Locanda Portofino

Locanda Portofino Restaurant Review:

The traditions of Northern and Southern Italy come together at this intimate, romantic eatery located behind a wrought iron gate on chic Montana Avenue. The dining room, a fusion of Old and New Worlds, is handsome and sophisticated, while some linen-draped tables spill out onto a terra cotta-tiled terrace. All the ingredients are high-quality, locally grown and organic whenever possible. Begin with sautéed mussels, clams or both in a tomato, olive oil, white wine broth; better yet, try the lightly fried sardines before delving into spaghetti Portofino (with shrimp and capers in a light Cognac cream), risotto with creamy spinach and Gorgonzola, or a 14-ounce veal chop. Classic tiramisu or panna cotta make a pleasant finish. You'll never be at a loss for a wine selection, as more than 600 different California and Italian wines are featured.