I've only been here 3 times because I live next door. They have generic pizzas in two sizes (40-65 kuai), various drinks, and bruschetta (~20 kuai). I've never had the pasta, desserts, or salads, so I'm only speaking from what I have had. As my title says the food is barely passable - it's kind of like when I first came to Beijing years ago and someone would tell me a place served western food and I would inevitably be disappointed. The bruschetta is served on those big thick bread slices you might find in a Chinese bakery - toasted to a crisp. Why on earth they do this when they are located across the street from April Gourmet and several doors down from Comptoirs de France, both of which stock many varieties or appropriate bruschetta bread, is beyond me.

As for the pizzas... the sauce just isn't right (what little of it actually exists)... poor quality tomato paste thinly spread out on top. A friend of mine ordered a plain cheese pizza (which I think was ~40-50 kuai?) and it was so terrible she ate a few slices and didn't even bother to box up the rest and take it home.

So why three stars then? The service has been excellent each time I've been. Very attentive waitresses, food served promptly and correctly, easy to order, etc. It's also a nice place to sit outside for a long period of time and have a few drinks with some friends (when the BJ weather/pollution allows!). It's a shame the food is so terrible because otherwise I'd eat there a *lot* more often when I'm too lazy to cook at home (like half the week!!!).

Friendly service, expansive menu, fresh decor, central location, easy parking, good wine list, great food - and did I mention friendly service, friendly service, friendly service. In a very competitive market, O Sole Mio stands apart. Their consistent quality, relaxed atmosphere and friendly welcomes earn my business - - - time and time again.