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Ava Gene's Reviews List
Ava Gene's
Ava Gene’s is a neighborhood place, located on Division Street in Southeast Portland. Our restaurant serves rustic cuisine, features an extensive wine list and offers cocktails focused on & inspired by the regions of Italy. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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164 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Rating Breakdown 164 reviews
5 stars
(97)
4 stars
(43)
3 stars
(16)
2 stars
(7)
1 star
(1)
Food
(Outstanding)
4.5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
4.4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
4.3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
- fit for foodies(138)
- neighborhood gem(99)
- special occasion(84)
- hot spot(67)
- notable wine list(66)
- romantic(55)
Ava Gene's Reviews List
Review 1 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"What a great meal to celebrate a birthday! Food and service was outstanding. I'm very sensitive to service and the staff was fantastic. Everyone was very knowledgeable about the menu and attentive at exactly the right time without being overbearing. The only negative I would say was that the restaurant was too warm. Next time I'll request a window table but will certainly be back!"
Dined on 6/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 2 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"We had a wonderful meal at Ava Gene's. Our main course took a bit more time than I thought it should - but it was a busy Friday night and everything else was so right-on that I couldn't ding them for that. Service was very well executed - a well-run team. Food was perfectly seasoned and delicious! Pricey - but really good!"
Dined on 6/14/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Solid with room for improvement
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Read reviews of super-loud music,,,was not the case when we went. It was lovely. Menu is passive/aggressive with ledgend not in alphabetical order. Friendly staff spends more time than they should have to explaining. Would like to see some poultry on the menu - limited choices for folks who do not eat red meat.The dishes are creative although salt was used too liberally - my husband even commented it was too much in the pasta dish, and he is a salt fan. Wine list was great and not a chintzy pour (my pet peeve). Warm from cook-fire so dress in layers you can remove. Overall a solid dining experience. We'll be back."
Dined on 6/14/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 4 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great dining experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Quiet
"The food was fabulous once we figured out what to order- the menu is in Italian. Every course from panne and the salamis assortment to the vegetable combos. The rabbit pasta was very flavorful. Plus yummy desserts. I will go back!"
Dined on 6/13/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
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Review 5 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The Good, the Bad, and the Average
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Hmm overall a good experience. The food was all over the place. The pasta dish (their noted specialty) was rather bland and the filling was dry. The Lamb two ways very tasty and meat and cheese plate was good but nothing exceptional when compared to similar restaurants. The service was spot on the the interior design was very busy but comfortable."
Dined on 6/12/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 6 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The food is always top notch, the service impeccable."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Wonderful food, one of the best we've had in Portland in a long time."
Dined on 6/11/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 8 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
New favorite in Portland
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"What a wonderful experience -- Ava Gene's is a fantastic neighborhood gem and well worth the travel from anywhere in the Portland area. Being our first time at the restaurant, we tried the tasting menu and we are delighted we did -- every course was fabulous, accompanied by attentive service. The physical space has great personality and was a perfect setting to the food and service resulting in a wonderful dinning experience. Although my wife and I were traveling for the weekend, I'm fortunate enough to work in Portland from time to time, giving me a few opportunities to come back to this great restaurant."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 9 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Portlandia modern Italian
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Very creative menu, delicious, nicely presented...... but there's a learning curve about the ingredients. Go, enjoy, try the warm chicken livers with rhubarb."
Dined on 6/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 10 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
service lacked luster
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"OUr waiter was knowledgeable but not friendly. Service was very slow with no apology for ignoring us when he visited the neigbboring table at least four times while it was obvious we were waiting to order dessert/coffee. WE ended up passing on this because of the wait. Lamb ragu was very tasty."
Dined on 6/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 11 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Yum.
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Looks great, excellent wine list, fabulous cocktails, everything we had was delicious."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 12 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Great Execution
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Ava Gene's chef has come up with great combinations of flavors. My second time here and I still haven't had a single item that I wouldn't return for."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 13 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Great eats/atmosphere
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Food was even better than advertised. Service was knowledgeable as well as friendly and prompt. Wine list was superb one of the best I've found in the Portland area.
I'm anxious to return."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 14 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Worth it
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Worth all the hype. The Italian menu is extensive and heavy on veggie options. Happy with everything."
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 15 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"great food, interesting dishes, real special menu selections suited for a foodie. I loved my tripe pasta dish, and the trio of veggies was so delicious!!"
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 16 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Excellent all Around
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"This was our first visit & it was amazing. We got the burrata which was melt in your mouth good. We ordered the small plate of sliced meats, phenomenal. We also ordered the artichoke, which was our least favorite, but still good. The kale salad is simple & fresh. We shared two pastas. The ravioli, melt in you mouth good. The other, spacing on the name, started with a 's' & last on the menu. Had red sauce, sausage and arugula. Handmade, fresh, spectacular. We each order a cocktail. Both were heavy on the booze, which is saying a lot for us. I could hardly drink mine. Their wine list is impressive, from very reasonable wines to the obscure. The service was awesome as well. Very pleasant & easily explained the menu. Great experience overall."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 17 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Poor)
1
/
5
Won't go back
Food
(Poor)
1
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Our visit was bad from the start. We checked in on time for a 9pm reservation. The table was not ready-no big deal. We walked to the bar which had two empty seats, and were told we could not sit there, as they used them for dining. We could get a drink and stand in the entrance area - in the doorway. The breeze from the open doors was welcome because it was over 90 degrees inside the restaurant. Service was friendly and professional, but the food - spaghettini in particular, was so salty that it was inedible. The dining area was so hot that we couldn't wait to get out of there. ANd the noise level was so "energetic" that it was difficult to have a conversation.
Won't be back."
Dined on 5/11/2013
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Review 18 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Best service in pdx. Food is almost there. Polenta tied the dinner together. Needs some time to smooth out but will be back.
Thanks"
Thanks"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 19 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Wonderful!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Every bite was delicious and the service was lovely. The menu was a little confusing for us, we settled on the three selections from the 'garden' section, a pasta dish and a wonderful fish dish. The open kitchen is fun to watch, especially the wood fired grill/oven. We will be going back with friends soon!"
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 20 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfect
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We had such a good experience here for my birthday dinner. So much to choose from in every part of the menu. We had a pane, two items from the giardinieri section (carrots, asparagus), and each had an order of agnolotti with rabbit, which were ethereal! Panna cotta for dessert, perfect ending to a memorable meal. The place is so attractive, and service is great and knowledgeable. Can't wait to go back."
Dined on 5/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 21 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The music completely overpowered conversation and was heavy rock - strange for an upscale restaurant
Fried food was in batter, tasted terrible.
Poor wine.
Steak was excellent, as was cold vegetable.
Very disappointing, especially given all the hype about this place."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 22 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The open kitchen was very entertaining, but the fire oven did get a little hot. Service was excellent, very helpful when selecting a wine from the extensive Italian wine list. Food was fantastic!"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 23 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Loved Loved Loved Ava Gene's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fabulous meal, service, and high value. Every menu option tempts the mind, body and soul. Pick blind or pick with purpose...you won't be disappointed. We really loved Ava Gene's."
Dined on 04/28/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 24 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ava Gene's is a beautiful
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Ava Gene's is a beautiful space. The menu is a delight to read .. a complete experience that left us anticipating our choices. We unhurriedly sipped our cocktails and enjoyed several antipasti perusing the menu. A tremendous wine list was navigated with the help of our server who also translated parts of the menu, suggested pairings and ultimately helped us create a wonderful celebration. We are two couples, late-40s, celebrating two birthdays, and the evening was perfect: languid and luxurious, replete with sumptuous repast, comfortable and elegant surroundings, and an attentive, warm wait staff. It is unanimous ... we all would recommend Ava Gene's unreservedly."
Dined on 04/27/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 25 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fantastic food and drink the
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fantastic food and drink the service is outstanding - the staff is warm and welcoming."
Dined on 04/15/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 26 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous food, fabulous service,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fabulous food, fabulous service, and fabulous space!"
Dined on 04/15/2013
2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 27 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
We hade a very wonderful experience
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We hade a very wonderful experience at Ava Gene's. The food was exceptional including the dessert. Great service and very helpful staff. We will definitely go back and recommend to our friends and family. Lynne DiVittorio"
Dined on 04/18/2013
2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 28 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
The food is excellent. The
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The food is excellent. The service is excellent. There is parking. They take reservations. I had the best pork chop of my life."
Dined on 04/16/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 29 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Three girlfriends having dinner
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Three girlfriends having dinner before a show . . . Our server was delightful and helpful, the food superb and the ambiance was classy/cozy. Perfect. . . and we'll be back!!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 30 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Everything was top-tier. Warmly
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Everything was top-tier. Warmly greeted, we were offered bar seats for our wait. The bartender suggested a personal favorite -- and explained why -- as an alternative to one of our first choices, and her suggestion was a nicely balanced blend of sweet, sour and bitter. Our reservation was available on time. We shared several plates, and most enjoyed two selections from the Giardini section -- cauliflower, wild nettles and anchovy -- and Piatti section -- fritto of purple broccoli and kale rapini, tonnato, lemon. Both were perfectly prepared and rich in flavor. The tonnato -- tuna blended into aoli -- quickly found its way onto everything edible. We moved next to Primi. The anneloni was fine, but unremarkable. Polenta? Stellar. Thanks."
Dined on 04/09/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 31 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Delicious, great service,
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Delicious, great service, amazing experience, thank you"
Dined on 04/08/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 32 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Simply fantastic! Best meal
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Simply fantastic! Best meal on our trip to Portland and Seattle. Service was impeccable and the food... I don't have the words. Romantic, quirky, lovely, OUTSTANDING. A must visit."
Dined on 03/28/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
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Review 33 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
A must try!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"So wonderful! Lovely, lovely food and an amazing ambiance can't wait to go back!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 34 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Excellent vibe to the place,
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Excellent vibe to the place, especailly liked the music playlist. Innovative pasta dishes, we all enjoyed our dinner there."
Dined on 04/01/2013
2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 35 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
The waiter was not knowledgable
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Fair)
2
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"The waiter was not knowledgable about the menu. It made it very difficult to choose the various courses. The restaurant was very warm with poor ventilation. I will not return"
Dined on 03/31/2013
2010
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Review 36 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Such a fantastic selection
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Such a fantastic selection of dishes but the menu is difficult for the average diner. I guess we would all like to be as cosmopolitan to be fluent in Italian but alas, most are not. I think this is an undue burden for the servers to have to explain every dish. And on that note, our servers were WONDERFUL. Absolute joy without being obtrusive or annoying. Thoroughly enjoyed them all but in particular our personal server, Bonnie. And might I say when I inadvertently left without my credit card, Bonnie tracked me down at the pie place ACROSS THE STREET to get it back to me. That was over the top and well appreciated! I will come back and refer this gem to my friends."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion
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Review 37 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Hooked on Ava Gene's
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"First time at Ava Gene's, was blown away with the food. Great variety of Salumi and non pork meats, cheeses, starters. Pastas are all fresh, great variety of sauces/styles, tried the lamb dish (sausage and roast) was outstanding. The stand out was the tripe. It is a must have if on the menu. Great bar, vibrant scene inside, good staff (not a place to go if you want a fast dinner through when busy)."
Dined on 03/30/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 38 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service was great. The menu
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Service was great. The menu was densely packed with Italian, but there was a helpful key at the bottom to make translation easier. Intimidating wine list (most everything was from Italy) but the staff was patient in helping us pick something out. Can't wait to go back."
Dined on 03/29/2013
2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 39 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ava Gene's is everything I
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Ava Gene's is everything I am looking for in a nice Italian restaurant. Great pasta. Since you DO NOT go to an Italian place for a light meal, it was awesome to see that there are plenty of options for multiple course. Our server was a very nice lady who organised our meal for us once we had everything picked out. We had the burratta to start, which was wonderful and buttery and soft. Followed by a romaine salad of some sort (I cannot remember the name as I was a few drinks in by this point). The pasta was cooked correctly and had a great flavor, the fennel sausage sauce was delicious. Our mains were the baramundi (can't say its a fish I have eaten before but I would definitely order again) and the pork chop (which was delicious)."
Dined on 03/26/2013
2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 40 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Take your time and enjoy!
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The menu is in Italian but fairly easy to decipher. I recommend sharing each course with your partner as the portions are generous. The service was great although the atmosphere is open with close seating. We will most definately return."
Dined on 03/24/2013
2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 41 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
WOW !! Couldn't be more thrilled
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"WOW !! Couldn't be more thrilled about this addition to my dinner out list. Had a lovely experience in every respect. Three in our party had three different pasta dishes; all were perfection. The portion size is perfect as well -- you feel totally satisfied without the glow of carb overload!! VERY tasty!! Tried three salads -- the brussels sprouts were delicious (who'd have thought?) and the sun choke/celery/date salad was particularly interesting and fresh. There's a chocolate sorbetto on the dessert list that must be experienced. GO NOW before the crowds are too deep!!"
Dined on 03/24/2013
2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 42 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
We were treated very nicely
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"We were treated very nicely at Ava Gene's. The food was a solid attempt at traditional italian cuisine and the service was equally solid (although at times it felt a bit negligent in a very busy place). They even let us order off the menu--apparently, there is a tasting menu offered if you ask for it, and it was lovely--what we were served was very nice, with great local ingredients."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2009
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Review 43 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
1. Service was polite. 2.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"1. Service was polite.
2. Seated at a table for 2, while eating, on several occasions waitresses serving tables on either side of us had their backsides pressed against our table and near our food.
3. My wife and I have travelled VERY extensively and have worked abroad, including Italy. Ava Genes menu was the most pretentious we have ever encountered.
4. One of us ordered a pasta dish as a main course. Skimpy would be a polite description."
2. Seated at a table for 2, while eating, on several occasions waitresses serving tables on either side of us had their backsides pressed against our table and near our food.
3. My wife and I have travelled VERY extensively and have worked abroad, including Italy. Ava Genes menu was the most pretentious we have ever encountered.
4. One of us ordered a pasta dish as a main course. Skimpy would be a polite description."
Dined on 03/22/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 44 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
The setting is warm and inviting.
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"The setting is warm and inviting. The menu is eclectic and once the waitperson explained the menu format, picking appetizers, 1st and 2nd courses was easy.
The Treviso salad was very good, so was the crostini with beans. Orchietta with pork sausages was the right size for a "primi" to share or as an entree, especially with an appetizer and a salad.
At this time we did not have dessert, save it for another visit."
The Treviso salad was very good, so was the crostini with beans. Orchietta with pork sausages was the right size for a "primi" to share or as an entree, especially with an appetizer and a salad.
At this time we did not have dessert, save it for another visit."
Dined on 03/17/2013
2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
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Review 45 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Fabulous meal! Everything
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"Fabulous meal! Everything is fresh and tasty. If you are looking for great Italian cooking this is the
Place. Great wine list and knowledgable servers to guide you through the food and wine choices."
Place. Great wine list and knowledgable servers to guide you through the food and wine choices."
Dined on 03/15/2013
2008
Special Features: neighborhood gem
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Review 46 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Perfection. The food is fantastic
Food
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Perfection. The food is fantastic and the service is unlike anywhere else in Portland, without being even slightly heavy handed. My new favorite."
Dined on 03/07/2013
2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 47 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Fair)
2
/
5
Disappointing
Food
(Fair)
2
/
5
Service
(Good)
3
/
5
Ambiance
(Fair)
2
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I was a fan of Lauro Kitchen so eager to try the new Italian restaurant that took it's place. It was a disappointment. Indecipherable and limited menu, over-priced small entrees (if you pay $30 for an entree, you shouldn't have to order a side dish of vegetables to go with it), only fish was salted cod and no chicken dishes, dry underdone pasta, limited beers on tap. Worst of all, they took the great vibe of Lauro Kitchen and turned back the clock to the 70s by adding cheesy brass railings and a 70s music mix to match. Felt like I was in an over-priced dated Times Square Italian restaurant (although New York doesn't have as many heavily tattooed servers). Needless to say I won't return and going back to the much better Nel Centro instead."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2004
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Review 48 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Overall, good food (fresh;
Food
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Service
(Very Good)
4
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Moderate
"Overall, good food (fresh; very well presented)...not a "knock your socks off", but a solid performance with everything we ordered. Did get a mix up (we ordered the "beans" (Cicerchie beans w/ Pickled Mustard Greens) and got served the "beets" (Beets, whipped ricotta, walnuts)). The Salumi (Napoli) was tasty but sparse (would have liked a little bread to go with it); The Burrata was a "must have" as were the Brussels Sprouts; my Orecchiette and pork sausage blended very well, while my wife's Bucatini was a bit too heavily influenced by the tomato (for her tastes). The 'Polenta' was average (and a little bland). Music was nice (a bit of the 60's 70's and 80's) and not too loud. Would go back."
Dined on 03/09/2013
2012
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 49 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
not a contender. pasta was
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"not a contender. pasta was like an old innertube."
Dined on 03/08/2013
2011
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Review 50 for Ava Gene's
Overall rating
(Good)
3
/
5
I'm not sure why the menu
Food
(Good)
3
/
5
Service
(Outstanding)
5
/
5
Ambiance
(Good)
3
/
5
Noise Level
Energetic
"I'm not sure why the menu needs to be in Italian -- yes, it is an Italian restaurant, but do you really need to have the waitperson translate the entire menu before you can start considering your choices?
The beet salad was ambrosia and the capuccino was the best I've every had. The gelato was so-so, not that much flavor. I did object to having a pink pork loin chop, but the waitperson would not serve it any other way.
It was very noisy even on a Sunday night.
Since it is a neighborhood spot, it is hard to find a place to park.
The prices are high."
Dined on 03/03/2013
2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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