brescaGreat night!I took my girlfriend to Bresca for her birthday and we had a wonderful time. My favorite part of the experience was the pace of the meal. Since there are only two sittings per night and a very small kitchen staff, I never once felt the least bit rushed. There were 10-15 minute periods between each course, and each course was definitely strong enough to leave you fulfilled for what you just ate and a little anxious to see what came out next. The menu is small, but judging by what we ate, I would feel confident ordering anything on it because it is all prepared with quality intentions. I would love to add something negative to make the review a little more realistic or balanced, but I can't. We had a wonderful experience.5/11/2013 12:00:00 AMThe Best of PortlandTo us, there is not a better restaurant in Portland at the moment. With, at most, a dozen options on the menu, the chef allows herself to focus on putting out the most comprehensive, thoughtful and, at times, playful menu. There's no need for gimmicks or trendy food things at Bresca. The chef lets her skill, care and knowledge speak for itself.5/10/2013 12:00:00 AMOutstanding all around.This place has a very limited menu but that's because they make an effort to do everything just about perfectly, and succeed.5/3/2013 12:00:00 AMI've lived in Portland forI've lived in Portland for eight years and am embarrassed to admit that, despite being somewhat of a 'foodie', I've never dined at Bresca. What an omission on my part! My husband and I had an absolutely wonderful experience there. Service, wine, food and the intimate/edgy setting exceeded our expectations. The shaved Brussels sprouts salad was incredible and the pork chop quite possibly the best I've ever had. Can't wait to try lunch there. Bresca is my new favorite Portland restaurant!4/19/2013 12:00:00 AMWe visited as a group of fourWe visited as a group of four and had a fabulous meal. Everything served showed a great deal of care in the ingredient selection, preparation, and presentation. The black kale appetizer set a high standard with a positively brilliant soft boiled egg, kombu butter, and charred bread combination. We tried the pasta, and the fish special and duck breast and everything was delicious. Seating is a little tight but arranged in a manner so as one does not intrude on one's neighbors. Service was
just right, attentive, friendly, but not intrusive. All in all a great meal and a great evening.4/19/2013 12:00:00 AMStellar dining experience.Stellar dining experience. Spring salad, duck breast, Pana cotta--ciuldnt ask for better food in Portland. Looking forward to our next visit!4/13/2013 12:00:00 AMIf you want a quiet spot forIf you want a quiet spot for dinner with delicious, surprising, and varied cuisine presented with class, Bresca is for you.4/12/2013 12:00:00 AMOur ratings say it all. InventiveOur ratings say it all. Inventive and delicious food, quiet, soothing room, friendly attentive service. Even comfortable seating. A gem.4/6/2013 12:00:00 AMMenu was limited but whatMenu was limited but what was offered was all excellent. Very subtle, light and wonderful flavors.4/5/2013 12:00:00 AMNot angry, just disappointedThe space, ambiance and service were excellent. There were thoughtful little touches hidden away nearly everywhere that made us feel welcome and special. The food...was not good. Neither my date or I had any desire to eat more than a third of our main course and only took our leftovers home in order to add ingredients to try and complete the dishes. It's very possible that our type of taste palette is not one that Bresca is aiming to please, but when we came in knowing that we'd be spending a minimum of $120 on a dinner that was celebrating a special occasion, it was extremely disappointing to have to stop for food elsewhere later that evening, especially when it wasn't because the portions were too small.3/23/2013 12:00:00 AMOur first experience and oneOur first experience and one we will repeat many times. Bresca is one of those few places where the primary purpose is to enjoy a leisurely meal and truly is allowed to savor the creative dishes. It is small and intimate and thus it is actually possible to have a conversation without having to shout. All in all, a most enjoyable experience.3/22/2013 12:00:00 AMGreat Food in an Intimate SettingThe food was fabulous. It was meticulously prepared, delicious and creative. Our server was knowledgable, friendly, professional and helpful. The restaurant itself was small and quiet but decorated so as to provide a comfortable and pleasant experience. The wines were interesting, well paired with the menu and fairly priced. This is probably the best restaurnat we've eaten in in Portland.3/9/2013 12:00:00 AM