Based on 750 opinions finded in 2 websites
Based on 750 opinions finded in 2 websites
Opinions
Amazing service, very accommodating. I loved the food and the cocktails.
Charlotte De Ridder . 2024-09-07
MORE AT Google
Fantastic dinner for two on a Friday night. Service was impeccable and our waitress was friendly and attentive. We had beet salad for starter, lobster linguine and lamb bolognese for mains and chocolate tart for dessert. Highly recommend Isa Bistro!
David C . 2024-09-04
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Best restaurant in Portland - excellent food - loved the Sole and Vegetarian Lasanga. Great desserts. Wine list quite nice. Ambience and service excellent. Price point very very good.
Howard Bauchner . 2024-09-03
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Wonderful cocktails! Wonderful food!!!!
Melissa Mitchell . 2024-08-27
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I stopped in for dinner and sat at the bar. The bartender was helpful, introduced the restaurant menu style, pointed out the chef working in the back, and provided great explanations and recommendations. I had the special salad (grilled peaches and arugula), beets, and eggplant lasagna. I was impressed both by the food and how affordable it was for a really spectacular meal. I wanted to try almost everything on the menu, so I would return again on a trip to Portland. Everything smelled amazing when it came out of the kitchen. The food I did get was incredibly flavorful and creative, even for something classic like red gravy lasagna. It was really hard to pick and choose because everything sounded and looked so good, but it definitely gave the impression of a place where there aren't any wrong choices.
Emily Crossen . 2024-08-25
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What a fabulous find! I love that they save tables on the patio for first-come, first-served walk-ins, otherwise we would've missed out on this experience. Fantastic meal; perfectly portioned, nothing gratuitous, just artful and flavorful pairings (mascarpone cheesecake with local blueberries & thyme — mmm.)
Christine Gacharná . 2024-08-24
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Sat at the bar, enjoyed the family run vibe. The Caesar, pork chop & eggplant lasagna were excellent. Sketchy neighborhood though, my wife was uncomfortable while we were walking there so we took an Uber back to the hotel.
Jeffrey Parks . 2024-08-16
MORE AT Google
Had an incredible dinner experience at Isa Bistro!! Definitely recommend anyone thinking about going here for dinner. The octopus was so tender and paired so well with the chimichurri and lemon. The focaccia bread is considered a side but is AMAZING as an appetizer. It’s paired with a chive compound butter which was so creamy and delicious. I got the Marinated Bistro Steak and it was very tender and delicious. Make sure to get aioli on the side to go with the french fries. My girlfriend got the Eggplant Lasagna and loved it! For dessert, we got the main blueberry cheesecake and it was absolutely the perfect way to end our dinner.
Daniel Garcia . 2024-08-12
MORE AT Google
Absolutely perfect! Came here as a fallback after the Bayside American Cafe was full and so glad we did! Great service, fresh locally sourced food, home baked bread, splendid coffee! Had the caprese sandwich—perfect for the hungry as well as someone just looking for a light lunch. Highest recommendation!
Darryl P . 2024-07-26
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Very well put together dining room and great food.
Craig Jacobson . 2024-07-23
MORE AT Google
Awesome food - prepared with great taste and with great ingredients. All the dishes we tried were amazing: lobster tostada, farm salad, pork chop, and sole. Staff was great as well, friendly, attentive, nice, helpful. Well be coming back.
Alex Newbear . 2024-07-22
MORE AT Google
Food was fantastic. We got the scallops, the fennel salad, the tagliatelle, and the halibut. Everything was extremely flavorful, and a good meal was had. Will be coming back frequently.
Joe Dinsmoor . 2024-07-22
MORE AT Google
As first time visitors to Portland, my wife and I were looking for a special restaurant during our weekend visit. We chose Isa Bistro based on the Google reviews and we were not disappointed. On the contrary, it surpassed our high expectations. We shared the grilled octopus, lobster tostada and halibut. All were exceptionally well prepared and tasty. The desserts were also especially good, as was the service—the restaurant was full, but the courses were well paced with no rush. Finally, given the high quality of everything, including the wine, the restaurant is reasonably priced.
Robert Ingalls . 2024-07-22
MORE AT Google
Exquisite flavor combinations. A must-try.
Alex Naimushin . 2024-07-22
MORE AT Google
Picked this place because they had reservations open…not sure why! So glad we did! Octopus, Caesar salad, bolognese were all delightful! Cheesecake with mango was refreshing! Servers were so nice. Absolutely recommend!
Lauren Simon . 2024-07-21
MORE AT Google
My husband, daughter , and I were in Portland for camp visiting day weekend and looking for a place that we would enjoy and accommodate the somewhat limited palate of a 5 yr old. While the location is a bit outside the city center, it provided a relief from the visiting day crowds that descend every year. The food was absolutely amazing: lobster tostada, chorizo + chips, grilled octopus, a bright summer salad with mango and avocado, and a caesar salad with anchovies. Our daughter got a bowel of homemade pasta with butter and olives (but they also have fries). Service was great and the restaurant is modern but inviting with an open kitchen. A++ all around.
Teal Newland . 2024-07-20
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What am I missing? Such high reviews as Food was average to very good. Prices were high and portions were very small. We all left hungry. Location was concerning with homeless people everywhere as a result of a shelter down the street. Going to pass the next time we are in Portland.
Steven C . 2024-07-10
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Small place , just 9 tables Delicious food excellent service. Highly recomended
Samuel Sultán . 2024-07-01
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We visited due to the reviews, and were not disappointed. The location was away from the mainstream restaurants, and could easily be passed. But don't let the outside appearance deter you, with just a small front. Once inside, there was a homely ambiance. The food was excellent, as was the service. The visit was to celebrate our wedding anniversary, and this was recognised with a candle in our shared dessert. First time visitor, and if we ever visit Portland again, it would be first on our list
David L . 2024-07-01
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I tried their Friday lunch (the only day they offer lunch) and had their Drifter's Daiquiri and a few starters, the salt cod fritters and the lobster corn chowder. Everything was elegantly presented. I didn't think there was enough lobster in the chowder to warrant the $20 price and I wasn't wild about the flavor, but it was good. The fritters were great. The restaurant itself has a nice ambience -- tall tin ceilings, tiled floor, attractive lighting and seating, a brick wall or two. Service was great. I'd go back for dinner to try some other dishes, like the tagliatelle Bolognese and seared sole, and other items that aren't on the Friday lunch menu.
NHjo . 2024-06-30
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An outstanding restaurant in all ways -- good food, good wine, good service -- friendly neighborhood restaurant. Perhaps the best sole I have enjoyed. We had a very nice French white wine Muscadet. Highly recommended!
weyl-59 . 2024-06-23
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Doesn’t deserve the rating posted online. There isn’t anything in particular that stands out about this restaurant. Meh food, meh service, meh location.
Caroline MacMillan . 2024-06-20
MORE AT Google
The asparagus was overcooked. I don't mind paying for higher quality, but even so, the entree portions could be a little bigger for the prices they charge.
Vulkaya A . 2024-06-18
MORE AT Google
Cozy restaurant with exceptional food and attentive staff. My wife and I have dined here three times over the course of a year and Isa is the real deal. I’ve tried something different every time without disappointment. Rotating menu so the fall menu differs from spring to take advantage of fresh ingredients, so for spring, there were lots of rhubarb and ramps as ingredients (but not the star). The lobster tostado is sinfully good. Id die happy if this was the last thing I ever ate. I got the eggplant lasagne and my wife got the bolognese and both are very good takes. The coconut cream pie was excellent and I’ve had tree leches in the past which was remarkable. Same with the beet and burrata salads. Staff hustle and while small, the restaurant has a great comfortable feel. One of our favorites.
templeton1969 . 2024-05-24
MORE AT TripAdvisor
This is a tough review. My wife and I went after reading positive reviews and looking at the pictures of the food on Google. Isa is located near the Post Office and that neighborhood isn't exactly a great place to go on date night. We were happy to find parking at Isa and we were met by a very pleasant wait staff. It was cozy and clean and we were excited to order. The food looked amazing! Cameras out, we took a picture of our dishes excited to eat what had looked so amazing. Sadly, it was incredibly bland. I got the Bolognese. The pasta itself was nice but the sauce - cooked with stout - did not take like Bolognese. It was more like a mole sauce. I expect a long cooked sauce for Bolognese, but this had cooked out any traditional flavor you might expect. Not a hint of seasoning. I looked up at my wife who got the pesto and she remarked that it was the most bland pesto she ever had. No salt. No Parmesan. Just bland. We wanted to love this place, but were left disappointed. Such a cute and well staffed bistro that just fell short on flavor. Great for Instagram, I guess, but not for us.
Joe Donahue . 2024-05-18
MORE AT Google
We intentionally chose Isa based on its reputation and loved it! The staff was friendly, engaged and genuinely interested in their work. The menu is limited with a great selection of choices. Well prepared and so delicious. Our cocktails were depthful and colorful! We will go back and recommend to others.
maurad513 . 2024-05-09
MORE AT TripAdvisor
Celebrated my wife’s birthday here on Saturday and had an excellent time. The Sea Dogs game became a double header and they accommodated a change in reservation time without issue. We sat and the bar and felt very welcome with the bartender. He was knowledgeable about the menu and answered all of our questions. We ordered both of the specials on offer (including homemade pasta) and I had the steak. The pasta and meat were cooked perfectly and had complex flavors. The wine menu is OK, but I was happy to see Finger Lakes Riesling. We had a Sangiovese that was good but not great. For dessert, the Black Forest cake was great and having ice wine on the dessert menu is always appreciated. All around great experience and we will return soon!
Jonathan Chandonait . 2024-05-05
MORE AT Google
The food was delicious!! A very nice, small restaurant walking distance from where we stayed. We loved the ajillo shrimp and bistro steak. We had delicious sorbet for dessert. Would highly recommend coming here for dinner!
Madison Milaszewski . 2024-05-01
MORE AT Google
Isa is one of my favorite restaurants in Maine. The food is fabulous and I love the neighborhood feel. It is located away from the crowds of the Old Port. Everything on the menus is made with care and passion. USA is on my list ever time I return to Maine!
Christine D . 2024-04-29
MORE AT TripAdvisor
bryan & staff are extremely friendly! good recommendations and great energy. professional cooking techniques and plethora of flavor. hidden gem
Idean Hashemian . 2024-04-02
MORE AT Google
We had a wonderful dinner at Isa Bistro. The food was simply delicious & reasonably priced. Portions were good. Nice selection of Wines, Cocktails and beer. The ambiance is cozy yet refined. Excellent customer service!! This will be one of our new go to restaurants.
BETTY Rodriguez . 2024-03-27
MORE AT Google
Great restaurant, just a bad part of town. Walking there not really recommended...
Michelle . 2024-03-24
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We think Isa is the top restaurant in Portland! We make sure we eat there every time we’re in the city. Never disappoints!
Dreamer38348402677 . 2024-03-16
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Fantastic meal. Why did I wait so long to go here? Filet was so flavorful and salt cod fritters were an excellent appetizer.
JeffreyC864 . 2024-03-16
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Fabulous experience at Isa Bistro. The menu is simple but covers a wide range of dishes to suit most preferences. They were out of the Branzino and substituted it with Sole, which was incredibly tasty; the sauce was delicious, and the fish was delicate. The cocktails are amazing and reasonably priced. The female bartender was very lovely and friendly – great job, guys! Can't wait to return. Thanks for the nice evening, Stephen and Greg.
Stephen O' Farrell . 2024-03-14
MORE AT Google
This Sunday night, we had the best meal in a long time dining out - A+ and five stars across the board for several reasons. First, shout out to Justin, our waiter for giving us a wonderfully warm, conversational and attentive level of service. Tonight, my partner and I split three appetizers, an entree and dessert. We started with the salt cod fritters, which was a plate of four "pillows" of deliciousness. The salt cod and potato mixture was unbelievably light and full of flavor with a moist, creamy texture on the inside and deep fried on the outside. They were plated with homemade tartar sauce which held a flavor that complemented the fritters and did not overpower them because these pillows of goodness would be overpowered with strong flavors - kudos to chef and staff for a great mix of balanced flavors. We then had the caesar salad, which was the best I have had in a long time because the dressing was perfect in its amount. In my experience, restaurants tend to drench salads in caesar dressing so you taste more of the dressing and less of the salad. Not the case at Isa Bistro. There was a nice balance of dressing to romaine lettuce, the croutons too were perfect and not greasy. The white anchovies were a delight because they were not in heavy oil and they tasted fresh as if they were preserved in water instead of oil - for that fresh fish taste with no smell. Next was the Tagliatelle Bolognese and this is not your standard Italian fare - thank you chef! This was such a delight because the sauce tasted so rich in a deep flavor I would associate with the Italian gravy, but it was light in texture - how they mastered this I do not know! My only regret is we didn't ask for two orders. The sauce was made with a stout and fresh shredded fennel on top - it all worked well and blended together where each mouthful was savored. We finished with the scallop appetizer - 4 scallops on pineapple puree, basil oil and guajillo pepper oil - my partner was savoring each bite of the seared scallops with the sauce so the experience would not end. The pineapple sauce was delicate - just enough in strength to allow you taste very evenly the seared scallop, the pineapple, the basil and the pepper as 4 separate flavors at one time - how enjoyable. We ended with the coconut cream pie. We set our expectations low because we often experience dessert as the weakness of a good restaurant. Not the case at Isa. It was delicious. Again the theme is balance of flavors and textures. The toasted coconut crust was covered with a thin chocolate ganache, followed by a custard that literally and completely melted in your mouth and topped with a whipped cream. The thin ganache layer was perfect, because you could taste the chocolate right away on your palate, but it did not take over - you could savor the melting custard and the crunch of the crust and coconut. We asked the waiter if people ask to buy the entire pie to take home it was so good. If you are seeking a casual dining environment with a great staff and high end food where you are not eating but savoring your food, Isa Bistro is a must visit on your list. Thank you chef and kitchen staff! Thank you Justin!
David Newkirk . 2024-03-11
MORE AT Google
Very cozy and full of nice folks. I pronounce the pork chop the World’s Best Pork Chop.
John Barbour . 2024-03-01
MORE AT Google
This is one of my favorite restaurants in Portland. We come every time we visit and the food is incredible every time we are here. Service is great and everyone is super friendly.
Lindsay Johnson . 2024-03-01
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The food was amazing. This was my first experience at Isa. I came based on a recommendation from a coworker who liked Isa better than Scales. The only downside wasn't anything they could control, and that is the neighborhood is a bit sketchy after dark. We really appreciate that they have their own parking!!
Stephen Ebersole . 2024-02-28
MORE AT Google
I've ordered take out here 10 weeks in a row and the food is exceptional. It will light up your palate and the to-go service is amazing. There is no better restaurant anywhere.
Jim Mingle . 2024-02-15
MORE AT Google
It was prior to COVID that we last dined at isa, and was pleased to see that the bistro had weathered the pandemic. We were able to secure the only walk-in dinner table on a weekend evening, and were glad to have done so. Although the space still rings of exuberance and a noise level that is detrimental to the dining experience, the food outweighs the inconvenience. The patrons would benefit if the restaurant owners would install some acoustical panels to absorb the reverberate noise off the metal ceiling and glass windows. Nevertheless, our meals were very satisfying and well prepared. The small portion of appetizer cod cakes was sufficient for two to have a taste, but a few more on the plate for the price of entry would make sharing better. Being a busy night, the kitchen was working overtime to get meals into the dining area. We waited ~50 minutes for our entrees to arrive, but these were well worth the wait. Isa's homemade pasta is very good, and both the lasagna the bolognese were well seasoned and satisfying. If the noise level could be tamed in the dining space, our rating of the dining experience would warrant an excellent.
LopingianTravels . 2024-02-13
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This is our kind of bistro: smaller scale; cozy; and a cool vibe. Entrees were very reasonably priced and good portions. we'll be back soon. and, the food was delicious. Try the salads.
Dan Murphy . 2024-01-19
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Came here for dinner on a Friday night and were lucky to get the last open table. Reservations highly recommended! After NYC priced drinks we split the Classic Meatballs appetizer. While in consisted just of two small meatballs, they were good. Dinner I had the Halibut Tacos which were quite tasty and she had the Pork Chop, which was the best pork chop I have ever tasted! Our server, Isabella R, was excellent and knowledgeable. I am sure we will come back again!
Jim A . 2024-01-13
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Came here for dinner on a Friday night and were lucky to get the last open table. Reservations highly recommended! After NYC priced drinks we split the Classic Meatballs appetizer. While in consisted just of two small meatballs, they were good. Dinner I had the Halibut Tacos which were quite tasty and she had the Pork Chop, which was the best pork chop I have ever tasted! Our server, Isabella R, was excellent and knowledgeable. I am sure we will come back again!
Jim Anderschat . 2024-01-13
MORE AT Google
Delicious food, sauces cannot be beat. Family owned and operated, and has off street parking.
Instant Observation . 2024-01-01
MORE AT Google
3 stars pretty much say it. Food is good. Though overpriced. Atmosphere is bleh. Nothing special, crowded and noisy. Service, in our case was poor. Perhaps they have some other better servers. We won't return to find out. Overall, a disappointment.
Leland Burke . 2023-12-17
MORE AT Google
Amazing that they consistently are rated #1 in Portland with all the choices. Great little spot so seating is somewhat limited and parking not the best BUT lunch was VG. We split beet salad and pasta dish which was plenty—noticed other couples split meals too. Do not leave without ordering chocolate pie!!!!
PritchM . 2023-12-01
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One of my absolute favorite spots in Portland! Chef Isa and the kitchen staff never miss and the atmosphere and wait staff is so welcoming and warm. I consistently have an amazing experience at Isa. A must try for sure!!
Bailey Marden . 2023-11-30
MORE AT Google
Incredible food, friendly service and a fun wine list. A husband & wife owned business with a real identity. Highly recommended!
Teodora Bakardzhieva . 2023-11-19
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Love ISA. My go to dining option in Portland. Every meal is delicious and the service always great. One of my favorite dishes was the grilled pork chop. Cooked to perfection.
Scott Mathieu . 2023-11-13
MORE AT Google
Isa was the culinary high point of our trip. It was fine dining without being stuffy. The owners and staff were very friendly. They explained each item and wine choice.
Timothy Waters . 2023-11-10
MORE AT Google
Great little place with such good food. I rendezvoused with my family at Isa - Our wait person was friendly and suggested some of the dishes we ordered. Great addition to Portland cuisine!! (some samples: Burrata with citrus and pistachios, Octopus with chickpeas & Halibut in a fish broth with corn - so good!)
A Fitz . 2023-11-07
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Best meal I’ve had in a while. Every single dish was exceptionally flavorful and absolutely delicious, from the lobster tostada to the citrus salad to the sole. I can’t wait to go back. A real gem.
Lizzi Ackerman . 2023-11-05
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Spent a few days in Maine and were fortunate to discover a great family run neighborhood bistro called Isa. The food and service were truly amazing, so we ate there two nights in a row on our trip. The Lobster Tostada and Crispy Potato Taquitos were fun appetizers, for our meal we enjoyed the Seared Duck, Short-rib Pasta and the amazing Eggplant Lasagna. A true find, hope that you wil enjoy it as much as our family did.
Frank . 2023-10-26
MORE AT Google
Spent a few days in Maine and were fortunate to discover a great family run neighborhood bistro called Isa. The food and service were truly amazing, so we ate there two nights in a row on our trip. The Lobster Tostada and Crispy Potato Taquitos were fun appetizers, for our meal we enjoyed the Seared Duck, Short-rib Pasta and the amazing Eggplant Lasagna. A true find, hope that you wil enjoy it as much as our family did.
facca . 2023-10-25
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Fabulous food! Came here two evenings in a row, it was so good! Amazing duck mousse appetizer, main courses of Maine sole, eggplant lasagne, short rib pasta and duck. The duck was moist and flavorful! It is a small restaurant where you get lots of attention.
Colby7777 . 2023-10-22
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Once again, trip advisor led us to another fabulous restaurant. We have been to Portland multiple times and to many other restaurants. This one is off the beaten path, and thankfully, our hotel had a shuttle that drove us and picked us up. We loved the ambience. Small, homey, and warm. We started with a caeser salad which was excellent. Then, the crab linguine which had chunks of crab and incredible flavor. My husband had the eggplant lasagna which was “melt in your mouth” delicious and true comfort food on a rainy night. We never get dessert but were very tempted by the chocolate ganache cake with caramel and sea salt. Omg, we ate every bite. Not surprised that this is #1 on TA. Well worth it!
ladybug912 . 2023-10-22
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One of the best meals I’ve ever had. Had two starters, a salad, two entrees and a dessert and they were all to die for. The pork chop was the best thing on the menu.
Ian Snowdeal . 2023-10-16
MORE AT Google
Ease of reservation, easy location to get too, outside of downtown, casual atmosphere with sophisticated vibes AND The Service, The Food - EXCELLENT. very good value.
Dale C . 2023-10-12
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I found this restaurant on Tripadvisor expecting a great eclectic meal. We arrived to find the kitchen led by a Mexican chef and crew that riff on Mexican delicacies on Monday nights. Lucky me. Not since living in Mexico years ago have I had such exquisitely prepared dishes. A Mezcal Negroni for starters was life changing - they will all have Mezcal going forward. The lobster tostada appetizer was so incredible I ordered a second one just for me. My only disappointment was in the amount of huitlacoche on my entree- I wanted to drown in it.
Carol L . 2023-10-04
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We had dined at Isa in May of 2022 when we’re in Portland. We enjoyed it so much that we returned earlier this month and were not disappointed. It’s a small restaurant on the edge of downtown with excellent food and service with a diverse menu. The octopus appetizer is probably the best octopus we have ever had. We followed with a delicious Caesar salad. I had the pork chop and my husband had the halibut….both great. They have a good wine list with reasonable prices. We had an Italian Rosso recommended by our waiter. The restaurant was full on a Monday night, so best to make reservations.
TwoOldGoats2 . 2023-09-29
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A bit out of the way but worth the trip. Small so reservations a must. Had the crab pasta which was very tasty. Very pleasant dining experience.
John W . 2023-09-25
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We sat at the bar and Brian was funny, welcoming and relatable. The drinks he made were unique and delicious. The lobster tostada and octopus were incredible. The beet and avocado salad was light and tasty. The steak in pepper sauce was outstanding! Isa has been a staple in our dining out repatoire and continues to be...an excellent night out, well worth the money.
Kristen Flynn . 2023-09-23
MORE AT Google
Isa is an excellent restaurant with very novel dishes and an exciting wine list.
Jorgen Hansen . 2023-09-22
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Prima sera dopo 7 cene in America dove si ritrovano cibo e bevande all’altezza di un ristorante. Zero intrugli e sapori netti. Pesce di qualità come le insalate.
Massimo M . 2023-09-17
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Tried octopus for the first time here and it was amazing. The vodka pasta was also delicious. Service was quick and friendly.
Terra Phares . 2023-09-12
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Perfect first dinner in Portland. Do yourself a favor and sit at the bar. Notable: the cabbage with the pork chop is other worldly, as is the lobster broth with the halibut.
Joe Hauge . 2023-09-07
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The bolognese and the eggplant lasagna were amazing! Portions looked small at first but as soon as you start digging in the ingredients are so fresh and rich! Lovely restaurant
Ariana Cepeda . 2023-09-05
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We spent 5 days in Portland primarily on a journey to sample the restaurants in this city. Tonight was our last meal at Isa Bistro, and it may have been our most positive experience. Our server and bartender Bryan provided wonderful cocktails and our meals were exemplary. Appetizers were the octopus and salt cod fritters. Coming from Phila we have had octopus innumerable times, and this was one of the best examples by far. The salt cod fritters were wonderful, seasoned, clean-tasting and perfectly fried. The entrees were a brined pork chop seared with a compote of soft peaches that was more tender than any pork chop in our memory. The halibut was perfectly prepared with a sweet tomato chutney that truly sang. The menu is simple, but the preparation and presentation is truly competent and well beyond what is currently present even in this rising young town of artisans. You need to eat at this fabulous bistro.
Saidee Ling . 2023-08-31
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Excellent food, really neat build-out...a very special dinner. My wife and I enjoyed it very much. We recommend it highly. Take advantage of the parking lot or Ubers/Taxis. The neighborhood is a bit sketchy.
Elliot M . 2023-08-20
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My husband and I just left Isa Bistro, and I could not wait til I left the review. We both had the most wonderful experience. Our first visit to Portland from our home in Florida. We were able to walk to Isa Bistro, and we had the most delightful experience. The menu was great, and Luke was an attentive server. I had eggplant lasagna which I am going to try to duplicate at home. My husband had the hangar steak with frites and enjoyed it as well. We appreciated the attentive service and the delicious food. Thank you!
adriannecady . 2023-08-13
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We had a wonderful dinner at isa, I was drinking some margarita and had some nice tostada as a starter and the halibut as main dish- that was really great, the portions wasn’t to large and looking like an artwork. As a dessert I got a blueberry cheesecake. As well you should definitely make a reservation. I would definitely recommend this! Great team and hope to get a place there soon again.
Janine S . 2023-08-09
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The sound of enthusiastic conversation welcomed us as we entered, there was a lot contented smiles from patrons. Isabella our server was cheerful, witty and welcoming. She was extremely knowledgeable about the menu and the dishes ingredients, some of which are home grown by the chef. We had the lobster tostado to start which was delicious, just the right balance of ingredients and fresh produce. The wine selection catered for all tastes and pockets, we had a Tuscan red which complemented the bistro steak we had as a main. The steaks were perfectly cooked, and the meat was delicious accompanied by pepper corn sauce. The dish was served fries cooked to perfection and a fresh garden salad. The coconut pie was superb to finish with. Washroom Facilities were clean and well appointed.
mansfial . 2023-08-07
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Amazing flavor combinations. Able to accommodate gluten and dairy free request. Would go back again! One of the best restaurants we visited in Portland.
Purdue1997 . 2023-08-06
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Dinner at Isa Bistro is a delicious experience. The peach crostini and farm salad, were a great start to our evening. Their meatballs are classic. Both pasta dishes (Bolognese and Vodka) were served al dente. The Tres Leches cake capped a perfect evening. The service from the staff was outstanding! They have kept a consistently high standard.
Phil G . 2023-08-05
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Excellent food, we were a group of 4 friends, had the meatballs and peach crostini for shared appetizers, three had the tagliatelle bolognese and one had steak, shared desserts, blueberry cheesecake and coconut cream pie. Amazing! Great service, good to book in advance. Take an Uber as neighborhood seems to be gentrifying and seemed a little isolated from the old port area.
kingswood1 . 2023-08-04
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This was an exceptional restaurant. Every morsel of food was well prepared and delicious My main course was eggplant lasagna and we shared coconut cream pie for dessert. Out of this world. My son loved his halibut and grilled octopus. They custom made me a fresh blueberry mojito for only $12!!
lori3dp . 2023-08-04
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Isa is a quiet, discrete venue, with sensible service, and properly trained chefs producing high quality fare. There is limited parking available behind the restaurant. It's perfect for catching up with a good friend who lives overseas and celebrating his birthday, as happened on this...
Julian M . 2023-08-01
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Ottima cena in Portland. Cibo ben preparato e ben impiattaro. Ottimi i tagliolini ed il polpo. Servizio molto cordiale e...
lucia m . 2023-07-20
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A wonderful experience! Greeted by a most welcoming hostess. Our server Isabella was so helpful, friendly and seemed so happy to be there. Our dinner was delicious. Great special choices. My husband’s steak reminded us of the beef we had in Tuscany.
Linda M . 2023-07-17
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This charming little restaurant was perfect for our first night in Portland. The food was delicious, fresh and well plated. I specifically loved the shaved fennel salad. Delicious wine pairings. The gluten Free Chocolate Pie was incredible. Isabella & Mallory could not have been more...
noahsquared . 2023-07-13
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If I could give the Isa Bistro 10 million stars I would. This place was incredible. Everything we had was so fresh and delicious. One of the things we look for is cleanliness and the staff being friendly and they did not disappoint. When we...
susanvZ6017JA . 2023-07-02
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Neighborhood gem! Excellent food with exceptional service. Beautifully presented, perfectly prepared and flavorful. We had the following: duck liver mousse appetizer, watermelon salad, fennel salad, lobster tostadas, halibut, crab cakes and the bolognese. Don’t skip dessert: the coconut pie and tres leches cake were to...
Katrina03 . 2023-06-30
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Wonderful experience. First class service, delicious food and nice atmosphere. Sea bass was outstanding. Highly recommend
JimE67 . 2023-06-23
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My wife and I were in Portland for 2 nights and we made a reservation at this restaurant. We are so glad we did!!! Our reservation was for 5:00 pm. It’s not very big inside so I believe a reservation is needed. We started with...
Tileman1213 . 2023-06-19
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Simply amazing little place with delicious food, and superb service. Perfect for a special night. Would definitely come back, again and again.
Climber594147 . 2023-06-19
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Ate at the bar. Service was exemplary from the bartender and entire team from the start to the end of our dinner. The food quality was superb was some subtle, unique flavors. The beef was high quality as was the fresh pasta.
DaveN1705 . 2023-06-10
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Wow, another fantastic discovery of another amazing, creative Portland restaurant! I had a salad with fiddlehead ferns and a refreshing watermelon salad. My husband had the Milanese ragu. We shared two desserts, a chocolate torte and a mascarpone cheesecake with a mango purée. Oh my...
Hsteinmiller . 2023-05-30
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Lovely restaurant! Great service, drinks, and wonderful food. The eggplant lasagna is a must try! The restaurant is located in a historic building in the heart of Portland's West End neighborhood. The interior is warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, tile floors, and tin ceilings. The dining room is small and intimate, with only about 20 tables. There is also a small outdoor patio that is perfect for dining al fresco on a warm day. Overall, Isa Bistro is a great restaurant that I would highly recommend. The food is delicious, the service is excellent, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. If you're looking for a special place to enjoy a meal in Portland, Isa Bistro is the perfect choice.
Sandy Bryant (The Boozy Foodie Lady) . 2023-04-26
MORE AT Google
good food, good service. there was only one entre I could get do to allergies, but it was delicious!
Stone Root . 2023-03-22
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Fantastic food. Great local vibe and parking provide. I highly recommend!
Kathryn Buss . 2023-03-18
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Beet salad was most delicious ever had; had special margarita, which was Fabulous; service was great; tables were tight
Thaddeus D . 2023-03-17
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Flavor explosions with every bite and every dish. Awesome atmosphere and service. This is a must go to if you’re in Portland. My only regret is I’m not staying longer. Might be back just to eat here again. Keep it up! Your staff and your buisness is amazing!
R H . 2023-02-21
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My second outstanding dinner at Isa Bistro. Went last year, loved it, returned to Portland this year, went again and loved it anew. Brian the bartender recognized my partner and I from the year before. Loved sitting at the bar. Great ambiance, great food. I can't wait to go again!
Patrick Warner . 2023-02-14
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Wonderful food service and atmosphere.
Robert Sax . 2023-02-11
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This is my go-to place if I want an end-of-week dinner to kick off the weekend. It has the feeling of a neighborhood hangout (think Cheers for the 2020s). Staff all seem to enjoy their jobs and are deservedly enthusiastic about the food. Don't miss the shaved fennel salad. I always seem to order the seafood entrees and have yet to have anything less than really delicious. I leave with a smile on my face due to a great meal, reasonable prices, and warm service.
Frank Douglass . 2023-01-10
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After a cold day wandering around town it was nice to enjoy one of the best Hot Toddy's I'd had in awhile, it was smooth with great flavor but not overpowering. I ordered the Duck liver mousse to start and had the Bolognese for a main dish. I'm fairly particular with duck since it's easy to get wrong but it was fantastic! I literally scraped the dish clean, the cherry jelly and picked onions added just the right complement of flavors but even on its own it had great flavor and texture. House made noodles in the Bolognese were delicious and I was very sad to stop eating even though I had some left. Will definitely be back and hopefully remember to leave some room to try dessert. 😉
A Dericotte . 2023-01-09
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Had the most delicious dinner with girlfriends and loved the atmosphere, cozy and eclectic. The owners are obviously hardworking and highly committed to delicious food. The menu is well curated and the desserts are all housemade by the owner herself. I had the pork chop...
jenniferhH1546PW . 2022-12-21
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Isa Bistro is quickly becoming one of our favorite places to go. It’s a small, comfortable fine dining experience. Limited menu but something for everyone and every single thing we got was excellent. Staff was very friendly and service was quick. Our party had everything...
D3104VUlisaa . 2022-12-16
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The food was quite good, although the Caesar salad could have used a touch of acid, and the salted cod fritters could have had the fish shine through a little more. Our service on the other hand, not so much. Our server was absent for most of our dining experience, although the hostess did her best to make up for it. We did get to hear the bartender speaking about the entrees, an experience we didn't have from our server. We didn't even know our servers name until the check came. Overall, while the food is worth it, we really wished we had sat at the bar. 🤷♂️
Jynxed . 2022-12-12
MORE AT Google
These schedules may not be completely accurate on special days. Please always confirm with the restaurant
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Came here with high expectations only to be extremely disappointed. I ordered a waffle which they seem to advertise a lot and it came out cold. And honestly an eggo tastes better than this did. I was
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