Our Story
Where it all began
Michael's Return
In 2014, Michael Normandin stepped back into the world of restaurants after a ten-year hiatus, opening Sorrento in the heart of Rhode Island. Years before, Michael had run LaRosa, with thriving locations on Pocasset Avenue and Newport Avenue in Providence. Those were vibrant years, filled with the clink of wine glasses and the scent of fresh basil, but life had taken him away from the industry. Now, he was returning, driven by a desire to give his son, Alex, a place to find his footing.
Alex’s passion
Alex started at Sorrento as a dishwasher, elbow-deep in suds, scrubbing pots in the bustling back kitchen. It was humble work, but it grounded him in the rhythm of the restaurant. Michael watched as Alex’s curiosity grew, his hands moving from the sink to the cutting board, then to the stove. With every step, Alex’s passion for cooking blossomed. By the time he became Chef, he wasn’t just following recipes—he was creating them, pouring his heart into every dish.
Family Legacy
Together, Michael and Alex turned Sorrento into more than a restaurant; it became a family legacy. Alex's passion for creating fresh, quality cuisine came alive in every dish—with sauces simmered to perfection and desserts that wrap you in comfort. Guests could feel the devotion in every bite, and they kept returning, drawn not only by the exceptional food but by the warmth of being welcomed into something truly meaningful.
What sets us apart
We welcomed customer requests, treating them as sparks for creativity. A diner’s idea for a new pasta dish or a unique spin on a classic risotto would send Alex into the kitchen, experimenting with flavors and techniques. These specialty meals, born from collaboration with our guests, became signatures of Sorrento’s menu.
As fall approaches, Alex eagerly anticipates ladling out bowls of soul-warming pasta e fagioli and classic tomato basil, among other seasonal favorites.
Creating Something Extraordinary
Sorrento grew into a place where tradition and innovation met, where Michael’s experience and Alex’s passion wove together to create something enduring. For Michael, watching Alex thrive as Chef was more than a father’s pride—it was the realization of a legacy. Sorrento wasn’t just about serving meals; it was about family, community, and the joy of creating something extraordinary, one dish at a time.
