I dine out quite a bit. I felt like asking questions about drinks or the menu was burdensome to the staff. Two of the bottles of wine we asked for were unavailable. One entrée was very late and three of us had to begin dining so our food didn’t get cold. It was just an awkward experience bordering on unpleasant. I did not feel valued as a customer.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 3
Elliott Jost
Excellent food, prices, and atmosphere. Went here late on a Sunday when most other restaurants had closed and I will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nina Marr
Had a lovely dinner with my coworkers. Appetizers were delicious. Great wine selection and unique cocktail options. Everyone in our group enjoyed their entrées. The food tasted like someone's Italian grandmother had lovingly made each dish. The pistachio creme brulee was to die for.Vegetarian options: There are a lot of seafood options for those who will eat seafood. And there are pasta dishes that are meat and / or seafood free. Salads are also a good vegetarian choice and can be customized with seafood options for those who eat seafood.
I ate here two years ago on a business trip. Return visit was worth it. Started with warm bread and olive oil then went straight to the main course, fried soft shell crabs. They were battered different than what we do in Louisiana, but it was still very good. Wish I had room for dessert. I will be back again next time I am in town.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Victoria
Is the best Italian rest around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Robert Zilbauer
Fun family-friendly Italian place conveniently located on 23rd. Reservations are recommended. Go around back for parking and the entrance to the restaurant.Comfort food is the name of the game. Tasty ravioli and decent pasta in general. Great limoncello and the Nutella mousse pie is a must-get. Go during Happy Hour and get your bottle of wine half off (up to $50)!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Ravioli Portofino
Pankaj Parikh
Highly disappointing place and service.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Julie & Jack Mulville
Food was pretty flavorless and expensive for portion sizes. Also, it's not really kid friendly. They have highchairs and that's about it.Parking: Some behind the restaurant if you drive down the narrow alley next to the entrance.Kid-0
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
Audrey Whittington
Fantastic little family owned place!! Love eating here...food and service are excellent. They also have a great wine list with affordable selections. Cherry on top is they also have dedicated parking!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Pedro M.
Visiting Portofino Restaurant in Crystal City, VA, was a delightful experience that exceeded all expectations. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The interior exudes an elegant charm, with tasteful decor that complements the upscale vibe of the restaurant.The service at Portofino Restaurant was impeccable. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that our visit was nothing short of perfect. They were attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and eager to offer recommendations tailored to our preferences. It was clear that customer satisfaction is a top priority at this establishment.The menu at Portofino Restaurant is a testament to the culinary artistry of the chefs. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted with the freshest ingredients, showcasing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. We were particularly impressed with the seafood selections, which were expertly prepared and presented. The pasta dishes were also standout, offering authentic Italian flavors that transported us straight to Italy with each bite.One of the highlights of our dining experience was the wine selection. Portofino Restaurant boasts an impressive wine list that features both well-known and obscure vintages, providing an excellent opportunity to explore different pairings with our meals. The knowledgeable staff were instrumental in guiding us through the wine list, helping us make selections that beautifully complemented our dishes.To conclude our meal, we indulged in one of the restaurant's decadent desserts. It was the perfect ending to an already spectacular dining experience. The dessert was visually stunning and delicious, demonstrating the same high level of culinary excellence found throughout the meal.Portofino Restaurant in Crystal City, VA, offers an exquisite dining experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners. With its warm ambiance, outstanding service, and culinary excellence, this restaurant is a gem that stands out in the vibrant Crystal City dining scene. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply in search of a high-quality dining experience, Portofino Restaurant is a destination that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Nice, family-run Italian place. Haven't tried extensive menu but loved the salad and the Eggplant Parmigiana.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Dan Kapnis
Absolutely incredible food, service and ambiance. Our server was outstanding, and the Omaggi di Nettuno was a showstopper. 2 of our table of three got this, and we were thrilled! The third got the gnocchi and was equally pleased.Should be rated 5 stars all day long.We all devoured out food before thinking of pics of the mains.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Andy Kourafas
I can't find a complaint to list. The food was amazing, the waiter was awesome, the atmosphere was cool. Absolutely loved it here and every one of us are every last bite.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Gary Connor
A very nice surprise. Our first time here. Portofino is in a restaurant strip so I didn't know what to expect. Reviews were a mixed bag. A strange rear entrance had a door opening directly on a stairs for entry.Friendly staff immediately seated us at an attractive table. Warm bread and olio appeared with menus and a wine recommendation at Happy Hour discount price. A nice menu with wide variety. Found our waiter had been there for 35 years and the cook for 47.We ordered and food appeared promptly. Small size plate was filled. Thought pasta at an extra $2 was odd at an Italian Cafe. Food was excellant. Veggies appeared steamed and were nice and firm. My chicken Marsalla was great.We splurged on desserts. Caramel apple gellato and chocolate pistachio cannooli. I also got an espresso doppio. We had a ton of great food and drink and a great experience for under $100.Our server was attentive and friendly throughout and really added to our dining experience. We came away with great memories and a souvenir. Will definitely go back.PS. Given the stairway entry. I am not sure what accessibility provisions exist. If that is a requirement, I suggest you call ahead. There is a car park it the rear.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
cm cm
We dined here last weekend for my birthday outing. The 'Pollo Portofino' dish that I ordered was overcooked on the outside and severely undercooked on the inside.Our waiter, an older gentleman who never bothered to give us his name, was rude and obviously did not want to wait on us. When he came to take our order, he gave no greeting. He simply stood there and waited for us to say what we wished to order. He did not return to the table to see if we needed anything, after our order was placed. Another waiter came to clear our table before we were even finished with the meal. I visited here years ago, and the service was stellar. The wait staff now seems racist and biased. We will not visit again.
I dine out quite a bit. I felt like asking questions about drinks or the menu was burdensome to the staff. Two of the bottles of wine we asked for were unavailable. One entrée was very late and three of us had to begin dining so our food didn’t get cold. It was just an awkward experience bordering on unpleasant. I did not feel valued as a customer.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 3
Excellent food, prices, and atmosphere. Went here late on a Sunday when most other restaurants had closed and I will definitely be back!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Had a lovely dinner with my coworkers. Appetizers were delicious. Great wine selection and unique cocktail options. Everyone in our group enjoyed their entrées. The food tasted like someone's Italian grandmother had lovingly made each dish. The pistachio creme brulee was to die for.Vegetarian options: There are a lot of seafood options for those who will eat seafood. And there are pasta dishes that are meat and / or seafood free. Salads are also a good vegetarian choice and can be customized with seafood options for those who eat seafood.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Ravioli Portofino, Calamari Fritti, Pistachio Crème Brulee
I ate here two years ago on a business trip. Return visit was worth it. Started with warm bread and olive oil then went straight to the main course, fried soft shell crabs. They were battered different than what we do in Louisiana, but it was still very good. Wish I had room for dessert. I will be back again next time I am in town.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Is the best Italian rest around.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Fun family-friendly Italian place conveniently located on 23rd. Reservations are recommended. Go around back for parking and the entrance to the restaurant.Comfort food is the name of the game. Tasty ravioli and decent pasta in general. Great limoncello and the Nutella mousse pie is a must-get. Go during Happy Hour and get your bottle of wine half off (up to $50)!
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 4
Recommended dishes: Ravioli Portofino
Highly disappointing place and service.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1
Food was pretty flavorless and expensive for portion sizes. Also, it's not really kid friendly. They have highchairs and that's about it.Parking: Some behind the restaurant if you drive down the narrow alley next to the entrance.Kid-0
Atmosphere: 3
Food: 1
Service: 3
Fantastic little family owned place!! Love eating here...food and service are excellent. They also have a great wine list with affordable selections. Cherry on top is they also have dedicated parking!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Visiting Portofino Restaurant in Crystal City, VA, was a delightful experience that exceeded all expectations. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere that perfectly set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The interior exudes an elegant charm, with tasteful decor that complements the upscale vibe of the restaurant.The service at Portofino Restaurant was impeccable. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that our visit was nothing short of perfect. They were attentive without being intrusive, knowledgeable about the menu, and eager to offer recommendations tailored to our preferences. It was clear that customer satisfaction is a top priority at this establishment.The menu at Portofino Restaurant is a testament to the culinary artistry of the chefs. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted with the freshest ingredients, showcasing a perfect balance of flavors and textures. We were particularly impressed with the seafood selections, which were expertly prepared and presented. The pasta dishes were also standout, offering authentic Italian flavors that transported us straight to Italy with each bite.One of the highlights of our dining experience was the wine selection. Portofino Restaurant boasts an impressive wine list that features both well-known and obscure vintages, providing an excellent opportunity to explore different pairings with our meals. The knowledgeable staff were instrumental in guiding us through the wine list, helping us make selections that beautifully complemented our dishes.To conclude our meal, we indulged in one of the restaurant's decadent desserts. It was the perfect ending to an already spectacular dining experience. The dessert was visually stunning and delicious, demonstrating the same high level of culinary excellence found throughout the meal.Portofino Restaurant in Crystal City, VA, offers an exquisite dining experience that is sure to impress even the most discerning diners. With its warm ambiance, outstanding service, and culinary excellence, this restaurant is a gem that stands out in the vibrant Crystal City dining scene. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply in search of a high-quality dining experience, Portofino Restaurant is a destination that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Nice, family-run Italian place. Haven't tried extensive menu but loved the salad and the Eggplant Parmigiana.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Absolutely incredible food, service and ambiance. Our server was outstanding, and the Omaggi di Nettuno was a showstopper. 2 of our table of three got this, and we were thrilled! The third got the gnocchi and was equally pleased.Should be rated 5 stars all day long.We all devoured out food before thinking of pics of the mains.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I can't find a complaint to list. The food was amazing, the waiter was awesome, the atmosphere was cool. Absolutely loved it here and every one of us are every last bite.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
A very nice surprise. Our first time here. Portofino is in a restaurant strip so I didn't know what to expect. Reviews were a mixed bag. A strange rear entrance had a door opening directly on a stairs for entry.Friendly staff immediately seated us at an attractive table. Warm bread and olio appeared with menus and a wine recommendation at Happy Hour discount price. A nice menu with wide variety. Found our waiter had been there for 35 years and the cook for 47.We ordered and food appeared promptly. Small size plate was filled. Thought pasta at an extra $2 was odd at an Italian Cafe. Food was excellant. Veggies appeared steamed and were nice and firm. My chicken Marsalla was great.We splurged on desserts. Caramel apple gellato and chocolate pistachio cannooli. I also got an espresso doppio. We had a ton of great food and drink and a great experience for under $100.Our server was attentive and friendly throughout and really added to our dining experience. We came away with great memories and a souvenir. Will definitely go back.PS. Given the stairway entry. I am not sure what accessibility provisions exist. If that is a requirement, I suggest you call ahead. There is a car park it the rear.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
We dined here last weekend for my birthday outing. The 'Pollo Portofino' dish that I ordered was overcooked on the outside and severely undercooked on the inside.Our waiter, an older gentleman who never bothered to give us his name, was rude and obviously did not want to wait on us. When he came to take our order, he gave no greeting. He simply stood there and waited for us to say what we wished to order. He did not return to the table to see if we needed anything, after our order was placed. Another waiter came to clear our table before we were even finished with the meal. I visited here years ago, and the service was stellar. The wait staff now seems racist and biased. We will not visit again.
Atmosphere: 1
Food: 1
Service: 1