Stopped here for lunch on my way to Solvang and was very pleasantly surprised! I never imagined Salinas would have such an upscale little downtown area with such good food! Portobello's sandwiches were delicious and the sweet potato fries were perfect with their crunch on the outside and tender potato on the inside. I ordered a grilled chicken portobello sandwich ($13.95) and asked that the onions be grilled; absolutely delicious! My dining companions ordered the veggie wrap ($10.95) and the calamari steak sandwich ($15.50) and they were both happy with them. Another companion ordered a sandwich with the soup of the day and the soup looked so, so good; it was their chicken noodle with chunks of chicken and veggies and a nice amount of noodles. She said it was delicious and had the taste of fresh herbs. The amount of food was very generous and a couple of us had half left for munching on later. Great stop; wish Salinas was closer to me! read more

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I had a very good portobello mushroom sandwich. Good service and a good location. It was good, It was good, It was good. Jeez louise, this system that makes you write more. read more

server and the service and the food was honestly worth my money I'll definitely be going back . Thanks portobellos read more

Portobello's - Sweet potatoe fries !!! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

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A medium sized cafe with line service, today's offering was a bacon spinach quiche with a side of Caesar salad. The dressing while lacking anchovies was tart and tangy with a good twang as delicious as any other. The quiche was subtle and light, no strong flavors but all the ingredients blend together and mellow making for watering mouthfuls of crispy crust and tender filling. Definitely will be returning for a repeat performance. Happy Noshing! This review brought to you by Dogedollars. read more

My law firm hosted a work 30th anniversary for a co-worker here on April 6th, and we had a wonderful experience. Maynard, the manager, was so great. We discussed the menu ahead of time, and he and his team were very on top of refilling appetizers and drinks for the 22 people at our table. I would absolutely host another event there, and working with Maynard was seamless. Thank you again for helping us host the event and allowing the us to have fun and enjoy ourselves instead of having to worry about all the semantics. read more

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Great atmosphere and location. Cute outdoor seating option. The specials during the week are worth checking out. Staff was great, the place was open and clean, the food was delicious. I got breakfast, my friend got the beet and broccoli salads. read more

Portobello's - Lunch mojitos! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

Before leaving Portobello's, I had never previously felt so insignificant as a customer in my entire life. And I'm a very patient and understanding customer, because I know exactly what it's like to be on the "other side" of the table.... My mom and I had stumbled upon Portobello's shortly after leaving Maya Cinemas and were eager to try some of the delicious offerings we gazed upon from the display case. Unfortunately however, the eagerness quickly faded into uneasiness the more we interacted with the staff. I approached the hostess who did not immediately acknowledge me, as I waited patiently in front of her podium. (It was not busy, and she was not on the phone or otherwise occupied.) Without saying a word, she looked up, saw my mom and I, grabbed two menus and motioned for us to follow. Again, the establishment was not busy. There were only two other parties already seated, and it appeared as though they were mid meal. The woman escorted my mother and I to the furthest table from the front, all the way in the back left corner in a dimly lit area. She placed two menus on the table, and walked away. (I probably should have taken this as an indicator to leave, but I was hoping for a better experience, and gave it another shot.) A waitress then appeared at our table 10 minutes later to ask for our drink order. Being that we were hungry, we told her we wanted to order food at that moment as well. She let out a heavy sigh, and then pulled out her pad of paper to take note. When my mother asked her a question about the contents of one of their salads, she responded, "I don't know" and left it at that. She didn't leave to ask someone else for answer or make any attempt to uncover a solution. My mom and felt pressured to just order and not ask any questions. After what seemed like a very long time, the meal was dropped off without a word. The meal was lukewarm, and lacked flavor. Throughout the meal, no one came to check on us for refills or other requests... it became clear that our business was not appreciated. After the meal, I went to the host area to request the check. No one could be found. I walked around the bar and front entry way for 7 minutes before anyone reappeared. Once I requested the check, the attentiveness of the hostess changed. She was eager to process payment. Honestly? I will probably never go back to Portobellos. This was by far the worst experience I have ever had at any establishment... and I hope sharing my experience, keeps you from having a bad one too! read more

I went for breakfast with my Dad. Good food and friendly service. Plenty of seating on a weekday morning.

Greeted by the fabulous host first thing on Sunday morning, this restaurant was recommended by a friend. He was the best part of the restaurant. We both ordered the salmon fish and chips. Husband had sweet potato fries which were great flavor and crispness. I had the garlic fries with not enough garlic to notice it was there. The salmon fish had more batter than flavor. Three each on top of the fries. Nothing to write home about. Maybe their breakfast menu is the draw. The music was wonderful, soft piano playing classics you could sing to. Overall, nothing to write home about and although we went on a recommendation, we won't be recommending it. read more

Just moved back to the area, it was delicious the French toast was so fluffy and tasty the bacon was fresh the steak great seasoning good cut it was a wonderful experience to have a quiet breakfast also the service was excellent Ellia was so sweet and accommodating.Definitely coming back. read more

Well what a nice surprise to be able to have a nice dinner before a movie. My husband and Aires were going to eat at a different establishment but when we were walking by it looked so inviting so we popped in. We had a great dinner before heading to the movie. They were awesome about getting our food to us in a timely manor. My Husband had the lasagna and I had the sand-dabs, it was very good. It is a nice place to relax and enjoy their full bar before heading over for a movie. And recently we have been going because they have awesome vegetarian options #wfpb goodness. read more

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We had our NSHS Class of 1974 Icebreaker party at Portobello's on Friday, October 11th and it could have been any more special! Gabriel and Meynardo were wonderful to work with in planning our event, the food was delicious and their staff was so friendly. I would highly recommend Portobello's if want to have a successful event or large part. The beautiful patio and atmosphere is very welcoming. Great job! read more

Been looking for a brunch spot with good ambiance and vibe. Portobellos defiantly delivers. The high ceiling to generous cocktail pour. Came here for brunch, got a quiche which was surprisingly delicious. My husband got an omelet which was great. Also came here for lunch and had a Cuban sandwich. I liked it, it was simple and flavorful. read more

This place just made our first day in Carmel. I'm being a very picky person and it was one of the best places I ate for last couple years so far! Starting from the way we were approached by Nestor, following by amazing mushroom risotto and incredible octopus (I'm a big fun and I know how hard it's to find a good one), ending by cozy ambiance in the restaurant. It is easy to see and feel how staff loves the job they are doing and enjoying it. I highly recommend this place and we will definitely come back! read more

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Food Service and Ambiance were great . Definitely come again. I been here now for breakfast lunch and dinner love them all read more

Nice ambiance inside. They also have a courtyard seating, with a live band which was nice. The staff were pleasant, however they need more training as far as attention to detail: Our server wasn't sure if the seafood entree was fried or grilled so him and a couple more other staff were discussing it briefly around us, until he checked it... Also, when he served our orders, he couldn't remember who ordered what and i' m not even sure if he knew what Sand Dabs looked like. He forgot the soup, which we had to remind him and when we did, he couldn't recall if we ordered it or what... We asked another lady for table salt and she walked by us after 5 min or so and finally remembered :" I didnt give u the salt, did I?". I mean, we see a few of the staff there interacting with what it seemed like regulars, and they all seem nice, however they meed to really pay attention to details. There's definitely much to be improved. The stuffed seabass with the veggies made it complete. I'd say the best part of what we ordered was the veggies which was tasty... then the clam chowder... the sand dabs could use more flavor. This restaurant has potential if they train their staff to pay more attention to detail, really know the menu, the details and making sure their customers have what they ordered and then go above and beyond. read more

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Cute back patio.. and legit contenders for best sweet potato fries of my life. Friendly wait staff as well

This place is absolutely amazing. The food is wonderful with big portions. Thanks to Chef Ben and our Server/Bartender Meynard and staff for making it a wonderful experience. Highly recommend giving this place a try. read more

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This used to be a great place for lunch. But their prices have gone up considerably, and their food quality and service have diminished. The average price for a SANDWICH is $18.00. Just ridiculous. If you provided outstanding service, perhaps you could justify those price points. But you don't. Too bad. read more

Food was great and Sabrina our waitress was the bomb dot com. Amazing service. The joint had a very chill vibe.

I'm giving Portobello's 1 star. I have eaten here many times and enjoyed excellent food and acceptable service. Sandwiches here were to die for! Today I ordered two of their almost $20 sandwiches "To go" and took the bag to my car that was parked 3 blocks away due to the Farmers Market. When I got to my car and opened the boxes I was shocked. The sandwiches were reduced in size by 50%. WHAT GIVES?! I paid nearly $20 each! Portobello's has gone penny pinching crazy! So, you get one star. AVOID this place. They exist to take your money. read more

Was just passing through town, this place looked quant ordered two slices of quiche one with bacon in it..... $22.....took one fork full.... Threw it in the garbage, asked them to warm it up a bit, was cold and was absolutely inedible! read more

Portobello's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

I came here for breakfast today.It was my first time trying breakfast here and I am now a fan. I sat down and looked at the menu. I ordered the ranch hand breakfast which came with three eggs scrambled,two slices of baquetts, ham,and breakfast potatoes. I also ordered a diet Coke.Everythong was very good and service was great read more

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The verdict is in and people like hanging out at Portobello's. It's Fri-yay and I heard about the live music on the patio. I don't like live music in a crowded bar late at night but I love live music in a safe, clean environment that starts at an earlier hour. So I came to check it out. The place is buzzing on a Friday and there wasn't an empty seat in the house, not even on the patio. My friend said her tuna melt hit the spot and I enjoyed a decent short rib entree with good scalloped potatoes and a good portion of meat. I've been here mostly for breakfast. I can't wait til the weather is warmer to make more use of their beautiful patio but don't be afraid to come out, the heaters really do their job of keeping you warm. Friendly service and free wi-fi. Cool to have a go to spot close to home. read more

Portobello's - Live music on the patio! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

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The worse service in this place ! As soon as my family and I walked in girls working there looked at us up and down and we're very rude! They made us wait for 30 mins and gave our table we were waiting for to another family! I do not recommend this place . read more

We had a perfect dinner at Portobello's on Main in Salinas. My husband Ken literally cried when he ate his rib eye steak! He said it was the BEST he's ever had! He even had to meet chef Ben in person. Ben also brought out some beef ribs for Ken to try. What a phenomenal restaurant with the nicest people. The food was amazing and very reasonably priced. This restaurant is a hidden gem in old downtown Salinas! read more

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It's just discouraging, going in with a group of hungry friends after a big ride and having such impoverished plant-based/animal-free dishes. The entire area is like this, so they're just like the rest. Not environmentally aware, compassionate or responsible the way coastal California likes to portray themselves to be. It's as if there's no animal agriculture-driven climate emergency to be responsible for. It's as if Portobello's head is in the sand. Dismal menu. read more

It's a great location but the availability for meals and consistency is not there. Unfortunately we wanted breakfast and were told it was no longer available. I got a burger for lunch instead and it lacked composure and taste. Hopefully next time it brings more to the table. read more

Worst service ever. Walked in and the waitress told us to take a seat, I said we'd be out on the patio and didn't see the waitress again until I walked back inside and grabbed menus myself. On ordering the waitress didn't write anything down, this is a pet peeve of mine since inevitably that means the order will be screwed up. Sure enough, the order was screwed up. When our food came out we only got one set of utensils, I had to walk back inside to get another set. I had the portobello sandwich, which was fine. The corn and black bean side salad was terrible however, the corn was tasteless and starchy. The outdoor patio was a pleasant spot to hang and clearly (judging by the other patrons) it's popular with Salinas locals, perhaps only because they don't have any better options? read more

Portobello's - Tricky to find it's to the side of Zeph's - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

Previous 2007 review outdated. Location is 125 main street, downtown Salinas. Table service offered. Big outdoor patio open during 2020 Covid precautions. October 2020 Yelp listing says the business is closed. It sure was open when I visited. read more

Maynard is the reason we stayed the first time we visited and why we came back. He is so amazing, really makes you feel welcomed. If you visit, sit at the bar and say hi! read more

Portobello's - Maynards awesome Bloody Mary. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

My Husband and I been here 2x we liked it. The food that we ordered it was delicious ***** read more

New to Salinas and looking for a delicious spot?! Go no further and pick ANYTHING on the menu--you won't be disappointed!

Food was great. I got the sun up breakfast with banana walnut pancakes - so good. Both girls working were very nice!

My wife and I stopped in for an impromptu lunch last Wednesday. We were walking along Main st looking for a place and Portobello's was the one we found. We decided to sit at the bar and I'm so glad we did. The bartender, Meynard, was a great host. When I was deciding on a drink, Meynard boasted he could make a mean margarita and he followed through. Meynard's margarita was the best I've had in a long time. The flavors were very well balanced and worked perfectly with the Tajin on the rim. The chefs need a lot of props too. I ordered the calamari Po'Boy sandwich and it was absolutely delicious. Thick sticks of fried calamari topped with a slightly red mayo/ aioli sauce and a slaw with pickles and capers. With a lemon wedge squeezed over the top, they were so good. We will definitely be back again the next time we visit Salinas. read more

Long wait time to be seated, longer wait time for food to arrive, average food. Not worth it in my opinion

Had a great time and the seafood pasta was delicious. Restaurant wasn't too busy and the place was a great place to meet and talk.

Very disappointed. I really liked coming here and having an option of healthier food but after today, I will not come back. I ordered two salads and a side fries and it was $15+ and the portions are so small. Not to mention the worst part was I watched the cook grab the fries with her BARE HANDS and put them in the to go box. I worked food service for years and you never touch food with your bare hands. Food borne disease outbreaks are spread by contaminated hands. One study has shown that 97% of people to wash their hands incorrectly. So with that said, I will not be coming back to this establishment. read more

Portobello's - This is what $15+ looks like on 2 salads and side of fries... - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California

Love this restaurant. Casual, but fun. Friday night music too. The manager is the very best ,making sure you are comfortable & aware of any new specials. The servers are also very competent & friendly. It's always clean & inviting. They also make have excellent cocktails such as lemon drops !! read more

My wife and I love this place. The staff is friendly and attentive, the restaurant is clean and inviting and the food is always to notch. I like the biscuits and gravy with eggs and potatoes and my wife goes for the waffles with fruit and a side of eggs. The coffee is real good too. read more

Portobello's - Biscuits and Gravy with potatoes and eggs over medium - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Salinas, California