Lauro Kitchen

06/21/09

Usually dependable, but definitely not tonight!

by RustyRaunt

Usually it is very reliable and one of my top special occasion places to go. Always warm, inviting atmosphere and service, and the food is always solid, if not impressive. Went on Father's Day with our college daughter, who somehow had never been there before. Was really looking forward to a good meal, but the Seafood Paella I ordered, and the Salmon Ravioli our daughter ordered, both tasted incredibly salty. I couldn't even finish almost half of my dish, which is a very unusual occurrence for me! I let the waitress know, but didn't get much of a response. Well, we had room for dessert, which was pretty good--rhubard cobbler with ginger ice cream, although the scoop of ice cream was tiny! Our daughter summed it up--"won't be back." My wife and I will probably come back, but not for awhile.

• Pros: Service
• Cons: Salt, salt, and more salt

12/19/08

warm, reasonably priced, interesting and varied food

by goldenbright

Firstly, I'd like to say that they do take reservations. Your review says that they don't, but I just made them on a Friday morning at 10:00.

We have been there twice. Once it was mediocre, and the second time it was wonderful. We had a beef stew and the fish. Both were spiced nicely and cooked perfectly. The first time I had the paella. It was o.k., but maybe I expected too much. Also, we were squeezed in by the door, which sort of dampened our enthusiam. As I said though, they do take reservations now, so I don't expect that to happen again.

The spices were strong but balanced, the wine was great. We are going back for my birthday and taking the (older) kids.

• Pros: Nice warm oven, good specials, interestingly spiced food
• Cons: tables are a bit too close together

07/11/08

High Quality, Reasonable Price

by marilyndupont

I have had the pleasure of dining at Lauro twice now, and I not been disappointed either time. The first time I had a chicken breast stuffed with goat cheese and greens, with a delectable sauce and very fresh green beans. It was one of the best meals I have had in a restaurant in a long time! My friend dining with me ordered the hamburger and fries, which were outstanding. The freshness and quality of the ingredients they use at Lauro is what makes it one of the best restaurants in Portland. The careful preparation of every component of the meal makes the most of the fresh, flavorful ingredients they use. I tried my friend?s hamburger and fries and returned to Lauro for lunch when I had a ?Hamburger craving." I was not disappointed on my return, this time I enjoyed eating outside and sipping lemonade while waiting for my lunch. Lauro is a very popular restaurant, moderately priced and high quality food. If you want to eat there on busy nights, be prepared to wait, but it is worth it.

• Pros: Great food, reasonably priced, clean contemporary atmosphere.
• Cons: Busy on weekend nights, waiting usually necessary.