Ernesto's Italian - Portland

That was the second time I was with Ernesto. The first time was at the end of 2020, so dine in was no option, but they had takeout that I enjoyed. One big thing is that I can't eat cheese, fortunately there are many ways that don't have cheese. This time I left, I celebrated a milestone with my wife who was great. There is a PLENTY of options from the menu, I would probably say that there are too many. But if you are looking for the classic Italian restaurant with the choice of food, ambience and feeling, this is the place. They are not the big chains like Olive Garden or The Old Spaghetti Factory, but they have to compete with them. Thank you. All you order includes unlimited Focaccia bread. But here there is a dilemma; the hearty bread is simply served. There is no sauce or even butter. Now you probably don't need more fat in the Focaccia, but the bread is still much dry without coming with it. I ordered a bowl of marinara that was delicious, but only for that was an additional $3. Also the prices in the menu are incomplete or incorrect. I ordered Ravioli and Spaghetti while she ordered Chicken Alfredo. After the paper menu, it should cost $19. But the bill came to $20 per... It's a little thing, but as a customer it's not very helpful to bring me back. Even at the price of $19 containing a soup or salad, I think that the price is justified (bread, soup/salad, and duck). The environment is like a classic restaurant, and so many of these chains really do not understand the need for the feeling and ambience that a restaurant offers like this. If you like Italian food, it's worth trying. But it's not cheap. The food was delicious, the service was good, the ambience is unique, and the location is out of the way?. Take this, but you want.

What a wonderful culinary experience. The first time at Ernesto and the service was great. Jenny, you are amazing with your knowledge and patient with our questions. Jeremy thank you for ensuring that we were all right, even if the place was busy. I'll come back and take my guests out of town. Jenny saw you this weekend. Look forward to the Clam Chowder.

I had chicken parmesan and my girlfriend had aubergine parmesan, we had the focaccia bread, she had minenstrone that was from this world, I had a Caesar salad that was perfect. After the main course finally came because, as you know, the problem with Italian food is, you need to eat again in 3 days....... We had a piece of cheesecake with a small drop of chocolate on one end -and- a blob or two strawberry on the other end; and it was a grandmother hug. Obviously we are already planning our second visit!

We enjoyed a late lunch early dinner. Our waiting person Jenny, was funny, informative and perfect for the experience we wanted. The food also fits into the bill of a beautiful old style (from my childhood memories) Italian meal. We both enjoyed our entrees. And had enough to enjoy the remains tomorrow. Reminds me of the places on the east coast (NJ and NYC) of the 60s-70s, the convenient seating, quiet enough to talk, and great food? friendly family service.

If I could leave no stars I would. The quality and quantity of food is awful for the prices charged! Salad has spoiled rotted lettuce on it. We did not receive two of our salads, we ordered full orders of pasta and received very small portions. Zucchini was soggy. Worst first time experience ever, and definitely will not recommend to my family or friends and will not be returning as customers.