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Restaurants
Portofino Bistro Mediterraneo
by Vicki Slotnick
Portofino Bistro, a charming Mediterranean gem nestled offers a delightful mix of Italian and Spanish cuisine. Upon entering, we were greeted by a uniquely shaped dining space—neither too big nor too small—that immediately set the stage for a warm and pleasant evening. The tables, adorned with crisp white cloths and gleaming stemware, hinted at the attention to detail that carries through the entire dining experience.
On a bustling Saturday night, the restaurant was lively and energetic, though we were seated promptly (reservations are recommended for weekends and high season). The owner/manager took a few minutes to arrive, but when he did, we were introduced to the night’s specials with enthusiasm that made us want to order one of everything. He personally described the off-menu dishes with such love and detail that it was almost like he was introducing us to cherished family members.
The meal started with a fried calamari appetizer, which, after a bit of a wait, arrived hot, crispy, and perfectly seasoned. The kitchen's timing can be a bit unpredictable on busy nights, with entrees arriving in waves, but on quieter weeknights, the service is more seamless. Regardless of the timing, one thing is consistent—the food always comes out piping hot, as if it just sprinted from the stove to our table.
Laura and Emmett shared the paella, a dish as vibrant and generous as a Spanish fiesta. They declared it excellent, and judging by the size of the portion, they could have easily invited a couple of extra friends to help finish it. The pastas at Portofino are standouts, particularly the pasta Bolognese and the Penne a la Vodka, both of which showcase the chef's skill in crafting rich and flavorful sauces. On one occasion, my husband and I shared the Bolognese and still had enough leftovers for me to enjoy another dinner the next night, a rare and delightful win in the portion department!
A few weeks prior, I indulged in a shared branzino, lightly battered and pan-sautéed to perfection. The fish was sweet, tender, and delicious. A good way to judge a restaurant is by its bread, and Portofino’s Italian loaf does not disappoint—soft and fresh on the inside, with a satisfyingly crackly crust. My only complaint? There just wasn’t enough of it! With sauces this good, bread should be in endless supply for proper sopping purposes.
Despite the minor waiting times, we left feeling satisfied (okay, stuffed, if you must know) and thoroughly happy with the meal. Portofino delivers on quality and flavor, making it a must-visit spot for lovers of Mediterranean cuisine. Just be sure to bring an appetite and maybe stash a loaf of your favorite bread in your handbag or pocket!
Portofino Bistro Mediterraneo
Plaza la Mar
891 Donald Ross Rd
Juno Beach
561-355-5936
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