What should I order at Portabella?
Portabella
Scallops
One of the most frequently praised dishes, described as perfectly seared, caramelized, buttery, flavorful, and cooked perfectly, often paired well with risotto or lemon butter sauce.
Mushroom soup
Recommended multiple times for being rich, flavorful, savory, and full of truffle umami goodness; several reviews call it memorable or a must-order.
Beet salad
Repeatedly praised as fresh, colorful, light, and well-balanced, with citrus, fruit, and goat cheese adding a refreshing contrast.
Seafood linguine
Highlighted for generous portions of shrimp, scallops, and clams in a flavorful garlic white wine sauce, with reviewers calling it rich, creamy, and overflowing with seafood.
Fish
Recommended for being fresh and perfectly seasoned, with multiple diners choosing it and praising the quality and preparation.
Portobello mushroom pasta
Praised as comforting and well-made, with earthy mushrooms, tender pasta, and a velvety cream sauce that made it stand out.
Lobster ravioli
Called delicious and well seasoned, making it one of the more positively singled-out appetizers.
Carbonara
A server-recommended dish that a reviewer said was the best part of the meal, with strong overall praise for the flavor.
Truffle risotto
Described as one of the best the reviewer had ever had, indicating especially strong approval for its flavor and preparation.
Hours
| Monday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
About Portabella
Popular restaurant with cozy, old-world ambiance & a patio offering updated French & Italian food.
Amenities & services
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great cocktails
- Great coffee
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Hard liquor
- Healthy options
- Small plates
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Dessert
- Table service
Amenities
- Bar onsite
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cozy
- Quiet
- Romantic
- Trendy
- Upscale
Crowd
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- High chairs
Parking
- Free street parking
Pets
- Dogs allowed inside
- Dogs allowed outside
Frequently asked questions
What is Portabella known for?
Portabella is especially known for its mushroom soup, which reviewers repeatedly call rich, savory, and full of truffle-like umami. The crab bisque, short ribs, and seared scallops are also frequent standouts, and many diners mention the cozy patio and live music as part of the appeal.
What dishes are most recommended at Portabella?
The most recommended dishes include mushroom soup, corn and crab bisque, short ribs, seared scallops with risotto, and the Jumbo Lobster Ravioli with Tomato Basil Cream Sauce. Reviewers also mention seafood linguine, filet mignon, and portobello mushroom pasta as memorable choices, especially for a fuller dinner in Carmel.
What is the atmosphere like at Portabella?
The atmosphere is described as cozy, quiet, romantic, and upscale, with an ivy-covered patio and occasional live guitar or serenading. It seems to work well for date nights, relaxed lunches, and small groups, and several reviews mention that the room feels warm and welcoming rather than noisy.
Is Portabella good value, and what is the price range?
Portabella falls in the $30 to $60 range, and reviewers generally feel the portions, presentation, and service justify the cost. Dishes like king salmon, scallops and risotto, and filet mignon are described as well-prepared and satisfying, making it feel like a polished Carmel dinner rather than a budget stop.
When is the best time to visit Portabella?
If you want the best chance at a walk-in table, earlier evening or lunch seems safer, because one review noted a Friday around 6 p.m. was down to the last walk-in table. Several diners also say the outdoor patio is especially nice for brunch or lunch, and reservations are accepted if you want to plan ahead.
Is parking available at Portabella?
Yes. Free street parking is available.
Does Portabella have vegetarian options?
Yes, Portabella offers vegan options.
Restaurants like Portabella in Carmel-By-The-Sea
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