alright listen. i know you're expecting a 5 because this place's reviews are absolutely popping off. but this place just didn't live up to the expectation. food was mid but service was AMAZING which is what saved it. ambiance was also good and i overall enjoyed the experience. would i go again? no... but would i recommend for a one time fancy night out? maybe! have fun!
Jason H.
Wonderful experience! Delightful food! Outstanding service! We went here for my birthday and did the prix fixe menu with wine pairing. I highly recommend this wonderful gem.
Tim S
Mahi-mahi ("fish of the day" on the day I visited) was very bland and the spaghetti dish was over-salted but everything else was fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
Aimee P.
We tried this place based on recommendation by our hotel and by reviews and it was delicious . We started with the onion soup that was plated beautifully and tasted good. It was followed by spaghetti with anchovies and mussels . They didn't disappoint. Last meal was fried halibut plated on special sauce and carrots and vegetables. The highlight is the very pleasant server Lichen. He was always smiling . We wanted Tiramisu for dessert unfortunately they didn't have that in the menu. We had to go to the Mucca Pizzeria beside it to buy it for to go.
Nathan Dailey
I dine here often, my girlfriend and I have always had the best experiences here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Drew M.
1-star for the food 5-stars for our server It's painful to write this review as going into our meal this past Saturday evening I was not only elated with joy that we locked in a reservation but that I would also be able to share it with someone special. That said, I had read their reviews as well as looked through plenty of photos prior to this occasion: I was excited! To preface this review I'd like to point out our primary server was a delight. She was attentive and informed. To be fair to her, towards the end of the evening when we asked if the "flavor profile" of these dishes was intentionally "mild", she was kind in her response and provided some potential insight as to why our experience with the [lack] of flavors was happening. It seems there may have been a change in staff that evening or some of the regular staff were on PTO. That said, we also noted that our table (second floor) was probably the only table that selected the "Tasting Menu." Every other full table seemed to have ordered the Prix Fixe Menu. We found ourselves drooling over all the other dishes being served to our neighbors. Pastas a plenty! I don't think I saw anyone leave a single bite remaining nor take anything home in a box. Unfortunately, we struggled to finish each dish and some we had to set aside after the first bite. I think one of the stand out dishes that really set a negative tone for the evening was the scallops. While they were seared, they were also slightly cold in the center. Again, based on the numerous reviews we were both excited for what could only be heaven on a plate but experienced quite the opposite. I believe the duck was the other dish (a cold dish) that ended up being another punch to the gut. The overall theme for each dish was bland. Bland or confusing. After researching the reviews later that night, it seems there are others that experienced less than favorable dinners with the Tasting Menu. Had we known, we would have chosen the Prix Fixe Menu. Many of the items on the Tasting Menu were not on the regular menu and I can see why. Also, what was served on Saturday April 6th, 2024 wasn't what is listed on the menu you see on the website "Winter Menu 2024". The Tasting Menu dishes lacked flavor personality despite being beautifully arranged. Visually they seemed to look tasteful, but once the food touched the tongue, it was clear the only valuable trait to the meal would be the appearance. There was one other post from about a year ago that equated ox tail ragu to Chef Boyardee and they couldn't have been more spot on. I think we were both surprised and taken back. Having gone to other higher-end establishments (San Francisco, Vancouver, B.C., NYC, etc.) and paying a premium for the experience and food, I had expected at this establishment to enjoy at least some aspect of flavor. However, having paid a total of what seemed to be close to $500 for two people (we each had the wine pairing...which was another disappointment) we both felt empty. Correction, after 2.5-3 hours of enduring what can only be labeled as a creative disaster...we both left hungry.
Gareth W.
What a little gem in downtown Portland. Burrata cheese with prosciutto appetizer was exquisite ( really nice touch that our server recommended that we could get the kitchen to split it into two plates). Filled-pasta dishes were packed with flavor and portions were just right (not overly filling). There were a lot of wines on the wine list that we were unfamiliar with but the sommelier made a superb selection after we told her what style/flavor we were looking for. All in all, a great experience.
Paul M.
The variety of dishes we tried was immense, and all were pretty tasty. Among them, the chopped salad stood out as my favorite antipasto, with its fruity and fresh dressing. The handmade spaghetti with mussels was a highlight; it was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The braised pork shoulder was another standout, incredibly succulent and tender. Overall, the dining experience was excellent. The table bread was fresh, although the steak, while perfectly cooked, didn't quite justify its cost in terms of quality. The service was impeccable, with our server being polite, knowledgeable, and attentive. The entire staff, from the host to the servers, demonstrated sincere dedication to their work. Outside the restaurant, the surrounding blocks are dirty and unsafe, which is no fault of the restaurant. Inside the restaurant, the atmosphere, lighting, and overall ambiance were greatly appreciated. It was a haven from Portland squalor. However, the space felt a bit cramped, in my opinion. Overall, it was a wonderful dining experience. Is it the best Italian restaurant in Portland? I might need to return and explore more of their offerings to make a fully informed decision. Expect to spend around $100 per person a la carte, which for us was excluding alcohol and dessert. I would say one would be better off getting the four-course tasting menu.
Saurabh Das
Great wine list and food is tasty. Highly recommended for special occasions and date night.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tiramisu, Prosciutto E Burrata
sean simonson
Excellent, excellent service and lovely wine pairing with good food in a quaint and intimate atmosphere. The food was delicious but didn't leave a lasting impression. Was it bad food no not at all, but was anything special about the food...not really. It was all a little bland all in all. I would come back, but would I ever crave to do so,no.
Delicious food, warm atmosphere, knowledgeable and attentive staff. Leon made us delicious beverages and Jenny was incredibly informative and helpful in assisting us with choosing dishes and wine. Thank y'all so much for a lovely evening.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Rachael M.
The food and service was fantastic! Only been once and would love to go back! Every plate was so good. Highly recommend. Best restaurant I've been to so far in the area.
Keizzel C.
Mucca was recommended by a couple of friends so I was surprised with a tasting menu dinner for my birthday. Surprisingly the space has an upstairs which offers you a little more privacy unless you want bar seating downstairs to watch the chefs. The menu changes so you can come back different times and try something new. In unfortunately didn't get pics of all dishes but I really enjoyed the tartare, scallops, and bolognese on the menu. The main protein for my visit was a niman ranch steak and it was super tender on a veggie bed. The tasting menu items are rich and hearty so even though the portions look small you will be full once you get to the end. The dessert was decadent and they even gave me a free scoop of ice cream for my birthday - thank you! Service here was attentive and provided a wonderful birthday dinner.
Eric Eichel
This place was amazing! The food was impeccable (we ordered prix fixe), the service was attentive, friendly and very well organized, the seating was excellent, the wine pairing was perfect, what else is there to say? If we are ever in Portland this is absolutely getting another visit!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Gnocchi, Steak Tartare, Tagliolini Al Coniglio, Carpaccio Di Agnello
Nancy C.
Food, Service, ambiance: all the best! Splurge for the tasting menu and wine flight. Totally worth it. You will not be disappointed.
alright listen. i know you're expecting a 5 because this place's reviews are absolutely popping off. but this place just didn't live up to the expectation. food was mid but service was AMAZING which is what saved it. ambiance was also good and i overall enjoyed the experience. would i go again? no... but would i recommend for a one time fancy night out? maybe! have fun!
Wonderful experience! Delightful food! Outstanding service! We went here for my birthday and did the prix fixe menu with wine pairing. I highly recommend this wonderful gem.
Mahi-mahi ("fish of the day" on the day I visited) was very bland and the spaghetti dish was over-salted but everything else was fantastic.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 4
Service: 5
We tried this place based on recommendation by our hotel and by reviews and it was delicious . We started with the onion soup that was plated beautifully and tasted good. It was followed by spaghetti with anchovies and mussels . They didn't disappoint. Last meal was fried halibut plated on special sauce and carrots and vegetables. The highlight is the very pleasant server Lichen. He was always smiling . We wanted Tiramisu for dessert unfortunately they didn't have that in the menu. We had to go to the Mucca Pizzeria beside it to buy it for to go.
I dine here often, my girlfriend and I have always had the best experiences here!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
1-star for the food 5-stars for our server It's painful to write this review as going into our meal this past Saturday evening I was not only elated with joy that we locked in a reservation but that I would also be able to share it with someone special. That said, I had read their reviews as well as looked through plenty of photos prior to this occasion: I was excited! To preface this review I'd like to point out our primary server was a delight. She was attentive and informed. To be fair to her, towards the end of the evening when we asked if the "flavor profile" of these dishes was intentionally "mild", she was kind in her response and provided some potential insight as to why our experience with the [lack] of flavors was happening. It seems there may have been a change in staff that evening or some of the regular staff were on PTO. That said, we also noted that our table (second floor) was probably the only table that selected the "Tasting Menu." Every other full table seemed to have ordered the Prix Fixe Menu. We found ourselves drooling over all the other dishes being served to our neighbors. Pastas a plenty! I don't think I saw anyone leave a single bite remaining nor take anything home in a box. Unfortunately, we struggled to finish each dish and some we had to set aside after the first bite. I think one of the stand out dishes that really set a negative tone for the evening was the scallops. While they were seared, they were also slightly cold in the center. Again, based on the numerous reviews we were both excited for what could only be heaven on a plate but experienced quite the opposite. I believe the duck was the other dish (a cold dish) that ended up being another punch to the gut. The overall theme for each dish was bland. Bland or confusing. After researching the reviews later that night, it seems there are others that experienced less than favorable dinners with the Tasting Menu. Had we known, we would have chosen the Prix Fixe Menu. Many of the items on the Tasting Menu were not on the regular menu and I can see why. Also, what was served on Saturday April 6th, 2024 wasn't what is listed on the menu you see on the website "Winter Menu 2024". The Tasting Menu dishes lacked flavor personality despite being beautifully arranged. Visually they seemed to look tasteful, but once the food touched the tongue, it was clear the only valuable trait to the meal would be the appearance. There was one other post from about a year ago that equated ox tail ragu to Chef Boyardee and they couldn't have been more spot on. I think we were both surprised and taken back. Having gone to other higher-end establishments (San Francisco, Vancouver, B.C., NYC, etc.) and paying a premium for the experience and food, I had expected at this establishment to enjoy at least some aspect of flavor. However, having paid a total of what seemed to be close to $500 for two people (we each had the wine pairing...which was another disappointment) we both felt empty. Correction, after 2.5-3 hours of enduring what can only be labeled as a creative disaster...we both left hungry.
What a little gem in downtown Portland. Burrata cheese with prosciutto appetizer was exquisite ( really nice touch that our server recommended that we could get the kitchen to split it into two plates). Filled-pasta dishes were packed with flavor and portions were just right (not overly filling). There were a lot of wines on the wine list that we were unfamiliar with but the sommelier made a superb selection after we told her what style/flavor we were looking for. All in all, a great experience.
The variety of dishes we tried was immense, and all were pretty tasty. Among them, the chopped salad stood out as my favorite antipasto, with its fruity and fresh dressing. The handmade spaghetti with mussels was a highlight; it was perfectly cooked and flavorful. The braised pork shoulder was another standout, incredibly succulent and tender. Overall, the dining experience was excellent. The table bread was fresh, although the steak, while perfectly cooked, didn't quite justify its cost in terms of quality. The service was impeccable, with our server being polite, knowledgeable, and attentive. The entire staff, from the host to the servers, demonstrated sincere dedication to their work. Outside the restaurant, the surrounding blocks are dirty and unsafe, which is no fault of the restaurant. Inside the restaurant, the atmosphere, lighting, and overall ambiance were greatly appreciated. It was a haven from Portland squalor. However, the space felt a bit cramped, in my opinion. Overall, it was a wonderful dining experience. Is it the best Italian restaurant in Portland? I might need to return and explore more of their offerings to make a fully informed decision. Expect to spend around $100 per person a la carte, which for us was excluding alcohol and dessert. I would say one would be better off getting the four-course tasting menu.
Great wine list and food is tasty. Highly recommended for special occasions and date night.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Tiramisu, Prosciutto E Burrata
Excellent, excellent service and lovely wine pairing with good food in a quaint and intimate atmosphere. The food was delicious but didn't leave a lasting impression. Was it bad food no not at all, but was anything special about the food...not really. It was all a little bland all in all. I would come back, but would I ever crave to do so,no.
Restaurantji Recommends
Delicious food, warm atmosphere, knowledgeable and attentive staff. Leon made us delicious beverages and Jenny was incredibly informative and helpful in assisting us with choosing dishes and wine. Thank y'all so much for a lovely evening.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The food and service was fantastic! Only been once and would love to go back! Every plate was so good. Highly recommend. Best restaurant I've been to so far in the area.
Mucca was recommended by a couple of friends so I was surprised with a tasting menu dinner for my birthday. Surprisingly the space has an upstairs which offers you a little more privacy unless you want bar seating downstairs to watch the chefs. The menu changes so you can come back different times and try something new. In unfortunately didn't get pics of all dishes but I really enjoyed the tartare, scallops, and bolognese on the menu. The main protein for my visit was a niman ranch steak and it was super tender on a veggie bed. The tasting menu items are rich and hearty so even though the portions look small you will be full once you get to the end. The dessert was decadent and they even gave me a free scoop of ice cream for my birthday - thank you! Service here was attentive and provided a wonderful birthday dinner.
This place was amazing! The food was impeccable (we ordered prix fixe), the service was attentive, friendly and very well organized, the seating was excellent, the wine pairing was perfect, what else is there to say? If we are ever in Portland this is absolutely getting another visit!! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Gnocchi, Steak Tartare, Tagliolini Al Coniglio, Carpaccio Di Agnello
Food, Service, ambiance: all the best! Splurge for the tasting menu and wine flight. Totally worth it. You will not be disappointed.