City: Portland, ME

Category: Restaurants

Telephone: (207) 347-6154

Address: 36 Wharf Street

Description: The name Cinque Terre refers to five ancient fishing villages in the Italian Riviera. This elegant restaurant with an “upscale casual” atmosphere is tucked away down a cobblestone street in the Old Port. Cinque Terre serves authentic northern Italian cuisine using fresh seafood from local purveyors, handcrafted pasta, and specialty ravioli. Gnocchi, branzino, house-made gelati, panna cotta, and the chocolate fondant torte are just some of the preferred selections on the menu. The owners of Cinque Terre have their own farm where, six months out of the year, they grow vegetables—including many interesting Italian varietals—for use in the restaurant’s kitchen. The wine list, winner of a Wine Spectator Award, is all Italian, and there is a full bar. Cinque Terre is open seven nights a week for dinner, and reservations are recommended.