Headed by chef-owner and master of Neapolitan culture, Diego Ortoli, Portofino offers signature dishes for lunch and dinner like filet Mignon carpaccio, insalata Portofino (salad of red and yellow beets tossed with a lemon vinaigrette, served on mixed greens), and a variety of panins (lunch only), pastas and entrees. They also offer a gluten free menu, freshly baked bread and sought-after wine dinners, highlighting top wine and food of Italy.
At one recent four-course dinner, Ortoli created a culinary journey through Italy with selections like butternut squash soup with goat cheese and pistachio oil; saffron arancini with mozzarella and English peas; rigatoni with cured pork jowl, slowly braised with caramelized onions and fresh tomatoes; wild mushroom ravioli, served with a marsala cream sauce; Angus ribeye steak marinated with herbs and garlic, served with a balsamic reduction; and housemade mini cannolis for dessert. Wines paired throughout the night include Stella Mosca Vermentino La Cala 2011; Stella Mosca Cannonau Riserva 2008; Tre Rose Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2009 and Bersano Moscato D’asti NV.
Take a peek at some of the highlights:
Portofino Cucina Italiana, 464 S. Main St., downtown, 213.239.9019. portofinodtla.com