The Corner Room Italian Kitchen & Bar
Reviews
Update 2014: We have dined at the Corner Room a half-dozen times since I wrote the December 2013 review. The most recent was last Friday (November 28, 2014). My review: the meal reconfirmed my judgment that the Corner Room's food is the best I have experienced at any restaurant in three countries on two continents over more decades than i wish to count. The service is wonderful. And the prices are sooooo right! December 2013: We stopped there twice in December, 2013, the second time because the first time was a wonderful experience. We are planning to stop there again this evening, for third time,because the first time was a wonderful experience. The food, the service, and the price were all right.
On our way out, I told our wonderful server: "Every bite, from the first to the last, was sheer perfection. Bravo." I meant every word I said. The Corner Room is an absolutely fantastic gem in the treasure chest of Portland's culinary scene. Having just finished a delightful sunset harbor cruise, my husband and I were looking for the perfect cap to the evening. We found it here. From our fried squid appetizer--which boasted perfectly crisp calamari paired with pizzaiola and aioli sauces for pleasurable al fresco dipping--to scrumptious, generous pasta entrees, world-class (and, might I add, HUGE) drinks and a blueberry stew-lemon semolina dessert that was to die for, The Corner Room more than delivered. I picked the bucatini with fresh lobster meat, corn, peppers and cream, and I savored every bite. My husband opted for the ravioli filled with cheeses and salumi offerings, and (having snuck a bite), I can say it was eyes-to-the-skies delicious. I'm already counting down the time until we're able to visit again. Our server and the hostess were also fantastic, offering us genuine tips and advice based on our palates, not just our wallet. He knew the food inside and out, and he was exceptionally gracious and attentive. We sat outside at one of the sidewalk tables, which was a marvelous choice; the ambiance was fantastic, a perfectly European side to the perfectly prepared food. Bravo to all at The Corner Room--you've made two die-hard fans with a single twist of our forks!
Have been to the sister restaurant The Front Room several times and always had a good experience so thought it would be similar service. NOT! Arrived during Happy Hour and although web site says dining 11:30 to 10:00 that is not the case. Dinner does not start till 5, so at 5 the Hostess finally appears (up till now I was pretty much ignored ) and I approach for a seating. " Oops, no reservation, sorry , we are booked solid ( even though there are only 3 parties waiting to get seated ??). If you can find a seat at the bar you can dine , but you cannot use your Living Social voucher for Happy Hour, sorry. " No apparent wish to try to fit me in, even though I had driven 1 hour to get here. Well finished my drink, after half an hour no one seemed to be leaving, so paid my bar tab and left (and btw, did'nt notice any new parties arrive ). Not a very accomodating service and I will not be back, here, or any of Mr Smith's other establishments!! So glad I didn't invite another couple to come with us as I was planning, would have been very embarrased.
the food is great; however, I have heard from a few former employees that the owner does not treat his employees with respect. makes me not want to return to any of his restaurants.
The food was delicious and the staff was friendly! Meals were reasonably priced for what you get... Highly recommend the beef crepe!