with the food. My favorite would be the salmon with shrimp wasabi but I have never had anything but a great meal. Only negaitve is the noise - the restaurant gets a bit noisy when it is crowded. Best seafood in Worcester.
(5)Anne A.
This is the best seafood restaurant in central and western Mass. Always excellent food, service and they always honor the reservation you have made. No waiting!
(5)Brian G.
Great fresh fish! Late night menu is the best in town!
(5)Shreedhar D.
This a consistently excellent seafood restaurant. The seafood is always fresh, perfectly cooked, and not too expensive. Last night I had the king salmon with lobster bacon slaw, pumpkin risotto, and sweet and spicy pumpkin seeds. The salmon melted in my mouth, the slaw was refreshing, the risotto was tasty and well spiced, and the seeds add nice texture. All in all, this is a great seafood place.
(5)Trina J.
Ate here on last night. The food was good but the service was slightly lacking. The server mentioned she (Caitlyn) and another person would be serving. I would note that I only saw the other person twice. Once when the meal was finished and to pick up the credit card receipt to inspect the tip. When I lived in the area I ate here pretty often so I entered expecting the same level of service. I ordered my appetizer, meal and beverages. One of my beverages was water. I had to look around when both my glasses were empty to get a refill. Needless to say, the water was refilled but I had to specifically ask for more of the other. On top of this, when they main entree arrived, I requested sweet potato mash and was given butternut squash. They look and taste pretty different but my thought was "it'll be an easy fix". I finished the rest of the meal before anyone stopped by to check on me. This was the first time I saw the other waitress. She was leaning into take the plate and I mentioned I thought I didn't receive the correct side item because it doesn't taste like sweet potato. She looked at it with no acknowledgment, stopped by Caitlyn and went in the kitchen. Caitlyn walked over and said, now that I have looked at it, it looks different. The check comes and she says take your time but her return to pick up the bill was the quickest response I received all night!!!! She returned it right away and I filled it out. SOON as I filled it out, the other waitress (whose name I wish I knew) swooped in and said let me take that for you. Before walking off, she opened it, looked at the tip and put it in her pocket! What's unsettling is you provided no service but wanted to disregard etiquette to review the tip? Have you been burned that many times by women? Caitlyn stopped by with a smile and thank you. She also asked if I needed anything else. Guess the bus girl - waitress shared the details despite her lack of assistance. Geesh! I am disappointed but relieved that this was not a regular occurrence. The food is great but anyone would avoid a place with inattentive and unprofessional servers.
(2)constantconsumer c.
The smoked seafood platter was delicious. Other than smoked salmon, I had not tried too many other smoked fish until now. I loved the smoked scallops and the smoked mussels. Who knew? The clam chowder was tasty but the clams werent as tender as say Legal Seafood. The crab rangoon has lots of real crab!
(4)Chris M.
My wife and I ate here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. It was the perfect choice. We were in the neighborhood visiting my sister (we're from CT). We went at 4pm thinking it would be slow, but it was quite busy. The service right from the start was exceptional. Friendly staff and we had two waiters (Stephanie and Joe). Both of them gave us great food recommendations. We started with a dozen oysters from all over the country (Canada too). These were raw oysters served on ice (very nice presentation). Joe was able to give us a history of EACH oyster and what paired well with each type. They were the best and freshest oysters we have ever had. It was worth the $27! We both had clam chowder, which was also exceptional. I had The Land of Two Seas for dinner- 4 oz steak, pan seared shrimp and scallops over mashed potatoes and topped with asparagus. The combination was amazing. My wife had the twin lobster tails over mashed parsnips and portabella mushrooms. She loved every bit. We both had the season Shipyard Pumpkinhead beer (cinnamon-sugared rim), which I highly recommend. Goes VERY well with seafood and is filling enough to leave you full. We skipped on dessert. I would come back here in a heartbeat. We love food- cooking, eating out, and trying everything. So giving this such a high rating comes with an eclectic palette. -Chris
(5)Bryan R.
A true seafood gem, in proximity to WPI in Worcester, MA in short proximity to I-290. Parking is hit and miss and street parking is even worse for weekend dinners, happy hours and Thursday and Friday lunch. I would highly recommend making reservations for dinner to avoid the up to 2 hour wait. The lunch menu is good in comparison to most seafood restaurants but if you want the full experience go for dinner. My recommendations would be the following: Lunch: Trout with a Potato Crust Honey Chipolte Bacon Wrapped Scallops Shrimp, Tomato, Garlic (Shrimp Scampi) Appetizers: Lobster & Ravioli Rainbow Maki Entree: Shogun Sushi Combo Land and Two Seas Salmon Fillet and Jumbo Shrimp with Hoisin Wasabi Drizzle Desert: Chocolate Tulip Don't get me wrong, all of the dishes at the Sole are good but these dishes are head and shoulders above the rest and could easily become a person(s) 'usual' dish when visiting. I would avoid dishes that are primarily Chicken or Steak, these selections would be good but not great and not worth getting at the Sole. For dinner your meal comes with a salad or soup. The Sole used to have a house dressing that was a French and Bleu Cheese mix but now there dressing selections are pedestrian. When given the option get the Seafood Chowder in lieu of the clam to avoid a half bowl of potatoes in your soup. Typically of most restaurants I would not recommend getting the boiled lobster, for the price of one you could get 2-3 in the grocery store. Dress is business casual, jeans, t-shirts, flip flops and shorts are not recommended, unless you want to feel like a fool. Average price per person reflects drink, appetizer and entree. Not great for large parties based on how busy they get. We tried to make reservations for a wedding party and were given a lot of ridiculous stipulations for our reservations so we ultimately booked at another locations. Best for intimate dining and parties greater than 8.
(5)F D.
Solid seafood performance. Not a great location in a rough city, but the private parking lot and relatively easy highway access let's you zip in and out of a tough area. I had the Tuna special- outrageously good. If I have to be in Worcester- this is where I'm going.
(4)Shane L.
My wife and I are truly very big fans of the Sole Proprietor. The reasons are many but especially the fact that the seafood is fresh and service is great. If you are looking to take someone on a date, take them here and get some steamers or mussels for apps. Then rock out some very good fresh sushi or a fresh bowl of piping hot new England style clam chowder. Then definitely partake in baked stuffed haddock and/or lobster it is really good. I guess the the only thing that I would change here is the price. I guess you get what you pay for though. It is the old adage. I definitely recommend this restaurant for a great night of dining and delicious desserts.
(4)Cindy W.
This place is truly awesome! Simple decor but the food will make your palate dance circles around you. My picks are raw bar (oysters, clams and shrimp). So fresh that you think the beach is behind the restaurant. My all time favorite entree is the Nantucket scallops. Sweet, moist, and AMAZING!! Never rubbery or sandy. Cooked perfectly and the quality is like the Legal Seafood Corp. If you have a large group, call them and give them a heads up. This place tends to be a little busy so be sure to make reservations. They are worth the wait.
(4)Tanya S.
I don't like the dual-service shenanigans that fancy restaurants pull..it's a bit overwhelming. I chose to have my birthday celebration there and it was very pleasant. The grilled salmon is perfect. the sweet potatoes (mashed) are consistently amazing. Also the sesame fried shrimp are to die for.
(4)Allyson S.
I have been going to the happy hours for years. It's no longer $5 which is a bummer. Tiger Eye Roll is my favorite. The lobster bisque has changed in the last few years it didn't have flavor and was brown which was odd. The service was odd with two waitresses.
(4)Hildy P.
We were aiming to go to the restaurant across the street but there was no parking available and the Sole Proprietor had a lot of dedicated parking......what luck! We ordered the clam chowder which was perfect. We each ordered the lobster salad sandwich which was heaping with big chunks of lobster lightly tossed in something that was non-mayo maybe lemon juice. It was fabulous.
(5)Carrie P.
I love this place! It is always my go to place. Everything I've ever had there has been excellent. Appetizers, soups, salads, meals, drinks and deserts, everything is always fabulous. The waitstaff is always on point and helpful and friendly. The flirtinis are my favorite and they always put cute designs on the top! Love the bar section and the ambiance. It's just a great fun place! We just went with 2 other couples this past weekend and I had the blackened scallops and they were excellent. Our waiter was Dustin and he was great! I'd recommend them in a heart beat.
(5)Karyn V.
Sole Proprietor Seafood & Spirits is the best seafood restaurant in Worcester, but out of the three Ahlquist restaurants (111 Chop House, Via, and Sole Proprietor) we didn't feel as wowed. The place is stylish but funky. There is a giant crab on the roof named Buster and stuffed fish in the main dining room. Booths line the perimeter of the main dining room and several small dining rooms are suitable for small parties or functions. And, the large bar is hugely popular on a Saturday night. For an appetizer, my fiancé ordered the special, a lobster firecracker roll, which is typically on 111 Chop House's menu. For our entrees, I ordered the breast of rosemary chicken, with wing joint attached, pan seared in olive oil with rosemary and oregano, blue cheese mashed potato and sautéed spinach ($18.99). My fiancé ordered the fresh tuna steak ($27.99). The fresh tuna steak was good as well as the lobster firecracker roll. However, the server accidentally brought me the roasted chicken instead of the rosemary chicken. Our server was quick to apologize, but instead of the cook making a new order, he simply took my mistaken dish and poured rosemary on top of it. Therefore, I am sure my chicken would have been more flavorful if my order was correctly prepared. All in all, we thought the food was average; nothing special. I did think the cocktail menu was original though. If you like sweet drinks, I highly recommend the summer punch bowl ($7). Also, if you do decide to dine here on a Friday or Saturday night, I strongly recommend making a reservation. We had a reservation but could hear the hostess telling people that they had an hour-plus wait!
(3)Tim J.
I've eaten here several times and I've never been disappointed! We went there just the other day. I had salmon and my wife had haddock. Both were nice portions of quality fish which were well prepared. We both ordered steamed broccoli with our meals which was slightly undercooked. The chowder was a little thin and bland. Everything else was excellent. The cherry stones and firecracker rolls were very good. The service has always been great each time I've eaten there. The wait staff is professional and very knowledgeable.
(4)Darrell L.
First time I've ever visited the Sole and all I can say is Terrific. I was recommended the spot by some locals I was doing business with because I mentioned I came to Boston for Chowdah. The place was packed when I got there. Parking can be challenging but I got extremely lucky and got the last spot in the lot. I was greeted cheerfully at the door by 3 hosts. I was shown the way to a table in a cozy back room. The place is dated but I wasn't there for decor. I started the meal with a cup of chowder and it lived up to the hype. It had a smooth taste which had hints of the sea. The only drawback was the fact it needed a bit more clam. It wasn't overloaded with potato and was creamy goodness. I asked my waitress for her opinion on a meal and agreed with her on the Winter Grilled Salmon. The fish came out perfectly cooked. The apple added the perfect notes when paired with everything in a bite. Most items were just ok on their own but together the dish sang. I recommend the restaurant and if you are struggling with a choice on the menu Seek out the advice of your server. AL assisted me greatly and it was a great meal. I'll definitely be going back.
(4)Leah T.
The Sole is one of my favorite places for seafood. They always have great service and the staff is very accommodating to any and all needs. I have come here to celebrate my birthday the past two years and am yet to be disappointed. I have never tried their sushi but they do offer a pretty extensive sushi menu. Their oysters and raw bar items are extremely fresh and super yummy. Some of the desserts are a little rich but there is a very large selection and I certainly haven't tried them all. They do offer menu items that aren't found in the sea but I am yet to try them. If you are craving some chowder this is the place to go. Very, very good. Possibly the best in Worcester. My last visit I ordered the salmon with butternut squash risotto. My fish was cooked perfectly and the risotto was amazing. (I also ordered the chowder, naturally) The portion sizes are big and most meals come with a soup/salad option. If you also order an appetizer there is no way you'll leave there hungry. Overall a great spot for seafood!
(4)Aaron W.
I was working in Worcester for a few months and the Sole Proprietor was recommended by a co-worker. Very impressed. Large wine selection, good beer selection and our food was nearly perfect. Appetizer was crab spring rolls, I had seared tuna and my girlfriend had some crab stuffed shrimp with steak. SOOOOO GOOD!! Waiter was knowledgeable about the wine and attentive to us. He went out of the way to place the uneaten tuna on a bed of ice so it would keep better since we told him we were not going directly home. Five star service, five star menu, five star drinks. We will return. Thank you!
(5)James R.
Great sushi and desserts, that is (unfortunately) all I've tried there thanks to their amazing half-priced happy hour deal. The bar area is a nice place to hang out with good staff and a very laid-back atmosphere late-night. The regular menu is pretty expensive, but the food and atmosphere make it a classy place.
(4)C L.
Really really great food and awesome service. Can get loud and crowded but that's because everyone loves it there. Great place for a long, multi-course, special occasion dinner with friends or a fancy date. Expensive, but very worth it!
(4)Jim D.
Somewhat disappointed. Although the food was good there is a lot lacking in the total dining experience. A very expanded seafood menu and if that's what you're looking for, give it a try. The ambiance is another story. Very crowded, tables are close together, loud and noisy. Worst of all they really try to rush you. After studying our server and other tables around us it was obvious the main objective of each server is to turn the table as quickly as possible. Which is understandable since there is always a line waiting. The wine list leaves a lot to be desired. They have great seafood. However if you want a nice dining experience, relaxing and romantic this is not the place. It is a very popular restaurant, you will need a reservation.
(3)Kayla I.
Always loved the sole! The food is always good and servers are very attentive ! I went there on a Sunday night and 2 male bartenders, one named raf and the other was an older gentleman were so nice and friendly! Will be back
(4)Stephen P.
We found our new favorite restaurant! Front the moment we walked in the door the staff was welcoming and helpful. Appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, drinks, and desserts....all perfect! Tara, our waitress, was excellent.
(5)Larissa A.
This is my father's go to restaurant in Worcester. I went for the first time this weekend. I was floored! The food is amazing. I had the bluefish that was a special, fresh and delicious. One of my pet peeves is when places load up on the starch to skimp on the veggies. Not Sole Proprietor! My meal came with roasted mixed (squash, zucchini, peppers, onions) and also an asparagus hash, which was asparagus and crab meat chopped up together (large pieces)! Then we shared the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. YUM and YUM! The one thing that took this place to five stars is the staff. Who not only introduced themselves but asked our names and continued to call us by our names throughout our visit. All of them, not just our waiter. I will be back!
(5)Ingrid S.
New favorite find.
(4)Brad S.
One night is Worcester for business and decided to try it. It was very good. I will deffinetly go again to try another dish!
(4)Christopher H.
The standard bearer of worcester. You want a solid meal? Go here. It is always packed, lunch, dinner, whenever. Not the greatest for afterwork drinks, unless you feel like talking about your grand kids with all the old folks at the bar. That being said, you can't go wrong here.
(4)Lauren E.
I've only been here twice but both times my vegetable medley was overcooked and looked and tasted like a frozen mix. Also, if they are supposed to specialize in seafood, shouldn't they know how to wash seafood properly so it's not sandy? I had the clam chowder and my Mom had scallops and both of us were crunching away on sand. She couldn't even finish her meal unfortunately. I know people who always go here and it's supposed to be one of the biggest hot spots in Worcester but for the life of me cannot understand why. Legal's Harborside in Boston is 10,000 times better and there are much better restaurants elsewhere in Worcester.
(2)Wendell W.
I'll make this really short. The service is really good but the food is just average. Maybe if you like bland food you would think the seafood is great, but there are more herbs and spices other than black pepper, salt and parsley. I honestly don't believe I had any salt or pepper in my food. Legal Seafood may be a chain but at least it gives you more flavor.
(2)Deanna D.
So we were a party of 6 on a Sun night and the place was packed. The hostess greeted us and sat us immediately even without a reservation. The servers promptly greeted us and were very friendly and knowledgeable. The decor consisted of dark wood, pictures of fish and mounted fish along the wall--Not exactly the romantic ambiance but a nice restaurant. It was very busy in there so it got a bit loud as the night progressed. They have a great vine list with a huge selection of bottles. They even had a good selection of wines by the glass. The clams casino was really tasty. The freshly baked warm rolls were yummy. The clam chowder had great consistency and flavor but lacked in clams. I had the Crab and Langostino stuffed Sole which ended up being trout since they ran out of sole. Sole Proprietor running out of sole--a little ironic? Regardless it was very good. The fish was perfectly cooked and the stuffing was delicious. It was served with mashed sweet potatoes, asparagus and beets--- Everything was tasty minus the asparagus; it was steamed and flavorless. My bf had the Salmon Oscar which he really enjoyed.... again the asparagus was the complaint. We had a variety of dishes at the table and everyone enjoyed their meal. Very weak coffee, cappuccino and espresso which was a bit disappointing. Over all a good experience. The service was excellent, the prices are reasonable and the quality was good. Sole Proprietor is good option for a nice dinner while in the Worcester area.
(4)Ann P.
I have been dining here since I was in my 20's so a longgggggg time. The place is not the same. Go for the bar and to watch a game. Our waiter Max was great. The sushi was mediocre to bad. The lobster bisque had a huge chunk of lobster but had no taste. The shrimp in my Bloody Mary was soggy yuck. The bread was great and real butter (in foil packets). Mom loved her salmon and fries. The Caesar salad was fine. No more..the days of this being my go to spot in Wormtown are over. 75 with a generous tip.
(2)Cee Cee S.
Another date with another db. At least this guy had some balls and picked the place. The parking lot was a circus. There are attendants directing you here and there and you can only park in the spot they wave you into. I was confused....was I dining in Worcester or attending a show at Gillette. The inside was nice and we were promptly seated. We were tucked in a back dining room with several small parties and a large group of senior citizens. One which was exuding a certain Eau du Depends. Not the best dining ambiance. But how do you say I want to move because someone here smells like pee? The conversation was stiff as were the drinks. Thank goodness for that otherwise, I wouldn't have made it. The food was delicious, but I found the portions large. The fried artichokes were unexpected stars. We topped the evening off with a coffee. Thankfully, they were weak otherwise I would have been up for hours thinking about what a jerk this kid was.
(3)Timothy R.
I believe i read somewhere that the Sole has achieved national accolades for their seafood. And they deserve every commendation. The ambiance is what I'd call "classy casual." Basically, you can't get away with gym shorts but a jacket is by no means required. A nice button down and jeans for men to give you an idea. The dining room is slightly dark in a great way, allowing for a romantic atmosphere if bringing an interest or partner. The wait staff is top notch. They consistently work in teams, so you'll have at least two waitors every time you dine. One usually serves as an assistant to the other but both are usually very attentive. I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant. Their sushi comes in many different varieties and the chefs are creative in the roll designs. The Firecracker roll is a favorite (tempura). The entree menu is large with basically everything seafood you could possibly imagine. I usually stick with a white fish, which are available blackened or grilled with potato and vegetable. But if you are looking for a more dramatic choice they have very creative combinations of fish, pastas, potatoes, vegetables, etc. The Sole has a full bar with a large wine list and a variety of cocktails. Their house sangria is to die for. Yes, It is expensive. But so very worth it.
(4)Elissa B.
My husband took me to The Sole for Valentine's day last night and I have to say, it didn't disappoint! Not only did we get seated right away, the food was FANTASTIC and the service was excellent! My husband even remarked at how good the service was and usually he is oblivious to it all. He got the blackened swordfish with potatoes au gratin, and I got the broiled haddock with roasted potatoes and butternut squash. Not a morsel left. We had Red Sangrias with the meal and coffee and the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. Unbelievable experience. It was so good, that we tipped the waiters 25% instead of the normal 20%. It was a $100 bill, but totally worth it. If you are on the fence....don't be.
(5)Stacey A.
The good ole Sole. I've never been a huge fan but I don't hate it either. Expensive - another company sponsored lunch spot.
(3)William E.
Just went here today for the first time....very very good. Just sat in the bar with a client & had drinks & appetizers. M80 Chicken - so so Buffalo Shrimp - great Clams Casino - great Swordfish Burgers - fantastic Scorpion Roll - fantastic x 100 Can't wait to get back there to explore the main course menu...
(4)Andy F.
I'm not a huge seafood fan outside of coastal cities but this place could change my mind. If you can go during Crabfest (which is the month of July) don't pass up on the specials. My absolute hands down favorite is the Crab Stuffed Portabello-- out of this world. Second to this would be the Trout. Stay away from the BBQ Tuna-- yes I said Barbecued Tuna-- I've not made a mistake this big since ordering the Goat Cheese and Tomato Omelette at Zaftigs. The staff is upscale as are some of the prices, but this is a nice restaurant with some really outstanding food. Worthy of special occasion dinners or a nice lunch.
(4)Bruce L.
The Sole Proprietor... has been a favorite of ours for a long time. Great seafood, I have never had a bad meal here. My favorites include the Tuna Barcelona, Tuna Sashimi dinner, the clam chowder, the tuna crunch roll (great!) and also the lobster ravioli appetizer is to die for. Finally the tulip cup mouse for dessert. So about the Sole. It is a rather busy place so reservations are good if you can get them, very popular in the area. The service has always been top notch and the food cooked to perfection, really! Many different kinds of seafood. Tip: They have a set menu price on Sundays for $21.99 choice of three apps, three entrees, three desserts. For this set price you can have a cup of clam chowder or garden salad, tuna Barcelona (tuna steak stuffed with feta and sun dried tomatoes, seared with peppercorns) and the yummy Tulip Cup dessert. Nice way to spend an hour or so trust me. Yes, there are other options but this is what I had Sunday it was great. I have been here with large groups and had wonderful meetings, I think you can reserve a big side room if you have enough people and money ;) Also great for a special meal with the one you love. Lastly, they have a late night menu with $6 items but I'm not sure what it includes.
(5)Josh F.
Went during restaurant week for the first time. It was crowded as expected and the waitstaff was obviously scrambling to keep up - which they did a great job of. Atmosphere seemed dated to me. Got the broiled scallops. They were simply meh. Oh and someone forgot to top it with breadcrumbs and threw them on raw at the end. Haven't been back since and not sure I'm going to.
(2)Paul L.
Excellent! Hoppin' location, very friendly staff, and the food was wonderful. Fish was fresh and perfectly cooked with tasty accompaniments (fried artichokes...yum) Decent chowder as well.
(4)J M.
We hadn't been to the Sole in quite a while, but decided to try it. I have never been so disappointed! The service was great, but the dinner wasn't. The clam chowder is full of flour and potatoes, and too much pepper. Why isn't it as good as Legal Seafood's? My "maple glazed" scallops were plain, unseasoned (steamed?) scallops unceremoniously dumped into a pool of butternut squash. The "maple glaze" was drizzled into the squash instead of onto the scallops. Why weren't the scallops sauteed in butter and the glaze done in the pan? The accompanying broccoli was so hard as to seem uncooked. My husband had the stuffed flounder that the menu promised was stuffed with crab and other seafood, but he could find none amidst the bread stuffing. What has happened to the Sole? This dinner was Sunday, March 17, 2013, at 6:00 PM. This is going to be taken off my list of Worcester's best.
(2)Katie P.
This is the best seafood restaurant I have ever been to. The Scorpion Roll with pineapple is AMAZING. Every meal we have had here has been outstanding. This is the restaurant that I miss the most now that we live in CT. Parking is sometimes tough. If you have to wait to be seated it is well worth it!
(5)Ann K.
The Sole Proprietor was VERY busy on a Tuesday night but after a short wait we were seated. Seating was interesting as it was a booth - spacious enough in terms of seating space but the table leg was so big that it took up most of the leg room. Add to that huge menus and oversized bread plates and we were out of space before we even got our drinks. It was "Lobsterfest" time so there were alot of great lobster based specials. The table next to us opted for the 2.5 lb monsters but we picked more subdued entrees. The Lobster Risotto was very good although very light on the promised artichokes and asparagus tips. The food was good enough to override the downside of the cramped seating but if you are tall, I suggest that you ask for a table rather than a booth!
(3)steven R.
really overrated in my opinion high prices for little. I just don't get it the service was ok but not as good as it should of been for what they were charging the was clean I sat at the bar and I understand that is a seafood restaurant and don't mind smelling some fish but it was a strong smell. I have always been told if it smell really fishy then it is not fresh and stay away. with that being said I wanted to try something so I had a few drinks and the seafood chowder it was good not great it had large chunks of a fish in it and a few small pieces of something else but not much of a variety as I was hoping for. overall I was just disappointed with the whole experience.
(2)Alan P.
We made reservations and asked for a quiet table. What we got was a room with a table of 6 very loud people. We complained to Max the manager. Nothing was done. We heard about their colonoscopy and prep. Will not go their again since this is the client they prefer!
(2)Thomas N.
lunch recently....ate in the bar area, verrrry noisy, with a perticularly noisy person or two.....service was pleasant and attentive....bar special was 6$ russian river vodka drinks, they were good although the martinis were small.....softshell crab (crab time) very good, seafood assortmnet good, fish was a little on the dry isde, very attractive area and it's own parking lot....have been there before, will be there again...
(4)SaraLee C.
AMBIANCE: loud, crowded, unpleasant. An up-scale (and slightly bigger) diner experience at best. SERVICE: our waitress was not very knowledgeable about their drink options in specific, and in general, just plain unmemorable. PRICE: Given the quality of the food, just plain expensive! OVERALL: This place felt like an overpriced and dressed-up Bertucci's with a penchant for seafood, but, without the mouth-watering rolls.
(2)Suzanne G.
I really liked this place. Went for lunch with two colleagues and we were seated quickly, and attended to efficiently. I had a salmon tips with lemon caper sauce with roasted vegetables. Quite delicious, dessert was very good too, flan in buttery caramel sauce. My companions enjoyed their lunches as well. It was very busy, our meals were good, prices are really good. I'd go again when in the area.
(4)Matt R.
This place is pretty good... maybe 4-stars for Worcester, but definitely not a 4-star restaurant in any other city. All of the food is overpriced, you will be hard pressed to not spend 25-30 bucks per person here even for lunch. The Oysters are fresh (I would definitely recommend them) Sushi - stay away from it, it is simply not that good. Chowder - I like the chowder here, a great staple I miss their bluefish Pate' - was delicious! All of their entrees are good, but not great. You are better off taking a 40 minute trip to Providence or boston to eat at a great seafood restaurant... the food simply does not justify the price. definitely not 4-stars
(3)Marcel B.
Great seafood restaurant. I eat here very frequently with visitors and colleagues because it's the nicest restaurant close to work, and I'm always very happy with the cuisine and service. Great place.
(5)Antoinette P.
Visited from out of town and met some local friends who suggested this restaurant. Service was great -- nice balance of respectable and kid friendly. Sautéed mushrooms, sautéed spinach, and mac and cheese were delicious! Quick service without feeling rushed.
(4)Angela D.
I heard so many great things about the Sole Proprietor so I decided to give it a shot. I went there with my boyfriend and we got clam chowder and some lobster thing with a bunch of sauce on it. This place is totally overrated. The service was neglectful. The location was fine. However, the food was not very good. The clam chowder was decent, but was gritty. The lobster was okay, but the sauce really over powered everything. It's also overpriced. I wouldn't go back.
(2)Emily A.
I went to the Sole regularly when I worked downtown Worcester for lunch. I've gone over the past 9 years several times for dinner for special occasions. I went back a couple months ago with a friend who still works in the area and very nearly sent my food (one of the sandwiches on the lunch specials) back. It was almost inedible. The spices used clashed, the fish was overdone and rubbery, the fries had that slight bitter taste they sometimes get when (I assume) the oil is too old or overused... Not good. I never send food back and I never complain unless it's really bad. I've been a waitress, I know what food service is. I think the quality at the Sole has gone down hill over the past several years and the prices have stayed risen. As my palate for good food and alcohol has developed, the Sole has not. Their wine list is good, their beer and liquor offerings are sophomoric at best. It's disappointing they're not waking up to the possibilities of excellent food and beer pairings and the movement for excellence in food. Granted, this is a seafood place 50+ miles from the coast, so there's only so much you can expect, but I think any creativity and verve the place used to have has gone the way of complacence in a steady stream of regulars. The bartender there during the day is wonderful. I just wish the food there were as good. It's disappointing. I'd love a good local seafood place that would serve sustainable fish. I almost never eat it any more because of sustainability issues and I miss it. I'm just not spending money at the Sole.
(2)Kevin J.
The food was excellent, service was very good, and the drink selection was decent. The spiciness of the fried squid was a nice touch on a regular appetizer.
(4)D M.
My husband and I went to the Sole last night. We go maybe 2-3 times a year but we haven't been for almost a year. We were really disappointed with the service and our meals. First of all the waitresses seemed over-whelmed. They messed up our salad order and put the wrong dressing on the salad. Ok not a real biggy. Then my husband ordered the clam chowder which he said was good and I ordered the stuffed lobster which lacked flavor and was chewy because it was not fresh. Please see review below from 12/13 which states that their lobster was rubbery also. The reason for this I concluded is because they either cooked beforehand and refrigerate or use frozen and heated up from there because you get the food out faster. Either way it was not fresh. I know my lobster and if you like lobster you will be disappointed. I recommend that you ask them if it is cooked before serving. See what they have to say. Another issue I had was that it was suppose to be stuffed lobster. That means stuffing right? Thats what stuffing means to me. Well there were some broiled scallops and shrimp thrown into the shell. They were good but not stuffing. Finally, I asked for a 1.5 pd lobster and I am pretty sure thats not what I got but thats what I paid for. So in addition to being disappointed now I felt ripped off. I just wanted to get the heck out of there as quickly as possible. We will not be going back any time too soon. It was a big disappointment.
(2)Jeffrey L.
My go to place for seafood in Worcester, it used to be happy hour but I soon realized the decline in happy hour quality for food. However their dinner and lunch items normally served are still exceptional. Think of it as an alternative to legal seafood but the best thing about this place is the service! I would give it 4.5 if I could, I've had bad run ins with some servers but the management is always spot on, they cleared my whole bill once but of course I still paid anyways, couldn't believe my eyes when the check was 0.00 dollars for 7 people. Being classy never goes out of style and I will truly miss the sole proprietor once I move. A must try for people in the area.
(4)Leah M.
$6 bar menu!! (Which used to be $5). Actually, I'm a little disappointed it's no longer $5, because THAT was a good deal. Now it's just a fairly good deal. My friends and I go to get our sushi fix. The Tiger eye is by far the best, it's wonderful and hugee. Also the white sangria sole bowl is great; light, fruity, enjoyable. Just if you go for the bar menu, go early enough. It get's really busy really fast and you have to get your order in by 6:30
(4)lella b.
I went with my parents (sea food lovers in the flat lands of the midwest) and myself (deathly allergic and live in MA). The portions are great, my parents RAVED on the 2 chowders (thanks fellow yelpers on that one - i had suggested they get one of each). My dad is a clam chow-dah freak (lol) and said it was among the best he's ever had. My dad did the Scallop Entree special dish, my mom a basic lobster. Both were great, and scored "oh, we WILL come back here". Parking was easy, make reservations: quite busy at 6:00 on 12/30. The meals came with potato, mixed veggies so when we ordered sides we we a bit vegtable heavy (hey, that's fine with me). $5 martini (lemon drop) great, nut martini, ok ($7) (but i'm PICKY about them!!!). I had a NY Strip Steak: excellent for a seafood resturant and they made sure to cook in a seafood free zone. They have an extensive GF menu. We ordered ice cream (coffee) and key lime pie for dessert. I wasn't a fan of the they key lime pie, ice cream was excellent. Portions are HUGE, great non-seafood options, great wine and martini list. We will go back - it was a fun mixed crowd with excellent service and a great local business. Only reason for missing a 5 star is 1) key lime pie and 2) forgetting our side of asparagus (but getting it then deducting from bill...totally not asked for but nice!).
(4)Aubrey S.
My Sole! My Darling Sole! What has happened to you? Do you not like us anymore? The college kids who adore you? (Though, congrats to Mark on the promo.) You separate my group of ten, "policy, policy." Is this new policy from just this past week? You separate us, but you do not even separate our checks. Gratuity of 18% for 10 people? But the menu says we must number above 12 humans! You make us wait for over 45 minutes collectively for some sushi rolls and drinks? 20 more for the check? Do we kids no longer matter to you? Even though I've spent more here than I dare say? Even though we come ecstatic for your food and drinks every time we have entered your doors? We are sad, we hang our heads as we leave, I blush at the embarrassing crush I had on you. But Sole, I thought I loved you. I miss the days where you opened to us your comforting arms and Wellfleet oysters. My heart still aches, I have had to edit myself from a 1 star for you to a 2 star. I clearly need a rebound restaurant.
(2)Dan H.
Great seafood. Fair prices. Great setting and comfortable bar area. Worcestor has many strong options for dinner, and this is among the best of what I have tried. If you're a seafood aficionado, it's a must try for western MA. I have only had good experiences there.
(4)J S.
We've given the Sole a couple tries and are unimpressed. Their seafood dishes are just average in my book. The Sole just doesn't compare to what you can find near the shore.
(3)Teri L.
Going out to meet my sisters for a Christmas Lunch at the Sole was such a treat for me!! I never get to the Sole as much as I want. I think the last time I was here was about......wow...over 6 years ago?? Yes, I'm ashamed because I can't imagine that it took THIS LONG to get back here!! I will repent. I rushed in because I hate being late and yes...I was late. Sitting down finally I took in the beautiful Christmas decor to make the very handsome style even better. What I love about this seafood restaurant...it doesn't smell like one. Seriously! I have been in some seafood establishments that the smell hits you at the door and you take it home with you on your clothes...bleh not this place. We ordered up 3 apps..crab stuffed portabella mushroom, goat cheese cake and popcorn shrimp. I'm not a shrimp lover so I coudn't tell you how that was but my sister Anne and boyfriend Nick get it all the time. The stuffed mushroom was to freakin die for!!!! The crab was perfect, creamy and complimented the mushroom exactly. The goat cheese cake and toasted bread was amazing! I almost licked my knife. I ordered for my entree the ginger cream scallops with apples. It was so full of flavor, the scallops so perfectly cooked (I have this thing about scallops being just right), the rice was mounded in the middle with a creamy Parmesan sauce with cooked apples poured over it. I couldn't stop eating it. I wanted to but no..I couldn't. I then ordered...as if I didn't have enough to eat...a chocolate tulip cup to end our wonderful lunch. It was good. Very pretty to look at. Very creamy and nice. All in all, it was a fabulous time at the Sole. A fine dining restaurant that's well established and well loved.
(4)Rachael B.
Took my sister here for lunch while visiting. The food was good - i had the clam chowder and the salmon and my sis had a salad and the lobster roll. service was a little slow and a little awkward - our waitress just seemed a little out of place, lol. definitely a yummy lunch in worcestor!
(4)Kevin H.
Easily my favorite restaurant since moving to the Worcester area. The food is outstanding, the service is great and they do a great job of mixing up the menu seasonally. Check often for specials like the $5 happy hour bar menu. Great way to have a few drinks and some really great sushi for little money. Also, lobsterfest is a great time for a $20 lobster dinner, although we seem to get talked into upsizing every time. I love sushi. Been to Japan quite a few times and the Sole has some of the best around.
(5)Michael N.
I have eaten at the Sole Proprietor twice, and I would give it 10 stars each time. Most recently we went there a few weeks ago. The staff is amazingly friendly, helpful and courteous. They provide you with a lead waiter (so to speak) and a second waiter to help make sure every need is tended to. The waiter was helpful with recommending a bottle of wine. We had clam chowder - thick & delicious and lobster bisque, which had several chunks of lobster. For our entrees, we both had baked stuffed lobster. They allow you to specify the weight of the lobster, the stuffing, and whether you would like them to remove the lobster from its shell for you or if you would prefer to "do the work" yourself. This is a more upscale restaurant with great prices for the amount of food, its deliciousness and the ambience. I LOVE the Sole Proprietor.
(5)Jim W.
I like Sole. The staff seems friendly and the atmosphere is lively. Been twice but have had mixed impressions of the food. First time I had the bay scallop newburg. Being a scallop lover thought it'd be a slam dunk. I really didn't think it through though. Must have been tired, since I forgot I'm a fan of sea scallops not bay. The whole dish was a bit too rich, runny, and sweet for my taste. The second time dining I had the Tuna Barcelona. It was fantastic. Huge portions (took home half of it) and the entree and sides tasted great. Definitely recommend the dish.
(3)Julia Z.
Cheaper than Legal Seafood, but better in taste. Highly recommend their dozen Oysters for appetizer. My all time favorite is their Tuna Steak; I've tried several Tuna Steak entrées in the Greater Boston Area and so far Sole Proprietor has the best.
(5)Tony C.
Had the chicken with a mini shrimp appetizer. The shrimp tasted and looked like it came out of a box from some low budget grocery store. Over priced food of an average quality.
(2)Katie C.
I went here with a group of 6 for my roommate's birthday. When I saw the outside I did not expect it to be anything like what it was. It looked like a fancy clam shack. But it was so much more than that. Everything was top of the line. From the mussels appetizer to the clam chowder to the blackened swordfish and lastly to the tirimisu. The service was excellent. My waiter was very knowledgable about the entire menu and was able to answer all of our questions and he recommended me a wine that paired with my dish. The prices were a little steep for a typical night out for me, but very much worth it. For a special occasion I would absolutely go back again!
(5)Alex H.
Yes, this is an (or the) upscale seafood place in the desert of Worcester. The food is on the higher end of the spectrum but certainly is well worth it. I took a group of about 30 people here, the check came to about 60$ per person. The service was quite good, as the 2 staff members were able to handle the group quite well. However, they attempted to cram us into a function room like sardines. The cold air from the vents bothered several of my guests. Overall, a fantastic experience, but a few little quirks to make a few people less than perfectly satisfied.
(4)David S.
I had stuffed flounder. Delicious. My wife had the seared tuna. Also delicious. Lobster bisque was different than what I'm used to (ok... what I used to make when I worked in a restaurant) but it was very tasty. We sat at the bar. The bartender was super nice and very attentive, especially since it was a very busy Saturday night. This place has been great for as long as I can remember... Keep it up!
(5)Cara W.
I came here several weeks ago with my parents and boyfriend for lunch. I've been here many times, and although I never have any complaints about the food, the restaurant is just not something that I crave or yearn for. The food is always good, but the atmosphere tends to be dark and boding. The benefits to The Sole are that it can accommodate large parties. Like its sister restaurants, its more of a "crowd-pleasing" atmosphere than somewhere I would suggest for a more intimate evening. We shared some good raw oysters, fish tacos, and a sushi plate. I don't have any complaints about the food or service.
(3)David H.
My girlfriend chose SP for us last night...and it was just outstanding. The service was excellent, really excellent. A well thought out wine list, and C's cocktail was soooo good, she had to grab another. We didn't want anything too elaborate so went straight to the entrée....with the grilled salmon and I had a NY sirloin which was juicy, tender and super tasty. I had some of her salmon and it was buttery soft and full of flavor. The place is decorated well....A very diverse crowd...and full for a Monday night...A good indication that fellow yelpers who live outside of Worcester should make the journey. Prices are about 10-20% off Boston equivalents. It was probably the company, that sparked this upbeat review, but they run a slick show and deserve this review.
(5)Lisa M.
Best seafood around, great atmosphere. Only downside is the parking lot - not big enough!
(5)Leigh S.
I make it a habit to try salmon all over the world and I have to say I had the best piece of salmon right here. Crisp and seasoned on top but buttery and delicious inside cooked to perfection . My daughter has the steak and lobster tail, first east coast lobster for her and it was great. Nicely grilled and tender, the steak was super and very well cooked & seasoned. The lobster bisque s was a bit sweet for me but had 2 whole claws in it and the meat was great. Sadly too full for desert.
(5)Jocelyn K.
I have been here several times. The selection of seafood choices are bountiful! Service is impeccable! My only complaint is that it is a bit pricey, so I can't go as often as I would like. But nonetheless, everything is outstanding.
(4)Donny W.
Love the chowder, and...everything else here. I've yet to have a bad experience at this place! Great food, attentive staff. Get here!
(4)Jim O.
The menu selections, staff and food were all very good. Would not hesitate to return or recommend this place to friends and family.
(4)Nicolas D.
Wow. I had a delicious meal at this establishment! The menu is huge, with so many options, great wine selection, full bar, all the bells and whistles. The "teamed up" waiters are so helpful and friendly and so happy to help steer you in the right direction of a wonderful evening. From the second we sat down to the second we left, my experience was fully enjoyable. I wish I could give this place half stars, because I would like to rate this place 4.5 stars. The only reason why I take a star off is because of the lack of originality and choice in the craft cocktail section. You can get a cosmo and martini anywhere. When I go and spend a pretty penny on food and drinks, I'd like to have a fun "aperitif" that opens up my palate and has fun. A tequila or gin drink on the menu would've been fun, but it was just the classics. Oh well, what they lack in originality in the cocktail menu, they make up in choice in all seafood. We shared a dozen oysters, all wonderful, fresh and delicious, sushi was ordered as well (nothing to write Japan about, it was actually nothing spectacular), and our entrees were delicious, stuffed flounders and lobster tails. The lobster was flaky and grilled perfectly. Desserts were good, but again here was another spot where they could've been a little more imaginative and surprised us with something different instead of the usuals. What can I say, I expect amazing things for my 5 star reviews! But definitely not to miss. Probably the best seafood restaurant in Worcester.
(4)Nicole L.
the service is awesome - we had a great experience at the restaurant with a wonderful waiter who was very attentive to our large party, all of whom have different food allergies to deal with :) the food was OK - i've been to many better seafood places. i'd say legal seafoods is still my favorite and hard to compare with.
(3)Julianna J.
Father's Day can be a challenge. My Dad is 97 and walks with a walker, We requested seating near the door and off the bar area.The request was granted and We were on our way to a great dining experience,not unusual for the Sole. We started with the chilled seafood platter fresh and tasty as usual. Our entrees were varied from the fried scallops to the blackened tuna and grilled salmon, The service was professional,and on spot from a clear understanding of the menu to the recommendation for a wine selection. Father's Day was great and we will be sure to choose the sole for our next special occasion,( if not before ).
(5)Sarah C.
Came here for the first time on the last Friday of lent - thought I might have been crazy! We had a reservation but ended up being 20 minutes late - they were quite busy but didn't seem upset we were late and sat us right away (Not my fault we were late and I felt really bad about it!) The waitress situation was confusing - one minute we had one girl waiting on us and another it was a different girl. I know they were fairly busy but the service was incredibly slow and not at all friendly or helpful. I had the lobster bisque as an app and the lobster newburg as my meal. The lobster bisque was good and had chunks of lobster but it had a slightly different taste than I have ever tried. The newburg was OK but the lobster was a bit chewy - the side of rice and veggies was so small it didn't even fill the bowl it came in. I wasn't expecting huge portions from a place like this but if you are going to serve something in a specific small dish it should fill the dish. My friend had the lobster sesame stir fry which I kept stealing bites from because it was so good and the portion was HUGE - only thing I didn't like was the deep fried lobster in it. My other friend had the fish and chips which I also kept stealing bites from because it was really good too. For dessert we split the black bottom pie. It was an oreo crust with a mango sorbet. It was to die for - and I had fought my friends not to order it thinking oreo and mango don't mix. It had a light mango flavor but was perfect with the oreo crust. They are pricey than other places but for the portion sizes and the quality of food it is definitely worth it. The parking lot is kind of a nightmare...
(3)Jon R.
One of the 3 best restaurants in Worcester! The service is excellent, the food is dynamite, atmosphere and ambiance are very nice as well. If you like Seafood or Sushi and you are in Worcester, you can't miss going to The Sole. The bar is a great place to have a cocktail and grab an app or a meal.. This restaurant group knows how to do it, they run a tight ship! If you are more in the mood for a steak go to their sister " The 111 Chop House.. If you want Italian, you can't go wrong (most of the time) at their Italian place VIA
(5)Arthur L.
Varied and interesting menu. Enjoyed the meal but can't say I like the aroma of the place.
(3)Karen B.
My mother and I went here for restaurant week. It was delicious! It really wasnt as fancy as people made it sound, but the food was great. Atmosphere was ok... I had a butternut squash soup that was to die for. Reasonable prices, and a decent place to take the kids.
(4)Walerz B.
- Thorough and friendly service. - Pretty venue with an open kitchen. - Steamed clams with drawn butter was delicious - Coconut shrimp and fried calamari were under seasoned and not as crispy as they could've been. BD doesn't really eat seafood but ate so
(2)Brandon S.
Great restaurant with fair pricing for seafood. The stuffed lobster with scallops was excellent. I also had lobster bisque which was really great and a must try, it is not as rich as most places I have tried in the past. Also had the tiramisu for dessert and it was really great....this is a must have.We went on a Tuesday night and we wished we would have made reservations because we ended up waiting close to and hour for a table of 3. Learn from our mistake get reservations!
(4)Bremen S.
Best seafood restaurant in Worcester hands down! Little too noisy and chaotic for an upscale restaurant but you won't remember any of it because the food is paradise. Portions are generous and if you feel your food doesn't taste like you want it to, do tell them. They'll make every effort to accommodate you. Personally, I always get the salmon but friends/family have tried other fish and they all taste super and fresh!
(5)K B.
I've been going to the Sole for years but it's the first time I ever ordered fish & chips. The entree was delicious but shocked that they don't offer malt vinegar for the traditional English fare. Sorry but balsamic or red wine vinegar is a disgusting alternative, don 't bother offering it... Just say you don't have it or better yet, start offering it. Smoked platter and sushi was delicious, as usual.
(5)Eric C.
I had one night in Worcester and this restaurant was recommended to me by my interviewer. I asked for the best restaurant you could have me try here and he said "You can find no better seafood in town and it will rival anything you would find in Boston." So I guess it's a must try then huh! I made a reservation because they actually are usually very busy even though this was for a party of 1. I went around 6:30pm and there were plenty of open seats but once 7pm hit, then the place filled up and I agree that a reservation was a must! If you're like me, you always panic about whether there is adequate parking. There is plenty of parking in their lot. As you drive down from Umass medical center, they will be on the right and you can easily turn in without any issues. So I decided to wait for the waiter to help me choose my courses for the night. So I started out with the clams casino, shrimp cocktail and clam chowder. The clams for the clams casino were about the size of my palm. Delicious, flavorful, juicy and obviously fresh. No fishy taste and smothered in cheese and bacon. Probably the best casinos I've had! Shrimp cocktail was fresh and juicy. The clam chowder was thick and perfectly seasoned. After this "first" course I thought the restaurant was off to a great start! As for the main course, I was told that everything else on the menu would pale in comparison to the fresh Nantucket scallops that are only served from October to March. They were right! Served on top of perfectly seasoned, perfectly cooked risotto cake, these small sized scalloped were sweet and succulent. The tomatoes were a nice addition giving the dish a nice dose of acid. At this point I'm stuffed. Like I need to unbutton my pants full. But they again insisted that I try the black bottom pie. Each day they have a different flavor of ice cream as the main make up of the pie. Tonight it was pumpkin. The "black bottom" is an oreo crust that was specially made for them. If the ice cream were coffee then this would be your typical mud pie, but the pumpkin was just so unusual, different and awesome that I left happier than ever... even though I think they needed a forklift to get me out of there. This place will easily make my top 5 favorite seafood places ever. Great service, great food. Loved it.
(5)James K. G.
Very disappointed, dry, over cooked, musty dining room,(baked lobrs laterster and swordfish)Very dissapointed food was dry and lobster was musty with barnicles attached! 125 dollars for a nasty meal
(1)Carol M.
I've been here twice. First time was so great, it demanded a return visit. There's a goat cheese appetizer that is amazing. Salads are decent. I thought the dressing on the Cesear was a bit "goopy" for my taste, but I prefer a lightly dressed salad in general. Crab cakes were amazing! Sweet, but not cloyingly so and not loaded with filler. I had one leftover and reheated it the next day on my stovetop at home and it was just as delcious. They are also have a lovely selection of sides. If your server doesn't offer, you can swap out the sides listed on the menu for each entree with any of the sides they have listed, which is great. My dining partner and I split the flourless chocolate cake for dessert. It was good. Pretty standard for a restaurant of this caliber. I'm sure we'll be back!
(4)Basil W.
I went to the SP last night with friends for dinner. I've been many times before ( and frequent Via and 111 Chophouse too). The service is fantastic. I got the honeyed char -- it was tasty but not great. I really object to the smell of SP, slightly musty and fishy. I also find that I never feel well (tummy-wise) after eating at SP, Via, or Chophouse. I don't what it is-- other restaurants don't effect me this way. For most purposes, the ambient noise level is ridiculous. You can't carry on a conversation without shouting. In my book, SP only rates as a "fair" restaurant. Food isn't worth the price, nor is the atmosphere.
(1)Laura Y.
Absolutely perfect! My boyfriend and I were on vacation from So. Cal. and on our way to see Pearl Jam at the DCU Center. We wanted to have what Massachusetts is known for - excellent seafood so I consulted Yelp. Appetizers: Half a dozen Wellfleet oysters - these are now my favorite oysters. You can't find oysters even remotely this yummy in California. A dozen shrimp cocktail - wow! So large and fresh. Entrée: New England Lobster Bake - my boyfriend is not a lobster person but he is now - well, if it's lobster from Sole Proprietor. The lobster, clams and mussels were steamed perfectly. The potato was perfectly cooked as well and provided just the right amount of carb. Dessert: Raspberry sorbet - super fresh and such a large portion. Very refreshing way to end our meal. Service: Timmy, our server, was absolutely lovely. We told him we were from out of town and he gave us recommendations for every course. He was very informative, very professional and had a fantastic sense of humor. It's obvious he loves what he does and loves where he works. Be sure to ask for Timmy when dining here. Thank you, Sole Proprietor, for a perfect dinner in Massachusetts.
(5)Tommy W.
This is one of the places I like to go for special occasions. With drinks, an app, dessert and tip its an easy $100 for two people. Regardless of the price the seafood is frackin great! I can't say I order the same thing since the menu changes seasonally. Honestly though, I like that they change the menu based on what type of fish is fresh for the time of year. Makes me think they serve mostly wild caught, which arguably tastes a lot better than farm raised. I could be wrong in this assumption, but based on all my positive experiences I'd say they are doing something right.
(4)P T.
I had a very tasty Ceasar Salad, though was a bit taken aback by the price. I won't knock that though, I had come here with a friend's recommendation. I was impressed with the service and decor. The parking lot was a bit of a fiasco, but I could see myself coming again.
(4)Colleen B.
What are people talking about? I've heard good things about the Sole and decided to try it myself last night. The food was mediocre at best. Started with shrimp cocktail- very fresh and the best part of our meal. The lobster bisque was just ok- rather bland. However the big disappointment was the mahi mahi . Under cooked with no seasoning. The vegetables were too chunky and under cooked as well. Three bites and I was done. My husband had a lobster which he said was pretty good. Spent $140 and left hungry knowing I'd never return. I wish the entree could have been presented at a cooking competition so the chef could hear all that was wrong with it. I love a great meal but this was not it. I will say the service was good though. Completely surprised at what a bad meal this was!
(1)Michele M.
If you like seafood, you should try this place. Started with a variety of oysters, which were really tasty! The grilled cajun swordfish was really fresh and delicious. My husband's sirloin steak was a little overcooked, but the lobster tails were a nice addition to the dish..Its a comfortable atmosphere at the bar with excellent service..We will be back to try other dishes on their extensive menu!!!
(4)K V.
Probably my worst experience a a restaurant. The waitress behaved like she was doing us a favor by serving us food. They got the food out right in the middle of appetizers and blamed us for eating slow. What restaurant does that? The food was ok but the service sucked. Not going back. Definitely.
(1)Eric J.
Great food, try the salmon with citrus shrimp....delicious!!! The clam chowder was also very good along with the Mai tai's.
(4)Lawrence L.
I was told this is the best restaurant in Worcester MA... After enjoying a nice dinner here with good company, I was in agreement (although, it is the only dinner I had in Worcester MA)... But, having dined in a nice spot in Boston the previous night, this place was very comparable. We arrived with a small party, and had some time to wait at the bar. Several beers on tap, including some local brews (Wachusett Country Ale, and Harpoon IPA). I tried their Harpoon (nice mellow hoppiness with smooth finish). Wait was pretty short, even though the place was already pretty packed. We started with a dozen blue point oysters (Long Island NY) - sweet and tasty. I ordered up the Baked Haddock with Lobster Newburgh - moist and flaky with sweet and tender lobster craw meat. Had a side of "chowdah" - loved it. My colleagues had the 1.5 lb lobster served up with some nice melted butter - looked great, and the sushi plate - a ton of maki rolls. This place does seafood right! Service was 100% on point, and friendly. Always had our tables cleaned up from the empty plates, and drinks were always ready to be had. tons of parking in their own private lot. I definitely would recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area.
(4)John A.
This is without doubt my favorite restaurant in Worcester. Never a bad meal. Always fresh. Excellent service. Good drinks to go with meal. As good if not better than any seafood restaurant I have been to in Boston, New York or any where for that matter. I can't even begin to mention favorite meals as they are all wonderful and I often struggle making choice. A must place to eat if in Worcester.
(5)Peter R.
The food here is phenomenal. Love seafood even more now. Try the Salmon special, ora king salmon. This is a great dish. Sushi is really good here too! Manager, Max is a dumbass though... doesn't really know how to manage just how to speak down to his employees. He was the only thing that employees complained about. We were close enough to a service area to hear and we witnessed first hand his arrogance. Food was so good I still gave them 5 stars.
(5)Tasha S.
My go to date night restaurant. The wait can be lengthy but it's usually always worth it. Professional, classy, service with great food especially anything lobster.
(4)H O.
My family and I came here because the reviews seemed really good but we were very disappointed. The menu also looked really tasty. However the food lacked flavor and it wasn't even warm. We had to send back 2 dishes and the replacements weren't much better. However the service was excellent and staff were kind to replace our dishes. Overall go to Red Lobster instead. No joke Red Lobster is better.
(1)Stephen B.
This week I had my second meal at Sole Proprietor in about the same number of years. Both experiences were very nice and not knowing too much about Worcester, this is a placeto go. It's a fairly large room and contemporary, not an old salty dog, woody seafood decor. Nice place. The food quality was very good. The clams on the half shell were very fresh and small (as they should be). The calamari and shrimp appetizers were excellent and of course the New England clam chowder met the standards. The main courses were also very good with people ordering a large cross section of the menu. Very happy and full after the meal. When in "Woostah", the is a great choice.
(4)Meredith B.
I used to be anti-seafood, but when I decided I no longer wanted the palette of a 5 year old, I went straight to the Sole. Amazing tuna barcelona, shrimp cocktail, lobster and CRAB! Best seafood around... Easy!
(5)Mark H.
The food was disappointing. There was a slaw in the crab cake that was really an inedible mess. Pretty good place for a business dinner though, the atmosphere is sophisticated.
(3)Shaun G.
The land and two seas was fantastic. The scallops delicious and the firecracker sushi divine. Once you get to dessert it's so hard to finish but I recommend doing it because of course it's also ....Delish!
(4)Elisabeth M.
Lunch for three during oysterfest. Service was prompt and friendly. Oysters were fresh, chowder was creamy, and everything else we ordered was quite good. Would be happy to dine here again.
(4)Veronica R.
The food was good, especially the sushi
(5)Andrea L.
I learned to love Sole Proprietor when I was a student at Holy Cross and was always at WPI for various reasons. As a native New Englander from a Portuguese family, I love fish and having this seafood restaurant in Worcester while I was in college was amazing. There is quite a range in prices from the 5 dollar happy hours where you can get the bar menu plus sushi and select cocktails for 5 dollars a piece for the college budget to the $22+ entrées, you cannot go wrong. The portions are large and the food never disappointed me. Their desserts are also worthwhile to taste. The service there is incredible. The waitstaff is professional, quick and courteous and say a lot about the front of the house staff. Another cool thing about the Sole is that you can do take out and also have the lunch menu at any time of the day! Now that I've moved away from New England, I can definitely say that I miss the wonderful Sole Proprietor.
(4)Bethany B.
You had me at Buster, the inflatable crab on your rooftop: yelp.com/biz_photos/-2lc… . I love the Nautical décor throughout the restaurant; It's classy without seeming stuffy. The bar area is pretty large, with lots of seating for groups (which works out well if you order a Sole Bowl). Their house Sangria is really great. There are a few separate "rooms" for dining, and I have had wonderful service in all of them. The servers are knowledgeable and have the ability to address your needs quickly (like refilling your water) without feeling like they are standing over you and watching you dine. The food has never disappointed, and I love their selection of oysters on the half shell. The clam chowder is reliably awesome, and they have some fairly standard (but delicious) choices for sushi.
(5)Hubert H.
I have to say it was okay. For the price one pays: The stuffed flounder was a bit mushy, not as fresh as I think it could have been. The lobster bits were a bit tough. The clam chowder could have been more flavorful. Nonetheless, the restaurant has a 'classic seafood' restaurant feel to it, and is clearly very popular. The ambiance is classy, and it's easy to talk to your mates in the space.
(3)Kayla I.
Always loved the sole! The food is always good and servers are very attentive ! I went there on a Sunday night and 2 male bartenders, one named raf and the other was an older gentleman were so nice and friendly! Will be back
(4)Stephen P.
We found our new favorite restaurant! Front the moment we walked in the door the staff was welcoming and helpful. Appetizers, soups, salads, main courses, drinks, and desserts....all perfect! Tara, our waitress, was excellent.
(5)Trina J.
Ate here on last night. The food was good but the service was slightly lacking. The server mentioned she (Caitlyn) and another person would be serving. I would note that I only saw the other person twice. Once when the meal was finished and to pick up the credit card receipt to inspect the tip. When I lived in the area I ate here pretty often so I entered expecting the same level of service. I ordered my appetizer, meal and beverages. One of my beverages was water. I had to look around when both my glasses were empty to get a refill. Needless to say, the water was refilled but I had to specifically ask for more of the other. On top of this, when they main entree arrived, I requested sweet potato mash and was given butternut squash. They look and taste pretty different but my thought was "it'll be an easy fix". I finished the rest of the meal before anyone stopped by to check on me. This was the first time I saw the other waitress. She was leaning into take the plate and I mentioned I thought I didn't receive the correct side item because it doesn't taste like sweet potato. She looked at it with no acknowledgment, stopped by Caitlyn and went in the kitchen. Caitlyn walked over and said, now that I have looked at it, it looks different. The check comes and she says take your time but her return to pick up the bill was the quickest response I received all night!!!! She returned it right away and I filled it out. SOON as I filled it out, the other waitress (whose name I wish I knew) swooped in and said let me take that for you. Before walking off, she opened it, looked at the tip and put it in her pocket! What's unsettling is you provided no service but wanted to disregard etiquette to review the tip? Have you been burned that many times by women? Caitlyn stopped by with a smile and thank you. She also asked if I needed anything else. Guess the bus girl - waitress shared the details despite her lack of assistance. Geesh! I am disappointed but relieved that this was not a regular occurrence. The food is great but anyone would avoid a place with inattentive and unprofessional servers.
(2)constantconsumer c.
The smoked seafood platter was delicious. Other than smoked salmon, I had not tried too many other smoked fish until now. I loved the smoked scallops and the smoked mussels. Who knew? The clam chowder was tasty but the clams werent as tender as say Legal Seafood. The crab rangoon has lots of real crab!
(4)Chris M.
My wife and I ate here to celebrate our 5 year anniversary. It was the perfect choice. We were in the neighborhood visiting my sister (we're from CT). We went at 4pm thinking it would be slow, but it was quite busy. The service right from the start was exceptional. Friendly staff and we had two waiters (Stephanie and Joe). Both of them gave us great food recommendations. We started with a dozen oysters from all over the country (Canada too). These were raw oysters served on ice (very nice presentation). Joe was able to give us a history of EACH oyster and what paired well with each type. They were the best and freshest oysters we have ever had. It was worth the $27! We both had clam chowder, which was also exceptional. I had The Land of Two Seas for dinner- 4 oz steak, pan seared shrimp and scallops over mashed potatoes and topped with asparagus. The combination was amazing. My wife had the twin lobster tails over mashed parsnips and portabella mushrooms. She loved every bit. We both had the season Shipyard Pumpkinhead beer (cinnamon-sugared rim), which I highly recommend. Goes VERY well with seafood and is filling enough to leave you full. We skipped on dessert. I would come back here in a heartbeat. We love food- cooking, eating out, and trying everything. So giving this such a high rating comes with an eclectic palette. -Chris
(5)Bryan R.
A true seafood gem, in proximity to WPI in Worcester, MA in short proximity to I-290. Parking is hit and miss and street parking is even worse for weekend dinners, happy hours and Thursday and Friday lunch. I would highly recommend making reservations for dinner to avoid the up to 2 hour wait. The lunch menu is good in comparison to most seafood restaurants but if you want the full experience go for dinner. My recommendations would be the following: Lunch: Trout with a Potato Crust Honey Chipolte Bacon Wrapped Scallops Shrimp, Tomato, Garlic (Shrimp Scampi) Appetizers: Lobster & Ravioli Rainbow Maki Entree: Shogun Sushi Combo Land and Two Seas Salmon Fillet and Jumbo Shrimp with Hoisin Wasabi Drizzle Desert: Chocolate Tulip Don't get me wrong, all of the dishes at the Sole are good but these dishes are head and shoulders above the rest and could easily become a person(s) 'usual' dish when visiting. I would avoid dishes that are primarily Chicken or Steak, these selections would be good but not great and not worth getting at the Sole. For dinner your meal comes with a salad or soup. The Sole used to have a house dressing that was a French and Bleu Cheese mix but now there dressing selections are pedestrian. When given the option get the Seafood Chowder in lieu of the clam to avoid a half bowl of potatoes in your soup. Typically of most restaurants I would not recommend getting the boiled lobster, for the price of one you could get 2-3 in the grocery store. Dress is business casual, jeans, t-shirts, flip flops and shorts are not recommended, unless you want to feel like a fool. Average price per person reflects drink, appetizer and entree. Not great for large parties based on how busy they get. We tried to make reservations for a wedding party and were given a lot of ridiculous stipulations for our reservations so we ultimately booked at another locations. Best for intimate dining and parties greater than 8.
(5)F D.
Solid seafood performance. Not a great location in a rough city, but the private parking lot and relatively easy highway access let's you zip in and out of a tough area. I had the Tuna special- outrageously good. If I have to be in Worcester- this is where I'm going.
(4)Shane L.
My wife and I are truly very big fans of the Sole Proprietor. The reasons are many but especially the fact that the seafood is fresh and service is great. If you are looking to take someone on a date, take them here and get some steamers or mussels for apps. Then rock out some very good fresh sushi or a fresh bowl of piping hot new England style clam chowder. Then definitely partake in baked stuffed haddock and/or lobster it is really good. I guess the the only thing that I would change here is the price. I guess you get what you pay for though. It is the old adage. I definitely recommend this restaurant for a great night of dining and delicious desserts.
(4)Cindy W.
This place is truly awesome! Simple decor but the food will make your palate dance circles around you. My picks are raw bar (oysters, clams and shrimp). So fresh that you think the beach is behind the restaurant. My all time favorite entree is the Nantucket scallops. Sweet, moist, and AMAZING!! Never rubbery or sandy. Cooked perfectly and the quality is like the Legal Seafood Corp. If you have a large group, call them and give them a heads up. This place tends to be a little busy so be sure to make reservations. They are worth the wait.
(4)Tanya S.
I don't like the dual-service shenanigans that fancy restaurants pull..it's a bit overwhelming. I chose to have my birthday celebration there and it was very pleasant. The grilled salmon is perfect. the sweet potatoes (mashed) are consistently amazing. Also the sesame fried shrimp are to die for.
(4)Allyson S.
I have been going to the happy hours for years. It's no longer $5 which is a bummer. Tiger Eye Roll is my favorite. The lobster bisque has changed in the last few years it didn't have flavor and was brown which was odd. The service was odd with two waitresses.
(4)Hildy P.
We were aiming to go to the restaurant across the street but there was no parking available and the Sole Proprietor had a lot of dedicated parking......what luck! We ordered the clam chowder which was perfect. We each ordered the lobster salad sandwich which was heaping with big chunks of lobster lightly tossed in something that was non-mayo maybe lemon juice. It was fabulous.
(5)Carrie P.
I love this place! It is always my go to place. Everything I've ever had there has been excellent. Appetizers, soups, salads, meals, drinks and deserts, everything is always fabulous. The waitstaff is always on point and helpful and friendly. The flirtinis are my favorite and they always put cute designs on the top! Love the bar section and the ambiance. It's just a great fun place! We just went with 2 other couples this past weekend and I had the blackened scallops and they were excellent. Our waiter was Dustin and he was great! I'd recommend them in a heart beat.
(5)Karyn V.
Sole Proprietor Seafood & Spirits is the best seafood restaurant in Worcester, but out of the three Ahlquist restaurants (111 Chop House, Via, and Sole Proprietor) we didn't feel as wowed. The place is stylish but funky. There is a giant crab on the roof named Buster and stuffed fish in the main dining room. Booths line the perimeter of the main dining room and several small dining rooms are suitable for small parties or functions. And, the large bar is hugely popular on a Saturday night. For an appetizer, my fiancé ordered the special, a lobster firecracker roll, which is typically on 111 Chop House's menu. For our entrees, I ordered the breast of rosemary chicken, with wing joint attached, pan seared in olive oil with rosemary and oregano, blue cheese mashed potato and sautéed spinach ($18.99). My fiancé ordered the fresh tuna steak ($27.99). The fresh tuna steak was good as well as the lobster firecracker roll. However, the server accidentally brought me the roasted chicken instead of the rosemary chicken. Our server was quick to apologize, but instead of the cook making a new order, he simply took my mistaken dish and poured rosemary on top of it. Therefore, I am sure my chicken would have been more flavorful if my order was correctly prepared. All in all, we thought the food was average; nothing special. I did think the cocktail menu was original though. If you like sweet drinks, I highly recommend the summer punch bowl ($7). Also, if you do decide to dine here on a Friday or Saturday night, I strongly recommend making a reservation. We had a reservation but could hear the hostess telling people that they had an hour-plus wait!
(3)Tim J.
I've eaten here several times and I've never been disappointed! We went there just the other day. I had salmon and my wife had haddock. Both were nice portions of quality fish which were well prepared. We both ordered steamed broccoli with our meals which was slightly undercooked. The chowder was a little thin and bland. Everything else was excellent. The cherry stones and firecracker rolls were very good. The service has always been great each time I've eaten there. The wait staff is professional and very knowledgeable.
(4)Darrell L.
First time I've ever visited the Sole and all I can say is Terrific. I was recommended the spot by some locals I was doing business with because I mentioned I came to Boston for Chowdah. The place was packed when I got there. Parking can be challenging but I got extremely lucky and got the last spot in the lot. I was greeted cheerfully at the door by 3 hosts. I was shown the way to a table in a cozy back room. The place is dated but I wasn't there for decor. I started the meal with a cup of chowder and it lived up to the hype. It had a smooth taste which had hints of the sea. The only drawback was the fact it needed a bit more clam. It wasn't overloaded with potato and was creamy goodness. I asked my waitress for her opinion on a meal and agreed with her on the Winter Grilled Salmon. The fish came out perfectly cooked. The apple added the perfect notes when paired with everything in a bite. Most items were just ok on their own but together the dish sang. I recommend the restaurant and if you are struggling with a choice on the menu Seek out the advice of your server. AL assisted me greatly and it was a great meal. I'll definitely be going back.
(4)Leah T.
The Sole is one of my favorite places for seafood. They always have great service and the staff is very accommodating to any and all needs. I have come here to celebrate my birthday the past two years and am yet to be disappointed. I have never tried their sushi but they do offer a pretty extensive sushi menu. Their oysters and raw bar items are extremely fresh and super yummy. Some of the desserts are a little rich but there is a very large selection and I certainly haven't tried them all. They do offer menu items that aren't found in the sea but I am yet to try them. If you are craving some chowder this is the place to go. Very, very good. Possibly the best in Worcester. My last visit I ordered the salmon with butternut squash risotto. My fish was cooked perfectly and the risotto was amazing. (I also ordered the chowder, naturally) The portion sizes are big and most meals come with a soup/salad option. If you also order an appetizer there is no way you'll leave there hungry. Overall a great spot for seafood!
(4)Aaron W.
I was working in Worcester for a few months and the Sole Proprietor was recommended by a co-worker. Very impressed. Large wine selection, good beer selection and our food was nearly perfect. Appetizer was crab spring rolls, I had seared tuna and my girlfriend had some crab stuffed shrimp with steak. SOOOOO GOOD!! Waiter was knowledgeable about the wine and attentive to us. He went out of the way to place the uneaten tuna on a bed of ice so it would keep better since we told him we were not going directly home. Five star service, five star menu, five star drinks. We will return. Thank you!
(5)James R.
Great sushi and desserts, that is (unfortunately) all I've tried there thanks to their amazing half-priced happy hour deal. The bar area is a nice place to hang out with good staff and a very laid-back atmosphere late-night. The regular menu is pretty expensive, but the food and atmosphere make it a classy place.
(4)C L.
Really really great food and awesome service. Can get loud and crowded but that's because everyone loves it there. Great place for a long, multi-course, special occasion dinner with friends or a fancy date. Expensive, but very worth it!
(4)Jim D.
Somewhat disappointed. Although the food was good there is a lot lacking in the total dining experience. A very expanded seafood menu and if that's what you're looking for, give it a try. The ambiance is another story. Very crowded, tables are close together, loud and noisy. Worst of all they really try to rush you. After studying our server and other tables around us it was obvious the main objective of each server is to turn the table as quickly as possible. Which is understandable since there is always a line waiting. The wine list leaves a lot to be desired. They have great seafood. However if you want a nice dining experience, relaxing and romantic this is not the place. It is a very popular restaurant, you will need a reservation.
(3)Larissa A.
This is my father's go to restaurant in Worcester. I went for the first time this weekend. I was floored! The food is amazing. I had the bluefish that was a special, fresh and delicious. One of my pet peeves is when places load up on the starch to skimp on the veggies. Not Sole Proprietor! My meal came with roasted mixed (squash, zucchini, peppers, onions) and also an asparagus hash, which was asparagus and crab meat chopped up together (large pieces)! Then we shared the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. YUM and YUM! The one thing that took this place to five stars is the staff. Who not only introduced themselves but asked our names and continued to call us by our names throughout our visit. All of them, not just our waiter. I will be back!
(5)Ingrid S.
New favorite find.
(4)Brad S.
One night is Worcester for business and decided to try it. It was very good. I will deffinetly go again to try another dish!
(4)Christopher H.
The standard bearer of worcester. You want a solid meal? Go here. It is always packed, lunch, dinner, whenever. Not the greatest for afterwork drinks, unless you feel like talking about your grand kids with all the old folks at the bar. That being said, you can't go wrong here.
(4)Lauren E.
I've only been here twice but both times my vegetable medley was overcooked and looked and tasted like a frozen mix. Also, if they are supposed to specialize in seafood, shouldn't they know how to wash seafood properly so it's not sandy? I had the clam chowder and my Mom had scallops and both of us were crunching away on sand. She couldn't even finish her meal unfortunately. I know people who always go here and it's supposed to be one of the biggest hot spots in Worcester but for the life of me cannot understand why. Legal's Harborside in Boston is 10,000 times better and there are much better restaurants elsewhere in Worcester.
(2)Betsy M.
Wow...we had heard for years how terrific the food at Sole was but hadn't ventured until last week. It was nothing less than FABULOUS. So impressed with the waitstaff too, who were so knowledgeable about the expansive menu! But the food was to die for great and we will be coming back. Loved the cozy atmosphere in the room past the bar...the light was low and it just created the nicest, warm and inviting atmosphere. My husband had Nantucket scallops that were very sweet and delicious, my daughter had salmon that I will order next, and I had stuff flounder that was the best anywhere...it had large chucks of shrimp and scallops and the fish was so fresh and delicious. All in all a terrific place for dinner (or lunch, as I hear the prices are a bit less then), and a nice place to go for a special occasion.
(5)Nicholas C.
I was disappointed, very disappointed. I've been here several times for family's sake, but the last visit was the final straw. A review just had to be made. Despite all of past declining visits and the last FOH service, I'll just concentrate on the food on this one (Keep in mind that I'm a chef who has also worked in seafood). The sourdough rolls- Reheated improperly, fully toasting half of the rolls and melting the butter. That was a surprise when I opened one of them spilling liquid butter on myself (luckily, my napkin was on my lap). It's annoying when you have crumbs flying everywhere because your dinner knife isn't made to cut toasted bread. Although complimentary, the proofing and scoring was laughable. The smoked appetizer. The blue fish was severely over-smoked and all you could taste was the wood. Don't get me wrong, hickory's great, but you mind as well smoke cheap anchovies & sardines (yes, blue fish are cheap too, but are a pain to ship farther inland) and call it a day if you're going to remove of the fish's flavour. The wine list- I only found one Spanish wine for this seafood restaurant. Go hire a certified higher level sommelier for a day and redo that wine menu. Yes, you have a couple great bottles and for some reason Wine Spectator praises you, but a good number of those labels on the list are available in most packeys, making your list dull and uninspiring. Despite the bore, I do appreciate that you only marked up one of the labels about 300% (most restaurants do at least 400%) from the individual retail price. Clam Chowder- Was it supposed to be that watery? That under seasoned? Your potatoes were over cooked by the way (potatoes can be tricky sometimes, so it's not too bad). Entree- Plate was warm, but you can tell that it sat under the heat lamp for way too long. There was a significant layer of film on top of my sauce and everything was cold to lukewarm. Nothing was seasoned and the prep/line cook did not (or forgot to) season the water before cooking the linguine I requested, making the pasta bland too (quick tip: if you didn't season the water, add a bit of oil and a considerable amount of salt in a hot pan, and toss the pasta in it). The haddock was sadly over done as well. By the way, do you guys use Sysco for your frozen lobster claws? Those looked awfully familiar. The vegetables were also over done except for the zucchini, but those were ice cold and under seasoned. BoH- I'm almost certain your line cooks have their own bathroom (or they should), and that they shouldn't be going to the ones meant for costumers. Oh, and coworkers should probably off their aprons before going in. Dessert- Flourless Chocolate Cake- I know this is silly, but you need to re-teach whoever plates your dessert how to handle slices. The flavour was okay, but the execution had plenty of room for improvement. Sole, you used to be well-known, what happened? This made me want to bust out of retirement just to yell at kick your BoH staff.
(1)Rui W.
This place is very nice, I feel bad I didn't find this place earlier. Compare to Sole, I think Legal Seafood is both over priced and over cooked. I went to Sole with my wife, mother and bro. With a doz of oysters to start, four entrees (Sicilian Swordfish, Jamaican Jerk Bluefish, BBQ Idaho Trout & Seared Scallops, Thai Curry Seafood Pasta) and two deserts, total bill was ~$120. The portions are large and tastes are delicious. BTW, clam chowder and Seafood chowder that came with the entree are rich in flavor as well. Be sure to make reservation on weekend night or the wait would be 30+ min.
(5)Jade R.
Quick overview: Service: booo!! Food: Good, not Great. Recommendations: Cherry Peppered Squid Awkward service, but good food. The 3 stars are primarily due to the weird service we had. He was rushed when speaking, asked for food orders before our drinks came (Who does that??!), lacked knowledge on items/drinks, forgot to put our food in the system... Apps: Cherry Peppered Squid - perfectly fried, not chewy at all!! Only wish there was some dipping sauce with it.. Firecracker Roll - meh, pass. I was so intrigued with the fried sweet potato, but if you are a die-hard sushi fan, this is so not for you... With that said, check out who is in charge of the roll station.. the night we went, it was a 25 year old white female... That doesn't ring sushi to me! Clams Casino- it was the first time i've tried them, so I can't accurately judge. Not something I'd order again though... seemed soggy. Dinner: Sweet Chili Glazed Mahi Mahi - the rice, wasn't as coconut-y as I would have liked, but hey, I still ate it all.. And the fish was perfectly cooked. Blackened Tuna Steak Sashimi - I love tuna steak sashimi. If you're looking for just a protein packed dish, this is it. It's two whopping portions of tuna steak and a dime size about of seaweed salad. Both were really fresh, nothing of a "wow" factor. Overall, I would come back to give this another shot, since a lot of the yelpers seem to love it.
(3)Kel S.
Went back for a second try... and wow. My expectations were exceeded. Amazing oysters, one of the best lobster bisques I have ever had. We were a party of 16 and were taken care of with ease. Everyone sitting in proximity of me was jealous and rightfully so. I have never seen so much lobster meat in bisque before in MY ENTIRE LIFE. An entire, in-tact claw was in my cup of soup. The drinks I tried were great (Pomegranate Cosmo and Lime Ricky). The seared tuna was also good, but it was too much food having shared appetizers. It also arrived as 3 steaks. I would suggest making it 2 steaks or slicing it into thin strips so it doesn't appear to be just "hunks of meat" on the plate. Everyone at the table seemed to enjoy their entrees as well. Overall, very well done SP!!!
(4)Christian P.
This place is one of the only reliably good restaurants in town. Problem is, everyone knows it. Ever experience traffic in downtown New Delhi? That's how I feel when I'm here. Packed, loud as hell, the crushing closeness of strangers and the lingering smell of fish. It's anarchy. And a reservation doesn't necessarily mean you'll actually get a table at the "reserved" time. It may mean you wait 20 minutes less than some other poor fool. But the food and service is great, so we cope with it.
(4)Veronica F.
Crab Fest - my darling, how I've missed you. Really excellent food, great service, and worth the price.
(4)Amy A.
What a terrible experience tonight. Have been here several times in the past and had decent meals and good overall experience. After tonight, I will not be going back. There were 6 in my reservation... 6 very good friends (40's and 50's) who hang out all the time and wanted to have dinner here for one of my our birthdays. We ended up at a very small table for 6 in a middle room. And next to us was a table of 8 or 10 "men" who were having a bachelor party. Who sticks a bachelor party right smack in the middle of the restaurant where most people are looking for a quiet evening with friends???The drinks were certainly flowing at their table! They proceeded to get louder and louder with each drink. Did I mention we were not sitting at the bar? The bar (which was jam packed) was quieter than the very small middle room they jammed us in with the bachelor party. When one if us made a comment to the waitress, we were told she has two small children at home so she guessed she was used to noise. We decided it was time to go after a wine glass shattered at their table. When one of us complained to the manager at the front on our way out, he tried to blow him off and say they can't predict how people will act. True, but when decent people come in for a quiet meal and get shoved in with the loud and obnoxious riff raff, we complain and are basically told "too bad", you can be sure the decent people won't be back.
(1)Victor V.
Great seafood in a classy atmosphere! We went over for lunch (on our way from Maine to NY, Sole is conveniently located not too far from the highway) and enjoyed both daily specials and from the main menu. Definately a place to come back for a (formal) dinner when we're around!
(5)Toni M.
Great $6 Happy Hour menu 4-6:30 Monday - Friday. All bar menu items $6 and $6 Vodka drinks. You can't get a better meal for $6. The food is great, the bartenders are friendly and attentive, the bar area is HUGE with really big comfy booths, and atmosphere is great. Sushi, tacos, crab sliders, oysters (6 for $6), sauteed mussels, clam chowder, the menu goes on and on. On weekends they have a late night menu after 11pm Get here early or you won't get a seat!
(5)Aman S.
Pretty good seafood place. I would have given them more stars, but when I asked for the fish without oil or butter drizzed on it, they said - sure not a problem. I got my "baked" fish that was lightly crusted and pan sautéed in oil!!! What a disapointment. Maybe I was not direct enough. I will have to try it again. The apps were really good - good crab cake and fish burger patty.
(2)Wanda W.
Love the Sole Proprietor....We do Happy Hour often and it is always a wonderful experience...The food is great with chefs making your entree right in front of you. The staff and bartender are treating you like first class and fulfilling all of your need....The bartender MARK is the best!!!! He makes us feel so welcome and the service is impeccable!!!! If you have a chance to go to the Sole's Happy Hour or just to dine, please do, It is always a Fabulous time at the Sole!
(5)Sean J.
Go here for the late night menu! On weekends after 11pm they have a special late night menu in the bar area. Everything is 50% off and you can stuff you face with oysters for nothing. Great spot to hit with a group after the bars! My one complaint was the service. Our waiter seemed very over-worked and was not too friendly.
(4)J D.
ok, I was prepared to be disappointed. I was ready to snub this place - but damn, didn't they execute on everything wonderfully here. The place was jam packed, the bar too - but I was able to get a drink and settle in. Once seated, things moved along at the right pace, quick enough for us to enjoy the menu, sip drinks and take the place in - and get down to the food. Everything brought to the table was prepared really really well, things looked good, tasted great made the evening a real success cuisine wise. The service was top notch, friendly and attentive. Thanks for wowing me - and yes, I will be back.
(4)Jason M.
This place was a joke.. Been wanting to go here for almost 5 years, finally had an excuse to go. It started as soon as we walked in, we had to find some one never mind being greeted, we were sat right away as we had a reservation. We ordered apps, ONE came out promptly, the others took over 25 minutes after the first app was already eaten, I had to ask where the rest of the food was.. then about another 20 min after that our food came.. took almost an hour to get our food. I got the King Salmon and my wife got the new your strip. Steak was cooked the way she wanted it no complaints for her. My Salmon was good minus the fact I almost choked on the 6 bones I found in it, it came with these little crab cakes.. they SUCKED!! all filler and they were over cooked, just junk I didn't even eat them ( or finnish the salmon.. All wasted). Our waitress sucked so bad, she forgot my 10 dollar side dish.. I didnt even want to waste my breath complaining I just wanted her to come back so i could pay and leave. 100 bucks later and almost 3 hours we left. what a joke, screw this place, Ill never go back. 111 is my only option for the "high end Worcester trio". I would not recommend this place to anyone.. Anyone that thinks this place is good is just a yuppy with money to spend at a place like this. Hell I can get a better a piece of fish at olive garden, and better service too! I feel so ripped off after eating here..
(1)Amanda Z.
My husband and I went to this establishment for our anniversary. We have heard good things and were interested to try this restaurant out. It was so busy even with reservations we had to wait a little bit but not too long. We were seated in the back with in a line of open tables that were tight in between booth tables. Being a busy restaurant there was constant traffic surrounding me that we had to ask to switch to a booth. The food was delicious and the waitress was very sweet. and accommodating. I enjoyed the meal but the environment was loud and tight.
(3)Brian M.
after a recommendation from a coworker I decided to drive out after work. I had a crab cake app and a bowl of seafood chowder. The crab cake was tiny, the crab tasted a little old, it was quite spicy too. The seafood chowder tasted very fishy without much else for flavor. One piece of clam was inedible it was so chewy and foul tasting. The place left me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling unsatisfied. The Wachusetts County Ale was great, the servers were ok but not terribly friendly. Maybe I visited the wrong time of year, but the haddock I had at the Holidy Inn I would take over that chowder any day.
(2)Amnon S.
My family and I were on a trip for Presidents Week. We were all in the mood for sushi; so, we decided to look for a place to eat. While we were looking we stumbled across a place called "Sole Proprietor." We sat down at a comfortable, elegant, beautiful table. We ordered food; such as the "Tuna Crunch", the Ora King Salmon, the Cagin Trout, and the Shrimp California Roll. Plus, for the kids we ordered spaghetti from an out-of-this-World kids menu. It came with crayons and a lot of space to draw . Everything was simply divine!!!! We enjoyed every moment and they had amazing service!!!! After we thought it couldn't get any better; well, let's just say it did. Desert was delicious. All we asked for was a Chocolate Tulip cup. It was Heaven. Also, they have lots of free parking space!!!! All-In-all it was GREAT!
(5)A Z.
Best Fish place in Central Mass very good lunch specials. friendly staff. good as well for larger parties
(5)Pierre T.
Cannot go wrong with The Sole. Everytime we dine here the food is fresh and tasty. We were here last Sunday and arrived just as they were opening. Got seated quickly service was great. The waitress overheard my Mom talking about a smaller portion and suggested a lunch menu item for her instead. I would recommend this place to anyone seeking fresh quality seafood.
(5)Rich W.
I took a date here b/c I've heard so many good things. Other then that fluorescent sign outside, everything was great! The service was excellent! I think our waiter's name was Joe, he was very nice, very willing to recommend dishes, and was phenomenal. The decor and ambience I thought looked very neat. Considering it was a seafood place the decor was very fitting. It gives you the vibe like you are on a sailboat or fishing vessel w/o the stench! The food was great, everything was cooked well and we didn't have to wait that long. We ordered some tapas and had the clam chowder, the caesar salad, some sushi, and other smaller dishes which were very good. I highly recommend this place to anybody who is looking to take a date here, or looking for a nice place for dinner on Friday night. It is a little on the expensive side, but I have no problem paying for quality.
(4)Omar Z.
This is a traditional New England fish house. If it were any place else, kudos would be flying off the shelf for the perfectly cooked fish, but here it is necessary for three stars. And they take some baby steps towards four: 1) Creativity. A lobster stir fry done with a whole lobster leaves you feeling a bit heavy with a disproportionate amount of pasta. Appreciative for the effort and presentation though. 2) Elegance of flavor. Cherrystones on the half shell are well selected and served with finely chopped red onion in addition to the more standard horse radish. 3) Hitting on the standards: A solid selection of raw oysters, chowders (the clam one being a tad too potatoey), and interestingly enough for a traditional New England fish house: Sushi. And the bread rolls were nice and soft. 4) Variety of fresh fish. The Ocean Catfish being heavily sold was almost worthy of the hype in texture but far from it in flavor. Disappointingly few preparations, though. 5) Great, professional waitstaff. If you've ever compared Boston television local news to any other news show in the country, you can begin to understand and appreciate good, serious New England service. Two servers per table here. 6) Proportions: Uber large. It's fine dining in a working class city. Fill 'em up. Those four filets of sole seemed a bit excessive though, even given the Restaurant's name. This place has a fine reputation, and actually, it had been on our list for years! But, know that this is not the type of place that really goes the extra mile to dazzle your buds. It just does a solid, and more than workmanlike job at giving you a well cooked seafood meal which you will find memorable in some way or another. And it works well in the community, setting up all the right elements and a few "stretch goals" for a special family occasion. Happy Birthday, Mom. Thanks, Dad! We loved it. Looking forward to the next one. Love, OZ.
(4)Wendell W.
I'll make this really short. The service is really good but the food is just average. Maybe if you like bland food you would think the seafood is great, but there are more herbs and spices other than black pepper, salt and parsley. I honestly don't believe I had any salt or pepper in my food. Legal Seafood may be a chain but at least it gives you more flavor.
(2)Andy F.
I'm not a huge seafood fan outside of coastal cities but this place could change my mind. If you can go during Crabfest (which is the month of July) don't pass up on the specials. My absolute hands down favorite is the Crab Stuffed Portabello-- out of this world. Second to this would be the Trout. Stay away from the BBQ Tuna-- yes I said Barbecued Tuna-- I've not made a mistake this big since ordering the Goat Cheese and Tomato Omelette at Zaftigs. The staff is upscale as are some of the prices, but this is a nice restaurant with some really outstanding food. Worthy of special occasion dinners or a nice lunch.
(4)Kevin J.
The food was excellent, service was very good, and the drink selection was decent. The spiciness of the fried squid was a nice touch on a regular appetizer.
(4)Deanna D.
So we were a party of 6 on a Sun night and the place was packed. The hostess greeted us and sat us immediately even without a reservation. The servers promptly greeted us and were very friendly and knowledgeable. The decor consisted of dark wood, pictures of fish and mounted fish along the wall--Not exactly the romantic ambiance but a nice restaurant. It was very busy in there so it got a bit loud as the night progressed. They have a great vine list with a huge selection of bottles. They even had a good selection of wines by the glass. The clams casino was really tasty. The freshly baked warm rolls were yummy. The clam chowder had great consistency and flavor but lacked in clams. I had the Crab and Langostino stuffed Sole which ended up being trout since they ran out of sole. Sole Proprietor running out of sole--a little ironic? Regardless it was very good. The fish was perfectly cooked and the stuffing was delicious. It was served with mashed sweet potatoes, asparagus and beets--- Everything was tasty minus the asparagus; it was steamed and flavorless. My bf had the Salmon Oscar which he really enjoyed.... again the asparagus was the complaint. We had a variety of dishes at the table and everyone enjoyed their meal. Very weak coffee, cappuccino and espresso which was a bit disappointing. Over all a good experience. The service was excellent, the prices are reasonable and the quality was good. Sole Proprietor is good option for a nice dinner while in the Worcester area.
(4)Ann P.
I have been dining here since I was in my 20's so a longgggggg time. The place is not the same. Go for the bar and to watch a game. Our waiter Max was great. The sushi was mediocre to bad. The lobster bisque had a huge chunk of lobster but had no taste. The shrimp in my Bloody Mary was soggy yuck. The bread was great and real butter (in foil packets). Mom loved her salmon and fries. The Caesar salad was fine. No more..the days of this being my go to spot in Wormtown are over. 75 with a generous tip.
(2)Cee Cee S.
Another date with another db. At least this guy had some balls and picked the place. The parking lot was a circus. There are attendants directing you here and there and you can only park in the spot they wave you into. I was confused....was I dining in Worcester or attending a show at Gillette. The inside was nice and we were promptly seated. We were tucked in a back dining room with several small parties and a large group of senior citizens. One which was exuding a certain Eau du Depends. Not the best dining ambiance. But how do you say I want to move because someone here smells like pee? The conversation was stiff as were the drinks. Thank goodness for that otherwise, I wouldn't have made it. The food was delicious, but I found the portions large. The fried artichokes were unexpected stars. We topped the evening off with a coffee. Thankfully, they were weak otherwise I would have been up for hours thinking about what a jerk this kid was.
(3)Timothy R.
I believe i read somewhere that the Sole has achieved national accolades for their seafood. And they deserve every commendation. The ambiance is what I'd call "classy casual." Basically, you can't get away with gym shorts but a jacket is by no means required. A nice button down and jeans for men to give you an idea. The dining room is slightly dark in a great way, allowing for a romantic atmosphere if bringing an interest or partner. The wait staff is top notch. They consistently work in teams, so you'll have at least two waitors every time you dine. One usually serves as an assistant to the other but both are usually very attentive. I have never had a bad meal at this restaurant. Their sushi comes in many different varieties and the chefs are creative in the roll designs. The Firecracker roll is a favorite (tempura). The entree menu is large with basically everything seafood you could possibly imagine. I usually stick with a white fish, which are available blackened or grilled with potato and vegetable. But if you are looking for a more dramatic choice they have very creative combinations of fish, pastas, potatoes, vegetables, etc. The Sole has a full bar with a large wine list and a variety of cocktails. Their house sangria is to die for. Yes, It is expensive. But so very worth it.
(4)Elissa B.
My husband took me to The Sole for Valentine's day last night and I have to say, it didn't disappoint! Not only did we get seated right away, the food was FANTASTIC and the service was excellent! My husband even remarked at how good the service was and usually he is oblivious to it all. He got the blackened swordfish with potatoes au gratin, and I got the broiled haddock with roasted potatoes and butternut squash. Not a morsel left. We had Red Sangrias with the meal and coffee and the Chocolate Terrine for dessert. Unbelievable experience. It was so good, that we tipped the waiters 25% instead of the normal 20%. It was a $100 bill, but totally worth it. If you are on the fence....don't be.
(5)Stacey A.
The good ole Sole. I've never been a huge fan but I don't hate it either. Expensive - another company sponsored lunch spot.
(3)William E.
Just went here today for the first time....very very good. Just sat in the bar with a client & had drinks & appetizers. M80 Chicken - so so Buffalo Shrimp - great Clams Casino - great Swordfish Burgers - fantastic Scorpion Roll - fantastic x 100 Can't wait to get back there to explore the main course menu...
(4)Julia Z.
Cheaper than Legal Seafood, but better in taste. Highly recommend their dozen Oysters for appetizer. My all time favorite is their Tuna Steak; I've tried several Tuna Steak entrées in the Greater Boston Area and so far Sole Proprietor has the best.
(5)Tony C.
Had the chicken with a mini shrimp appetizer. The shrimp tasted and looked like it came out of a box from some low budget grocery store. Over priced food of an average quality.
(2)Bruce L.
The Sole Proprietor... has been a favorite of ours for a long time. Great seafood, I have never had a bad meal here. My favorites include the Tuna Barcelona, Tuna Sashimi dinner, the clam chowder, the tuna crunch roll (great!) and also the lobster ravioli appetizer is to die for. Finally the tulip cup mouse for dessert. So about the Sole. It is a rather busy place so reservations are good if you can get them, very popular in the area. The service has always been top notch and the food cooked to perfection, really! Many different kinds of seafood. Tip: They have a set menu price on Sundays for $21.99 choice of three apps, three entrees, three desserts. For this set price you can have a cup of clam chowder or garden salad, tuna Barcelona (tuna steak stuffed with feta and sun dried tomatoes, seared with peppercorns) and the yummy Tulip Cup dessert. Nice way to spend an hour or so trust me. Yes, there are other options but this is what I had Sunday it was great. I have been here with large groups and had wonderful meetings, I think you can reserve a big side room if you have enough people and money ;) Also great for a special meal with the one you love. Lastly, they have a late night menu with $6 items but I'm not sure what it includes.
(5)Josh F.
Went during restaurant week for the first time. It was crowded as expected and the waitstaff was obviously scrambling to keep up - which they did a great job of. Atmosphere seemed dated to me. Got the broiled scallops. They were simply meh. Oh and someone forgot to top it with breadcrumbs and threw them on raw at the end. Haven't been back since and not sure I'm going to.
(2)Paul L.
Excellent! Hoppin' location, very friendly staff, and the food was wonderful. Fish was fresh and perfectly cooked with tasty accompaniments (fried artichokes...yum) Decent chowder as well.
(4)J M.
We hadn't been to the Sole in quite a while, but decided to try it. I have never been so disappointed! The service was great, but the dinner wasn't. The clam chowder is full of flour and potatoes, and too much pepper. Why isn't it as good as Legal Seafood's? My "maple glazed" scallops were plain, unseasoned (steamed?) scallops unceremoniously dumped into a pool of butternut squash. The "maple glaze" was drizzled into the squash instead of onto the scallops. Why weren't the scallops sauteed in butter and the glaze done in the pan? The accompanying broccoli was so hard as to seem uncooked. My husband had the stuffed flounder that the menu promised was stuffed with crab and other seafood, but he could find none amidst the bread stuffing. What has happened to the Sole? This dinner was Sunday, March 17, 2013, at 6:00 PM. This is going to be taken off my list of Worcester's best.
(2)Katie P.
This is the best seafood restaurant I have ever been to. The Scorpion Roll with pineapple is AMAZING. Every meal we have had here has been outstanding. This is the restaurant that I miss the most now that we live in CT. Parking is sometimes tough. If you have to wait to be seated it is well worth it!
(5)Ann K.
The Sole Proprietor was VERY busy on a Tuesday night but after a short wait we were seated. Seating was interesting as it was a booth - spacious enough in terms of seating space but the table leg was so big that it took up most of the leg room. Add to that huge menus and oversized bread plates and we were out of space before we even got our drinks. It was "Lobsterfest" time so there were alot of great lobster based specials. The table next to us opted for the 2.5 lb monsters but we picked more subdued entrees. The Lobster Risotto was very good although very light on the promised artichokes and asparagus tips. The food was good enough to override the downside of the cramped seating but if you are tall, I suggest that you ask for a table rather than a booth!
(3)steven R.
really overrated in my opinion high prices for little. I just don't get it the service was ok but not as good as it should of been for what they were charging the was clean I sat at the bar and I understand that is a seafood restaurant and don't mind smelling some fish but it was a strong smell. I have always been told if it smell really fishy then it is not fresh and stay away. with that being said I wanted to try something so I had a few drinks and the seafood chowder it was good not great it had large chunks of a fish in it and a few small pieces of something else but not much of a variety as I was hoping for. overall I was just disappointed with the whole experience.
(2)Alan P.
We made reservations and asked for a quiet table. What we got was a room with a table of 6 very loud people. We complained to Max the manager. Nothing was done. We heard about their colonoscopy and prep. Will not go their again since this is the client they prefer!
(2)Thomas N.
lunch recently....ate in the bar area, verrrry noisy, with a perticularly noisy person or two.....service was pleasant and attentive....bar special was 6$ russian river vodka drinks, they were good although the martinis were small.....softshell crab (crab time) very good, seafood assortmnet good, fish was a little on the dry isde, very attractive area and it's own parking lot....have been there before, will be there again...
(4)SaraLee C.
AMBIANCE: loud, crowded, unpleasant. An up-scale (and slightly bigger) diner experience at best. SERVICE: our waitress was not very knowledgeable about their drink options in specific, and in general, just plain unmemorable. PRICE: Given the quality of the food, just plain expensive! OVERALL: This place felt like an overpriced and dressed-up Bertucci's with a penchant for seafood, but, without the mouth-watering rolls.
(2)Suzanne G.
I really liked this place. Went for lunch with two colleagues and we were seated quickly, and attended to efficiently. I had a salmon tips with lemon caper sauce with roasted vegetables. Quite delicious, dessert was very good too, flan in buttery caramel sauce. My companions enjoyed their lunches as well. It was very busy, our meals were good, prices are really good. I'd go again when in the area.
(4)Matt R.
This place is pretty good... maybe 4-stars for Worcester, but definitely not a 4-star restaurant in any other city. All of the food is overpriced, you will be hard pressed to not spend 25-30 bucks per person here even for lunch. The Oysters are fresh (I would definitely recommend them) Sushi - stay away from it, it is simply not that good. Chowder - I like the chowder here, a great staple I miss their bluefish Pate' - was delicious! All of their entrees are good, but not great. You are better off taking a 40 minute trip to Providence or boston to eat at a great seafood restaurant... the food simply does not justify the price. definitely not 4-stars
(3)Marcel B.
Great seafood restaurant. I eat here very frequently with visitors and colleagues because it's the nicest restaurant close to work, and I'm always very happy with the cuisine and service. Great place.
(5)Antoinette P.
Visited from out of town and met some local friends who suggested this restaurant. Service was great -- nice balance of respectable and kid friendly. Sautéed mushrooms, sautéed spinach, and mac and cheese were delicious! Quick service without feeling rushed.
(4)Angela D.
I heard so many great things about the Sole Proprietor so I decided to give it a shot. I went there with my boyfriend and we got clam chowder and some lobster thing with a bunch of sauce on it. This place is totally overrated. The service was neglectful. The location was fine. However, the food was not very good. The clam chowder was decent, but was gritty. The lobster was okay, but the sauce really over powered everything. It's also overpriced. I wouldn't go back.
(2)Emily A.
I went to the Sole regularly when I worked downtown Worcester for lunch. I've gone over the past 9 years several times for dinner for special occasions. I went back a couple months ago with a friend who still works in the area and very nearly sent my food (one of the sandwiches on the lunch specials) back. It was almost inedible. The spices used clashed, the fish was overdone and rubbery, the fries had that slight bitter taste they sometimes get when (I assume) the oil is too old or overused... Not good. I never send food back and I never complain unless it's really bad. I've been a waitress, I know what food service is. I think the quality at the Sole has gone down hill over the past several years and the prices have stayed risen. As my palate for good food and alcohol has developed, the Sole has not. Their wine list is good, their beer and liquor offerings are sophomoric at best. It's disappointing they're not waking up to the possibilities of excellent food and beer pairings and the movement for excellence in food. Granted, this is a seafood place 50+ miles from the coast, so there's only so much you can expect, but I think any creativity and verve the place used to have has gone the way of complacence in a steady stream of regulars. The bartender there during the day is wonderful. I just wish the food there were as good. It's disappointing. I'd love a good local seafood place that would serve sustainable fish. I almost never eat it any more because of sustainability issues and I miss it. I'm just not spending money at the Sole.
(2)D M.
My husband and I went to the Sole last night. We go maybe 2-3 times a year but we haven't been for almost a year. We were really disappointed with the service and our meals. First of all the waitresses seemed over-whelmed. They messed up our salad order and put the wrong dressing on the salad. Ok not a real biggy. Then my husband ordered the clam chowder which he said was good and I ordered the stuffed lobster which lacked flavor and was chewy because it was not fresh. Please see review below from 12/13 which states that their lobster was rubbery also. The reason for this I concluded is because they either cooked beforehand and refrigerate or use frozen and heated up from there because you get the food out faster. Either way it was not fresh. I know my lobster and if you like lobster you will be disappointed. I recommend that you ask them if it is cooked before serving. See what they have to say. Another issue I had was that it was suppose to be stuffed lobster. That means stuffing right? Thats what stuffing means to me. Well there were some broiled scallops and shrimp thrown into the shell. They were good but not stuffing. Finally, I asked for a 1.5 pd lobster and I am pretty sure thats not what I got but thats what I paid for. So in addition to being disappointed now I felt ripped off. I just wanted to get the heck out of there as quickly as possible. We will not be going back any time too soon. It was a big disappointment.
(2)Jeffrey L.
My go to place for seafood in Worcester, it used to be happy hour but I soon realized the decline in happy hour quality for food. However their dinner and lunch items normally served are still exceptional. Think of it as an alternative to legal seafood but the best thing about this place is the service! I would give it 4.5 if I could, I've had bad run ins with some servers but the management is always spot on, they cleared my whole bill once but of course I still paid anyways, couldn't believe my eyes when the check was 0.00 dollars for 7 people. Being classy never goes out of style and I will truly miss the sole proprietor once I move. A must try for people in the area.
(4)Leah M.
$6 bar menu!! (Which used to be $5). Actually, I'm a little disappointed it's no longer $5, because THAT was a good deal. Now it's just a fairly good deal. My friends and I go to get our sushi fix. The Tiger eye is by far the best, it's wonderful and hugee. Also the white sangria sole bowl is great; light, fruity, enjoyable. Just if you go for the bar menu, go early enough. It get's really busy really fast and you have to get your order in by 6:30
(4)Jim W.
I like Sole. The staff seems friendly and the atmosphere is lively. Been twice but have had mixed impressions of the food. First time I had the bay scallop newburg. Being a scallop lover thought it'd be a slam dunk. I really didn't think it through though. Must have been tired, since I forgot I'm a fan of sea scallops not bay. The whole dish was a bit too rich, runny, and sweet for my taste. The second time dining I had the Tuna Barcelona. It was fantastic. Huge portions (took home half of it) and the entree and sides tasted great. Definitely recommend the dish.
(3)lella b.
I went with my parents (sea food lovers in the flat lands of the midwest) and myself (deathly allergic and live in MA). The portions are great, my parents RAVED on the 2 chowders (thanks fellow yelpers on that one - i had suggested they get one of each). My dad is a clam chow-dah freak (lol) and said it was among the best he's ever had. My dad did the Scallop Entree special dish, my mom a basic lobster. Both were great, and scored "oh, we WILL come back here". Parking was easy, make reservations: quite busy at 6:00 on 12/30. The meals came with potato, mixed veggies so when we ordered sides we we a bit vegtable heavy (hey, that's fine with me). $5 martini (lemon drop) great, nut martini, ok ($7) (but i'm PICKY about them!!!). I had a NY Strip Steak: excellent for a seafood resturant and they made sure to cook in a seafood free zone. They have an extensive GF menu. We ordered ice cream (coffee) and key lime pie for dessert. I wasn't a fan of the they key lime pie, ice cream was excellent. Portions are HUGE, great non-seafood options, great wine and martini list. We will go back - it was a fun mixed crowd with excellent service and a great local business. Only reason for missing a 5 star is 1) key lime pie and 2) forgetting our side of asparagus (but getting it then deducting from bill...totally not asked for but nice!).
(4)Aubrey S.
My Sole! My Darling Sole! What has happened to you? Do you not like us anymore? The college kids who adore you? (Though, congrats to Mark on the promo.) You separate my group of ten, "policy, policy." Is this new policy from just this past week? You separate us, but you do not even separate our checks. Gratuity of 18% for 10 people? But the menu says we must number above 12 humans! You make us wait for over 45 minutes collectively for some sushi rolls and drinks? 20 more for the check? Do we kids no longer matter to you? Even though I've spent more here than I dare say? Even though we come ecstatic for your food and drinks every time we have entered your doors? We are sad, we hang our heads as we leave, I blush at the embarrassing crush I had on you. But Sole, I thought I loved you. I miss the days where you opened to us your comforting arms and Wellfleet oysters. My heart still aches, I have had to edit myself from a 1 star for you to a 2 star. I clearly need a rebound restaurant.
(2)Dan H.
Great seafood. Fair prices. Great setting and comfortable bar area. Worcestor has many strong options for dinner, and this is among the best of what I have tried. If you're a seafood aficionado, it's a must try for western MA. I have only had good experiences there.
(4)J S.
We've given the Sole a couple tries and are unimpressed. Their seafood dishes are just average in my book. The Sole just doesn't compare to what you can find near the shore.
(3)Teri L.
Going out to meet my sisters for a Christmas Lunch at the Sole was such a treat for me!! I never get to the Sole as much as I want. I think the last time I was here was about......wow...over 6 years ago?? Yes, I'm ashamed because I can't imagine that it took THIS LONG to get back here!! I will repent. I rushed in because I hate being late and yes...I was late. Sitting down finally I took in the beautiful Christmas decor to make the very handsome style even better. What I love about this seafood restaurant...it doesn't smell like one. Seriously! I have been in some seafood establishments that the smell hits you at the door and you take it home with you on your clothes...bleh not this place. We ordered up 3 apps..crab stuffed portabella mushroom, goat cheese cake and popcorn shrimp. I'm not a shrimp lover so I coudn't tell you how that was but my sister Anne and boyfriend Nick get it all the time. The stuffed mushroom was to freakin die for!!!! The crab was perfect, creamy and complimented the mushroom exactly. The goat cheese cake and toasted bread was amazing! I almost licked my knife. I ordered for my entree the ginger cream scallops with apples. It was so full of flavor, the scallops so perfectly cooked (I have this thing about scallops being just right), the rice was mounded in the middle with a creamy Parmesan sauce with cooked apples poured over it. I couldn't stop eating it. I wanted to but no..I couldn't. I then ordered...as if I didn't have enough to eat...a chocolate tulip cup to end our wonderful lunch. It was good. Very pretty to look at. Very creamy and nice. All in all, it was a fabulous time at the Sole. A fine dining restaurant that's well established and well loved.
(4)Rachael B.
Took my sister here for lunch while visiting. The food was good - i had the clam chowder and the salmon and my sis had a salad and the lobster roll. service was a little slow and a little awkward - our waitress just seemed a little out of place, lol. definitely a yummy lunch in worcestor!
(4)Kevin H.
Easily my favorite restaurant since moving to the Worcester area. The food is outstanding, the service is great and they do a great job of mixing up the menu seasonally. Check often for specials like the $5 happy hour bar menu. Great way to have a few drinks and some really great sushi for little money. Also, lobsterfest is a great time for a $20 lobster dinner, although we seem to get talked into upsizing every time. I love sushi. Been to Japan quite a few times and the Sole has some of the best around.
(5)Michael N.
I have eaten at the Sole Proprietor twice, and I would give it 10 stars each time. Most recently we went there a few weeks ago. The staff is amazingly friendly, helpful and courteous. They provide you with a lead waiter (so to speak) and a second waiter to help make sure every need is tended to. The waiter was helpful with recommending a bottle of wine. We had clam chowder - thick & delicious and lobster bisque, which had several chunks of lobster. For our entrees, we both had baked stuffed lobster. They allow you to specify the weight of the lobster, the stuffing, and whether you would like them to remove the lobster from its shell for you or if you would prefer to "do the work" yourself. This is a more upscale restaurant with great prices for the amount of food, its deliciousness and the ambience. I LOVE the Sole Proprietor.
(5)Katie C.
I went here with a group of 6 for my roommate's birthday. When I saw the outside I did not expect it to be anything like what it was. It looked like a fancy clam shack. But it was so much more than that. Everything was top of the line. From the mussels appetizer to the clam chowder to the blackened swordfish and lastly to the tirimisu. The service was excellent. My waiter was very knowledgable about the entire menu and was able to answer all of our questions and he recommended me a wine that paired with my dish. The prices were a little steep for a typical night out for me, but very much worth it. For a special occasion I would absolutely go back again!
(5)Alex H.
Yes, this is an (or the) upscale seafood place in the desert of Worcester. The food is on the higher end of the spectrum but certainly is well worth it. I took a group of about 30 people here, the check came to about 60$ per person. The service was quite good, as the 2 staff members were able to handle the group quite well. However, they attempted to cram us into a function room like sardines. The cold air from the vents bothered several of my guests. Overall, a fantastic experience, but a few little quirks to make a few people less than perfectly satisfied.
(4)Jayde B.
This is a great spot for so many reasons. 1. The food is great. 2. Happy hour is a great way to get great prices on their food (Others have written the details in previous reviews) 3. The food is great. 4. The food is great. 5. The wine is delicious - even their cheapest glass! Waitstaff are knowledgeable and helpful. The seafood is wonderfully fresh and continually changes. The appetizers and main dishes are plentiful and the desserts are decadent! This place is a gem in the middle of Worcester. However, the wait can be long even on weeknights so call ahead! (There are no reservations for the bar however) Haven't had the sushi yet - I'll be trying that next happy hour!
(5)Mike L.
I would give it a 4, but my meal just wasn't wonderful. Service was outstanding. Mike and Max were super attentive and exactly what I wanted in waiters (except for the rec). Can't complain there. I ordered the clam chowder and the lobster Newman. The newman is essentially a whole 1. 5 lb lobster cut up, cooked in a bisque like sauce, and covered with crumbled ritz crackers. Not as flavorful as I would have liked (mike's recommendation). I had food envy when I saw the lobster stir fry and the classic steamed lobster. The sushi menu and raw menu items looked pretty good too. I'd go back , but I'll be ordering differently.
(3)Tani S.
If only we didn't live so far away from this great restaurant! Legal Seafoods (in our Cambridge neighborhood) doesn't come close! Such a tasteful interior, with wood tones and muted colors (comfortable chairs). We went for lunch on Saturday and enjoyed warm rolls and a stuffed sole dish and potato crusted trout. Both entrees were delightful (the pilaf accompanying the sole was flavorful) and we were more shocked that each dish with it's ample portions and well balanced flavors was only $11, roughly the same per dish as our normal breakfast places in Cambridge/Boston. We ended our wonderful meal with the indulgent whoopie pies. It was the perfect New England meal.
(5)Theresa N.
Best happy hour ever. From 430-630pm Mon-Fri, Sole Proprietor has an amazing Happy hour featuring a $5 bar menu and 42 below martinis&cosmos. Made last minute plans to get drinks here with some friends and was pleasantly surprised. It's really crowded during happy hour and difficult to find parking in the small lot but there's some street parking in the neighborhood surrounding the restaurant. The 42below drinks weren't great but the food off the bar menu was impressive. We ordered the Tiger Eye and Scorpion Roll off the sushi portion of the bar menu. Surprisingly good for a restaurant that doesn't specialize solely in sushi. We also ordered mussels which were perfectly tender and extremely fresh. Service was pretty good given the fact that the bar area was so busy. I have yet to eat in the dining room but I love the bar there so much that i doubt that I'll ever make it all the way in for table service.
(4)Jason C.
I stop by this place every time im in woosta and its still good every time. There are new items on the menu at every visit and the wait staff is friendly and attentive.
(4)Patrick S.
The pinnacle of seafood in central mass. The food should largely speak for itself; but I'll say that they change up the menu seasonally, and they always have specials targeting a particular "in" fish. You'd do well to take advantage. I find the service here to be consistently amazing. Most recently, my drinks would be refreshed just -before- I put down the glass after finishing. I don't have much more to add. Food is great, and leave rom for dessert! Just go, if you haven't already!
(5)Jess T.
The Sole is a place that has never let me down. I'm a seafood fanatic, and growing up on the ocean has made me slightly snobbish. Their seafood scampi medley is glorious and the portions are definitely plentiful. The decor is dark, sleek and sexy....three words one does not often use when talking about anything in downtown Worcester, but the Sole manages to bring some class to the city. My all time favorite item to order is the sushi platter. It runs about $22, but there's no way anyone can finish it in one sitting. I love to get that for dinner and then have the leftovers for lunch the next day. Their bloody Mary's are very tasty. Usually garnished with a jumbo shrimp, they are worth every penny. The only negative I have about the Sole is the parking. The lot is very small, and often very icy in the winter. The ownership needs to consider additional parking or investing in more rock salt otherwise they're bound to have a lawsuit on their hands one of these days.
(4)Alison K.
Great food. Ate here during restaurant week so it wasn't too pricey.
(4)Anne H.
Well, I have been here about nine months now. Tried a lot of new restaurants and still couldn't find something that really had that "wow' factor. I have been sticking with the Texas Roadhouse as the go to place. It was hubby's birthday and he loves seafood but we never can seem to find a good place to get some other than legal seafood. We went in at the busy lunch hour, which told me something right there, no parking, the place was packed. We did get a cozy booth. The atmosphere was surprising pleasant. We had two waiters that really knew how to keep the flow going and keep everyone happy. We were off to a good start. We had the fish chowder and my daughter had the clam chowder. Now, THAT is what heaven must taste like. Big chunks of fish, a rich, tasty broth. UUMMMM still dreaming of it two days later. The clam chowder had a smokey, bacon taste, and the most tender clams. Seriously, a bowl of this is a meal. The cup was $4.00 and the bowl, I think $6.00. Move on to the main course. We had the fish and chips, the haddock. Fresh, fresh, fresh. The shoe string fries were kind of a chintzy thing, but who cares. The fish portion was huge. Hubby had the salmon, the chef special of the day. He really enjoyed it so much. We will return. So much to try. I am now looking at the review next to mine with the $6.00 bar menu. Hello. Sounds like a plan next week. Had we not been so full, we would of been doing the happy dance on the way out. We had to home and recover from stuffing ourselves!
(5)Mary Ann C.
Still an excellent seafood restaurant after all these years! Like an old friend, Sole Proprietor was still there and still serving up some old favorites as well as some new additions. I loved the Lobsterfest menu. They offer lobster with deviled eggs and lobster mac n cheese as well as many other appetizers and main courses. The lobsterbake was just the way it should be with steamed lobster,mussels, clams (I had mine raw on the half shell), potatoes and corn on the cob. By far the highlight of the meal were the clams. They were fresh, cold, salty and they gave me plenty of lemon wedges. The dinner included soup or salad but we had already had the clam chowder which was not Sole Proprieter's original recipe. What did they do to it??? I understand that they have renovated the place and modernized the menu but it would be nice if they offered the traditional thick chowder that tasted like a fisherman cooked it up on the docks! I was not impressed with the new recipe but it was not bad either. We picked salad and it was a delicious mix of field greens with cucumber and tomato. The honey mustard dressing was perfect. The maple glazed scallops looked more like an appetizer than a main course. I would not recommend it for anyone who is hungry, however the scallops were delicious. The lobster was not a female (sweeter) as requested and was overcooked. They quickly replaced it with another one that wasn't like rubber and were friendly about the concern. Overall I still love coming here when I am home visiting.
(4)John P.
We were traveling home from Conn and we went on Yelp to research food along I290 in the Worcester area.....and this place was ranked highly. We arrived at 1pm on MLK holiday Monday, and the place was very busy. Small parking lot but located less than a mile off the highway. We secured the last 2 bar seats and began to admire the dish beside us of swordfish and veggies. The bartender was busy....there are more than 15 bar stools and she was full and pouring drinks for the restaurant too.....and it took a little bit for her to come over, but not bad. She was very pleasant and helpful, and made suggestions. We chose the fish taco app which was very good. The sesame shrimp was fresh and hot, but a little be batter-soaked/soggy, not super crispy. Still ok. Meals were 1-2.....my fried haddock was a thick cut piece fried to perfection in a light batter, although the fries are McDonald's/Burger king style. I loved the haddock. My wife tried a salad with crab meat and greens, and it came in the shape of a square...and it wasn't the best.....not awful, just not appealing. The reason we rate this place a 4 star was the seafood, and we can tell on future visits that the seafood is the way to go.....and service was good. They have 2 other places in town as well, Chop house 111, and , Via....so we may try those next. Overall a decent place for sure...especially in Worcester.
(4)Joe B.
Best place for good quality seafood. Their oysters are wonderful and the sashimi tuna was incredible- melted in my mouth. The Newburg lobster though was a bit chewy. Great service!
(4)Barbara S.
I don't know what all the hype is about! It was expensive and the food was just okay. Maybe my problem Is that I don't do sushi!
(2)A H.
Decent food in a decent place, but not worth the price. A "nice dinner out," but nothing that special. A standard New England seafood restaurant.
(2)Lia K.
Been here on a number of occasions and love the restaurateurs! The owners also manage 111 and Via. The only downside for the Sole is its a bit pricey. Below are some meals/food I've enjoyed. Cherrystones yum. surf and turf yum. Sushi rolls, not too bad. Shrimp salad with avocado. Love their happy hour bar menu. Service can be a bit off during peak hours but only on off-chance.
(4)Susannah L.
Not a fan. I have NEVER had an outstanding meal at the Sole. EVER! The seafood is fresh and good - but not memorable. If I have to meet someone in this area of Worcester, I'll go here for a drink in the bar and a few oysters, but will not dine here anymore. The 111 Chop House and Via are amazing and owned by the same people. I would recommend either before suggesting the Sole to anyone.
(2)Scott A.
Excellent service and the food was impressive. The bar staff was attentive and was nice...thank younger a greatbexperience!
(4)Nicole M.
I was born and raised in MA eating tons of seafood. Every year on my birthday when I was kid, my family would take me out for lobster. Funny sidenote, I was totally grossed out by coleslaw and to drive me nuts (or maybe it was a genuine word pronunciation issue?) my sister would call it "Nicole slob". Cute right? Anyway, at 18 I moved to Boston and was vegan for the next 7 years. By the time I started eating meat again, I was living in New York and then Los Angeles. While I've had plenty of seafood over the past several years, it hasn't quite lived up to my extremely nostalgic memory of eating classic New England seafood. After driving cross country from LA back to Boston this week, I went to Sole Proprietor and was absolutely in heaven. I got the Seafood Saute which was chalk full of all my favorites-lobster, scallops & shrimp and it was amazing. I was transported back in time to the seafood eating heydays of my youth. Food rundown: Seafood Saute: amazing with good sized lobster chunks Jumbo King crab legs: ridiculously amazing, I will be getting this next time for sure Seared blackened tuna: fantastic, fresh and cooked perfectly Sides of steamed broccoli and mashed sweet potatoes: delicious, only complaint is that the sweet potatoes were a bit more liquified than I prefer but that's a personal thing. They still tasted very good. Red Sangria: decent (tough act to follow after drinking a lot of sangria in LA) White Sangria: Sucked down by a few people at my table crazily fast with lots of discussion of how delicious it was, though I didn't try it myself. Key Lime Pie: Despite being completely stuffed, it was good enough that I managed my fair share along with everyone else at the table. Service: It was a very busy Saturday night and we were not neglected for even a second. Very impressed. Price: Yeah, it's not cheap, but it's seafood and everything had by my table was very obviously fresh and cooked perfectly so no complaints here. Absolutely worth every penny. Decor: Classic & tasteful. I especially loved the black walls with the light wood trim. Lots of great prints on the walls as well. I will definitely make an effort to eat here again before I leave in a few weeks and judging by some of the other reviews I should stick to the dinner service.
(5)Kaytee T.
This is one place I will never go again. The food is INSANELY overpriced for what you get, the restaurant itself is full of stuffy people and the menu is very small and limited. Drinks were okay, it took out waiter a good 5 minutes to even greet us even though the place was dead. He also reeked of cigarette smoke which was pretty gross. I love seafood so I was majorly disappointed.
(1)Paul M.
Love the Sole! It's been a while since I've had dinner here, and I was in the mood for seafood, so decided to head over. The day before Thanksgiving and the place was packed, but the maitre d' did say there was a table available, so I was promptly seated. The mustard bluefish looked appealing, so I ordered it. The mustard sauce was just a tad overpowering, but otherwise the fish was absolutely delicious and perfectly cooked. The rice, grilled squash and asparagus was also very good. The ambiance was very elegant and the staff very professional. Prices can be a bit high, but the food and service are worth it. My favorite seafood restaurant in Central Mass.....
(4)Ray Z.
Great Service, Good Food.
(4)Kelly H.
sorry to rain on everyone's parade on this place... but it's not good! i've gone here twice in a week's time frame and was not impressed either times. the first time i was here, i was really excited to try their seafood saute as another yelper had indicated it's good... WRONG! the seafood is drenched in butter and oil... there's sand in the scallops... the shrimps are opaque... (and you know how i HATE that)... and the lobster is over cooked... the description of the dish sounds awesome... and i hate it when i get the opposite... second time i came here, decide to possibly get the lobster stir fry... less the batter... cuz u know stir fry w/"tempera" batter in a non japanese restaurant may just mean mush! so got my lobster stry fry naked... and again... disappointed. the presentation of the plate is just a plop of pasta with a lobster head... the lobster was slightly better than last time... but to me the lobster was not cooked to order... seems like they cooked the lobster probably hours before and then reheated... *shakes head* thank goodness i'm not the only one that thinks that the lobsters are not good... two of my dinner party got their lobster dinner and also stated that their lobsters were also over cooked... how can you be a seafood restaurant and over cook lobster?!?! only explanation is that the lobsters were ALREADY cooked in the morning... cracked... and then possibly reheated... tisk tisk and they want to charge over $25 bucks for that quality?? honestly, that's just horrible. how long does it really to dunk a live lobster into a hot pot... 10 min while i'm eating my salad? ugh... hate when restaurants can't cook seafood right when they are known as a seafood restaurant... the saving grace is that some others at the party ordered fish and enjoy that. So i guess the conclusion is order fish... they can't really mess up grilling a fillet of fish... i hope not! i may give this place another shot in looking at their bar menu... the bar menu looks decent... and with the lack of options in worcester... i'd prob be back to try it... but that might be the last time if i'm disappointed again...
(2)Patrick K.
So, a little back story on this place...I have been trying to go there with my girlfriend for the better part of two years now. Yes, they accept reservations, I know, but it was always a spur the moment type of thing. Every single time, without exception, it was a 90 minute plus wait. Inevitably, we would end up at the Boynton, (a whole different review, but awesome...) Anyway, back to Sole...it is owned and operated by the same Group that has Via and 111 Chop, which I have been to both and find to be excellent. They are the best three restaurants in Worcester for sure. I think that the thing I like best is that each of the three restaurants have their own unique character. Other than the excellent service, high-quality meals, and over-priced (zing!) drink menu, they are all distinct. Again, back to Sole. So I finally got there. We were seated right on time with our reservation, which I always appreciate. We started off with a dozen Oysters, which were fresh and served with all of the fixin's. I had the Surf & Turf (Filet and Baked Stuffed Shrimp). And here in lies my only complaint for the evening. When I ordered the baked stuffed shrimp as the 'surf' portion, the waitress kindly informed me that the shrimp were not prepared in the traditional baked-stuffed fashion. She said that it was an all over batter, etc, etc. I said I couldn't wait to try it...but...and get this... when it was served to me it was basically fried shrimp! Fried f'n shrimp! Who the hell decided that such a quality establishment could even dream of getting away with this! If I wanted fried shrimp, I would have gone to Long John Silver's. Seriously, the GM of this place should take the Exec Chef aside and explain to him that when people are paying the cash that they charge, fried shrimp is a no go when pairing with a Filet. Seriously, I couldn't believe it. Even though the waitress flat out warned me it wasn't what I was thinking, I still find it unacceptable. What a chopper move this was...Chop City! Other than that, I have nothing bad to say about this place at all. I feel like if I were to make a better decision ordering, I would go with 5 stars, which could be in a future update. Also, parking is an absolute circus. They have a lot, just not nearly appropriately sized. Have fun with that one.
(4)Sue B.
The crab stuffed huge Portabella mushroom was insane! Decadent, smokey and delish! I just love the bread to salad to meal to dessert. Ask the waiter what the knock your socks off items are and you won't be disappointed if you follow their recommendations.
(4)Anthony S.
Good food, but the atmosphere has deterioated especially compared to its sibling restaurants - 111 chophouse and Via. Seems due for an updating. So, the food... Oysters were very nice. Tuna was good, but a bit overlooked for my taste. Haddock was very good. Deserts were large and very nice.
(3)Dave U.
Best seafood in Central Mass. Great bar, friendly and helpful staff, good atmosphere in the restaurant. I'm a huge fan of the Angel Hair Bernardi.
(4)Molly S.
I have been to the Sole about half a dozen times now, and I have some compliments, some complaints. I have little negative to say about the bar area and $5 happy hour menu. The sushi is very good (especially for $5 sushi), and the salads good. I'm underwhelmed by the drink offerings, especially the limited house cocktails, but it's fine. Service is prompt and friendly, which could always make up for any problems. One night my boyfriend and I dressed up and came in for a fancy meal, however. It was our anniversary and we wanted to have a really nice night. The problem was dinner did NOT go smoothly. My boyfriends "surf & turf", which you would think comes with a steak and a handful of shrimp, only came with ONE shrimp, and his steak was cooked incorrectly. His meal was missing one full side (asparagus) that had been advertised with the meal on the menu. It was an unbelievable failure of a meal. It was just before the kitchen closed, and I'm sure this had something to do with the rushing staff that made our meal. My boyfriend and I are both in foodservice, and we understand very well that when the end of a night comes, you want nothing more than to be done. But this does not excuse rushing through the last meal and screwing it up so terribly. We also understand that this has nothing to do with the waitstaff; our bumbling, meek waitress was terrified of us as we calming explained the problems. After apologizing profusely and sending over a manager, we were not granted any discount on the dinner. Although we did not act as outraged as we felt, we still feel we should have been given one in good faith. I'll be back for late-night cocktails and sushi, but I won't return to the Sole for a table-service meal.
(3)Tom S.
Make a reservation here...come early and hang at the bar. Great wines, martinis and draft beers complemented by an open oyster bar! Yes this is "Worcester by the sea" believe it or not great seafood and sushi!! Fantastic menu, great apps, busy bar, nice dining experience here too with private rounded booths if you ask for them. Lunch is best in the high bar booths for faster service. Great Oyster selection. Hard to get a seat at the bar at happy hour ...
(4)Crystal L.
Pescado Guisado con Arroz y Pan Tostado was great. Very flavorful. Downside is the mussels were a little sandy.
(4)Kathryn P.
Really very good food. Expensive. However, they do have a $6 bar menu early in the evening. The sushi is super yummy. I have noticed that if you get the sushi for regular price, you get bigger pieces than the $6 menu. The rolls are great and there are crackers and cheese by the bar. Also great for a romantic dinner.
(4)Tim C.
For a table, three stars. But sit at the bar, fours stars, at least. Get a drink, have some oysters, shrimp, and littlenecks and just enjoy yourself. Bartenders are attentive and helpful, the drinks are ample, and the seafood is first-class. At the bar you can get a limited menu at reduced prices at happy hour, and that's a real deal. Service at tables is less good; in my experience over several years it is uneven at best, sometimes just awful. The food is always very good, though.
(3)Ryan G.
The Sole Proprietor is one of the upscale restaurants that is actually worth all the fuss. I have come here for dinner on several occasions and the food never disappoints. The restaurant is located in a nice building with a spacious private lot, rather rare and always a plus for Worcester! The interior has a classy yet homey feel and is broken up into several rooms, which helps keep down the noise. However, if you end up anywhere near the bar it is too loud, you can't even hear yourself think. As for the food, the menu offers an "eclectic" mix of seafood and includes some turf options for those land-lovers out there. I've tried their sushi, crab cakes, and various fish my favorite being the swordfish. The food is always fresh, tastes great, and is plated with the utmost care. It is far from bland and some of the dishes combine somewhat unorthodox flavors creating a unique dining experience. This is really impressive as a lot of upscale "non-ethnic" places simply rehash familiar dishes and jack up the price. The food is pricey, but I have had nothing but great food here--it is well worth the price. The only downside is the service, which can be rather spotty. For an upscale restaurant I expect fast and friendly service. I've had several great experiences, but also several poor ones. I also find it rather odd that you are assigned several people to wait on you, one is plenty. Spotty service aside, I highly recommend the Sole for the best seafood you will find in Worcester. Keep in mind that the place is usually packed, especially for holidays, so be sure to make a reservation at least a few days in advance.
(4)Bryan D.
This place is delicious. If I was rating it for dinner, it would only get 4 stars. For lunch, it gets 5 though because the value is so good. Everything is delicious.
(5)gus w.
Kind of a hidden gem near WPI. One of the nicest fish houses I've been to. We took some out of town family guests here, on a tuesday night -- it was packed. Had great service, the waiter was able to explain everything and gave some great recommendations. They have seperate staff handle water/bread. Everyone ordered something different -- all was great. They made some special preperations for us, no questions asked and everything came out perfectly. Prices are super reasonable for a fairly classy joint. Living not too far away, we'll be back for sure.
(4)Joseph K.
Excellent fresh sea food. needs little bit of work on better preparation for serving the clams and oyster. (broken shell pieces inside the shell) Must visit place if you are into New England style sea food
(4)Roger S.
The Sole is consistently excellent with a fantastic wine list. We've tried specials and menu standbys - Tuna Barcelona they were great. Good decor, bustling bar and overall good service.
(4)Courtney M.
Best sushi in town!! We go here every year for dinner when we come to have a booth at the DCU Center for the Sporting Show. This place is great! They have almost all male waiters that are very attentive to your every need. I highly reccomend this place if you are in town. Make a reservation if you can. It is very busy there.
(5)Shannon C.
I'm not into seafood but I'm into the Sole. I've never had trouble finding something on the menu for the non-seafaring type. I always order a salad or appetizer and the veggie roll and am never disappointed. The seasonal revisions to the menu are a refreshing welcome and often delicious. The service is amenable. The wine list is extensive. And the martinis are excellent, especially the $5 happy hour specials. I always enjoy myself here. The Sole is a gem amongst the usual Worcester fare.
(4)Trauts N.
The only recommendation I would make is to stick with the basic grilled, roasted or fried fish selections. The sauces, coatings and marinades overpowered the fish. It was good though. And reasonable.
(4)Emmy S.
For my dad and my traditional lobster birthday dinner, my mom introduced us to her favorite seafood restaurant in the Worcester area. I'm going to be straight up with this: the wait staff was so friendly and very attentive, the seafood was *fantastic* and wicked fresh, and I like the dressy atmosphere. One of those places you can go in jeans and a t-shirt, but if you feel like having a dressy night out, you still fit right in. We got everything from lobster, to clams, to shrimp; all amazing. I'm drooling a little bit just thinking about it. Oh, and the desserts are illegally fantastic. Oh, man, I'm killin' myself over here. Who's up for a trip to Worcester tonight?? I cannot wait to go back there again.
(5)Tina S.
This place is very good and great for sushi, and tryin this thing called a fish bowl is a must...but be prepared to wait cause it gets packed
(4)Mimi K.
The best seafood Worcester has to offer. Nuff sed.
(4)Kevin S.
great lobster roll and the land and two seas dish was great, really tasty. didnt get much bleu cheese flavor from the potatoes but that wasnt a real problem. all in all a great meal.
(4)X to the Z M.
Excellent restaurant with creative and innovative foods at a reasonable price. Well decorated restaurant that is both a blend of formal and casual. They occasionally offer special "late night deals" for college kids that help make it more affordable. Go for lunch and the food you get for the price is a steal.
(5)MC L.
Down hill since the last time I went. Four dinners and everything from apps to entrees where just ok. Chicken for the non-fish lover was greasy. Fish ranged from no flavor, to fishy / not fresh. I was hoping for much better.
(2)Russell O.
This is THE restaurant we compare all others with. Over the past 16 years that I have been a customer, I have never been disappointed. Food is the best with a wide variety of seafood, basically American cuisine with Asian touches. The service is impeccable with very low turnover amongst the wait-staff. I am sure it will be one of your favorites after your first time.
(5)Doug M.
I hadn't been to the Sole Proprietor in about 15 years - shouldn't have stayed away for so long. Went a few Saturdays ago and loved the food. I had the fisherman's platter - excellent. My wife had the salmon which was very good (though my grilled salmon at home is better) and my son had the seafood alfredo, which was great. Service was really good and I have to say that prices were much better than I anticipated too.
(4)Sugar J.
I have been here several times (unfortunately wasted my money too) and will NEVER go back. I think the reviewers who "love" this place truly have never left Worcester. Really. Most likely they've never been fortunate enough to experience a real nice seafood restaurant on the east coast , whether in Boston or Maine ??? Or, of course, San Francisco Bay. Really, it is all VERY relative. The Sole has gone way downhil IMO. It used to be passable in some ways, but now ? Like a huge, careless , common chain restaurant. It is always way too noisy. You are always seated next to a table of like 10 giggling, drunk men. (Yes really). Yuk. The service is very slow and careless. Certain dishes (fish, lamb chops) are always undercooked and NOT how we ordered them at all. The sides are tasteless, mostly. If you get a baked potato you will be safe ! My friend's fish was practically raw inside, and we had to send it back. What came out next, was a very dry fish in its place. Their fish chowders are overly fishy, gross. NO ambience. Just an atmosphere of a huge fast-food type joint, but NO "fast" service. Parking is horrendous. If you get take-out you are forced to wait in a rude crowd of pushers and near the bar, very loud and it all basically is a torturous experience. all around. These owners own Via and 111 Chophouse. Here's hoping they stop growing.
(1)Brad H.
Our daughter attends WPI and this is a top choice of restaurants when we want a nice meal. We've been there often and have never been disappointed. Love the clam chowder.
(4)David W.
One of the best seafood meals I've had. It was the sauteed Seafood Platter, with well prepared shrimp, scallops, and crab claw. The service was excellent and they were eager to substitute the sweet potato mash with the rice pilaf and vegetables.
(5)Courtney D.
I went to the Sole Proprieter on a whim a few Saturdays ago at 8:30 after leaving another restaurant unhappily (see other review on Allora in Marlborough). I decided Worcester was my best bet for a decent dinner and I knew our options at 8:30 were going to be limited. We decided to take our chances at the Sole knowing we'd probably have to wait an hour to eat w/o a reservation. Well, we were right. The place was PACKED...like sardines in a can. The sizable bar area could not fit one more person in it if it tried. We ordered and smushed ourselves against the wall waiting for a table which we knew would be a long time coming. The bartender was happy to appease my request for something "fruity and non-alcoholic" being that I'm pregnant and am beyond bored with diet soda. Luckily, our table was ready after just about 45 minutes. The restaurant overall is actually a bit more casual and reasonably priced than I had imagined. Granted, a 3lb lobster or raw bar buffet will cost you, but overall I found their prices average. The restaurant is loud and I would say isn't really fine dining, but dressy casual. Our waitress was prompt, but you could tell at 9:15 on such a busy night, all she wanted to do was go home. They brought warm rolls and butter (just two, which we devoured before they even hit the table) and proceeded to peruse the very large and diverse menu. My husband ended up with a bbq flounder (which sounded interesting) and I, chicken. I know, I know...but I don't like any seafood. I was pleasantly surprised to see soup or salad was actually included with your meal which is rare these days. The chowder and salad were both very good. Our meals were good as well. Not "blow me off my chair" fantastic, but good. The place is average-above average. I would go back because I really liked their diverse menu. I'm a sucker for a big selection and the prices were appropriate. Overall, decent spot if you're in the area and want seafood.
(3)Erin H.
My husband and I went here for our anniversary after doing a ton of research, and we couldn't have been happier! Our service was great--the food--to die for! And the price was really reasonable for what we got. Very pleased!
(5)Stephen H.
I've eaten here many times. Always pleased with the food. My favorite would be the salmon with shrimp wasabi but I have never had anything but a great meal. Only negaitve is the noise - the restaurant gets a bit noisy when it is crowded. Best seafood in Worcester.
(5)Anne A.
This is the best seafood restaurant in central and western Mass. Always excellent food, service and they always honor the reservation you have made. No waiting!
(5)Brian G.
Great fresh fish! Late night menu is the best in town!
(5)Shreedhar D.
This a consistently excellent seafood restaurant. The seafood is always fresh, perfectly cooked, and not too expensive. Last night I had the king salmon with lobster bacon slaw, pumpkin risotto, and sweet and spicy pumpkin seeds. The salmon melted in my mouth, the slaw was refreshing, the risotto was tasty and well spiced, and the seeds add nice texture. All in all, this is a great seafood place.
(5)Stephanie M.
A favorite of our family for many years, this spot is a meeting place for drinks and apps around the bar or a large dinner to celebrate a special occasion. Love the Buffalo Chicken M-80s!
(4)Angela G.
Being from Colorado we were looking for some great east coast sea food and this is the place. The New England Clam Chowder was delicious! Love that they take reservations because we had a party of 17! The fried clams are also very very good! Why can't this great sea food be all over the US??? Kind of difficult to find parking but there is an attendant in the parking lot helping you to park (yes it is free parking).
(5)Jill F.
Went for lunch last Friday. Prices for lunch are very reasonable, but portions of the fish and chips were very small for the fish part. I had the fisherman's sandwich and my fish piece was much larger, for some reason. The simple sandwich and fries were very good. My sister-in-law had crab cakes that came with nicely cooked fresh veggies and she loved it. I have to say that the real star of the lunch was the Bloody Mary! SO delicious. Nicely seasoned, a skewer with olive, lime wedge and cherry tomato and a jumbo shrimp resting on the rim. YUM! Would love the recipe as it was different than ours at home.Excellent service from the wait staff. Would recommend!
(4)Greg N.
Extremely overrated. For the prices I expect above average food. The meals are extremely average. The sushi is not good at all. Borderline awful. I can probably eat my bodyweight in food in one sitting, but the four times I have had the sushi from here I wasn't able to finish the roll. The only things I spend my money one now are the bar kettles which are decent, but more importantly served until 130am which is the real draw. Outside of not wanting to cook and wanting something besides pizza at 1230am, I would never go here.
(2)Dan K.
Went for dinner on 12-30 with family that was in town. They sat us early for our 6:30 reservation and the service was great until a large party showed at a table near us, and then it fell apart. The food was great, but the service level you would expect at $25/plate was not there for the 2nd half of the meal. We ended up not having desert or coffee (because we had to basically ask them for those menus) Not sure if I'll go back, just based on how the service was.
(3)Michael V.
The Sole is one of the best restaurants in Worcester. The parking lot is huge, decor is nice, service is good, and they serve good food. One of my favorites is the blackened tuna sashimi. Don't think twice just order it!!!
(4)Zoe D.
Everything tastes wonderful and the plates are designed with brilliance. The lobster meat in the lobster ravioli melts in your mouth, and all the sushi rolls are flavorful, fresh, and tender. A full bar offering plenty of beers on tap and all the wine and mixers you want. The bar menu is great to order several items and share with a date. A great place for a date or to celebrate!
(5)Serena's Mom W.
My absolute favorite restaurant! My husband introduced this place to me when we were dating (about 10 years ago) and it hasnt lost its touch for amazing food and service. When we lived in West Roxbury and Somerville and we craved the Sole, we got in the car for a well worth mini road trip. We are completely psyched now that we just moved to the area. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! **Excuse my review as it will be all over the place. The happiness of this place makes my head spin in a good way** My husband usually gets the Shogun Sushi Platter, which I am pretty sure is meant for a party of two or three - but he usually lays waste to it because it is so good! The sushi, albeit Americanized in that the pieces are so large, tastes amazing. Fresh fish and presentation is top notch. I usually order something like scallops with jasmine rice and the seasonal vegetable or like to try the specials...of course, only after I enjoy an app of fresh Jumbo shrimp and a cocktail. Each meal comes with a choice of soup or salad. The clam chowder is awesome but I highly recommend the seafood chowder. The blend of the different seafood is perfect - not overpowering. Shortly after you arrive, someone from your wait-team will bring over piping hot rolls - soooo goood. Hmmmmm...goood *Homer Simpson* I say wait-team because each table has a main waiter and that waiter has someone who will help them tend to your table. Its really great - you never feel bombarded with "how is everything?" and you are never left parched hoping your server will come back so you can order the next drink. The reason they do this, I believe, is they are very busy all the time. Having the double-team action allows them to continue to give the best service possible to their patrons, no matter how many people are in the restaurant. AND you are never, ever rushed along. I should also back up and address my comment about the restaurant being busy. It is a busy and popular place but I dont believe I have ever had to wait longer than 30 minutes (if that). And if you do have a wait, the atmosphere is just right for you to grab a drink at the bar while you wait for your table. And the meal is worth the wait any day. By the time my husband and I finish eating a roll, soup or salad, an app, and dinner and maybe an adult beverage or two we are so full of deliciousness we are not quite sure how we will manage to remove ourselves from the table to our car. BUT THEN - the waitperson will say that one word that will dangle in front of you and you cannot pass up the offer because everything to this point has been perfect - Hmmmmm DESSERT! The desserts are all fantastic - you really cant go wrong. A few years ago I decided I needed to be careful when I went out to dinner because I am such a foodie and tend to over indulge. The great thing about this place is that it IS totally possible to eat healthy feeling like you had a feast with no guilt. The menu is quite large offering any type of eater many options - including those who dont eat fish. For those who dont eat seafood - have no fear, they have a good amount of alternative dishes you can choose from. My brother in law only eats chicken (seriously) and he had an amazing statler chicken with wonderful veggies and sides to compliment. He was very happy. When we go with family or for special occassions we like to make a reservation for a table - otherwise, its the bar area for us. Reservations are recommended, especially over holidays weeks and on the weekend. The price is right for the service and probably the best meal of your life. ! I could go on - but I wont...just go and try it!
(5)Sally Y.
Came here for an interview dinner and was pleasantly surprised. So far the best interview dinner I have been at. One of the people at the table compared it to Legal Seafoods, but cheaper, and I'd have to agree. I'll admit I didn't try to the shellfish which is what I often opt for at Legals, but I got the Maple Glazed Salmon which came with butternut squash ravioli and tomato basil soup. The tomato basil soup was delicious as was the salmon which was perfectly cooked. Although I was very full, we got dessert - the terrine seemed to be everyone's favorite. And, even though we were all stuffed, everyone commented on the fragrant smells coming from the sushi bar/kitchen on the way out.
(4)Nicholas R.
I love this place. The food is delicious and the prices are reasonable. I really love the sushi, particularly the Fire Cracker (?) sushi.... it's delicious! I've never had a bad meal here and the waitstaff has always been courteous and professional.
(5)Lesley D.
This restaurant is like Legal Seafoods with a smaller, more homey feel. Fresh, flavorful seafood paired with gourmet inspired flavors and sides, with a warm and social atmosphere and the prices to go with it. Definitely get reservations or you'll be waiting forever, depending on the day/time. There's a bar in the front which can be pretty noisy, but after you pass through there, there's a lovely dining area. I doubt that anything on this menu would be even remotely mediocre, but then again I'm kind of a sucker for seafood.
(5)Lynne H.
We were very impressed by our evening at the Sole Proprietor. Every thing we ordered was delicious. The service was great. We had two waiters that worked together as a team. It was very busy for a Saturday night but we were called to our table faster then expected. We recommend the clam chowder, the fish taco's and Sushi combo. To bad I was to stuffed for dessert. Extra credit for the hot sour dough rolls we were served. Definitely will go back again real soon!
(4)Jules P.
Underwhelming atmosphere, staff were sort of all over the place. Good fish, but that doesn't counterbalance the weaknesses that pop up on other parts of the menu.
(3)P S.
Great about half the time. The quality varies, I have had some great meals, but have been disappointed by quite a few. I was amazed to watch a mouse run around the feet of customers without being spotted.
(3)Frank G.
I lived across the street from this place for three years. Needless to say, I've gone many, many times and I can't recall ever being disappointed. The food is great and the drinks are great. It's actually a really fun place late at night, besides serving as a top-quality seafood restaurant.
(5)B L.
We have consistently had excellent service, superb food and very satisfying experiences every time we have visited Sole Proprietor over a dozen and a half years. OUTSTANDING.
(5)Amy ..
At first, I must admit I was a little annoyed to be sitting in traffic on the Xway *then* the Pike, driving to Worcester, and planning to pay $60 for slabs of raw fish... however, it *was* for a friend's birthday, so I sucked it up and moved on. My, oh my, was I pleasantly surprised. I wasn't exactly sure what to expect as I hadn't heard that Worcester was a crown jewel of fine cuisine or anything, but this place was a standout. The decor wasn't anything to write home about... if anything, they're trying a bit too hard. Yep, pretty sure you're still in a Worcester neighborhood, next to a triple decker and across from a laundromat. The waitstaff were attentive, smart and knowledgeable... for our table of about 20 they provided a rotating staff of four. I did get that "I feel like I'm being stalked by the waiter" safari feeling every once in awhile, but they were really just lurking to make sure everyone was happy I suppose. The wine list was stellar. The wines were fairly priced (but most, rats, still out of my price range...darn student loans) and they offered a good selection. They had an 05 Chardonnay from Frog's Leap in Napa which I couldn't resist and turned out to pair wonderfully with my equally exquisite....get this, Ginger Cranberry-Raspberry Swordfish. I know, sounds too sweet or something. It was, however, the perfect touch of spice, sweet and tang. Simply awesome! They desserts looked out of this world as well although I didn't indulge. Raw bar ranges from $2.50 each. Sushi ranges $11.99 per plate (around 6-8 pieces per plate) My recommendation...try the Firecracker...awesome! Apps are $5.99 and up Entrees $15.99 or so and up... includes a couple of chicken and steak dishes, but fish is their specialty. (My friend had chicken and wasn't impressed) Entrees include salad...get the house dressing! Desserts are $6.99 and up Extensive wine, bar, cordial selection Overall, a nice surprise... a diamond in the rough of Worcester one might say :)
(5)Janice T.
Who knew? This place has EXCELLENT sushi. The rolls are pretty tasty and they serve them with real butter. A must visit if you are every in Worcester.
(5)Cooper M.
Enjoyable meal here with my 'rents. Now I do not like seafood. I can enjoy small doses of sushi but the rest is just blah tasting texture. However, tonight's meal was very pleasant. Spicy tuna sushi app was yummy. Mom though the ginger was the best she has ever had. Then my main trout dish was good and dessert was as well. Nothing that spectacular and my vino had a little bug in it but warm rolls and cute, kind waitstaff make it all good.
(4)Tux P.
The best seafood in central Mass, imho. Great food, excellent bar, and a good wine list. The only thing that prevents this place from getting 5 stars is the price. The sushi is good, but I think the raw bar, the superb fresh fish selection, and the desserts make this place shine. Keep your eyes open for the yearly Crab Festival too! Dungeness Crab rocks!
(4)Eva B.
It is a nice restaurant, a little bit price up but it definitely worths it. I had steam lobster here for 2 times, it's pretty good and fresh. My husband had scallop and he loves it very much. Good place to go when you have something to celebrate. If you decide to go in holiday, don't forget to make reservation!
(4)Noa O.
nice Clam chowder, sea food and also Whoopie pie!!
(4)Elisa T.
Excellent seafood restaurant, best in Worcester. Great deals during their Lobster fest. Love their (bread) rolls, and their sushi rolls are really good too. The service is always friendly and attentive. I would recommend making reservations, as there always seems to be a wait without one. If you go during the summer, you can also see Buster, the world's largest inflatable crab.
(4)Dorian G.
Legal what? You'll completely forget about that other seafood restaurant once you've dined at the Sole. It is a bit noisy and some menu items are a bit pricey, but they make up for those 2 small downfalls in creativity and flavor. The portions are massive as well. My favorite is the swordfish au poivre (light on the poivre, please!). Simple yet the flavors are better than any other swordfish dish I've ever had. The clam chowder is outstanding and they have a raw bar AND a sushi bar! P.S. Don't forget to make reservations if you planning on visiting on a weekend! You can easily wind up waiting an hour for a table, and the bar gets crowded quickly.
(5)Ashley P.
So on my first visit to Worcester, my friend suggested we eat here for dinner. What a great choice! I had a sushi roll, called the "Sole Roll" which was delicious and very fresh. The portions were large for the money and the food was amazing. I had the surf and turf, and while the shrimp was a little boring, the steak and scallops were phenominal. My friend had the fish and chips which she loves and has gotten on many other occassions. While the food was good, I can't rave enough about the drinks! Not only were the cosmos tastey and well made, they were only $5! You can't beat that. And my friend got a "skinny mojito" which was less than 100 calories while still packing a punch in the liquor department. Service was amazing, and the host even apologized for the 30 seoncds we had to wait for our table. I would suggest that you make a reservation on a Friday or Saturday night because it looked pretty busy. I will be back!
(4)William G.
My first time,my wife's second time,eating at this restaurant.Reservations for 6:30p.m. arrived on time,and were seated promptly.Ordered cocktails,and crab stuffed portabello mushrooms for an appetizer.The Cocktails were great,the stuffed mushroom was OK.I had a Pear and walnut salad,with bleu cheese,and cranberries.It was very good.For entrees, my wife had the Alaskan Halibut,with sugar snap peas,and roasted potatoes.It was very good.I had the "Blackened" fresh Idaho Rainbow Trout,with sweet potato,bacon Hash,and candied red onion slaw. The trout was very good,not too spicy,and the Hash was to "die for",although there was way to much hash ,and not enough of the delicious slaw.I had a second cocktail,and it was much "weaker" than the first one,and the server took my wife's drink,before she was finished (a real no no).When confronted about it,she did get my wife more of the drink,and said that she was very sorry.For dessert,we split the Chocolate terrine with two sauces.It was exceptional.All in all it ,was a very nice dining experience,and despite a no no,the server's were exceptional.We will not wait another four years to go back.Entree's are a little pricy,but the drinks,appetizer,and desserts are very reasonable.
(4)Anna B.
OMG the food here is amazing! I am not the biggest fan of seafood, but the Sole has changed my mind. Their lobster ravioli is great, he sushi is fresh and tasty, and their clab sliders are absolutely DIVINE!
(5)Melanie F.
we had a fairly decent time - the seafood quality was a bit of a let down. My Mahi-Mahi was a bit gamey and the mussels were not very good- pretty inedible actually. The Seafood pasta my husband had was delicious. They were extremely busy and the service was excellent.
(3)Kathryn S.
I have been going for years. Better than legal seafood at least in price and also have a very large menu which changes frequently. Go in July when they have Crab Month and Buster the crab - huge blow up crab up on the roof. Their hot dinner rolls are killer good. Fish always fresh and tasty. Staff professional and service is good. Always crowded, and a bit loud, so go early or make reservations. The bar is also a hot spot - always packed, great bartenders. Easily my favorite restaurant in Worcester.
(5)Mark C.
Been going here on and off for years. Good food, great drinks. The bar is ***LOUD*** and can be very crowed after work - between 7-9. The trick is to show up at 9:30 and have kettle meals at the bar.
(4)Joe P.
I have never had a bad meal here. This place has the best seafood dishes in the area, and quite frankly, the best I have ever had. Everything is good here. The service isn't fantastic, which is the only reason it doesn't get 5 stars. The food itself does though.
(4)Mary c.
This is the place to take a date or coworkers in the Worcester area. Attentive service, great food selection. It's on the pricey side but you get what you pay for here. ;)
(5)Bethany B.
So happy birthday to me as we strolled into the Sole at 5 pm tonight. We knew that they offered their Bar Menu items for $5 (M-F 4pm-7pm). Living on one income w/ 2 kids has led us to search out the values where we can. Jeff had the Ketel One vodka martini on the rocks while mine was straight up. I forgot how much kick a real martini had. Each were $5 since they were the special drink of the evening. I started with 4 Wellfleet oysters while DH had the chowder. The oysters were perfect and their house cocktail sauce is a nice touch. The chowder was thick and had a heavy taste of bacon -- but not in a bad way. Nice chunks of clams and 'tatoes too. Keeping it light he had the shrimp w/ tomatoes over pasta in a light garlic white wine sauce. I chose the Dragon Maki roll. We both couldn't believe what great portions we got for price. We had tandem waitstaff (Jamol and Sarah). Very nice and just attentive enough . So 2 satiated people w/ a nice buzz for only $35 before tip? We promised each other that we'd return this week for more good grub!
(5)Judd S.
A loyal customer of the Sole for years. My friends and I would go here for sushi, dessert, and drinks late at night when we were students at nearby WPI. My tip for you, go late. Get the late night Kettle Menu. Get some drinks, some appropriately priced sushi and just sit there with friends for hours. You won't be disappointed. It's the only business in Worcester I truly miss. I wish I could pick the whole place up and move it to Boston.
(4)Jason A.
Great menu, seasonal specialties, and great service. The seafood is incredibly fresh, and I always try something new from the specials. The best tip I can give is to go there during lunch, the entrees are ~$9-10 and the portions are very generous! Going there for dinner is still my favorite, but the best bargain is during lunch!
(5)Jennifer P.
again, like the chophouse, this restaurant surprised me that this is the best worcester has to offer. i think i did end up getting the wrong thing (why does this always happen to me??) in that my food buddy's dish was much better than mine. i got a salmon that was overcooked and slathered in hoisin sauce which was way too strong and salty. it was weird too eating fish with a sauce that is usually used in pho. the steamed vegetables were tasteless and could have been more tender. the highlight was the yummy cocktail i started with (named worcester drink or something like that).
(2)kathy s.
a bit pricey but sooo good
(4)Hannah K.
I wish I could give 3.5 stars. This place is GOOD, it's just not GREAT. Came here for my birthday and they had a special Sunday prix fixe menu that we all ordered from (not sure if that promotion is still applicable). Our salads and soups were good, our appetizers were incredible (I had mussels in a coconut curry sauce that completely made the meal) and the entrees were just OK. I honestly don't even remember what I had, no one was that impressed with their entrees. But I remember the fabulous mussels so I think your experience is going to depend a lot on ordering the right thing.
(3)Timothy J.
Never had a bad meal here. Great food. The oysters are always the freshest you can get. Great drinks. Spend the dough
(4)Laura D.
I ordered the North Atlantic salmon grilled and opted for spinach (steamed) and broccoli as sides and a salad as a first course. The salad wasn't anything special--1 tomato, 1 piece of cucumber, some lettuce--a bit sad looking. The fish was a large portion (2 meals) and nicely grilled, although not very flavorful. Both the broccoli and spinach were bland as well. I tried some of my sisters sweet potato mash, which I would recommend more. While the food wasn't phenomenal (especially for the steep prices), our server (Amy Lynne?) was very sweet and helpful!
(2)Chad B.
Chad's eSCAPE Review. Service (+). They are always well staffed and the staff is very friendly. They are quick to offer seats at the bar and will come find patrons once their tables are ready. Cost (+). The restaurant is fairly pricy but this rating is on value not pure cost. The freshness, taste and variety is well worth what is charged. Atmosphere (+). It is appropriately decorated and boasts a very large bar area near the entrance. There are multiple seating areas that gives a different/view and perspective each time you return. Palate (+). The clam chowder, the raw bar, the bisque, the oysters, the fish are all amazing in flavor, spicing and freshness. It is very difficult in making just a single selection. (I didn't order all these during one setting, I am a repeat patron!!) Everything Else (+). I travel extensively both domestically and abroad and this is probably one of my favorite seafood fare restaurants. I have added this restaurant as a stop during long business trips even if it is hours out of my travel path. It is important to know that this place fills up very quick. If you prefer a more private dining experience, I recommend getting there about 430-500PM. If you are coming later, I strongly recommend reservations. Parking can be tricky. Remember, there is probably a reason all the people are coming here!!
(5)Paul M.
The Sole Proprietor - Worcester MA On the outside, it has a warm feel to it and although I usually prefer meats or Lobstah, there was something about the look of this place that screams; "try the fish"... Nicely decorated with what appeared to be several rooms you get a sense that this is going to be good. The hostess busy on the phone greets you with a smile and immediately acknowledges your presence with a polite "I'll be right with you"... I like this place! And just like their sister restaurant I visited the other night, you have two servers at your disposal. Soon after seating, they serve you nice warm rolls. I would have liked to see the butter served in its own individual dish as it is in most fine restaurants as opposed to the gold colored packets but hey... There are bigger problems in life... I'll deal... I started with a hearty crock of rich and creamy Bisque... Nicely presented with large chunks of fresh Lobstah meat protruding from the top.. A bit on the thick side but flavorful none the less... Next up... The field greens, tomatoes, croutons and crumbled Bleu Cheese dressed in a balsamic vinaigrette... The Ora King Salmon will change everything you think you know about Salmon... Raised in the pristine waters of New Zealand's Marlborough Sound, this is by far the best tasting Salmon you will ever have the pleasure of consuming! It has a wonderful buttery taste and although the menu said herbed rice, mine was served over a bed of mashed potatoes garnished with chunks of crab meat, asparagus and drizzled with hollandaise sauce. Simply amazing... Mere words cannot convey how truly good this is... For dessert... Apple Brown Betty... Warm cinnamon apples topped with a brown sugar crumb, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You'd better get a towel for this one ;-) Over the top! From the ambiance, impeccable service, pace at which the food was served, presentation and flavour..., this place rocks! They earned every one of their 5 stars with me tonight! Highly... Highly recommended... In short..., you will love it! Wow
(5)Jimmy M.
I was heading to a pizza place across the street and stumbled across this place. They had a huge parking lot so I figured I would just go eat here. The interior was very nice and the service was very friendly. I ordered the salmon with asparagus, calm chowder, cherry oyster and the apple crumble with ice cream. The cherry oyster was amazing. It tasted fresh, chewy and I could taste the saltyness. The salmon was cooked perfectly. It pretty much melted in my mouth with the crispy skin on the outside. It was done really well because I didn't have any burnt taste. The claim chowder was somewhat light. It really didn't have a strong taste and not much claim meat. I could have done without the claim chowder. The apple crumble was ok. The apples and the ice cream were good but the breading was too much. Overall not bad. It sacked that they put me alone in the corner with all other tables open but I guess that's to the only table for 1? I would have like to be put in a booth so I can people watch lol.
(4)Laura S.
Everything was absolutely excellent - we will be back for the next special occasion! My husband and I selected this to celebrate our 3 year anniversary based on the reviews on OpenTable, and it exceeded our expectations. The service was attentive, charming, friendly and helpful. We knew we wanted to try the lobster chowder and a crab dish, and the waitress recommended one that was delicious - crab wrapped in a clever shaved cucumber "dish". It was fresh and playful. The lobster chowder was so rich and buttery with huge lobster pieces, yum! I ordered a margarita (which was also very good) and the king crab legs - pricey, but amazing. I would order it again. At the very end of the meal the server even brought out a special dessert plate with "happy anniversary" written in chocolate with strawberries and whipped cream... It was so thoughtful and lovely. I really enjoyed that extra touch.
(5)Julia M.
My boyfriend took me there for Valentine's Day. We got there at 2:30pm and had to wait 30 minutes. Not complaining. Just shows you that the place was hopping at 2:30 in the afternoon. We had the smoked seafood plate for an appetizer and that was fantastic. Then I had the Ora King Salmon Oscar. That is the best salmon I have ever eaten! My boyfriend had the seafood saute. Excellent as well. The desserts are well executed and interesting. But, go for the fresh seafood. I want to return for the swordfish steaks. I saw a couple of them go by on platters and they looked really great!
(4)David R.
I love this restaurant! Friendly staff, amazing food, and great prices. I'm addicted to their salmon dinner with garlic spinach and sweet mashed potatoes. I get take out all the time - and I'm always happy with my meal. They even write draw pictures and write positive messages like "Made with Extra Love!" on the takeout bag!
(5)Sandor K.
Really good place for some fresh catch! Casual and elegant all in one! You wouldn't expect sushi rolls, but they have them - and they are divine! love the surf and turf roll! The Haddock with Lobster Newburg was mouth watering! Selection of craft beers on tap as well!
(5)Lisa E.
Oh dear. First day of Buster was a bomb. Dijon crab stuffed flounder was a blanket of horseradish over a mild fish. The crab looked like it was there but I couldn't taste it. What did dijon have to do with anything either? People. I love your restaurant. Rethink this dish. Or call it horseradish flounder. The cheesecake was fantastic.
(2)Nancy H.
Best seafood restaurant that I have ever been to. High class waitstaff, classy decor, and overall well prepared food. I have tried multiple of their specialty cocktails and they are all great. I loved the mojito! For appetizers, we tried a few and their sushi was what stuck out most. DELISH! all of our entrees were wonderful, both steak and seafood. Although our bill was hefty, it was well worth the price. We will definitely be returning on our next special occasion.
(5)Jo H.
One of our most favorite places to dine in Worchester. Fresh. Clean food. Friendly service, exceptional service. If you want a great meal and fine dining this is the place to go.
(4)Nathaniel L.
I always expect a solid meal and enjoyable dining experience at the Sole Proprietor. The service and food has been above average when I visit. The menu is pretty extensive and offers a variety of seafood options. The dining area and atmosphere is really nice as well.
(4)Jackie F.
Something has happened to the food at this fine establishment. It has been a few years since we last dined here! The food was okay but nothing to write home about! The service was outstanding but the soup was tasteless, the fish dishes were so so! Maybe just a bad day for the Chef! Too bad as this was once a go back to place!
(3)Adam R.
Sat in the bar area. We had two servers that were on point, service was snappy and friendly, even though the place was swamped. I started with oysters on the half, the vinaigrette they served with them perfect. I followed it with crab and corn chowder, which was somewhat bland and lacking much crab flavor. Entree was the Grilled Swordfish Colcannon. Perfectly cooked sword, with that crispy skin crust, topped with a sundried tomato tapenade, served over kale mixed with mash potatoes and sprinkled with pancetta. That was on point. A damn good plate. My accomplice had some sort of deep fried sushi roll that was pretty tasty as well. I'll be back for sure.
(4)Patrick K.
This has been my favorite restaurant in Worcester for over twenty-five years. A terrific menu -- a wide range of selections. Fantastic seafood. Great drinks. Best atmosphere in Worcester. Give it a try, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Cynthia P.
I have always loved this place & eaten there for years but had the worst meal in June. Ordered steamers; they were not cooked to order & were cold. The drawn butter was mixed with oil & was disgusting. Sent them back expecting freshly steamed clams but all they seemed to do was microwave the original steamers. Totally lost my appetite. The waitress & manager apologized & took it off the bill but I will never go there for dinner again.
(1)Abbie K.
My first time there it was real busy but there's a reason for that. The food was unique and so delicious that the entire dinner conversation was just how awesome the food tasted in our mouths. Between apps and two meals we spent about $90 total but it was so worth it. I didn't even care about the wait or how packed and noisy it was, and our waiter was super friendly and totally attentive
(5)Mandy K.
The Sole is always good. I have never had a bad meal here. My only real complaint is that I would like to see some of the appetizer items offered as entrees. Great place.
(4)Katie K.
This is the third time we've been in as many years and each meal has been worse than the last. People rave about this place, which is the only reason we've given them a few tries, but this was the last time. The service was fine, but the food was horrible. I don't think I need to expound, that's how horrible it was.
(1)Kelly H.
If you are looking for seafood in Worcester, this is the place to go! Every single dish is amazing. I take my friends here whenever they are in town and it never disappoints. Parts of the restaurant can be a little loud. But for any busy restaurant that is the case.
(5)Bill H.
The food here has gone down hill for a bit now, it used to be insanely good. Just had the spiciest dish ever, seafood fra diavolo. I've had the dish before and while it is on the spicy side, it's not supposed to be, go buy some tums because your stomach feels terrible while you hiccup and sweat kinda hot. The service was great as usual but tonight, they dropped the ball pretty hard with this dish. Went here because of it's good food and reputation but that's something that needs to be relooked at.
(2)John Z.
The only negative for this place is the noise level. I could hardly hear the friends sitting across from me at our table. The Food and service is superb. Very friendly and attentive. Priced reasonably. I just wish it was quieter.
(3)Sara M.
Another exceptional dinner at the Sole. Went to sole for anniversary dinner. Fresh amazing food and excellent service. Our server was Cindy and she made our experience a pleasant one. Thanks so much!
(5)Brandy S.
We dine here at least once a year and always for my husband's birthday. It's always packed and for good reason. The decor is upscale and because it's a seafood restaurant most of the artwork and accents are seafood or sea themed. Dark wood trim and lighting in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright. Very cozy and not overdone. From the Front of House to the wait staff everyone is welcoming and helpful. The wait staff know the menu and are happy to answer questions. As busy as this place gets, I would expect to feel rushed, but that is not the case. On a busy summer weekend, service does lag a little, but not to the point where food is not served in a timely manner. Never had bad service here. The bar is always hopping and is casual. Great place to grab a cocktail while you wait if you arrive early or just because. Reservations are a must. We were told that dinner service had 315 reservations made tonight. Seating is always prompt. Parking fills up super fast, so it's best to arrive a little early in case you have to wait for a space. The food is top notch. Fresh seafood, sizzling steaks, beautiful sushi. Nothing on the menu is bad. No matter what you order, it will be seasoned to perfection, cooked perfectly, and delight your tastebuds. The lobster bisque is the best I've ever had, my husband raves about the oysters. Steaks are spot on in terms of temperature which I'm picky about. The lobster dishes are always amazing. The wine list is extensive. No shortage of choices. The beer and cocktail selections are excellent too. It can be a little noisy on a busy night, but not to the point where you can't hear the conversation at your table. The ambiance is upscale and the dress code casual. Most people don't wear jeans, but in the summer nice shorts seem fine. Tonight, however, I saw a muscle shirt and cut offs. Don't be that person. Casual doesn't mean you dress like you're at the beach.
(5)John H.
I've been here several times and have never been disappointed. Crab cakes are better than most in the area.
(4)Lynda G.
Extremely accommodating service, and the best seafood I have ever had. And I eat a lot of seafood! The scallops were definitely the best I have ever had, and they broiled them for me in bread crumbs. The meal came with a salad, which I got a Caesar salad and the dressing was amazing. We had the clams casino as an appetizer, which I had never had before but they were enjoyable. The mojito I ordered was delicious and strong, and again the service was fast with drink orders and such. We took our time and didn't order everything at once because we didn't want to feel rushed. The servers got the hint and didn't rush us. I can't wait to go back and get the scallops again, and even try some of their sushi. Definitely a place for special occasions and it is expensive, but totally worth it.
(5)Michael W.
Never thought it would come to this....this place used to be fantastic! Last night my pan roasted mahi was so overcooked it was horrible. The bread they served was burned nearly to black, the fish on the Shogun dinner should be renamed to the incredible shrinking sushi....is that pink dot on the middle of the rice ball tuna? Cut the shit, you people are way better than this. And what's with that disgusting vegetable slaw? Did someone actually ever see a slaw with large vegetables cut into paper thin sheets? The chowder is too thick all of a sudden as well! I'm not sure why this place chronically excels and then disappoints but it has been happening a lot. One week the meal is just fantastic and the next it borders on being below average....ownership needs to figure it out! You can't help but get the feeling that theSole has passed its prime!
(2)Mrs B.
Eh, not the best, not the worst. Was disappointed that they use frozen seafood and lobster. I'm sure there are better places out there if you search a bit more.
(3)Joe C.
Had a lovely night eating at the bar. Our server was classy and a pleasure. I had the Seafood stir fry and it was delicious. I like the charm of a classy Worcester building. A beautiful dinner for a reasonable price.
(4)Yadi M.
My team and I were here to audit one of our companies and went to the Sole Proprietor TWICE, had the absolute YUMMY Lobster Bisque and I cannot say anything bad about it OMG, the best out there!!!!! I had the seafood Sautee the 1st time and then the Crab Cakes and enjoyed both very much along with both my Malbec glasses of wine which were perfect. I would definitely recommend this place espcially because both times the service was EXCELLENT!!! Wish i remember the names of both of them, i think last nights server, his name was Yori. its a must to stop by!
(5)Michael E.
Although we live in New York we often travel to Massachusetts just to have dinner here. The hostess station leaves a little to be desired but the service and food make up for it. We love the special times when they have "Buster the Crab" for the month, or lobster or oysters. At those times the entire menu is devoted to these items. You won't be dissapointed
(5)Alleah F.
The Sole Proprietor is a legit lunch spot. I've been twice now and have had a great experience both times. The service is very friendly and the place gets very busy at lunch. I've had the fish tacos which are really good and the shrimp/scallop pesto dish. They are pretty decadent and tasty. I wouldn't say it is the healthiest lunch spot...but maybe it's just the dishes I'm choosing. ;)
(4)Rachel B.
Even though I've lived in Worcester for many years, I'm not big on seafood, so I had never been to the Sole before. I was attending a family member's birthday here, so I was excited to see what it was like! The ambiance and aesthetic is quite nice. The place was packed, but I like the fact that it's separated into smaller rooms- My party of 8 was able to chat without any issues of excess noise. I was concerned that there was nothing on the menu other than seafood and steak. I was hoping to see at least one chicken dish, however the waitress informed me that they had chicken breast and were able to substitute it for any of the fish dishes if I so desired. I was happy about that, and decided to order the parmesean crusted trout dish with chicken instead. While our waitress was very sweet, she seemed like she was either new, or not very good at her job. She continuously put the wrong plate of food in front of the wrong person starting with appetizers all the way to when our entrees finally came out. On top of that, she also brought our drinks out all at different times, and then did this again with our entrees with no explanation as to why they weren't all brought out at once. 2 of the people I was with had to wait almost 10 minutes to receive their plates while the rest of us were eating and at a nicer/higher priced restaurant, that is just a no-no. Myself and 2 of the people I was with ordered the same dish, which came with green beans for a side. I substituted asparagus on my plate in place of green beans, which I was told would be a $1 upcharge. For an almost $30 plate, I found that a little ridiculous, but whatever. When our plates arrived ALL of them had asparagus, rather than just mine. My salad was OK- nothing to rant or rave about. My fiance said his chicken noodle soup was the best he's ever had. Everyone that ordered seafood said it was absolutely delicious, although the Shrimp and grits was incredibly spicy even though that was not mentioned in the description of the dish. The clam strips were also mentioned to be a bit on the greasy side, and were brought out in a red and white paper bowl. Speaking on that- i was also pretty disappointed in the presentation of the plates. I know it's not supposed to be a gourmet, 5 star restaurant plating experience, but it looked like something I'd order at a chain restaurant- everything was just kind of tossed on the plate. Those of us that ordered chicken were left underwhelmed. it was heavily crusted, a little oily, and overcooked. My potatoes and vegetables were sub par and room temperature the moment they hit the table. All in all, the important thing is the seafood, which I was told was very good. My fiance also said his steak was cooked to perfection, although there was a bit too much fat for his liking. I think this is a decent restaurant, but they do have some issues. I don't think I'd return here on my own, as I feel like I can get a much better meal and better service for the price elsewhere in worcester.
(3)Ron S.
Service was much better that my food. I ordered the clam strip dinner with macaroni/cheese and sautéed mushrooms as sides. Both sides were lukewarm and tasteless. The strips were more like belly than strips that I ordered. I finally mentioned to a server about the sides and was offered to have them warmed up or new ones for take out, which I declined. The manager came by and asked what he could do. Rather than tell him I chose to see what would he would do on his own. Mistake! A desert was comped. For a $120.00 meal (tip included) I am disappointed...
(3)Brenda W.
Reservations highly recommended. We called on Good Friday for reservations that evening and received an 8:30 slot for three of us. The good news is that they appear to be hopping and thriving at that dinner hour. Menu options were many. I selected the broiled sea scallops which came with mashed potatoes and a steamed vegetable medley. I also selected a caesar salad. The dinner was very good; prices were to be expected (in the 25.00 range for entrees), ambiance was dressy without feeling we had to be dressed to the hilt, and service was very good. I do have to say that the presentation for both the price and ambiance was less than stellar. I did expect that part of the meal to be much better.
(4)Michael S.
Food was outstanding. The Ora king oscar was outstanding Amy Lynne was great at service. First time here and will definitely come back.
(5)Jep G.
==food: mediocre. we got: 1) Chilled Seafood Platter (guess the shrimps were ~ok). 2) Ora King Salmon Oscar (salmon per se was ~ok. not overcooked. the crab meat / sauce and rice were almost flavorless) 3) Wildflower Honey Brushed Arctic Char (as for the
(2)Inigo M.
Classic old school Worcester seafood restaurant, that one gets the sense is struggling to keep up with the times. At one point this was THE place for seafood in Worcester, and it still is for many people. Its expensive, a tad on the fancy side, and happens to have a fabulous wine list to boot. You'll find classic New England favorites here and more contemporary takes on seafood. I've only had the pleasure of eating here twice, and thoroughly enjoyed what I had: local seafood prepared simply. High rollers like this place for power lunches/dinners. Its a date place as well, in a city with far fewer of those than you might think.
(4)Ashley V.
I've been going here for 20 of my 27 years on this planet, and seafood does not get any better. My hometown is close to Worcester, so every time I come back to visit, I demand to eat here. My favorites are the signature cocktails, the clam chowder, any salmon dish they prepare, and the sushi (firecracker).
(5)Michelle L.
Such a BIG DISAPPOINTMENT!! The prices for their quality of steak and veggies is OUTRAGEOUS!! They were soggy veggies, hard steak, when i ordered medium well, and when i asked for a mixed sangria bowl, it was like sipping on a big bowl of fruit, NO ALCOHOL!! BOOOOO!! Never coming here again.
(1)Tiffany B.
I had the worst experience at this restaurant today. Our server was crystal and Toni, we had two servers yet the worst service ever. We had water at the table that was asked to be refilled three times and at the end of the meal we still did not get our waters refilled and just asked for the check. We spent about 20 minutes waiting to get out order. I understand it was busy but to have two servers and no one serving you was ridiculous. The food was okay they overcharged us for the lobster bisque and then had to go back and fix it. I wouldn't order it again. The crab sliders were good and they was probably the best thing. Their drinks are okay nothing out of the ordinary.
(1)Brian H.
The food here is excellent. I ordered the surf and turf with the steam and stuffed shrimp and the quality itself is amazing. Also, the service was pretty good: water and drinks were refilled within minutes and the waitress replaces dishes when necessary. However, one minor objection would be that the food is a bit pricey, but the quality of the food, to a small extent, overshadows this minor flaw.
(5)Rich C.
Great seafood. Plenty of choices. I had the land and two seas which consisted of a perfectly cooked filet and shrimp scallops with garlic blue cheese mashed potatoes and asparagus. Yum yum yum. Also for $3 I upgrade my salad to a goat cheese and fennel with Apple slices with an awesome balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Huge portion with very tasty food. Ask for Yuri he's the best. He made my night.
(5)Scott S.
Found this place via Yelp! and it was great. Lobster roll was huge and fresh and the oysters were wonderful as well. My only negative is that it was a little pricy for lunch but otherwise it was great.
(5)Queen B.
Absolutely unacceptable service by waitress and manager . Have been a regular for four years but never going back . Even though I love the food and ambience here ,I am taking my business elsewhere. SORRY Sole you lost a loyal customer.
(1)Tim R.
Please do yourself a favor and do not eat at this establishment. The Management and staff are extremely rude and not accommodating at all. We had reservations for Father's Day, which were made last Monday. My Mother-in law called yesterday morning and politely asked the lady who answered the phone that we would need to add one more person to our party of 4. The lady, without even checking immediately said we cant do that (with an attitude). Then we asked to speak with a manager and the manager said the same exact thing very rudely. He explained that they overbooked and could not accommodate us. I don't own/manage a restaurant, but I cant imagine adding 1 chair to the end of table being a problem but I guess I was wrong. If you like good food and being treated terribly by management and staff this is the best restaurant in town. The Sole Proprietor definitely lost a customer yesterday.
(1)Kent C.
Had a work dinner here so we had a table of 10. Service was a little lacking and the food well we can break that down... Oysters, well the one I got had a piece of meat that was so small my fork couldn't even get it out of the half shell... I ordered the black and blue swordfish. Was alright.. Fish was a little bit too charred. My side broccoli was overcooked. The lobster bisque, had incredibly large pieces of lobster but the bisque itself was overly saltly and well had some separately liquid ontop... I hope it was water? Lemon sorbet was overwhelmingly large and definitely the best part of my meal other than the beer.
(2)Kim N.
Went to visit my sister who is going to school out here. She said there wasn't much to do in the area. And she was right. But then...she took us to this gem of a place. The parking lot was easy to navigate. They greet you very nicely and walk you to your table quickly. The place looks very upscale. But there's a diverse crowd. You can see people in evening attire, or in hawaiian print shirts and flip flops. I was a bit confused. Servers were attentive and had good descriptions of the specials. The oysters came out quickly and were yummy. (It helped that the server kind of knew what was good for the day.) The clam chowder was good and I enjoyed it, but it was nothing amazing. I'd still order again. When the steaks came, I loved that the chef came out and asked us to cut into it to see if it was prepared to our liking. Big points for that! And so friendly! I ordered the surf and turf and it was delicious. They almost convinced us to go for a dessert, but we already had some waiting at home. Everything was so well-priced too! You would probably pay 2 times as much for the same thing in Boston! This is a good place to take visitors. I'm from out of state and Worcester can be a bit....out there. Since there are a lot of students here, I would definitely recommend this place for when family comes to visit.
(5)Tim H.
I loved everything about Sole Proprietorship. The friendly service, the excellent food and the promptness. Food is presented well and tastes excellent. Vast selection of wine and expanded menu. You cannot go wrong with anything you choose. It gets full, so I recommend making a reservation.
(5)Angel F.
Came for lunch. Great experience. I haven't been to a real restaurant in a while now, one that recalls what a good dining experience should be. Our waiter was superb, made recommendations and was very funny, but not over the top! He took all of our orders from memory. Decor and lighting are great, nice size tables and chairs. I hate restaurants that try to squeeze everybody too close together. Food was excellent. I had salmon, was probably the best cooked salmon I've ever had. My sister's was even better, was so buttery and fatty it melted in your mouth. I think it was the salmon masala so check that out when you come. There were 5 of us and everyone loved their food. Anyway very reasonable for what is a great restaurant. I can see why they've been on top for years.
(5)Ann I.
Great seafood restaurant with wonderful service! I came here on a work function that was about 20+ people. The wait staff was on it! They tag teamed and made sure everyone was taken care of. The menu had a lot to choose from, it was Lobster fest so of course I had lobster. It was cooked to perfection and the Blue Cheese Mashed Potatoes were to die for. Had the cheesecake for dessert and it was also delicious. Kudos to the waiters and waitresses to helped us that night, they were super friendly and always kept the drinks coming!
(4)Kelsey V.
I came here for the first time a while back and had the New England lobster bake. It was good, just boiled seafood. My boyfriend had the surf and turf and absolutely hated it, the meat was like two little pieces of burnt rubber. He wasn't happy. But tonight we decided to try it again. We had a lovely waitress, Santana who defiantly knew her stuff! She could recite the menu back to us and that was awesome. So back to my second time around. Love their rolls, love the choice between soup or salad. I started with kamata oysters, and they were delicious. You could literally taste the ocean in how fresh it was. My boyfriend had the crab cake, and it was pretty good. Really small but good. I had the Ora salmon (suppose to be the best salmon they have) while he had the seafood sautée. His was a mixture of lobster scallops and shrimp in an amazing creamy sauce. However he asked for garlic mashed potatoes instead of squash, and still got the squash.. But that's ok. My salmon was good. Flavor was there. And I get the prices cause I'm paying for the freshness of the seafood. Overall this time, way better than last time. As a young adult, will I go again? Probably not. For elders, good choice.
(3)Tracy E.
They have the absolute best seafood I have ever eaten in my entire life. The seafood is not only fresh, but the creativity of the menu is exceptional. It's not the type of place that changes its menu every month, but there's enough on the menu that allows you to switch up your orders upon every visit. Most diners find their special dish and stick with it until they stop making it. In my case, I ordered the same tuna dish from 2003-2006, then after they switched up the protein aspect of the dish from tuna to scallops, they allowed me to special order the same dish from 2006 until my graduation from college in the area in 2007. I recently returned to "The Sole" a few days and found that my favorite dish was no longer on the menu, but I was pleasantly surprised with what I had ordered. The crab cakes were phenomenal as they were served with a cumin-infused slaw and the Arctic char served with pumpkin risotto was so perfectly autumnal in every comforting way. You can't go wrong with whatever you order here. The food is impeccable as is the service. How I wish there was another place comparable to The Sole elsewhere in the country. For goodness sake, I live right outside NYC, and I have yet to find anything like it ANYWHERE in my travels. I miss The Sole =(
(5)Nicole L.
Really the only thing that is bad about this place is that the prices are high. The reality is who cares. Service and food are worth it. We had Amy and Nicole wait on us. Service was prompt and fabulous. Glasses were not empty before they were refilled. Food was awesome. We are here at restaurant week. The shrimp app was spicy but perfect. House salad was boring but as expected. The haddock Newburg was very tasty. Hubby had the NY strip. Cooked to perfection. Black tie for dessert was huge and he said it was great. There are multiple cuts of meat and chicken plates that are made to order so ask if you are not into seafood.
(5)Catherine A.
Slammed pack but not the service I received at One 11 Chophouse. The $4.99 clam chowder was good. The spicy tuna roll was chewy. Although the large piece of tuna was nice. The cocktail wasn't strong. I would have ordered another but they never asked. I also would have ordered an entree but they never asked so when I caught their attention I just settled for sushi. I was willing to drop money but no one was attentive. Ill return to one 11 but since its the same owners they prob wont care I converted to the other concept.
(2)Crystal N.
The lobster bisque was the best. Our waitress, Amelia, was the sweetest person - the restaurant is lucky to have her be a part of their team. She was so patient with us because we took light years to decide on what we wanted, provided our party with the best service and made sure all of our glasses were full throughout our entire meal. My boyfriend and his brother were adamant about offering her a job to handle their customer service department! Unfortunately, Amelia would have to relocate to California so the guys didn't get to propose the idea to her, lol. We ordered 4lbs (2lbs per plate) of the stuffed lobster. The lobster was topped with scallops and the scallops were lightly battered and cooked to perfection. The hard shell lobsters were delicious, meaty and fresh. I was looking forward to the Ora King Salmon plate but it was a big let down. The salmon was overcooked and wasn't worth what previous reviews have hyped it up to be. I recommend sticking to the lobster dishes here at the Sole Proprietor. The fresh oysters here were great. It came with several sauces, some seemed to be house special sauces that complimented the oysters really well. The Sole Proprietor would be a great place for a date or birthday dinner - the ambiance was really nice and Amelia, our waitress was seriously, Boston's angel.
(4)Warren L.
We were here last night, August 11th, 2015. Normally restaurants need to make excuses for bad service during Worcester Restaurant week. No need here. Everything, and I mean everything from service, to food, to the kitchen, to the room was over the top. If I had a 6 star option that I could only use once a year, I would have awarded it here. Recently we went to one of this restaurants sisters, 111 Chop House, and I ordered the steak. The steak here tasted better, was cooked correctly, and didn't take 45 minutes. (I don't eat seafood.) Honestly, I can't come up with any negative. Highly recommend for special occasions. This is the best restaurant in Worcester in my opinion (and remember, I don't eat seafood.)
(5)Kim S.
After being stuck in HOURS of traffic on our way back from NYC, my friend and I decided to make a pit stop for dinner. We visited on a Thursday night and the parking lot was full. I asked the hostess if there was a private event going on and she responded that it was their typical night. I guess they are a super busy establishment. We started off with a round of drinks before ordering dinner. Warm crusty rolls were brought to our table. There were too many apps that looked intriguing so I made a meal out of apps in lieu of a standard dinner. I started off with the lobster bisque that was OUT OF THIS WORLD! It has got to be the best lobster bisque in my life! There were huge lobster chunks and the consistency was on point. I'm a huge fan of fish tacos but it was only on the appetizer menu. I went ahead and ordered the fried white fish tacos with chipotle aioli. The three fish tacos was a steal at only $9.95. It was a meal within itself. The tacos were pretty good with large chunks of fried fish. The combination of fig, onion, walnut and balsamic vinaigrette in the goat cheese cake was amazing. It was sweet and salty. The toasted sliced baguettes were crispy and fresh. I thought there was more bread than cheese though. All my choices were amazing. My friend also recommended their sushi maki rolls and said they were great. He strongly recommended the "Tiger Eye" which is battered, fried and topped with spicy mayo and eel sauce. Sounds right up my alley. The rest of the group stuck with traditional entrees from the dinner menu. My friend raved about the Tuna Steak Barcelona which is a seared tuna steak stuffed with feta cheese and sun dried tomatoes. The meal was fantastic and if I am ever back in the area, Id definitely stop in. Great food, great service! Kudos to my friend for the recommendation !
(4)Bey F.
This restaurant has forever been a popular meeting place for professionals. The staff are great, it is always lively, I really enjoy the location of the restaurant, but the food is really a disappointment. I suggest an updated menu.
(3)Bryan N.
I came here for my birthday dinner with my girlfriend and I must say I was a happy birthday boy! I love seafood and this place is a haven for seafood lovers. Luckily, we came here during restaurant week, so I had a chance to order from the prefixe menu to try a 3 course meal. I ended up going with the grilled shrimp skewers w mango salsa, clam chowder, and the haddock topped w lobster in Newbury sauce. Everything was pretty delicious, however I wasn't super impressed with the haddock. I would come back, but probably try some of their other fresh seafood menu options. I really like the ambience of the Sole Proprietor. Our waitress, Tori, was awesome and on top of everything; I was impressed.
(4)judy k.
We had fixed price Sunday menu. While service was great and food was fresh I have to comment on the "lobster with creamy newburg sauce with crumbs." The sauce was sweet and tomato based. No cream. No crumbs. Very weird. Off night? I didn't think the key lime pie was tart enough and found that the whipped cream overwhelmed the tart. It was okay. I was a little disappointed. For $100, I think I can do better elsewhere. I don't think the restaurant is as good as I used to think it was. (PS I wrote a comment to the restaurant but got no response.)
(3)Chris L.
Recently went here with my family and my nephew visiting from Arizona...he loves to get seafood when he comes out to the area... The evening started off well, with a great waitress, good drinks and great company....however it all turned a little strange when a mouse or rat (not sure as it moved pretty fast....but it was big) Bolted right by us, under our table, and then right into the main dining area...under some of the booths. A few of the wait staff saw it, as did a party that was just leaving....we grabbed our waitress right away and made her aware of the situation. One of the management staff came over a little while later and said that sometimes, patrons enter into the garden thinking it is a smoking area, and they leave the door open and that allows the rodents to come in... I am not buying it...while we did get comp'd for dessert..I have to say...mouse or no mouse....the food was really bland....my sister ordered salmon/lobster special and it was cold and it was a mission to find the lobster. I had the same Salmon dish and mine was warm, not hot, but it also had next to no taste and was slightly over cooked....which with salmon just kind of dries it out. Mine had about 3 pieces of lobster, and were hard to find..but they were there. My wife had shrimp, and those were over cooked and very tough...which left alot to be desired on flavor. Best part of the meal was the Sushi, which was great...but the main courses left alot to be desired. I was truly disappointed....
(2)Nicole L.
After reading many reviews about The Sole Proprietor, I wasn't sure it would live up to my expectations; however, it did more than just live up to its acclaim!! The food was incredible! The coconut shrimp, crab cakes, and clams casino were a perfect starting point for the meal. Because there were five of us dining I was able to taste the Tempura Soft Shell Crab, Crab Stuffed Shrimp, Rare Tuna Steak, and Blackened Haddock!! All of the dishes were incredibly different, but SO delicious! We also loved our server, Randy!! Very attentive with a great personality! If you are in Worcester for any reason at all, definitely dine here!
(5)Lawrence B.
One of the finest meals I have ever enjoyed. Lobster bisque was out of this world with gigantic pieces of lobster, clam chowder was equally awesome. The seafood was incredibly fresh, piping hot and prepared to perfection. I usually find fault with everything, everywhere I go and Sole Proprieter exceeded my expectations and standards by a mile. This is a fabulous restaurant with an excellent menu prepared to perfection.
(5)Tran T.
Made reservations, came 45 mins prior to rsvp... And they gave our table to another group because it was more "convenient" for them. Now it's 25 mins past our RSVP and still no table. I am very tempted to walk out of here now.... My parents are in town and I thought I'd take them to the most raved restaurant in town. So far not impressed by their service but I'm sure the food is impeccable... Will update this review as soon as I get to taste their food.
(1)Cora B.
We were greeted by a big, cheesy, inflatable crab draped over the entrance. Our party of four went with the intention of talking over dinner. We were told it would be a half hour wait, and we accepted. 10 minutes later, they seated us in the bar. Had we known, we would have asked to keep waiting for a table in a dining area. Bar was so loud and crowded we ended up not really talking. Since we had to shout. My cocktail was superb, that's how they got an extra star from me. My lobster bisque was bland, underseasoned, and had been reheated too harshly so all the bisque-ness was gone. Just slop. It had some very nice pieces of meat for a garnish. Such a shame. Our waiter did take notice that I hadn't enjoyed it and was kind enough to comp that. My swordfish was slightly overdone but the blackened seasoning was nice. Boring mashed potatoes and overcooked zucchini and squash were reminiscent of my work cafeteria. My partner's broiled scallops were unseasoned and overcooked. Again, a shame. My friend across from me had opted for spinach. It was a mess. The stems were left on and it was overcooked and.... you guessed it! Underseasoned. We weren't wowed. Dishes here are not a good value. We appreciated that it was quality and we weren't made sick but I feel that the bill was about $20 more than it should have been for such a mediocre experience.
(2)Susan W.
Please sit at the bar and ask for Raphael. He is super knowledgable and attentive plus he make the most amazing drinks. Try the last retort and artic chat with honey. Amaze ballz.
(5)John B.
This was truly an awesome meal. The raw bar is ultra-fresh and tasty. They are running a lobster special that for $10 more you can add a small lobster to an entree. The wait staff was 100% on their game. Very efficient and knowledgeable. It was crowded but we were not rushed. Good off-street parking with an attendant. We are definitely going back!!!
(5)Kostia G.
Horrible. Went for the first time in 20 years in the area for dinner around 8pm. Always heard good things, to be so greatly disappointed. Parking is tough especially after the snow storm, or not, but it was hard to find parking on Saturday night. Atmosphere is nice, lots of people, not too loud. dogfish head -ran out ordered a bottle of wine, apparently last one ... Now for the food, clam chowder was good. Sushi rolls not good. Goat cheese cake, hmmm... cheese was good everything else on the plate not so much. Calamari, way too much oil. Decided to order fish given that we were at seafood restaurant, ordered special Grilled Trout... was brought something deep fried, overcooked... Very disappointed. Everyone else in the party of 4 feels the same way. None of the dishes served were good. Feel like Boynton across the street for food would have been bar far a better choice. Service was good that is why there is 1 star.
(1)Gia G.
I have been going to the Sole for 20 years. I love the food there. Sushi is amazing. Love the shrimp scampi. Great wine list. ... But I just think the service had gone downhill over the years. I find I sit there waiting a long time for a second drink.
(3)Colleen S.
In Food SERVICE, a Pro-Active approach is always best! That is why I don't understand why when I told the manager, on the way out that we had seen a waitress come out of the bathroom without washing her hands, he got defensive, and told us that women! Go in the bathroom and look at themselves in the mirror,and touch their hair, or tuck their blouse into their pants...Touch touch touch!! Touch the bathroom doorknob, if nothing else!? What does the sign say in every bathroom? ALL employees must wash their hands! This employee did use the toilet stall! We saw it! One has to wonder about the quality of sanitation training in a place where the manager has an attitude like this!? And, it's really too bad, because the service, by two young, friendly, attentive MEN, was outstanding! And, the food was delicious! And the price was very reasonable! Try again, Mr. "manager"!
(1)Reid F.
A very good seafood place with a strange but interesting take on stuffed lobster--they take out the lobster meat and fill the shell with either scallops, shrimp, or lobster that has been baked in cracker crumbs. The oysters are also very good, but the lobster ravioli is just OK.
(4)jeffrey e.
Went here with a group of coworkers who were visiting the area based on the yelp reviews. I had high hopes based on the menu and the reviews here on Yelp. Upon first arriving I was a little put off by the fact that private lot for the restaurant was full. I drove around the block a few times and finding street parking looked a bit unpromising. Eventually I was able to find a spot in the restaurants lot. After making my way through throng of people in the circus like atmosphere of the main entranceway, I gave my name and informed them I was there for out 7:30 reservation. I was told that it was going to be a few minutes before our table was ready. Our group of 3 decided to wait outside because there was really no place to wait inside. Wow, who knew that so many people go out to dinner at a restaurant in Worcester at 7:30 on a Wednesday night. The place was a zoo. About 10minutes later we were finally escorted to our table. Turns out it was restaurant week, they had special 3 courses meals for $24. Not sure if this was the reason for the crowd or not but it seemed like a good deal. I ordered the three course meal, which consisted of the house salad, a shrimp appetizer and the Lobster Newburgh. My coworker ordered a tuna steak and a regular NY Strip. My meal was pretty middle of the road, the shrimp were nothing special and the salad was just a pile of lettuce with blue cheese dressing. The entree was pretty tasty but uninspiring. My coworkers seemed pretty much in agreement in relation to their meals. The Service was very good, everything was brought in a timely fashion. Overall, I thought it was a good meal for the price, but the crowd was way to much. It was difficult even to get into the restaurant. If I am in the area I would give it another go, but I would probably avoid it if they are running a restaurant week promo again.
(3)Dan R.
I have gone here the times within the last two months. I love the seafood, from there surf and turf to raw bar... yum yum yum. Never had a problem with seating, the service staff are the greatest. We were well taken care of. If you want to make sure you have a table ready use open table for your reservation. This place is one of the reasons I love worcester restaurants... I love my town.
(5)Lauren M.
My husband made reservations for two at The Sole for Saturday night, October 18th. It was my 40th birthday, and he mentioned this to the host when he called. Upon arrival, we noticed how cramped/awkward the host station area is, even after all these years in operation. We had been to The Sole before, but it had been a while...a couple of years, probably. When I worked for a mortgage company in Worcester, I'd dine at the bar for lunch from time to time. We've been choosing either Baba Sushi or Armsby Abbey mostly in the last year or so, and wanted to revisit what we remembered as a good restaurant. ANYWAY, the frontage of the restaurant and the bar area are modern and cool to look at, even though it's always ridic crowded. And seriously Worcester, this is supposed to be fine dining...dress up a little. Ok...I'll try to stay focused here. So the host station was crowded, and we gave our names/reservation to the kids at the desk, and got an "OK". Um, ok what, exactly? I said, "About how long?", and was told, "Not long, you can wait at the bar". We ordered drinks at the bar, (my martini was a highlight...clearly the bar-tender was a pro, and really listened to my order...tough to get a perfect slightly dirty glass of delish to make me smile), and before my husband could pay, a different hostess came over to us, and said to me that she'd take me to my table and my husband could come along after, (This was strange to me). The room she brought us to was one of the worst parts of the experience...there's an old, run-down room off the bar in the back that takes you right back to the late 70's. Old booths, outdated paintings, etc...really really tacky. I guess we could've asked to be seated in one of the other rooms, but like I said it was crowded, and we were hungry, and now holding drinks, so we stayed. We were all dolled up and wanted to see and be seen...this room certainly wasn't made for people watching. Sigh. Our waiter/waitress combo was a couple of older (50's?) servers, who made corny comments throughout our whole meal, and chatted loudly behind us at the service station about themselves...seriously, shhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Speaking of our meal...here it goes: The appetizer I ordered was one of the reasons I wanted to come to The Sole again. I remember The Firecracker sushi roll being nothing sort of amazing back in the day. Well, not so much, anymore. What once was a huge beautiful tempura lobster tail in a fresh sushi roll displayed like art on a cool plate was now a flimsy, warm, run of the mill mini-roll which tasted...well, the word "meh" comes to mind. I ordered swordfish, which was over-done, and my hubby ordered salmon, which was a tad pungent. Neither dish was awful, neither dish was good. When the waiter brought over the dessert menu, my husband tried to give him "the look" to see if he knew about my bday, and he did not. This annoyed my husband, but we ordered the key lime pie, and they were nice to write Happy Birthday on it. The pie was delicious BTW...really good. SO, all in all, not great. Not even close. We won't be back, and won't recommend this place to anyone. For well over a hundred dollars, I'd now take many other restaurants over The Sole Proprietor, which once was a favorite of mine. NEXT.
(2)