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The Porthole in Bowness

Review of The P...

Review of The Porthole in Bowness by Cecilia Campbell

CeciliaC

39 posts

Joined
10/6/2005

Review of The Porthole in Bowness by Cecilia Campbell
Posted: 28 Apr 06 3:18 AM

Most recent visit: April 18, 2006, for dinner
Telephone: 015394-42793

In "downtown" Bowness, on a small pedestrian streeet is a small restaurant called the Porthole. It has been there for quite some time, but it changed hands about two and a half years ago, and this was our first visit since then. It's a cosy and intimate place, and a bit later in the season you can enjoy your meal in the outside courtyard if you prefer. The menu is traditional with an Italian slant, particularly as far as the starters go. We were greeted by a big smile from the maitre d', indeed he kept smiling and singing to himself throughout the evening, which added to our enjoyment. On the other hand, although we like Italian opera, it was a bit loud coming out of the speakers in the corner.

Not being big eaters, we opted for just a main course each. I had Duck a L'Orange, Martin had Ballotine of Local Lamb, and we shared a plate of mixed vegetables. Both meats were as promised on the menu, succulent and tender – they really melted in your mouth, and both came with lovely sauces. The vegetables were interesting beyond our expectations; not just all steamed, but cooked in different ways and properly seasoned. Our definite favourite were the lightly battered and fried courgette strips, excellent.

Both the menu and the cooking is traditional, and if it isn't flavour sensations you are after, but rather a tasty, well-cooked meal, then you'll like the Porthole. Prices are on the high side; starters around 7–8 pounds and mains more or less all over 15.

Rating: total 19

Great atmosphere 4
Home cooked fresh food 5
Plenty of flavour 4
Good value for money 3
Service with a smile 3

Paprika

1 posts

Joined
8/19/2006

Re: Review of The Porthole in Bowness by Cecilia Campbell
Posted: 19 Aug 06 1:15 PM

Since you visited, both the charismatic former owner and the congenial wine expert, Stefan, have been forced out of the business, and much of the charm has been lost. The food has always been excellent, but it was the personalities which made the Porthole come to life, and sadly, they have been lost.

admin

26 posts

Joined
6/13/2005

Re: Review of The Porthole in Bowness by Cecilia Campbell
Posted: 19 Sep 07 4:30 AM

This restaurant has now changed hands and is a "Lucy 4" restaurant. We have yet to check it out, it is completly different than the old Porthole with a new look ,a new menu and new owners. Once we have had a chance to try it I will update this post and add a new entry for it. - Martin

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The Porthole in Bowness

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