Charlie and I have dined here on several occasions, and the food is always consistently delicious. With deep cherry wood decor, warm lighting and French cuisine, be prepared for a romantic evening. There is also a nice patio for dining when the weather permits. The owner of the restaurant greets every customer at some point, no matter how busy they may be. Throughout our entire meal, I really felt taken care of.
Their menu has plenty of scrumptious dishes to choose from. I always order some type of seafood when we dine here because it is cooked to pure perfection. Salmon is the one fish I am most frequently disappointed in at other restaurants. Often it is overcooked and under seasoned. That’s not the case at Cafe’ Europa. They have definitely mastered the art of cooking excellent salmon. The portion size was also more than I had expected.
I saved room for desert, and I’m glad I did. I had warm bread pudding with nuts and chocolate in the center, complimented by a sweet raspberry sauce on the side. You can count on a refined and memorable dining experience at Cafe’ Europa.
Cafe Europa is the opposite of contemporary dining. Everything comes at a slow but comfortable pace, with constant attention from the staff that always makes you feel both welcome and important. The food is traditional in presentation but that doesn’t mean it isn’t well plated. The atmosphere is warm and cozy, unlike most modern themes featuring sharp edges and lots of metals. It’s the kind of place that forces you to relax and put your day behind you.
The service at Cafe Europa is above average, with some of the employees having been there for many years. They are very knowledgeable and congenial, though some people may be put off by the wait times between courses. It’s important to be in the right frame of mind – one of relaxation – before dining here. It’s not unbearably slow and you’ll never find yourself wondering if they’ve forgotten you, but you’re not going home for at least an hour. Sometimes that’s nice, but plan accordingly.
The dining areas all adorned with large original paintings and dark woods and wallpaper all with a very European feel. Seating is always comfortable, though table space can get cramped with various dishes. I’ve never eaten outside but I imagine it would be quite pleasant on a nice day. Noise levels are always within acceptable limits and though the bar is near part of the seating area there has never been anyone at it when we’ve gone and there is a separator between the two sections just in case.
As with the decor, the menu at Cafe Europa bears heavy European influences leaning most strongly towards France. There are many unique items on the menu and no matter what I’ve ordered I have never been disappointed. Eating at Cafe Europa won’t send you home broke, but know that it can add up after you’ve had three courses and some beverages. I don’t think you’ll be complaining when the bill comes out, however.
Cafe Europa has always been one of our favorite local resturants, and if our most recent visit is any indication it will remain so for many years to come.
Contact Information for Cafe Europa:
Cafe Europa
319 High Street
Portsmouth, VA 23704
757-399-6652
