Portola Bistro opens at Ladera Country Shopper
Portola Bistro is in the midst of a soft opening at Ladera Country Shopper in advance of a formal opening on October 10. And we think locals will be delighted that the space long held by Portola Kitchen has been filled with a restaurant that features an interesting and varied menu of French and Italian dishes.
About the menu, co-owner Dino Tekdemir explained: “We want to give diners many options to choose from.” Those options include a long list of appetizers, pizzas, soups, salads, and a broad range of main courses. View it online.
Dino is partnering with Executive Chef Allen Isik who was on hand when we dined. I enjoyed the Fisherman’s Chowder (pictured top) while my spouse equally enjoyed Beef Bourguignon. Dessert is not to be missed. Especially the tiramisu (shown at right with a Napoleon).
The expanded menu is not the only change. The outside tables now sit behind planter boxes, making for a distinct space across from Bianchini’s grocery store. And the inside has been completely refreshed with white paint and brown banquettes along with white tablecloths on tables.
Portola Bistro (3130 Alpine Road) is currently open Sunday to Thursday from 5:00 to 9:00 pm, extending to 9:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. Seating is limited until the October opening; reservations required.
Dino said lunch and weekend brunch are planned for the future.
Wine and beer are the alcoholic beverages being served with a full liquor license on the horizon.
Photos by Linda Hubbard (c) 2024
Janet Storz September 30, 2024 at 5:50 pm
Had dinner last week with another couple. Your employees were very attentive and friendly, table and atmosphere beautiful but I think the menu could use some work. Your French onion soup was over powered with onions and cheese with little broth. The Margherita pizza was bland. The beef bourguignon was tasty but had very few potatoes. The hamburger was nice but lacked tomato, lettuce and maybe a pickle so the plate looked very sad. The best was the half chicken. Also had a great bowl of cauliflower soup, yum. Will return with another group soon and try other main courses. Please, these are my ideas to make improvements to better your menu. Good luck
george morris October 08, 2024 at 10:25 am
Great news about opening for lunch on October 15th!
What are your plans for weekend brunch?