Yes, you read those words. Right here in Portland. Portobello Vegan Trattoria. I’ve been trying to go here with little success because I couldn’t seem to keep the hours straight in my head. You know, life over 40. Anyhow, last night we finally made it. We tried someplace else first, they were packed and Mark said “I know! Portobello!” It was Thursday. We were trying to celebrate. They would be open. So off we went.
I am stoked! Really. I’m not over-using that slang. Elated. First, it’s Italian food made vegan. Really a first for Portland. From the moment we entered I knew I would love it. The ambience is great. Very funky. Reminded me of a mix between Brooklyn, Minneapolis and Portland (of course). There is nothing fancy about it. But it’s clean and eclectic and they were playing Talking Heads. By day, it’s a coffee house and roaster. But by evening Portobello occupies the space. Which is a great way to use the spaces in Portland. Very sustainable. Further, they use local and/or organic produce and did I mention VEGAN?! But don’t worry, if you don’t have a vegan diet, you’ll still love the food.
I had the squash cappalacci in a creamy cashew sauce. 5 huge plump cushions stuffed full of squash. The sauce was frothy and light, yet flavorful. We also shared an appetizer of fresh bread & veggies with an olive oil & garlic dipping sauce (we ran out of dippers, not dip…a first!) and a side of broccolini. Mark had the Portobello Canneloni, served bubbling hot. He devoured it. The portions are perfect and they have a small plate or full plate option for most of their entrees. It’s rustic, it’s not fancy. Well-prepared and just enough options to get you excited but not over-whelmed. We’re already looking forward to our next trip for the lasagne.
They have applied for their liquor license, well before they opened their doors. So there should be some Barberas, Chiantis, and Pinot Grigios soon. That was the only element missing. I kept reaching for my glass of wine. However…
Any disappointment I had experienced for the lack of wine was immediately resolved when another guest received her tiramisu. Yes, you read that right. Tiramisu. Made vegan. VEGAN TIRAMISU. We shared one. It was plenty. I want everyone to support them so they stay in business so I can have vegan italian food, with wine (soon), 5 days a week (if I wanted). Go there. There is a bar that faces the giant window so if you are dining solo, you have some place to look. It also makes a great place to meet up with a few friends to have some fun and it is Fabulous for a sweet date-night with the one you love.
2001 SE 11th Ave, at 11th and Harrison, in Portland, Oregon! They’re open Wednesday through Saturday, 5:30 to 10:30. Go now.
