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Portofino Restaurant: Authentic Italian Elegance in Newcastle

Experience authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning Victorian setting with warm hospitality and vibrant atmosphere in Newcastle.

4.5

Portofino Restaurant, located on Mosley Street in Newcastle upon Tyne, offers an authentic Italian dining experience within a stunning Grade II-listed Victorian building. Known for its generous portions of classic Italian dishes like pizza, pasta, and seafood, it combines traditional flavors with a warm, lively atmosphere and attentive service. The elegant interior features golden arches and beautiful faience tiles, making it a perfect spot for both casual meals and special occasions.

A brief summary to Portofino Restaurant

  • 12A Mosley St, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1DE, GB
  • +441912615512
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 2 hours
  • Budget
  • Environment icon Indoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Monday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Tuesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Friday 12 pm-9 pm
  • Saturday 12 pm-9:30 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-9 pm

Local tips

  • Book ahead during peak times to avoid long waits, especially on weekends and evenings.
  • Try the Quattro Formaggi pizza for an authentic Italian cheese experience.
  • Ask for the vegan menu if you prefer plant-based dishes.
  • Enjoy the happy hour deals available Monday to Friday until 7pm and Saturdays until 5pm.
  • Save room for dessert—the Lemon Pistachio Polenta is a standout choice.
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Portofino Restaurant location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
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  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Portofino Restaurant

A Historic Setting for Italian Flavors

Portofino Restaurant is housed in a magnificent Grade II-listed Victorian building originally designed by Alfred Waterhouse, famed for the Natural History Museum in London. The restaurant’s interior is a feast for the eyes, with vast golden arches and walls lined with faience tiles crafted by the renowned Burmantofts Pottery of Leeds. This elegant yet inviting setting creates a unique atmosphere that blends historic grandeur with the warmth of a traditional Italian trattoria.

Menu Highlights and Culinary Craftsmanship

The menu at Portofino celebrates the rich diversity of Italian cuisine, offering a wide range of antipasti, pasta, risotto, pizza, and grilled dishes. Guests can customize their pasta by choosing from shapes like penne, tagliatelle, spaghetti, or gluten-free options, paired with sauces ranging from classic carbonara to spicy arrabiata. The restaurant also features homemade pasta dishes such as linguine with pancetta, asparagus, and cherry tomatoes. Signature pizzas like the authentic Quattro Formaggi showcase a perfect balance of cheeses including strong Gorgonzola and creamy goat cheese.

Warm Hospitality and Vibrant Ambience

Portofino is celebrated for its friendly, attentive service that manages to be professional without ever feeling intrusive. The atmosphere is lively and buzzing, filled with the energy of diners enjoying their meals in a welcoming environment. The staff’s dedication to customer care ensures that guests feel valued, whether dining solo, as a couple, or with family. The restaurant’s use of blackboards to display daily specials adds to the authentic Italian vibe.

Value and Accessibility for Every Guest

Despite its upscale surroundings, Portofino offers excellent value with reasonably priced dishes and a happy hour menu available Monday to Friday and on Saturdays. House wines start at affordable prices, making it accessible for both casual diners and those celebrating special occasions. The restaurant also caters to families with a children’s menu and provides vegetarian options, along with a dedicated vegan menu upon request.

Sweet Finishes and Italian Traditions

Desserts at Portofino are thoughtfully prepared, with offerings like Lemon Pistachio Polenta that delight the palate and honor Italian culinary traditions. The attention to detail extends to accompaniments such as Americano coffee served with a biscuit, enhancing the overall dining experience. These touches reflect the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and guest satisfaction.

A Must-Visit Culinary Gem in Newcastle

Portofino Restaurant stands out as a hidden gem in Newcastle’s dining scene, combining historic architecture, authentic Italian cuisine, and a vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere. Whether you seek a hearty pizza, a delicate pasta, or a memorable night out, Portofino delivers with style and substance, inviting guests to experience a true taste of Italy in the heart of the city.

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