When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria
Why Fino Bistro & Pizzeria is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria is a cherished neighborhood spot in North Portland, well-known for its authentic Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Specializing in handmade pasta and classic New York-style pizza, it offers a welcoming environment perfect for gatherings with friends, family dinners, or date nights. The bistro caters to diverse dietary needs, featuring vegan and gluten-free options, which adds to its appeal for all types of diners. Highlights include their house-made spaghetti, pork pappardelle with kale and corn chowder, and their signature meatballs served with marinara and parmesan. The ambiance combines a cozy indoor bistro with a seasonal garden patio, making it ideal for casual meals or celebrations. Additional conveniences include free off-street parking, full bar service, and free WiFi. Whether you want to dine in, enjoy drinks, or order takeout or delivery, Fino provides a flexible and inviting experience with a focus on quality ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.
Here's what people think of Fino Bistro & Pizzeria
As of recent, Fino Bistro & Pizzeria holds a 4.4-star rating based on 646 reviews.
Reviews for Fino Bistro & Pizzeria generally praise its handcrafted food and the warm neighborhood atmosphere, reflected in its strong 4.4-star rating from over 600 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the delicious homemade pasta and New York-style pizzas, the accommodating vegan and gluten-free selections, and the friendly, attentive staff. Guests often appreciate the comfortable setting and the variety of Italian and Mediterranean dishes which offer something for everyone. However, some critiques emerge regarding inconsistent service quality, with a few reviewers mentioning slow or inattentive service during busy times. A number of negative reviews point out dissatisfaction with particular dishes, such as overly dense meatballs or seasoning choices that did not meet their expectations. Occasional complaints also mention issues with beverage temperature and food presentation. Overall, while service hiccups and isolated food criticisms appear, the majority of diners find Fino Bistro & Pizzeria to be a delightful local spot with commendable cuisine and a pleasant atmosphere, making it a popular choice in Portland’s vibrant dining scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Isabelle Lussier
We ordered the pizza with sausage & cheese on it. (Can’t remember the name) but it was pretty good. We got there pretty late but still managed to get a fresh pizza made for us. Staff is nice. Easy access and good location.
Micayla Jones
The housemade pastas and care that goes into each dish make this place a “must have and then have again” in the vibrant Portland food scene. I’m always excited to try their weekend specials and new menu items as they never disappoint. The portion sizes are on point and always leave me perfectly satiated, which is something I look for in my usual restaurant rotation! Fino has become my go to for special occasions, hosting out-of-towners, comfort food, and quick pizza slices! If you haven’t had their Italian staples, you’ve been missing out!
Gwyn Jones
I love this place! Highly recommend!!! This is hands down my favorite place in Portland! I have tried several of their new menu items and their fresh, unique flavors are crave worthy!!! You can't go wrong. I'll definitely be dreaming about the King Salmon, utter perfection!
Brett Rummel
The staff was very friendly, but not very attentive. The rigatoni was absolutely delicious, but took over 30 minutes to come out. It wasn’t even busy. I am visiting the city and this was the first time in wasn’t blown away in Kenton. I do believe the service and food are amazing, but the fact that I watched everyone that arrived after me get their food before I got mine is disheartening.
Alex Flatt
Fino reached out to me to make this right and they sure did. The food was great this time and I will continue to eat at this restaurant. Staff is amazing and it really meant a lot the the manager cared enough to want to win back a loyal customer! Usually this place is great. The pizza is always good. However, I usually get The Italian Grinder for lunch and it usually is great. The last couple of times it has been smaller and less filled. Usually it’s packed full of lettuce and other veggies. This time we got it, it had barely anything besides pepperoni in it.
How to reach Fino Bistro & Pizzeria
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Why Fino Bistro & Pizzeria may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria with your friends?
Gathering friends or family for a memorable meal is made easy and enjoyable at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria, an inviting Italian restaurant located in Portland with a solid 4.4-star rating from over 600 reviews. This bistro's appeal lies not only in its delicious, authentic dishes but also in its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal backdrop for social gatherings. Friends looking to catch up over hearty, homestyle Italian fare will find the extensive menu offers something for everyone, from expertly crafted pizzas to rich pastas and flavorful small plates. The communal vibe, paired with a well-curated drinks list, encourages leisurely dining and lively conversation. Moreover, Fino’s attention to accommodating dietary needs, including gluten-free options, ensures that everyone in your group can indulge comfortably. The combination of inviting ambiance, crowd-pleasing food, and attentive service creates a natural space for friends to unite, celebrate, and make memories together, whether for casual meetups or special occasions.
What kinds of activities can groups enjoy at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria?
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria is more than just a dining experience; it offers several activities that enhance group dynamics. First and foremost, the restaurant is an excellent place for shared meals—its menu encourages ordering multiple dishes to share, fostering a spirit of togetherness and discovery. Groups can start with antipasti like arancini and meatballs, which are designed to be passed around, allowing everyone to sample a variety of flavors. Crafting your own pizza or selecting from their imaginative offerings adds an interactive layer to the meal, perfect for engaging conversations about food preferences and culinary adventures. Fino also features a well-stocked bar with both classic and innovative cocktails, alongside a thoughtfully selected wine list, encouraging groups interested in tasting sessions or pairing drinks with their meals. With the bistro's cozy, yet vibrant ambiance, it is a conducive environment for social games or simply unwinding after a day of sightseeing or work. Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or casual hangout, the setting supports an enjoyable, shared experience beyond just eating.
Why is Fino Bistro & Pizzeria perfect for a group meetup?
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria is tailored to create a comfortable and accommodating environment for groups. It balances casual dining with a touch of elegance, making it suitable for both informal gatherings and more special occasions. The restaurant’s layout includes a bar and a separate dining bistro area, allowing groups of different sizes to find their ideal spot, whether it’s a lively bar counter or a quieter, intimate table. The staff’s attentiveness to group needs — from menu recommendations to handling dietary restrictions — enhances the overall experience. Many reviewers have praised the restaurant for its friendly and knowledgeable service, which eases the stress of organizing group orders and ensures everyone’s preferences are considered. Plus, the rich, authentic flavors of the food create a shared culinary adventure that brings people closer. Whether you want to indulge in classic New York-style pizza slices, rich risottos, or gluten-free options prepared with care, your group will find something that delights every palate.
How does Fino Bistro & Pizzeria cater to special dietary needs?
One standout feature of Fino Bistro & Pizzeria is its commitment to inclusivity in dining. The restaurant offers gluten-free pizzas and pastas, which are prepared with dedicated utensils and pans to avoid cross-contamination, a crucial detail for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities. Servers are trained and well-informed to guide guests in selecting safe and delicious meals, ensuring that dietary restrictions do not limit the enjoyment of a group outing. This level of care appeals to groups with diverse dietary requirements and enables everyone to partake without worry. While the restaurant is not exclusively gluten-free, its attention to cross-contamination precautions and knowledgeable staff make it a reliable choice for sensitive diners. This responsiveness to special diets contributes to making group visits seamless and inclusive, helping foster a welcoming environment where everyone can savor their meals comfortably.
What atmosphere and setting does Fino Bistro & Pizzeria provide for social gatherings?
The atmosphere at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria strikes an inviting balance between casual and chic, offering several different area options that suit various moods and group sizes. Upon entering, guests find a takeout counter and bar area, which is lively and perfect for casual drinks or quick bites. Beyond this, the main bistro space offers a more refined and cozy setting, with tasteful décor and ambiance conducive to relaxed conversation and extended meals. This versatility means groups can choose their preferred vibe, whether it’s enjoying craft cocktails at the bar or gathering around a large table for a sit-down dinner. The warm lighting, comfortable seating, and rustic Italian bistro feel encourage guests to linger and enjoy the moment together. This dynamic setting supports both energized celebrations and quiet dinners alike, making Fino an accommodating venue for a wide variety of social meetups.
What makes the food at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria a crowd-pleaser?
The real star at Fino is the food, which has earned consistent praise for authentic Italian flavors and quality ingredients. The pizzeria is known for its generous New York-style pizza slices, prepared with fresh, well-balanced toppings and cooked to a satisfying texture. Alongside pizza, the menu features an array of Italian classics, including risottos with innovative sauces and pastas that offer hearty, comforting options to satisfy diverse palates. Small plates like arancini and meatballs provide excellent sharing options, allowing groups to try multiple dishes during one visit. While most reviews highlight the excellent taste and presentation, the restaurant is also flexible in accommodating special requests, such as adjusting ingredients upon request, highlighting a guest-oriented approach. Though a few critical reviews have noted inconsistencies in some dishes, the majority of feedback underscores the robust flavors and enjoyable dining experience that keep customers coming back. The combination of shareable plates, large pizza slices, and diverse menu options makes it perfect for groups to explore and enjoy together.
How does Fino Bistro & Pizzeria support celebrations and special occasions?
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria’s warm and flexible environment makes it well suited for celebrating milestones with friends and family. Its combination of a stylish bistro setting, attentive service, and flavorful food creates a naturally festive atmosphere. Groups can book tables in advance to ensure adequate space for larger parties, and the staff is typically accommodating in handling special requests, such as customized orders or arranging for birthday desserts. The variety on the menu ensures that celebrants with different tastes and dietary needs are all catered to, enhancing the group’s overall satisfaction. Additionally, the nearby location within Portland’s friendly Kenton neighborhood adds to the charm, offering a sense of community and accessibility for guests. Whether it’s an intimate anniversary dinner or a lively birthday gathering, Fino Bistro & Pizzeria provides the ingredients for a memorable event centered around connection, good food, and conviviality.
What practical tips should groups consider when planning a meetup at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria?
To maximize the enjoyment of a group meetup at Fino Bistro & Pizzeria, planning ahead is recommended. The bistro is open for happy hour and dinner, which is ideal timing for after-work meetups or evening social events, but it is not open for lunch, so scheduling must align with these hours. It’s advisable to call ahead or make a reservation, especially for larger groups, to secure preferred seating and reduce waiting times. Groups with dietary restrictions should inform the staff in advance so they can prepare accordingly and ensure the safest and most enjoyable meal. Sharing multiple dishes works best here, so planning to order several pizzas and small plates encourages interaction and variety. Arriving a little earlier or later than usual peak times might offer a quieter atmosphere if your group prefers a more intimate meetup. Lastly, coordinating transportation options can be helpful, as Fino is located in a busy neighborhood where parking may be limited during peak hours.
Why choose Fino Bistro & Pizzeria over other dining options for a group?
Fino Bistro & Pizzeria stands out as an excellent group dining choice because it combines authentic Italian cuisine, attentive service, and a versatile ambiance in one package. The inclusive gluten-free options and knowledge of staff in handling food sensitivities offer reassurance to groups with diverse dietary needs, which can be challenging to accommodate in many restaurants. Its bistro and bar layout provide different settings within the same establishment, making it adaptable to various group sizes and event styles. The quality and variety of food, especially the standout New York-style pizzas and sharing plates, appeal widely to groups looking for familiar yet refined flavors. Compared with other casual Italian eateries, Fino’s balance of affordability, authenticity, and service level makes it a dependable and enjoyable choice for social gatherings. For those seeking a spot to relax, celebrate, or simply share a great meal with friends, this bistro hits all the right notes.