PortoVino Italian Restaurant: Des Moines’ Cozy Italian Escape

In Des Moines, WA—just blocks from the Marina and downtown’s heartbeat—PortoVino Italian Restaurant invites diners to slow down and savor the moment. This family-owned gem is more than a place to eat. It’s a warm embrace of old-world charm, rustic flavors, and true hospitality.

Family-owned and chef-driven, PortoVino carries the family’s long-standing love for Italian cuisine. Already well-loved in Renton for their original restaurant (Sansonina Ristorante Italiano), the team brought their passion to Des Moines to share classic Italian dishes with a coastal twist.

From the start, you’ll notice the details that make a meal here memorable. There’s the glow of candlelight reflecting off wine glasses, the comforting aromas drifting from the kitchen, and the unmistakable feeling that you’ve arrived somewhere special.

Chef Vegoine leads the kitchen with reverence for tradition and a flair for freshness. Every dish—from wild mushroom risotto to house-made ravioli—is prepared with care, using the finest ingredients and time-honored techniques. The menu is a rotating celebration of regional Italian recipes, always grounded in quality and seasonal freshness.

Pair your meal with a glass (or bottle) from their robust wine list, carefully curated to include both Italian imports and beloved local vintages. Whether you’re sipping Chianti or savoring a bold Washington red, each selection enhances the experience.

But it’s the heart behind the operation that keeps people coming back. Hugo, Fernando, and their team greet guests like old friends. Tableside chats, customized recommendations, and personal touches turn first-time visitors into loyal regulars.

My 5-star Review:

“Straight from the heart—PortoVino delivers the soul of Italy right here in Des Moines. I was greeted with a warm hug and a bottle of their very own branded wine—what a start! The sautéed calamari (with tomatoes, green onions, and a spicy olive oil garlic sauce) was absolutely next-level—tender, flavorful, and unforgettable. But the magic didn’t stop there. A nearby guest sent over the flan just so I could try it—silky, creamy, and the perfect touch of sweetness. A gesture and a dessert I’ll never forget. My last words that evening? ‘I’ll be back.’”

As Des Moines continues to evolve into a dining destination, PortoVino stands tall as a beacon of authenticity. It’s where anniversaries are toasted, business dinners linger, and spontaneous date nights turn into unforgettable evenings.

Whether you’re a longtime Des Moines local or just discovering the city’s culinary offerings, PortoVino promises a dining experience that feeds the soul as much as the stomach.

PortoVino Italian Restaurant

727 S 223rd Street, Des Moines, WA 98198

(206) 429-2315 | portovinopnw.com