Really outstanding. Pasta is fresh and expertly prepared. Everything seemed particularly fresh. Not sure where they provision their charcuterie, but it was excellent. Even without booths, the atmosphere was good for quiet conversation. Service was attentive and friendly. This is an excellent restaurant that deserves its high ratings. Value was very high as well. With several drinks it was still less than $40 / person.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Ali Hamzah
Last night we had the opportunity to return to Allora. The last time I remember being there was during the Euro Cup in 2012, watching Italy compete, so it had certainly been a while. Walking back in felt like revisiting a memory, and the ambiance was just as delightful as we remembered. Warm lighting, inviting energy, and a space that feels both elegant and intimate.
We started with the broccolini, which was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. We also ordered the gnocchi, tender and comforting in all the right ways. But the true highlight of the evening was the Gamberi e Pomodoraccio. The prawns were cooked to perfection, and the flavors came together in a way that felt intentional and harmonious, almost transporting us straight to the heart of Italy. Each bite carried depth, balance, and authenticity.
To close the evening, we ordered both the creme brulee and the panna cotta. They were the perfect finish. The creme brulee had that delicate crack of caramelized sugar with a silky center, while the panna cotta was smooth, balanced, and light. Together, they brought the meal full circle in the most satisfying way.
I also want to compliment the owner Paolo, for remaining true to the spirit of Italian culture and honoring the Mediterranean heritage. Something as simple as having quality olive oil readily available at the table speaks volumes. It reflects pride, heritage, and attention to detail. It is those thoughtful touches that elevate a meal into an experience.
Overall, it was a wonderful evening. Great food, authentic atmosphere, and a reminder that when a place stays rooted in its identity, it shines. We are already looking forward to our next visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Azad Abbasi
EDIT: The owner & manager are both so kind and earnestly welcomed us to return & have a reparative experience. We had a lovely experience, the service was stellar, the food & drinks were amazing, and they were very gracious and apologetic for our previous experience. We thoroughly enjoyed it this time and look forward to being back. Thank you!
Wife and I were very excited to try Allora. First we sat at the bar and had a drink, service started off strong as it was still pretty empty. First round of cocktails were amazing. Vibes, impeccable. Then we moved to a table and the place started to fill in. Only 2 servers for the whole place, and you could tell they were getting stressed. But they took their stress out on us, were short with my wife, telling her to basically hurry up her order because they had other places to be. They brought a bottle of port instead the Chianti and forgot our baguette. When we asked for it, they seemed annoyed with us. I even tried to empathize with one server about how stressful it must be, but they didn't change their tune at all. It created a really tense atmosphere for what was meant to be a relaxing and beautiful dinner on our rare date night out. Really bummed because the design/decor were beautiful and transported us to Italy. And the Caesar salad was so fresh and delicious. Would have loved to order a red pasta dish but we were honestly afraid to have another bad encounter so we sped up to dessert then left, sadly with a bad taste in our mouths :(
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Mary Anne Cassin
What a cute place! Incredible wine selection (and knowledgeable servers), divine fresh pasta, and lots of options. It is intimate and easy to hear your dinner companions. A must try!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Evan Kelchner
Chicken parmigiana was incredible. Owner and staff were nice and perfectly attentive. Early candidate for my new favorite restaurant of the year in Portland.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
BENSON SHORT
Great spot for a date night! Italian themed recipes in an intimate setting. Well worth the visit, we will be back again.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Annette Vecchio
Caffe Allora, and chef/owner Paolo Parrilli, are simply extraordinary, and that’s in a city with many wonderful restaurants and chefs. If I had to pick one food to eat for the rest of my life, it would be Italian food. If I had to choose one Italian restaurant where I would eat it, then that would have to be Caffe Allora. The food is authentic, and not a clichéd version of what most Americans have come to expect. When you are at Allora, you are in Italy. Ben fatto, tesoro.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Anastasia Phillips
Look im going to be honest with you & say this...I could come up with the best description for this restaurant but I would rather you experience this place fpr yourself. I believe it's one of the best places in Downtown Portland but that's me. All.im asking is give it a try & i can promise you will not be disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fettuccine Nico, Allora Alfredo, Ravioli Filled with Prosciutto in Brown Butter Sauce, Spaghetti Carbonara, Caprese, Biscotti, Prosciutto
Hannah P
The chicken parmigiana was absolutely delicious!! Would definitely recommend / come back for it. Good drinks / desserts as well; and the service was also really great.
Lindsay Conly
Fresh ingredients and delicious recipes paired with 10/10 ambiance make for a delightful dining experience.
Wow! Cozy atmosphere, great service, and amazing gluten free food! I had a beautiful apple arugula salad, the best gnocchi of my life in browned butter & sage, and panna cottage for dessert. Not dedicated, but a well marked menu and celiac aware - clean water for my gnocchi.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Pamela McLean
I got an order to go. Seamless process, quick turnaround and the food was delicious! I've already been back for a second meal. Yum 😋
Food: 5
Service: 5
Nancy Grau Rutledge
This restaurant is outstanding. We ordered the polenta fries (do not skip these!!), the halibut special, and the pasta bolognese.
Our server was the BEST-offering suggestions for both food and drinks, in a super hip/energized space. Don't forget to check out the bathroom on the second floor!
I only gave 4 stars for service because I suspected our server was also the bartender and had the whole restaurant to serve as well!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Pedro Fajardo
Incredible small Italian restaurant with amazing food and staff. The owner is a long time chef and knows his stuff. The vibe was intimate and cozy. The place is priced appropriately.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Tiff Gorum
Amazing hidden gem. The food and service were incredible.
Really outstanding. Pasta is fresh and expertly prepared. Everything seemed particularly fresh. Not sure where they provision their charcuterie, but it was excellent. Even without booths, the atmosphere was good for quiet conversation. Service was attentive and friendly. This is an excellent restaurant that deserves its high ratings. Value was very high as well. With several drinks it was still less than $40 / person.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Last night we had the opportunity to return to Allora. The last time I remember being there was during the Euro Cup in 2012, watching Italy compete, so it had certainly been a while. Walking back in felt like revisiting a memory, and the ambiance was just as delightful as we remembered. Warm lighting, inviting energy, and a space that feels both elegant and intimate.
We started with the broccolini, which was beautifully prepared and full of flavor. We also ordered the gnocchi, tender and comforting in all the right ways. But the true highlight of the evening was the Gamberi e Pomodoraccio. The prawns were cooked to perfection, and the flavors came together in a way that felt intentional and harmonious, almost transporting us straight to the heart of Italy. Each bite carried depth, balance, and authenticity.
To close the evening, we ordered both the creme brulee and the panna cotta. They were the perfect finish. The creme brulee had that delicate crack of caramelized sugar with a silky center, while the panna cotta was smooth, balanced, and light. Together, they brought the meal full circle in the most satisfying way.
I also want to compliment the owner Paolo, for remaining true to the spirit of Italian culture and honoring the Mediterranean heritage. Something as simple as having quality olive oil readily available at the table speaks volumes. It reflects pride, heritage, and attention to detail. It is those thoughtful touches that elevate a meal into an experience.
Overall, it was a wonderful evening. Great food, authentic atmosphere, and a reminder that when a place stays rooted in its identity, it shines. We are already looking forward to our next visit.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
EDIT: The owner & manager are both so kind and earnestly welcomed us to return & have a reparative experience. We had a lovely experience, the service was stellar, the food & drinks were amazing, and they were very gracious and apologetic for our previous experience. We thoroughly enjoyed it this time and look forward to being back. Thank you!
Wife and I were very excited to try Allora. First we sat at the bar and had a drink, service started off strong as it was still pretty empty. First round of cocktails were amazing. Vibes, impeccable. Then we moved to a table and the place started to fill in. Only 2 servers for the whole place, and you could tell they were getting stressed. But they took their stress out on us, were short with my wife, telling her to basically hurry up her order because they had other places to be. They brought a bottle of port instead the Chianti and forgot our baguette. When we asked for it, they seemed annoyed with us. I even tried to empathize with one server about how stressful it must be, but they didn't change their tune at all. It created a really tense atmosphere for what was meant to be a relaxing and beautiful dinner on our rare date night out. Really bummed because the design/decor were beautiful and transported us to Italy. And the Caesar salad was so fresh and delicious. Would have loved to order a red pasta dish but we were honestly afraid to have another bad encounter so we sped up to dessert then left, sadly with a bad taste in our mouths :(
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
What a cute place! Incredible wine selection (and knowledgeable servers), divine fresh pasta, and lots of options. It is intimate and easy to hear your dinner companions. A must try!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Chicken parmigiana was incredible. Owner and staff were nice and perfectly attentive. Early candidate for my new favorite restaurant of the year in Portland.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Great spot for a date night! Italian themed recipes in an intimate setting. Well worth the visit, we will be back again.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Caffe Allora, and chef/owner Paolo Parrilli, are simply extraordinary, and that’s in a city with many wonderful restaurants and chefs. If I had to pick one food to eat for the rest of my life, it would be Italian food. If I had to choose one Italian restaurant where I would eat it, then that would have to be Caffe Allora. The food is authentic, and not a clichéd version of what most Americans have come to expect. When you are at Allora, you are in Italy. Ben fatto, tesoro.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Look im going to be honest with you & say this...I could come up with the best description for this restaurant but I would rather you experience this place fpr yourself. I believe it's one of the best places in Downtown Portland but that's me. All.im asking is give it a try & i can promise you will not be disappointed.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Fettuccine Nico, Allora Alfredo, Ravioli Filled with Prosciutto in Brown Butter Sauce, Spaghetti Carbonara, Caprese, Biscotti, Prosciutto
The chicken parmigiana was absolutely delicious!! Would definitely recommend / come back for it. Good drinks / desserts as well; and the service was also really great.
Fresh ingredients and delicious recipes paired with 10/10 ambiance make for a delightful dining experience.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Wow! Cozy atmosphere, great service, and amazing gluten free food! I had a beautiful apple arugula salad, the best gnocchi of my life in browned butter & sage, and panna cottage for dessert. Not dedicated, but a well marked menu and celiac aware - clean water for my gnocchi.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I got an order to go. Seamless process, quick turnaround and the food was delicious! I've already been back for a second meal. Yum 😋
Food: 5
Service: 5
This restaurant is outstanding. We ordered the polenta fries (do not skip these!!), the halibut special, and the pasta bolognese.
Our server was the BEST-offering suggestions for both food and drinks, in a super hip/energized space. Don't forget to check out the bathroom on the second floor!
I only gave 4 stars for service because I suspected our server was also the bartender and had the whole restaurant to serve as well!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 4
Incredible small Italian restaurant with amazing food and staff. The owner is a long time chef and knows his stuff. The vibe was intimate and cozy. The place is priced appropriately.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Amazing hidden gem. The food and service were incredible.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
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