Portofino's is one of my favorite restaurants in Charlotte. It's affordable, fresh, tasty food with great service from accommodating staff. I used to only order chicken alfredo which isn't even on the menu at Portofino's and the kitchen was always very kind to make it for me anyway. BEST ALFREDO SAUCE IN CHARLOTTE! Now I tend to order off the menu (garlic and broccoli with penne all day!!!) and eat on the leftover for at least two more meals.
I largely wanted to write this review in response to previously mentioned safety concerns for the area. I may be a bit biased because I grew up in this neighborhood and still visit it frequently, but I'm not sure where the fear comes from...I mean, this parking lot is shared with a police station...
I'm a petite female in my twenties and I have never once felt unsafe or threatened here or across the street where the Ross is and I have visited that Food Lion on more than one occasion late at night.
Please do not let your suspicions about the safety of the neighborhood keep you from this gem! I am always afraid that I will lose my favorite Italian Restaurant because they can't stay afloat on that side of town.
Give them a try!! You will not be disappointed.