Mama Della's Review

Mama Della's Ristorante is located inside Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando Resort and features dinner of authentic Italian dishes in a cozy family friendly atmosphere.  It is listed by Universal as Fine Dining, however you'll find some familiar Italian dishes to please most palettes.  If you are staying at this resort, it is a quick stroll through the hotel to dine here, but you can also access the resort from the water taxis or a leisurely walk along the water from the Universal Theme Parks or Universal CityWalk.

We were a rather large group when dining this evening, and the restaurant had a great set up for it.  We were two long tables along the one wall, a little separated from the rest of the restaurant but not so much that we felt like we weren't getting the full atmosphere. We started with drinks and some classic Italian appetizers.

Italian wine to compliment the meal

Classico Caprese -
Fresh Mozzarella Log, Vine Ripened Tomato, Olive Oil, Balsamic Glaze and Fresh Basil

Bruschetta con Burrata -
Oven Melted Tomatoes, Burrata Cheese, Arugula, Oven Dried Olives, Grilled Ciabatta, Balsamic Glaze

The appetizers were fresh and light. We enjoyed passing them around and sharing with one another while recounting our day. As we move into entrees, there's a good variety of meat, seafood and pasta on the menu with a few vegetarian and gluten free options as well for diners with dietary restrictions.

Bistecca -
Filet Mignon, Truffle Mashed Potato, Roasted Wild Mushroom, Braised Cipolline Onion, Black Pepper Candied Bacon

Salmon and Jumbo Shrimp -
Spinach, Mushroom, Jerusalem Artichoke, Pappardelle Pasta in White Wine Cream Sauce

Seafood Saltimbocca  -
Prosciutto Wrapped Snapper, Scallop, Shrimp, Clams, Mussels, Cheese Ravioli, Braised Fennel and Leek Broth

Pollo alla Parmigiano -
Breaded Chicken, Fresh Mozzarella, Spaghetti

Pollo alla Carbonara -
Chestnut Flour Roasted Chicken, Spaghetti, Pancetta, English Peas.

Veal Picatta
White Wine Lemon-Butter Caper Sauce, Capellini Pasta



About halfway through our meal, we were visited by strolling musicians that travel from table to table throughout the night.  They took requests and sung us some beautiful songs. It was a lovely touch that really helped make the meal feel like something special.

And of course, we wrapped up the meal with some desserts.  Since we were a large party, we had a sampling of mini desserts to share.  The cannolli is my personal favorite way to end an Italian feast.

We had a lovely meal.  As a big group, we didn't feel rushed or like it took too long which was very nice.  The service was good, the food was tasty, but of course the company was the best!

Have you eaten at Mama Della's?  Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Maci Schau

Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks.  You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.