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Portland › Portland › a Cena Ristorante
a Cena RistoranteA-Worth Trying
7742 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
· Italian restaurant, Wine bar
· 4.7/5 Google (841 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Refined neighborhood Italian with standout pastas, polished ambiance, and mostly gracious service; expect premium pricing and occasional pacing hiccups on busy nights.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
a Cena Ristorante delivers exceptional food quality anchored by house-made pastas and grilled octopus that earn consistent praise, paired with knowledgeable service and smart wine guidance. The warm European-style ambiance creates an inviting neighborhood setting ideal for date nights, though occasional seasoning variance and rushed pacing on busy nights prevent the seamless execution needed for grade A territory. Loyal repeat customers and strong overall ratings confirm solid, reliable dining that exceeds typical neighborhood restaurant standards.
Restaurant Summary
Set on SE 13th in Sellwood, a Cena feels warm and romantic without the stiffness, a neighborhood spot where servers offer smart wine guidance and plates arrive with polished confidence. One guest summed it up: "For a minute we forgot we were in Portland," a nod to the room’s European-style ambiance. The cooking steers classic Italian with premium Northwest touches—think grilled octopus, lamb shank, and house pastas like the beloved corn-and-lobster agnolotti. It is elevated traditional more than showy modernism, with technique-forward sauces and carefully sourced ingredients rather than theatrics. Most visits shine, though peak nights can bring rushed pacing or seasoning swings. Families will find enough familiar comforts—simple pastas, fritto misto, and gelato—for kids who enjoy Italian staples. There is no obvious kids menu, and the vibe leans date-night, so earlier reservations suit families best. Expect portions sized for a composed meal, not heaping platters.
At a Glance
- House-made pastas and grilled octopus earn consistent raves
- Charming neighborhood setting ideal for date night or small celebrations
- Pacing can feel rushed or uneven on busy weekends
- Seasoning variance (oversalting) reported on isolated visits
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- neighborhood fine-casual Italian
- standout lobster agnolotti
- thoughtful Italian wine list
What People Love
- That craveable corn-and-lobster agnolotti
- Attentive wine recommendations without pretense
- Cozy, European-feeling room
- Reliable desserts, especially tiramisu and budino
Points of Concern
- Rushed service cadence on peak nights; ask servers to slow pacing if desired
- Occasional oversalting or texture misses reported on select dishes
- Tight table spacing and warm room when packed
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (high five-star share balanced by detailed negatives), but current evidence suggests mostly authentic experiences
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$58-78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with Polipo or Fritto Misto; split a signature Agnolotti and one Secondi; finish with Tiramisu or Budino; budget $80-115 with drinks.
Perfect For
- A romantic Italian date night
- Celebrating birthdays or anniversaries
- Pasta-focused dinners with Italian wine
- Hosting small groups who enjoy sharing antipasti
Location Insights
Area: Quaint, walkable Sellwood-Moreland with boutiques and vintage shops; neighborhood date-night destination.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit main streets with steady evening foot traffic.
Nearby: Near antique row, cafes, and shops along SE 13th Ave; residential streets just off the corridor.
BuckmanBuckman is a dynamic neighborhood with a mix of historic homes and modern developments. It has a strong local dining culture featuring a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants, often frequented by creative types and food enthusiasts. The area is known for its walkability and community-oriented atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–20:30
Tuesday17:00–20:30
Wednesday17:00–20:30
Thursday17:00–20:30
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday17:00–21:00
Sunday17:00–20:30
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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