Full disclosure: I didn't eat anything here. But how did I spend almost an hour here and end up charging a few hundred bucks on my credit card? The wine. Holy the moly. They have a normal wine selection, but off in the other part of the store you'll find the cases upon cases of wine that the father of this family collected. He passed away and now they are selling the wine. If you are a wine dork, this is should be on your list of go-to places for Portland (or maybe for the west coast in general). The wines seem to be generally right-bank Bordeaux and Sauternes and the vintages start in the 1960's from what I can tell. It's like a crazy wine dream there. Boxes upon boxes. Dusty bottles. Lots of treasures. We mentioned Martinotti's to a guy at another wine shoppe and he kind of dismissed them and stated that he had heard that they weren't stored well. I don't know where the bottles were stored, but I do know the 1988 Chateau La Serre we opened last night was in good shape. Hopefully that will be true for the Sauternes we bought as well.
(4)
Dominica R.
I love this place! Every time I visit Portland and I get homesick for Italian food I stop in here. It's delicious! Family owned and it shows. They take pride in what they do and provide great service along with yummy food!
(5)
Markus H.
This place is great. The Italian sandwich is one of the best sando's around and nobody talks about it. Not sure why that is. The bread is delicious, the meats are top notch and they skip the veggies to be ohh so Euro. The selection of pastas is mind blowing. The zita, an underappreciated noodle is found in abundance. The cured meats (cold cuts for us Winco shoppers) are pretty spectacular and make an amazing meal with a little cheese and dill pickles. This place is old school. It's not Safeway. So accept the price increase, but know you can ask for a recommendation for everything. The extra care is worth the extra cost. 4.5 stars
(5)
Brian W.
Almost fantastic! Great sandwiches, very good soup (clam the day I was there), lots of atmosphere... felt like someone's house, almost. I suspect if I go back a few more times, it'd be even better. As it is, I didn't try enough of it-- and my impression from the brief visit there has me wondering if it's as good as Antipasto's in the SF Bay Area or Bay Cities in Santa Monica (ok Bay Cities is much larger) when you get down to the details. I'll need another trip to find out!
(4)
Jean D.
They have got the goods! I have never seen '00' flour for sale anywhere but they have it here. All the Italian candies are here too. If you like licorice this is your licorice connection. The best brands, not the trendiest, but the best quality imports from Europe.
(5)
Kevin H.
Great store with super products and genuinely friendly service. Stop by and pick up hard to find cured meats and cheeses for a picnic!
(5)
Leslie W.
So sad to learn the landlord is not renewing their lease. Portland is a great place because of the people who have worked to make it great, like Martinotti's Cafe & Deli. Anyway, stopped by yesterday and will try to get in as many visits as I can before they're gone (and please do find another place to set up again!)
(5)
Isabella L.
As you enter the deli you realize the comforting atmosphere that reminds you of family. An abundance of Italian sweets and delicacies line the walls and on the side is an array of fine wines to choose from. They have items that you would not find anywhere else here! The soda machine is classic and adorable featuring old fashioned cola. The price is right for the quality of the products and as you shop around( which I could not stop doing) the delicious array of the savory and sweet treats from the counter and deli area causes you to be swayed right to it. The Italian sandwich is too die for and the quality and quantity of meats and cheeses they put on their sandwiches is spectacular. It is very clear Martinotti's cares about the customer. If you are lucky they will have their Italian Cheesecake. A slice of this will bring you straight to heaven. Dixie, the owner of the family run market, makes it herself and you can feel ever bit of love she puts into it. I love Martinotti's and everything it represents. It is too bad that the food trucks overshadow places like this. I will keep going to Martinotti's because even though a meal here might be a tad more expensive than a food truck I know that this small business has put their heart and soul into their sandwiches for decades. Go ahead if you want to eat at a random taco truck that couldn't care less what your name is, but I suggest that you instead go to Martinotti's where they'll remember your name and how you like your sandwich as well.
(5)
Taste B.
Could someone please tell me what precipitated a closure from this outstanding Portland go-to? I'm heartbroken to see "closed" on this site and don't see any online explanations for this. :-( For the Martinotti Family - Thank you so much and all the best to all of you!
(5)
Deb T.
Marinotti's is a hidden gem in this part of town. When I walked in, all I could focus on was the fine wine collection. Granted, these wines tend to be on the pricier side, but when I saw the years, I was blown away! I didn't have a chance to do the wine tasting, but I saw the food that was being served and my mouth was watering. They have a wonderful deli area with meats and cheeses for a good price. I definitely want to order something from here next time I am in town.
(4)
Peter S.
I have been to this Italian market on several occasions, and I have always been less than impressed. I have 3 children, and several of the clerks seem to be rather displeased that we have entered their store. There are lots of things in breakable glass containers on cluttered shelves that may be quite expensive, should one of them fall to the floor. On to the deli counter.... the meats and cheeses in the deli cases usually look quite old, and many of them are moldy when they should not be. I have purchased various items (cappacola, salami, aged white cheddar, etc..) that were less than fresh. I would stick to the hard varieties of cheese, and pass on anything else in the future. I am rather disappointed because my step mother is Italian, and I miss the high quality deli items that she would frequently bring home. Unfortunately Portland just does not have the same kind of Italian population as other parts of the country to support a full blown quality Italian market.
(1)
heather g.
I have not lived in Portland full time since the spring of 2000. In that time, Portland has completely transformed itself. The last time I visited, I got confused while walking through Northwest. Not only did I briefly think I was in Chelsea, I could not find Martinotti's. I think of this place often. When I was in college, this was an expensive lunch. A little out of reach, but mildly obtainable. When I had a sandwich here, it was an occasion. The food was delicious, and the people who ran the counter were always helpful. I started to love good wine because of this shop. I also remember that they sold the Italian version of tums, which I found intensely endearing.
(5)
Gabriel G.
Martinotti's is a great Portland establishment. The business is family owned and run. The Italian sandwiches are fantastic. I have been going to Martinotti's for years and I am never disappointed. They have a great wine selection, and a great selection of unique grocery items. I have had Martinotti's provide the food for several parties and all of my guests complimented me on my food choice. Martinotti's is a great place to enjoy a meal, find great food items, and support a hard working local family.
(5)
Brandi M.
Seems like this place is going down hill....or may be time spent in Italy has just raised the bar. Big time. In any case, the last time we ate here it was just 'ok.'
(3)
Miriam M.
OMG. The BEST lasagne of my life. Better than my grandmama's lasagne. Melt-in-my-mouth pasta with a delicate tomato sauce. Enough sausage to add flavor without overwhelming the palate. Size was sufficient, though I would have ate every bite regardless. At $11 a bit much for lunch, but with quality like that I'd pay it every day. Delicious hot chocolate as well, plus I love the old-world ambience.
(5)
Kelly M.
Located right on the streetcar line and close to the newly-opened hip mecca Ace Hotel, Martinotti's remains the same as always--your favorite Italian deli and market. Come here for espresso makers and coffee, European meats and cheeses, a good selection of (mostly Italian) wines, biscotti and amaretti cookies, and all the other fixis of a well-cultivated European palette. Their deli would also be happy to make you a sandwich or a shot of espresso.
(5)
Trisha P.
Do you really need to read another 5-star rating for Martinotti's? I say, "YES!" Martinotti's is a long time Portland fixture and a lovely family owned business. The place is chok full of good stuff. When I initially discovered Martinotti's I was a little intimidated to go in because I was afraid it might be a snobby, boutique deli. I was happy to discover I was completely wrong. The owners are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet and will happily answer any questions regarding their deli meats & cheese, what wine would be good with such-and-such dish, or just shoot the breeze. Their sandwiches and soup are fantastically homemade and taste like they were made by your friend's Mom affectionately known for stuffing you full of yummy food. Their wine selection is compelling and they seem to have every imaginable form of DeCecco pasta, including the elusive (and much loved in our household) Perciatelli noodle. Their lunch prices may not be rock bottom, but neither are the sandwiches at Whole Foods. Between you and me, Martinotti's can kick the ass off any lunch item from Whole Foods, hands down. However take fair warning that seating is limited.
(5)
Amme P.
Dixie Martinotti makes homemade soup daily; it oculd be minestrone, it could be clam chowder, it is always fantastic!! Armand Martinotti can sell you the best bordeaux you have ever had. Martina, Meliah or another niece can make you the best sandwich ever. Don't forget your Italin chocolate candies for dessert. Tell them I sent you!!!
(5)
Andrew H.
Overview: This shop is a fairly large deli/food store nestled on the mid-west side of Portland that sells lots of imported European goods. Food: Marzipan fruit is absolutely beautiful. Not really that awesome tasting. Very expensive. The other chocolates and treats here seem to be priced a bit higher than I'm used to as well. Conclusions: Great selection, questionably friendly service, high-ish pricing.
(3)
Kathleen D.
We were so pleased to realize Martinotti's was so close on our walk about route in Portland. It had been four years since our last visit. Even more pleased were we when I told a young lady there that we were simply interested in some meats and cheese and a few slices of bread. We wanted just a couple of meats and a couple of types of cheeses. She was more than happy to accommodate us. This is always a pleasant surprise when a request from any establishment is granted. The plate came with just what we wanted and a few slices of bread. Nice snack. Friendly service. Tasty almond Italian sodas and also had to get a couple of little Marzipan fruits as treats for the long trip home. Hope it's not another four years before returning.
(4)
Cynthia G.
Family owned and operated, this little Italian deli/market/cafe is full of good eats. It always smells yummy whenever you walk in. They have a surprisingly extensive wine collection with friendly expert advice on hand to help you pick along with authentic ingredients (San Marzano tomatoes and great selection of pastas) to make your own scrumptious dinner. They also have a decent selection of European goodies like Kinder Chocolat, digestives (biscuit crackers) and Haribo gummy bears by weight.
(4)
Roberto L.
Not a great selection of Italian food items. Everything from arborio risotto rice to wines are very overpriced. It's much better to shop online at a lot of great foodie websites. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of options for Italian deli / food shops in Portland. So, this place has been fortunate.
(1)
Dan H.
I'm getting my taste buds ready for a trip back home to NJ next week. Italian deli's galore back there. Italian deli's in Portland...not so much. This has been on my list for a long time, but now has been checked off. How do you call yourself an Italian deli and not have a Prosciutto and Mozzarella sandwich on your menu? How do you as said Italian deli exist for 34 years and not have this on your menu? I can't comprehend this. This is an Italian deli staple. It isn't that they don't have Prosciutto on their menu. They do, but when I asked for a Prosciutto and Mozzarella sandwich, the guy behind the counter told me that isn't how they usually prepared it. They prepare their sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, mustard, and cream cheese. Wait, what? Mayo, mustard and cream cheese? Am I reading this correctly? What planet am I on? How many more questions am I going to ask? I told him I didn't want the rest of that stuff on my sandwich (I did get lettuce and tomato) and after that he was happy to prepare my sandwich. My $10.95 sandwich. I usually cringe if I'm paying that much for a sandwich, but prosciutto and fresh mozzarella are usually the exception to the rule. Don't know why, but they just are. I couldn't do this meal often though. If I'm going to pay over $10 for something it better be a substantial meal. While waiting for the sandwich to be prepared I took a look around the shop. Lots of wines and chocolates and cheeses and oils and such. All the stuff one would need for a good date. Wish I had someone to date. The sandwich was made and I was on my way to the park to eat. Once I opened the bag I noticed a nice sized sandwich. Not huge, but the guy suggested a ciabatta roll and those usually aren't large. He did tell me he put an entire ball of mozzarella on the sandwich. It seemed to be a good amount as well as a good amount of prosciutto. The sandwich was good. Probably the best one of these (I haven't had too many here) I've had in Portland. Not as good as those from the east coast, but I'm not on the east coast. I have to make due with what I have at my disposal. I still don't understand how this sandwich isn't on the menu. I have to believe I am not the only person in the history of Martinotti's (they've been around since 1978) to order this. It is not possible. Whatever. It was made for me. I enjoyed it. What more needs to be said?
(3)
Nick B.
This place is great for so many reasons but I am here to talk about one thing and one thing only, their Italian Sandwich. It's spendy, I think $10, but it is so, so, so (you get the point) amazing. Have them heat it up in the microwave and enjoy. I have to force myself to not eat it in under 30 seconds. Also, the staff is incredibly nice and the consistency and quality is second to none because it's the same people in there everyday and the family has been doing it for a long time!
(5)
Rick W.
Super nice family business, which I'm told is 30+ years. Very eager to serve and rightfully so; a fantastic salami sandwich, heated through until hot and oozing (in a good way) with just enough melted cheese. More than enough grocery items for making dinner and some surprise items you don't often find elsewhere.
(4)
Michelle H.
To be fair, this was a damn good Italian sandwich. There were quality ingredients. It was just not filling at all for a $9 price tag. It didn't even come with a side dish. I think adding in a side would have been more than adequate. So while the sandwich was easily a 4-star sandwich, size and price easily destroyed that four to a two. I mean, there are just far too many other great sandwiches in this town that fall into all three categories. If it were just a restaurant, that's probably where I'd leave it. The rest of the situation, since this is also a market, bumps it up another star. The market was a little disheveled at the time, but they had all kinds of Italian goodies on top of the cheese and meats in the deli case. There were candies and coffees and pasta and sauces and and and. Well, you get the ideas. I'm sure there are probably imported one-off items that you can't get just anywhere. Those bottles of wine are pretty intense. There are some old, old bottles and as such they are really, really expensive. If you're in the market for something specific and all kinds of Italian, then it's worth your while to take a peek in here. Unfortunately for them, anything I'd ever need I can get at most any grocery store.
(3)
Christina L.
cute little shop that has just about everything in it. they have quite the wine collection (v. sattui wines are only available online or at the winery in st. helena and they had a 1974 cab). their gnocchi was also pretty cheap. definitely like the huge selection of cheese. ordered the martin mocha which was delicious along with lasagna. that came with some ciabatta bread and was just the right amount. sampled the sandwich too which was awesome. highly recommended.
(5)
Bob M.
Well they had canned san marzano tomatoes which was cool (turned into a great okra stew)...Some of the deli items looked tempting. However, it seemed like a lot of their grocery products were really old and covered in dust?! Not sure if I'll be back if I can find san marzano's elsewhere.
(3)
avant de mourir ..
It feels sort of like walking into someone's house when you enter. It's a family-owned business, and it just doesn't say that on the sign. You walk in and more often than not, the owners are relaxing and are somewhat casual with you. It's a nice change from sterile carbon copy shops that are so common. They carry lots of italian/euro basics, and have a nice wine selection. One little thing I like about this shop is their ever-changing assortment of little italian candies that they offer near the register. They also have the best italian sandwiches I've ever had, and I generally hate panini sandwiches. I feel like they mix it up a little bit, like taking a step back in time when shops were privately owned and more unique. It's only too bad we don't have more little shops like these around.
(5)
Stephanie B.
I was in Portland exploring for the day, and decided to stop in here for a sandwich. The woman taking my order recommended the italian club - perfect! Your usual meats plus cheese and a house made bread, warm. I ordered a cheesecake for dessert and this was great as well. Not only was the food delicious, but the price was right, too.
(4)
Built To Grill B.
This place is great for shopping. If your an Italian food lover who enjoys cooking for friends at home this is the best downtowns got. Every thing you will need under one roof. I can't speak for the sandwichs or the deli sides but for dry pasta and oils this place is spot on.
(4)
R S.
Unassuming and wonderful.
(5)
Joseph B.
Mild mannered typical Italian Deli by day, ...but by Secretly one of the most significant wine collections on the West Coast of the United States. Interestingly enough many of some of the great vin's of the world are stored away in jewelry cases, and for sure jewels that they are. Wines that you would hear about, or perhaps have reviewed or only seen online, but IMPOSSIBLE to find order or find. One of the great Wine secrets. You have to come in and see this.
(5)
Kristin W.
My $9.00 Italian sandwich was just ok, and only about half the size I was expecting (less that 4" x 4" not stacked very high). I will continue to enjoy the much cheaper food carts nearby for a more delicious and filling lunch.
(2)
REBECCA A.
.five great reviews and no one thought to mention the best carrot cake- bar none- in portland. really. that they have great coffee to drink it down with is less surprising but gosh, i've never had better cake. and you can special order it for birthdays too
(5)
Amy J.
Olde timey Italian deli that smells like Heaven. Have a seat and a sandwich. You'll see.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
Rich B.
Full disclosure: I didn't eat anything here. But how did I spend almost an hour here and end up charging a few hundred bucks on my credit card? The wine. Holy the moly. They have a normal wine selection, but off in the other part of the store you'll find the cases upon cases of wine that the father of this family collected. He passed away and now they are selling the wine. If you are a wine dork, this is should be on your list of go-to places for Portland (or maybe for the west coast in general). The wines seem to be generally right-bank Bordeaux and Sauternes and the vintages start in the 1960's from what I can tell. It's like a crazy wine dream there. Boxes upon boxes. Dusty bottles. Lots of treasures. We mentioned Martinotti's to a guy at another wine shoppe and he kind of dismissed them and stated that he had heard that they weren't stored well. I don't know where the bottles were stored, but I do know the 1988 Chateau La Serre we opened last night was in good shape. Hopefully that will be true for the Sauternes we bought as well.
(4)Dominica R.
I love this place! Every time I visit Portland and I get homesick for Italian food I stop in here. It's delicious! Family owned and it shows. They take pride in what they do and provide great service along with yummy food!
(5)Markus H.
This place is great. The Italian sandwich is one of the best sando's around and nobody talks about it. Not sure why that is. The bread is delicious, the meats are top notch and they skip the veggies to be ohh so Euro. The selection of pastas is mind blowing. The zita, an underappreciated noodle is found in abundance. The cured meats (cold cuts for us Winco shoppers) are pretty spectacular and make an amazing meal with a little cheese and dill pickles. This place is old school. It's not Safeway. So accept the price increase, but know you can ask for a recommendation for everything. The extra care is worth the extra cost. 4.5 stars
(5)Brian W.
Almost fantastic! Great sandwiches, very good soup (clam the day I was there), lots of atmosphere... felt like someone's house, almost. I suspect if I go back a few more times, it'd be even better. As it is, I didn't try enough of it-- and my impression from the brief visit there has me wondering if it's as good as Antipasto's in the SF Bay Area or Bay Cities in Santa Monica (ok Bay Cities is much larger) when you get down to the details. I'll need another trip to find out!
(4)Jean D.
They have got the goods! I have never seen '00' flour for sale anywhere but they have it here. All the Italian candies are here too. If you like licorice this is your licorice connection. The best brands, not the trendiest, but the best quality imports from Europe.
(5)Kevin H.
Great store with super products and genuinely friendly service. Stop by and pick up hard to find cured meats and cheeses for a picnic!
(5)Leslie W.
So sad to learn the landlord is not renewing their lease. Portland is a great place because of the people who have worked to make it great, like Martinotti's Cafe & Deli. Anyway, stopped by yesterday and will try to get in as many visits as I can before they're gone (and please do find another place to set up again!)
(5)Isabella L.
As you enter the deli you realize the comforting atmosphere that reminds you of family. An abundance of Italian sweets and delicacies line the walls and on the side is an array of fine wines to choose from. They have items that you would not find anywhere else here! The soda machine is classic and adorable featuring old fashioned cola. The price is right for the quality of the products and as you shop around( which I could not stop doing) the delicious array of the savory and sweet treats from the counter and deli area causes you to be swayed right to it. The Italian sandwich is too die for and the quality and quantity of meats and cheeses they put on their sandwiches is spectacular. It is very clear Martinotti's cares about the customer. If you are lucky they will have their Italian Cheesecake. A slice of this will bring you straight to heaven. Dixie, the owner of the family run market, makes it herself and you can feel ever bit of love she puts into it. I love Martinotti's and everything it represents. It is too bad that the food trucks overshadow places like this. I will keep going to Martinotti's because even though a meal here might be a tad more expensive than a food truck I know that this small business has put their heart and soul into their sandwiches for decades. Go ahead if you want to eat at a random taco truck that couldn't care less what your name is, but I suggest that you instead go to Martinotti's where they'll remember your name and how you like your sandwich as well.
(5)Taste B.
Could someone please tell me what precipitated a closure from this outstanding Portland go-to? I'm heartbroken to see "closed" on this site and don't see any online explanations for this. :-( For the Martinotti Family - Thank you so much and all the best to all of you!
(5)Deb T.
Marinotti's is a hidden gem in this part of town. When I walked in, all I could focus on was the fine wine collection. Granted, these wines tend to be on the pricier side, but when I saw the years, I was blown away! I didn't have a chance to do the wine tasting, but I saw the food that was being served and my mouth was watering. They have a wonderful deli area with meats and cheeses for a good price. I definitely want to order something from here next time I am in town.
(4)Peter S.
I have been to this Italian market on several occasions, and I have always been less than impressed. I have 3 children, and several of the clerks seem to be rather displeased that we have entered their store. There are lots of things in breakable glass containers on cluttered shelves that may be quite expensive, should one of them fall to the floor. On to the deli counter.... the meats and cheeses in the deli cases usually look quite old, and many of them are moldy when they should not be. I have purchased various items (cappacola, salami, aged white cheddar, etc..) that were less than fresh. I would stick to the hard varieties of cheese, and pass on anything else in the future. I am rather disappointed because my step mother is Italian, and I miss the high quality deli items that she would frequently bring home. Unfortunately Portland just does not have the same kind of Italian population as other parts of the country to support a full blown quality Italian market.
(1)heather g.
I have not lived in Portland full time since the spring of 2000. In that time, Portland has completely transformed itself. The last time I visited, I got confused while walking through Northwest. Not only did I briefly think I was in Chelsea, I could not find Martinotti's. I think of this place often. When I was in college, this was an expensive lunch. A little out of reach, but mildly obtainable. When I had a sandwich here, it was an occasion. The food was delicious, and the people who ran the counter were always helpful. I started to love good wine because of this shop. I also remember that they sold the Italian version of tums, which I found intensely endearing.
(5)Gabriel G.
Martinotti's is a great Portland establishment. The business is family owned and run. The Italian sandwiches are fantastic. I have been going to Martinotti's for years and I am never disappointed. They have a great wine selection, and a great selection of unique grocery items. I have had Martinotti's provide the food for several parties and all of my guests complimented me on my food choice. Martinotti's is a great place to enjoy a meal, find great food items, and support a hard working local family.
(5)Brandi M.
Seems like this place is going down hill....or may be time spent in Italy has just raised the bar. Big time. In any case, the last time we ate here it was just 'ok.'
(3)Miriam M.
OMG. The BEST lasagne of my life. Better than my grandmama's lasagne. Melt-in-my-mouth pasta with a delicate tomato sauce. Enough sausage to add flavor without overwhelming the palate. Size was sufficient, though I would have ate every bite regardless. At $11 a bit much for lunch, but with quality like that I'd pay it every day. Delicious hot chocolate as well, plus I love the old-world ambience.
(5)Kelly M.
Located right on the streetcar line and close to the newly-opened hip mecca Ace Hotel, Martinotti's remains the same as always--your favorite Italian deli and market. Come here for espresso makers and coffee, European meats and cheeses, a good selection of (mostly Italian) wines, biscotti and amaretti cookies, and all the other fixis of a well-cultivated European palette. Their deli would also be happy to make you a sandwich or a shot of espresso.
(5)Trisha P.
Do you really need to read another 5-star rating for Martinotti's? I say, "YES!" Martinotti's is a long time Portland fixture and a lovely family owned business. The place is chok full of good stuff. When I initially discovered Martinotti's I was a little intimidated to go in because I was afraid it might be a snobby, boutique deli. I was happy to discover I was completely wrong. The owners are some of the nicest people you'll ever meet and will happily answer any questions regarding their deli meats & cheese, what wine would be good with such-and-such dish, or just shoot the breeze. Their sandwiches and soup are fantastically homemade and taste like they were made by your friend's Mom affectionately known for stuffing you full of yummy food. Their wine selection is compelling and they seem to have every imaginable form of DeCecco pasta, including the elusive (and much loved in our household) Perciatelli noodle. Their lunch prices may not be rock bottom, but neither are the sandwiches at Whole Foods. Between you and me, Martinotti's can kick the ass off any lunch item from Whole Foods, hands down. However take fair warning that seating is limited.
(5)Amme P.
Dixie Martinotti makes homemade soup daily; it oculd be minestrone, it could be clam chowder, it is always fantastic!! Armand Martinotti can sell you the best bordeaux you have ever had. Martina, Meliah or another niece can make you the best sandwich ever. Don't forget your Italin chocolate candies for dessert. Tell them I sent you!!!
(5)Andrew H.
Overview: This shop is a fairly large deli/food store nestled on the mid-west side of Portland that sells lots of imported European goods. Food: Marzipan fruit is absolutely beautiful. Not really that awesome tasting. Very expensive. The other chocolates and treats here seem to be priced a bit higher than I'm used to as well. Conclusions: Great selection, questionably friendly service, high-ish pricing.
(3)Kathleen D.
We were so pleased to realize Martinotti's was so close on our walk about route in Portland. It had been four years since our last visit. Even more pleased were we when I told a young lady there that we were simply interested in some meats and cheese and a few slices of bread. We wanted just a couple of meats and a couple of types of cheeses. She was more than happy to accommodate us. This is always a pleasant surprise when a request from any establishment is granted. The plate came with just what we wanted and a few slices of bread. Nice snack. Friendly service. Tasty almond Italian sodas and also had to get a couple of little Marzipan fruits as treats for the long trip home. Hope it's not another four years before returning.
(4)Cynthia G.
Family owned and operated, this little Italian deli/market/cafe is full of good eats. It always smells yummy whenever you walk in. They have a surprisingly extensive wine collection with friendly expert advice on hand to help you pick along with authentic ingredients (San Marzano tomatoes and great selection of pastas) to make your own scrumptious dinner. They also have a decent selection of European goodies like Kinder Chocolat, digestives (biscuit crackers) and Haribo gummy bears by weight.
(4)Roberto L.
Not a great selection of Italian food items. Everything from arborio risotto rice to wines are very overpriced. It's much better to shop online at a lot of great foodie websites. Unfortunately, there are not a lot of options for Italian deli / food shops in Portland. So, this place has been fortunate.
(1)Dan H.
I'm getting my taste buds ready for a trip back home to NJ next week. Italian deli's galore back there. Italian deli's in Portland...not so much. This has been on my list for a long time, but now has been checked off. How do you call yourself an Italian deli and not have a Prosciutto and Mozzarella sandwich on your menu? How do you as said Italian deli exist for 34 years and not have this on your menu? I can't comprehend this. This is an Italian deli staple. It isn't that they don't have Prosciutto on their menu. They do, but when I asked for a Prosciutto and Mozzarella sandwich, the guy behind the counter told me that isn't how they usually prepared it. They prepare their sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise, mustard, and cream cheese. Wait, what? Mayo, mustard and cream cheese? Am I reading this correctly? What planet am I on? How many more questions am I going to ask? I told him I didn't want the rest of that stuff on my sandwich (I did get lettuce and tomato) and after that he was happy to prepare my sandwich. My $10.95 sandwich. I usually cringe if I'm paying that much for a sandwich, but prosciutto and fresh mozzarella are usually the exception to the rule. Don't know why, but they just are. I couldn't do this meal often though. If I'm going to pay over $10 for something it better be a substantial meal. While waiting for the sandwich to be prepared I took a look around the shop. Lots of wines and chocolates and cheeses and oils and such. All the stuff one would need for a good date. Wish I had someone to date. The sandwich was made and I was on my way to the park to eat. Once I opened the bag I noticed a nice sized sandwich. Not huge, but the guy suggested a ciabatta roll and those usually aren't large. He did tell me he put an entire ball of mozzarella on the sandwich. It seemed to be a good amount as well as a good amount of prosciutto. The sandwich was good. Probably the best one of these (I haven't had too many here) I've had in Portland. Not as good as those from the east coast, but I'm not on the east coast. I have to make due with what I have at my disposal. I still don't understand how this sandwich isn't on the menu. I have to believe I am not the only person in the history of Martinotti's (they've been around since 1978) to order this. It is not possible. Whatever. It was made for me. I enjoyed it. What more needs to be said?
(3)Nick B.
This place is great for so many reasons but I am here to talk about one thing and one thing only, their Italian Sandwich. It's spendy, I think $10, but it is so, so, so (you get the point) amazing. Have them heat it up in the microwave and enjoy. I have to force myself to not eat it in under 30 seconds. Also, the staff is incredibly nice and the consistency and quality is second to none because it's the same people in there everyday and the family has been doing it for a long time!
(5)Rick W.
Super nice family business, which I'm told is 30+ years. Very eager to serve and rightfully so; a fantastic salami sandwich, heated through until hot and oozing (in a good way) with just enough melted cheese. More than enough grocery items for making dinner and some surprise items you don't often find elsewhere.
(4)Michelle H.
To be fair, this was a damn good Italian sandwich. There were quality ingredients. It was just not filling at all for a $9 price tag. It didn't even come with a side dish. I think adding in a side would have been more than adequate. So while the sandwich was easily a 4-star sandwich, size and price easily destroyed that four to a two. I mean, there are just far too many other great sandwiches in this town that fall into all three categories. If it were just a restaurant, that's probably where I'd leave it. The rest of the situation, since this is also a market, bumps it up another star. The market was a little disheveled at the time, but they had all kinds of Italian goodies on top of the cheese and meats in the deli case. There were candies and coffees and pasta and sauces and and and. Well, you get the ideas. I'm sure there are probably imported one-off items that you can't get just anywhere. Those bottles of wine are pretty intense. There are some old, old bottles and as such they are really, really expensive. If you're in the market for something specific and all kinds of Italian, then it's worth your while to take a peek in here. Unfortunately for them, anything I'd ever need I can get at most any grocery store.
(3)Christina L.
cute little shop that has just about everything in it. they have quite the wine collection (v. sattui wines are only available online or at the winery in st. helena and they had a 1974 cab). their gnocchi was also pretty cheap. definitely like the huge selection of cheese. ordered the martin mocha which was delicious along with lasagna. that came with some ciabatta bread and was just the right amount. sampled the sandwich too which was awesome. highly recommended.
(5)Bob M.
Well they had canned san marzano tomatoes which was cool (turned into a great okra stew)...Some of the deli items looked tempting. However, it seemed like a lot of their grocery products were really old and covered in dust?! Not sure if I'll be back if I can find san marzano's elsewhere.
(3)avant de mourir ..
It feels sort of like walking into someone's house when you enter. It's a family-owned business, and it just doesn't say that on the sign. You walk in and more often than not, the owners are relaxing and are somewhat casual with you. It's a nice change from sterile carbon copy shops that are so common. They carry lots of italian/euro basics, and have a nice wine selection. One little thing I like about this shop is their ever-changing assortment of little italian candies that they offer near the register. They also have the best italian sandwiches I've ever had, and I generally hate panini sandwiches. I feel like they mix it up a little bit, like taking a step back in time when shops were privately owned and more unique. It's only too bad we don't have more little shops like these around.
(5)Stephanie B.
I was in Portland exploring for the day, and decided to stop in here for a sandwich. The woman taking my order recommended the italian club - perfect! Your usual meats plus cheese and a house made bread, warm. I ordered a cheesecake for dessert and this was great as well. Not only was the food delicious, but the price was right, too.
(4)Built To Grill B.
This place is great for shopping. If your an Italian food lover who enjoys cooking for friends at home this is the best downtowns got. Every thing you will need under one roof. I can't speak for the sandwichs or the deli sides but for dry pasta and oils this place is spot on.
(4)R S.
Unassuming and wonderful.
(5)Joseph B.
Mild mannered typical Italian Deli by day, ...but by Secretly one of the most significant wine collections on the West Coast of the United States. Interestingly enough many of some of the great vin's of the world are stored away in jewelry cases, and for sure jewels that they are. Wines that you would hear about, or perhaps have reviewed or only seen online, but IMPOSSIBLE to find order or find. One of the great Wine secrets. You have to come in and see this.
(5)Kristin W.
My $9.00 Italian sandwich was just ok, and only about half the size I was expecting (less that 4" x 4" not stacked very high). I will continue to enjoy the much cheaper food carts nearby for a more delicious and filling lunch.
(2)REBECCA A.
.five great reviews and no one thought to mention the best carrot cake- bar none- in portland. really. that they have great coffee to drink it down with is less surprising but gosh, i've never had better cake. and you can special order it for birthdays too
(5)Amy J.
Olde timey Italian deli that smells like Heaven. Have a seat and a sandwich. You'll see.
(5)