Tracey I.
Yelp
In town for the weekend and checked out Cafe Mediterraneo. Four of us were able to walk in and sit at the bar, which is always our preference. (Note: Tables were reserved for the night.) Nice ambiance - lights down for evening service, terra cotta walls, lively conversation but not an overwhelming amount of sound.
We were greeted promptly, and confirmed bar seats were open. Nick, the bartender, greeted us immediately and we had menus and drinks within 5-10 minutes. Cocktails were balanced and delicious, and he was super knowledgeable about the menu and made some great suggestions. Nick definitely knows his craft.
The Man and I started with the Cafe Med soup. We split the bowl and the kitchen sent it out in two bowls, which was very much appreciated. The soup was tomato based with fresh vegetables and chopped chicken. It also had a bit of spice to warm it nicely.
Entree portions were massive! I had the special bolognese with gluten free penne. Kitchen cooked the penne perfectly. (My pet peeve is that most kitchens undercook it or it's falling apart.) The bolognese was in a vodka sauce, and absolutely delicious. More than plenty to eat for breakfast tomorrow.
The Man got the lasagna of the day, which was a traditional lasagna. Enough to feed a small village! Well prepared with just that right balance of charred bits in the edges and plenty of melt cheese, all in a bed of extra gravy.
Our friends got seafood dishes: fruiting di mare and the baked haddock special. O. M. G. Giant portions! Tons of mussels, scallops, shrimp and squid along with a big portion of linguini in a red gravy. The baked haddock was stuffed with crab and other lusciousness, and served with asparagus and a mountain of mashed potatoes. Both were well received and devoured.
We really enjoyed our experience and will undoubtedly be back when we return to Portsmouth.
(As an aside, I read the negative reviews of Nick from months ago and completely disagree. Nick was busy, hustling and focused, but stopped to take the time to talk to a customer when needed. His sense of humor is a little gruff and dry, which, being from the Boston area, we enjoyed.)