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My husband and I have been to A Cena many times, and we have always enjoyed our experience. But, tonight's dinner surpassed all meals I have eaten any where in Portland in quite a while.\r
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The owner, Chirs, helped us select our dishes, and his direction was superb. I started with the Carciofi, the fried artichokes. They were amazing. I wanted something simple, yet delicious...and, boy, that is what I got! What a treat. Crispy on the outside, moist and delicious on the inside. Lightly salted with sea salt and a spritz of fresh lemon juice.\r
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My husband wanted a salad, so we shared one. We had the Romano, a grilled romaine salad. Also superb. I am surprised at how wonderful that toasty taste is with lettuce! Go figure! Then to have A Cena's own crispy, yet juicy pancetta, atop this treat! \r
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My husband ordered his usual, a Bolognese pasta, and he was thoroughly pleased. It's usually a favorite of mine too, but I have to write about my entre!\r
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I ordered something new for me. It was the Agnolotti, a recommendation from the owner. Oh...my...god!!!! It was an amazing taste of perfection. Sweet corn and mascarpone filling in a delicious pasta, topped with a butter poached lobster claw with a few mache leaves dropped on top was absolutely beautiful to look at and even better to savor, one bite at a time. The flavors were clean and fresh, while surprisingly rich and elegant. It was like eating a dream.\r
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For dessert, we asked for a suggestion, since we had already won the trifecta. We had the caramel and sea salt gelato...another winner. Wow! It was a dinner that will be hard to match.\r
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We really couldn't have asked for a nicer evening of taste sensations, pleasant people and a nice environment. We are already talking about when we will return and who we will bring to experience an exceptional meal...one of the best we have had in Portland.
Pros: Great guidance from the owner, Chirs
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