Jun Simons
Disappointing and overrated italian restaurant. Some of the most basic dishes, like the carbonara, were really bad, though there were a few decent entrees that maybe I would come back for some day.
Firstly for appetizers, the bread and salads were good, the oysters were bad quality and needed a lot of lemon to be nice to eat. The calamari were somewhat okay, they had little flavor and a light breading. Perfectly edible but not comparable to good calamari at other restaurants.
The entrees were where things got really inconsistent. The carbonara, one of the most basic staples at italian restaurants, was the most egregious dish of the night. The sauce was separating, and the heat in the pan was too high so it had lots of fried egg bits. Looked like something a college student might make in their dorm for a quick dinner, or as my friend said… it looks like a science experiment where you try to separate all the ingredients of a carbonara! The only real flavor it had was salt. There was no smooth creamyness like any decent carbonara would have. (Look at my pictures to see what i mean)
The chicken milanese sauce was bad, tasted mostly just sour from the lemon, and was a mess of soggy vegetables and chicken on the plate. Chicken picatta was edible but similarly messy and not great, but it was cooked well at least
Fortunately, there were a few good entrees. The eggplant parm was decent, and the mancotti had good béchamel. The red sauce used seems pretty standard, not sure it its jarred but likely is. The fettuccine con cognac sauce was simple and enjoyable with nicely done mushrooms.
Im a fan of the big portion sizes, I feel like if the entrees were better it would be a nice place to come share plates. Unfortunately given the inconsistent food its a risk ordering outside of the basic red sauce pastas.
Our male waiter had a bit of a strange attitude but was refilling our water, and i appreciate that they box the leftovers for you. The female waitress seemed nice and took a picture for us.
Definitely disappointed by Lo Porto, its not the worst but I think theres better dinner spots for the price both in Troy and especially across upstate NY.
… moreJayme Cameron
Went here this past Wednesday for a yearly dinner with friends. Everything was top notch. Emily, our server, was wonderful. She had great menu suggestions, timed our courses perfectly, never made us feel rushed as we caught up after a year of not seeing each other. Bartender and chef welcomed us to move for bar for a night cap glass of wine not, welcoming us to continue to enjoy our night even though they were closing. Food was so amazing. Shrimp fra diavolo had the perfect spice. Veal very tender. Calamari with their marinara was so good. Dirty martinis made to perfect. Truly can’t say enough good things about this visit and establishment!
… moreJeremy Gibbs
Probably the best Italian food that you’ll get in New York State. That includes taking a trek down to New York City, you still won’t find a better place than LoPorto. The atmosphere is old-school, the food is better than spectacular, the people, you feel like you’ve known them forever. If you’ve never been, or you’ve been questioning going, go! You’re welcome.
… moreBrennan Cramer54
Emily our server took very good care of us on Valentine’s Day, it was quite busy but the wait times were not bad and I got the strip steak and it was delicious, but very pricey for what it was. First round of bread was overdone and she told us we had another on the was no questions asked. And we got a surprise desert for free due to the holiday
… moreNicole O
Best Italian in the Capital District and it’s not even close. This is the ONLY restaurant in the area that the food and service is consistently fantastic, every single time. Food is amazing, always fresh and cooked perfectly. Drinks are wonderful, staff is phenomenal and the atmosphere is
… moreLynn Brandow
There are many Italian restaurants in the Capital District and this is the best. From the fried calamari and wonderful oil with basil, garlic, herb and Parmesan cheese for dipping bread started the evening perfectly paired with Pinot noir wine. Then we continue on to veal cutlet Parmesan with a sauce full of flavor. Others in the party had tried a variety of items and enjoyed all. Finish off with expressions and lemon mascarpone cake with berries. Excellent meal and service
… moreJack Furlong
I had a great meal at Lo Porto’s yesterday. This is one of the best hidden gems of downtown Troy for those who have not been, you need to give it a try. It has a very authentic Italian feel and the service is impeccable. I would recommend making reservations if you are going during busier days than normal.
The veal, spaghetti carbonara, and the Tortellini Alla Panna, are some of my favorite things to get. The sauce is nice and thick. Do not miss the opportunity to get a cannoli for dessert. Even if you have to take it to go, it is definitely worth the extra room in your stomach! Can’t wait to go back, thanks!
… moreCharlie S.
Amazing food, served piping hot. Chicken Champagne was thin sliced and dressed in a beautiful creme sauce. Sea food fra diavlo was equally delicious with so much sea food we took half home. They had a limited menu for new year’s and the prices varied from the regular menu.
I think our waiter was John and he was busy taking good care of the dinner rush.
… moreChad Rubin
Best all around Italian food in Troy. Everything is exceptional quality and well prepared. The servers are amazing. The bread is very good the butter and cheese are equal to the quality and the price point in my opinion is under valued they could easily charge much more and the food would still be worth it. Portion size is very generous you get a lot of return on your investment here. I simply cannot say enough about this restaurant. The Ambience is reminiscent of a classic Italian restaurant from the 20’s and 30’s. Never a disappointment because the consistency of the dishes is like everything else here, Top notch.
… moreScott Hall
The BEST Italian fare you will get literally anywhere. Old school, la famiglia! I literally cannot recommend it any more strongly. If you are in the area, it is a MUST visit!
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