Dodici, an Italian sandwich store located in Utrecht, came highly recommended, for its schiacciata bread sandwiches. Excited to sample their offerings, we visited Dodici and were greeted with enthusiasm and hospitality. Our experience was a mix of delightful service and a sandwich that, while promising, left us with mixed feelings.
The Warm Welcome
Upon entering Dodici, we were warmly welcomed by the person behind the counter, presumably the owner. His enthusiasm for food was contagious and he was happy to share his favorite dishes with us. This kind of passionate service set a positive tone for our visit and raised our anticipation for the meal to come. The interior was cozy and inviting, with a few tables available for those who wished to dine in, adding to the pleasant ambiance.
The Porchetta Sandwich
Given our previous disappointment at another sandwich store that ran out of porchetta, we decided to try Dodici’s porchetta sandwich. The owner’s enthusiasm was evident as he instructed the staff to prepare a great sandwich for us. The sandwich looked tasty, with porchetta, zucchini, pistachios and a creamy element that tasted like ricotta, although that wasn’t on the menu, so it could have been something else.
The Taste Test
Although the sandwich looked visually appealing, the first bite revealed a few problems. The creamy ricotta-like mixture was a bit overpowering and masked the flavor of the porchetta, which seemed a bit sparse. Although the ingredients were clearly of good quality, the sandwich lacked the robust flavor we had hoped for. The bread was crisp on the outside but soggy on the inside, probably due to the moisture from the toppings seeping into it. This created a contrast that was more disappointing than pleasant.
The Ambiance
Dodici offers a cozy environment with a few tables available for those who wish to dine in. This adds a nice touch, allowing customers to enjoy their sandwiches fresh from the kitchen. The inviting atmosphere and the evident passion of the staff contribute positively to the overall experience. The decor is simple yet charming, with rustic touches that reflect the store’s Italian roots. Soft background music added to the relaxed vibe, making it a pleasant place to sit and enjoy a meal.
Final Thoughts
Dodici has the potential to be a standout sandwich store in Utrecht. The enthusiasm of the staff and the quality of the ingredients are definite strengths. However, the execution of the sandwich we tried missed the mark, with issues like the overwhelming creamy mixture, insufficient porchetta, and soggy bread detracting from the overall experience.
With some adjustments to their recipes and perhaps a bit more attention to the balance of flavors and textures, Dodici could truly shine. For now, there are better sandwich options available, but we remain hopeful that Dodici will refine its offerings and live up to its potential. If you’re in the area, it’s worth a visit to experience their hospitality and perhaps discover a favorite item of your own. In the meantime, we look forward to seeing how Dodici evolves and hope to return for an improved experience in the future.
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Review: 7.8/10
Price / Quality: 6 | Service: 10 | Originality: 7 | Freshness: 7 | Choice: 9
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