Fratelli

A friend had recommended this Italian restaurant Fratelli just earlier this week, which I realized I had always passed by and been intrigued but then forgotten about! So when I looked at the list of Portland Dining Month restaurants and saw it on the list as well, I was happy to finally visit. Fratelli is right next to the more boisterous Oba, but I wanted to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere and although tempted by the outside tables with sangria as I walked by, I stayed firm- and was well rewarded. This intimate Pearl District restaurant has been serving regionally inspired Italian cuisine since 1998 and features a simple and regional approach to Italian home cooking, with dishes that use seasonal and local ingredients from area farmers. I sat inside to enjoy the rustic atmosphere, but there were also some tables on the sidewalk which were a bit more lively as they were enjoying their happy hour. It was a warm 80 degree day, so I needed some refreshment first. They were great at refilling my pint sized water glass that I kept draining so I was never thirsty, and I also really was refreshed by their version of a Lemon Drop that uses Limoncello. Board of chicken liver mousse and seasonal pickled vegetables: I know not everyone is a fan of terrines and pates, but I love this stuff, and ever since I have been enjoying it in Portland I have thought Portland is fortunate in that it offers the best charcuterie in the world Smoked Mt. Shadow pork loin – French green lentils, preserved lemon: I cannot emphasize how good this dish was, where there was a perfect balance between the taste of the perfectly cooked pork, the smoky flavor, and subtle seasonings and flavors and textures that were contributed with those lentils that were earthy but as comforting as a carb like rice or pasta. Ginger shortbread cake – strawberry mousse, wild plum coulis: After that large second course, this was the perfect light bite to finish off the meal. I finished everything, though I have to say the starter and main were the best courses of the meal.
Jun 20th, 2013

Polenta with mushrooms and wild boar pasta were well crafted.
Jan 23rd, 2013

Went to the happy hour. Pizzas are good and well worth the $6. I would recommend the Bruschetta with shaved beef, Mascarpone and truffle cheese...to die for!
Sep 14th, 2012

Jul 5th, 2012

Mar 18th, 2012