Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Authentic Northern Italian Dining in Arlington, VA
Portofino Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Northern Italian cuisine in Crystal City since 1970. Founded by Chef Sergio Micheli and his father Adelmo, we brought authentic Northern Italian flavors to Arlington, Virginia, for the first time. Over five decades, our family has welcomed countless guests, blending traditional recipes with modern culinary techniques. Chef Richard Micheli, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, continues this legacy by combining his formal training with his father's expertise. Our warm, inviting atmosphere and award-winning dishes have made us a beloved destination for both casual diners and special occasions.We specialize in private dining experiences, hosting groups of 20 to 65 guests in elegantly appointed rooms. Recognized by ArlNow, Fox5 Zip Trip, and FlyWashington Magazine, our commitment to excellence remains unwavering. Every dish reflects our dedication to quality ingredients, meticulous preparation, and the rich culinary heritage of northern Italy. From our signature sauces to handcrafted pastas, we strive to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Our loyal patrons consistently praise our attentive service, cozy ambiance, and the unmistakable taste of Italy in every bite.
Services
Northern Italian Cuisine
Private Dining Rooms
Group Menus
Gift Certificates
Online Ordering
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- We offer Northern Italian cuisine crafted by three generations of Micheli chefs since 1970
- Our private dining rooms accommodate groups of 20 to 65 guests with customized menus
- Award-winning restaurant recognized by ArlNow and FlyWashington Magazine
- Chef Richard Micheli combines CIA training with family culinary traditions
- Consistently praised for rich sauces, authentic dishes, and attentive service
What people say
Attentive and friendly
Rich and complex sauces
Outstanding food
Cozy and quaint
Delicious meals
Services
Northern Italian Cuisine
Our Northern Italian menu features handcrafted pastas, seafood specialties, and traditional meat dishes prepared using recipes passed down through three generations. Dishes like Melanzane Parmesan and Pollo Castellana showcase regional ingredients and techniques. The menu changes seasonally to incorporate fresh, local produce while maintaining classic flavors that have defined our restaurant since 1970.
Private Dining Rooms
We offer elegantly appointed private dining rooms for special occasions and business events. Spaces accommodate 20-65 guests with customizable menus and dedicated service staff. Ideal for weddings, corporate dinners, and family celebrations, each room maintains our signature Italian ambiance while providing privacy and personalized attention for your event.
Group Menus
Our group dining options include curated luncheon and dinner menus for parties of 12 or more. Menus feature chef-recommended dishes like Fettucine Quattro Funghi and Salmon Portofino, with pricing starting at $18.95 per person. Customizations are available for dietary needs or special requests, with advance reservations required for all group bookings.
Gift Certificates
Available in any denomination, our gift certificates make perfect presents for special occasions. Recipients can enjoy our Northern Italian cuisine, private dining experiences, or takeout options. Certificates can be purchased online or at our restaurant location in Crystal City, Virginia.
Online Ordering
Our online ordering platform allows customers to place takeout orders directly from our menu. Available for pickup during regular business hours, the service includes our full range of Northern Italian dishes. Customers can order signature items like Lasagne Bolognese and Torta di Fromaggio from the comfort of their homes or offices.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Portofino Restaurant serve?
We specialize in Northern Italian cuisine featuring traditional dishes from regions like Liguria and Tuscany, including handmade pastas, seafood specialties, and meat entrees prepared using time-honored techniques.
Do you offer private dining options?
Yes, we have private rooms available for groups of 20-65 guests with customized menus and dedicated service staff for special occasions and business events.
What are your operating hours?
We serve dinner seven nights a week from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM and offer lunch service on Wednesdays.
Are reservations required?
Reservations are recommended, especially for private dining events, but we also welcome walk-in guests based on availability.
What awards has Portofino Restaurant received?
We've been recognized by ArlNow Reader's Choice Awards, Fox5 Zip Trip, and FlyWashington Magazine for our culinary excellence and dining experience.
Reviews (5)
Keva Hibbert
Jan 17, 2022
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Food was excellent. Great attention to detail. You can tell that they care about their customers. I really enjoyed the cozy atmosphere. Will definitely dine again when we are in the area.
Brenda Recco
Jan 02, 2022
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One of our family's favorite Italian restaurants. Julio was very attentive and Rochard is a phenomenal chef. I cannot wait to go back.
Joelma Andrade
Nov 27, 2021
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We went to this restaurant yesterday and it was a disappointment. I aet a spaghetti with mashroom and shrimps. No flavors. No juice. No butter. I am sad because I lost my time and money.
Michelle Ann
Oct 30, 2021
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Salads were amazing, but then they seemed to forget about out main course. It was about 30 minutes after clearing our salads (possibly after the owner/manager heard us complaining) that they brought our entres. My medium well medallions were medium rare at best. I sent them back and the whole meal was returned meat well done, veggies soggy, and the sauce soupy. Flavor was ok, mainly thanks to the gorgonzola. Other dish was just ok.. Waiter was seen standing near by at several points throughout the evening and never checked on us. No offers to comp drinks or dessert. Nothing. Our first visit,
Michael Isbell
Oct 26, 2021
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We came in town to tour DC and found this gem on Google. The atmosphere is cozy and rustic Italian. The service was friendly knowledgeable and attentive. The food was outstanding, our pallets say best Italian meal this year! Outstanding! Bravo!!!
