After window shopping along Kennett Square’s State Street the other night, my wife and I checked out the authentic Italian experience at Portabello’s Restaurant. Owner and chef John Cantalicio was born in Sicily and moved to the United States at age six. His parents were both chefs and now John is carrying on the family tradition with this intimate BYO.
Portabello’s is a charming, friendly place where couples or families can enjoy a quiet meal and conversation. Maybe that’s why Vice President Joe Biden has been spotted dining there recently with family. White linen tablecloths and artistic presentations of handmade entrees create a memorable night out.
As we entered the restaurant, our waitress asked if we would like to be seated at a low table or sit near the kitchen at a high table to watch the chefs in action. We chose a low table in the corner, only afterward learning from Chef John that we had chosen the Vice President’s preferred table.
We started our night sharing the Mango Ginger Salad. This salad consists of a fresh spring mix with slivers of apple and a sublime mango ginger cheese that melted in our mouths. The salad was topped with a house citrus dressing. The combination created a delightful summer salad that was tangy off the palate.
For an appetizer, I had the Portabello’s Cappe Inbotite. This portabello cap was stuffed with a ripe tomato, pesto and fresh mozzarella before being baked in the oven. This dish gives the illusion of being simple enough to make right from one’s garden. Fresh ingredients done simple and perfect.
At this point in the meal, my date pointed out that our wedding song, “That’s Amore,” was playing in the restaurant. Only then did I realize music had been playing throughout, softly enough not to intrude on the conversation, yet enough to add ambience to the night.
Choosing an entree was difficult, as so many pasta, veal and chicken dishes enticed me. Portabello’s is known for their Lobster Ravioli, but I opted for a new dish Chef John created as a special, Tortelloni stuffed with Shrimp and Lobster. The handmade tortelloni were laid out artistically on a whimsical plate surrounding tender shrimp and topped with a blush vodka sauce. The shrimp were tender and the stuffed tortelloni excellent.
My date tried the Vitello Maria. Tender veal medallions were sauteed in garlic and capers and served with a lemon white wine sauce over linguine. The portion was presented on a triangular plate. She pointed out the slices of garlic and I tried some. I was surprised at how mellow the garlic tasted with the lemon and white wine, making this a fine summer dish.
For dessert, my date tried the Tiramasu and I tried the cannoli. My cannoli was good, though I admit longingly looking at the tiramasu, and trying a slice, I deemed it to be decadent.
After our meal, Chef John stopped by to chat. He said Portabello’s just celebrated their third year anniversary and, inspired by a recent visit to Italy, he has been tweaking the menu and trying a few new entrees while keeping the classics people love. They recently started serving lunch Tuesdays through Saturdays. For lunch, they serve sandwiches, paninis, burgers and wraps, along with a few Italian plates.
Portabello’s is also offering off-site catering. Reservations are encouraged, but not required. Call 610-925-4984. And keep your eyes peeled for the Vice President.
Find Portabello’s at 115 West State Street in Kennett Square or online at www.eatatportabellos.com.
