It has been so long since we went to a restaurant where EVERYTHING was perfect. Until tonight! We loved this place. The atmosphere is enchanting and inviting. We sat outside and it was lovely. The waitstaff were all very attentive and our waiter Nicola could not have been nicer and treated us like family . But the biggest star of the night was the food. Utter perfection. Everything. We had the rucola e parmigiano salad - it was so simple and perfect it renewed my faith in the culinary arts. We had the scallop capaccio special and the scallops and olive oil dressing were a perfect 10. I had a pasta special with swordfish and eggplant and my partner had the zuppa di mare. Both were so amazing I didn't want the tastes to go away. The owner (who we randomly had met in Naples a year ago on a little side street) came by and was so gracious and gave us big hugs. We had amarone by the glass that was a perfect pairing to our meals. The chocolate cream tart had light and flaky crust and the chocolate cream light and inviting. We can't wait to come back. Robin and Peter.
Sandra Harris Ramini
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June 25, 2024
We didn’t think we’d find an authentic European restaurant in Santa Monica, but Portofino was a revelation. We enjoyed immaculate Italian cucina, all the tastes were there and beautifully presented. We shared our dishes - American portions are large - and relished every bite. We sat outside on a beautiful summer evening, celebrating our 52nd anniversary and wondered if we could possibly fit in a dessert. The restaurant made up our minds for us. Presented with a glowing candle was a perfect portion of tiramasu.
What a happy anniversary.
Mark Davis
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February 01, 2020
We had an alumni gathering for 10 there for lunch. Setup/service: impeccable. The items on the expansive menu were universally praised by our guests. The bucata, meatballs and mushroom chicken, my dishes, were exceptionally well prepared. While small, the space is well laid-out and comfortable for groups of various sizes. There is plentiful street parking nearby and five free of charge spots directly in front of the restaurant.
Tutku Yendi
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May 04, 2024
After more than $200 pay check for two, waitress can be shouting and stopping you in the middle of the restaurant saying “hey guys you forgot to tip- that was not included!!” And when you show the bill which was 10% service fee included actually was toooo late make up your night with an excuse. Leaving this restaurant with a worst memory I experienced in Santa Monica. Not recommended.
Ari S
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January 27, 2024
Immersed in the heart of authentic Italian flavors, this hidden gem captivated our taste buds. We had the pesto gnocchi bathed in a creamy indulgence and the penne vodka danced with rich flavors, creating a symphony on our palates. The ambiance exuded genuine Italian charm, and Silvie's impeccable service elevated the dining experience to new heights. A true haven for connoisseurs seeking a culinary journey.
Complementing the culinary mastery, we sipped on fine Italian wines adding another layer to the already delightful atmosphere. And, oh, the chocolate torte – an unrivaled masterpiece that redefined my expectations. Hands down, bar none, the best we’ve ever had. Could not recommend this place highly enough and trust your knowledgeable waiters/waitresses. 10/10 💫
It has been so long since we went to a restaurant where EVERYTHING was perfect. Until tonight! We loved this place. The atmosphere is enchanting and inviting. We sat outside and it was lovely. The waitstaff were all very attentive and our waiter Nicola could not have been nicer and treated us like family . But the biggest star of the night was the food. Utter perfection. Everything. We had the rucola e parmigiano salad - it was so simple and perfect it renewed my faith in the culinary arts. We had the scallop capaccio special and the scallops and olive oil dressing were a perfect 10. I had a pasta special with swordfish and eggplant and my partner had the zuppa di mare. Both were so amazing I didn't want the tastes to go away. The owner (who we randomly had met in Naples a year ago on a little side street) came by and was so gracious and gave us big hugs. We had amarone by the glass that was a perfect pairing to our meals. The chocolate cream tart had light and flaky crust and the chocolate cream light and inviting. We can't wait to come back. Robin and Peter.
We didn’t think we’d find an authentic European restaurant in Santa Monica, but Portofino was a revelation. We enjoyed immaculate Italian cucina, all the tastes were there and beautifully presented. We shared our dishes - American portions are large - and relished every bite. We sat outside on a beautiful summer evening, celebrating our 52nd anniversary and wondered if we could possibly fit in a dessert. The restaurant made up our minds for us. Presented with a glowing candle was a perfect portion of tiramasu. What a happy anniversary.
We had an alumni gathering for 10 there for lunch. Setup/service: impeccable. The items on the expansive menu were universally praised by our guests. The bucata, meatballs and mushroom chicken, my dishes, were exceptionally well prepared. While small, the space is well laid-out and comfortable for groups of various sizes. There is plentiful street parking nearby and five free of charge spots directly in front of the restaurant.
After more than $200 pay check for two, waitress can be shouting and stopping you in the middle of the restaurant saying “hey guys you forgot to tip- that was not included!!” And when you show the bill which was 10% service fee included actually was toooo late make up your night with an excuse. Leaving this restaurant with a worst memory I experienced in Santa Monica. Not recommended.
Immersed in the heart of authentic Italian flavors, this hidden gem captivated our taste buds. We had the pesto gnocchi bathed in a creamy indulgence and the penne vodka danced with rich flavors, creating a symphony on our palates. The ambiance exuded genuine Italian charm, and Silvie's impeccable service elevated the dining experience to new heights. A true haven for connoisseurs seeking a culinary journey. Complementing the culinary mastery, we sipped on fine Italian wines adding another layer to the already delightful atmosphere. And, oh, the chocolate torte – an unrivaled masterpiece that redefined my expectations. Hands down, bar none, the best we’ve ever had. Could not recommend this place highly enough and trust your knowledgeable waiters/waitresses. 10/10 💫