Ava Gene's

The food was delicious! My only issue was the beef tartare...waaay to salty. I usually do not say anything about food. I casually mentioned it was salty when they asked me about the food. Hence they took it off the bill. Simple things like that make me want to return to a place.

We discovered this place the old fashioned way, walking by one balmy summer evening. It was dinner time on the weekend so there was a bit of a wait but it was seriously worth it! We were seated at the counter pro tip: they don’t do reservations at the counter, but you can request it if you call in and they will do their best to accommodate which was perfect because we got to see ALL the delicious dishes come out. Our enthusiasm was so great that we even got a few tastes of things they had made extra of. We each got a cocktail and several dishes to share with a bottle of wine and the bill was completely reasonable. We went there again, recently and had a similar experience: delicious veggie-centric dishes they have excellent meats too, but they are known for their creativity with the vegetables, friendly, knowledgeable service and good prices. I will visit Portland just to have dinner here!

Fantastic experience. Beautiful decor and ambiance was warming. Staff was on top of everything and made sure we had a great dinner. Cocktails were unique and the food was freshly made, including the pasta. Desert was creamy and sweet. Would recommend this highly!

This was an incredible meal. Our server was very knowledgeable and helped point out the vegetarian options, including dishes they could do without the meat/seafood. The only complaint I would have is that she would seem to dash off as quickly as possible once she answered an initial question, but it may have been due to a busy night. She also helped us pick out a wine that was delicious yet not outrageously priced. The atmosphere and ambiance are lovely and the walls are covered in beautiful artwork. The food itself was fantastic. Make reservations because I think it would be difficult to get in without them!

We had a great experience at Ava Gene's. The service was great, the plates arrived in no time, and the food tasted amazingly. The Burrata and the Ravioli were definitely my favorites. They have a great selection of wines and cocktails. We had a reservation so we didn't had to wait for a table.

Delicious. Not cheap and best enjoyed as a shared exp with a table so you can sample more dishes but worth the price. Broccoli, brussels, cauliflower was light and flavorful with a hint of fresh mint leaves to offset. Lobster ravioli was an off menu special swimming in a rich butter and sturgeon caviar. The word decadent was invented for this dish. Drinks were solid and staff friendly. Reputation is well earned.

Yes, yes, more please and all of that. First, I shall return. Next, I was not the fine diner at the table that night. My friend is very well versed in the international Michelin experience. Well, he has ranked Ava Gene's in one of his top 5 experiences in Portland. Finally, it's a cozy restaurant though privacy reigns. Friendly, courteous flexible staff maneuver fine food to the table. I'd recommend the family style dinner course. Pasta WOW! So fresh. So smooth. Veggie based cuisine, but not without a helping of meat where needed. I'd love a seat at the bar or the food prep showmanship area next time, but a quaint little table does an excellent job here.

@foodiesnitch signing on to say: Came here for the brunch menu and absolutely loved it. The stacciatella toast was AMAZING and also the babka waffle was a favorite. Don’t sleep on this delicious restaurant.

Phenomenal food and staff! We went here for a date and ended up doing the family feast where you pay per head. There was plenty of food for the two of us and all of it was delicious. The staff was very accommodating for a dairy allergy and made sure to take the time to explain what everything was to us. Our waitress Elan made some great wine recommendations and even took the time to see if we had a budget for the wine so that she could recommend the right ones for us. We will definitely be back!

Went for my birthday and it did not disappoint! Had the family style with my boyfriend. 5 courses - SO MUCH FOOD. Great service, delicious food.