Portofino Italian Bistro

The meal price listed is way off. Two people ordering dinner without appetizers and one glass of wine each will easily reach $70+. If the food was truly spectacular, it would be worth it, but the food is very average. The chef is obviously creative, as he has come up with some truly unique dishes, but creativity is not always the greatest thing to experience. The raviolis are the highlight of the restaurant, but many of the other dishes combine ingredients that just don't seem to go together, and the pasta itself is not very good. The noodles taste stringy, like they're overcooked, and the cheese used in the sauces tastes very dry and low-quality. The restaurant looks beautiful inside, but then they turn up the volume on the TV too loud and the noise from the regulars at the bar drowns out any conversation. There are better Italian places around - I'd suggest trying them. Pros: Creative menu items, good ravioli, and good wine Cons: Loud bar kills atmosphere, prices are way too high for what is being served more

The food, Italian with a contemporary spin, is splendid, and worth every penny. The difference between Portofino and other socalled "Italian" restaurants is notable. The fresh seafood dishes are especially exceptional, so are the pasta dishes, with particular appeal being in the stuffed pasta family---raviolini di zucca, for example, is my favorite. The portions are generous, the fresh baked bread is limitless, and the atmosphere is Chicago's closest to the Italian Riviera. The wine list is extensive and offers some interesting Italian wines that are rare in this country. The net of all this is that Portofino is a restaurant for that special occasion or to impress a client or that extraspecial someone. Equally as impressive is the managing partner, Danny Legatos who makes each trip feel like home. Always a memorable experience.... Pros: Fresh authentic food, Ambiance, Service and value. Cons: None. more

First let me start by saying that my boss was right this place is worth every penny. I work near this restaurant and had dinner with my friends.The food was home cooking at its best. We had wine we picked from a very exstensive wine list that shocked me.The shock was that it was priced great! The service was so attentive but not in your face. The bartender Dean was a character and made us feel at home. The owner was seating people,bussing tables and that you dont see downtown anywhere.This is my new Italian restaurant.My family will be back. Thank you... Pros: Wonderful decor Cons: more desserts more

Had dinner at Portofino last Saturday and it was from start to finish unreal!!! The service was on point and the food speaks for itself.This place is a stunning restaurant on the lake.Im so happy my husband took me there for dinner.We will be back. Thank you for a great evening!!!!!! Sherry Pros: food, service, management more

Like the title says, "Portifinos is great food." The prices are a little high at night but the food is worth it. I've never had a disappointing meal yet. For a better value try going for lunch. The lunch menu is full size portions with out the full size price. This is a great place if your looking for great Italian cuisine. Pros: Taste, Quality, Lunch Prices Cons: Dinner Prices more

I started with an appetizer,Calamari,i was under the imppression that i was getting kid's portions,Veal was tough and pasta of all quests was not dente but overcooked & smashed.Their prices also pretty high... more