It’s such a delight to be greeted with smiles and then fed properly. Sitting on Basson Street in Porterville, Porta Taverna cooks with an ease that suggests genuine pleasure. Its menu roams cheerfully across pizza, wraps, sarmies, burgers, steak and seafood, while hosts Michael and Mardene describe hospitality as their passion.
Breakfast is a cheery affair. Among the usual is The Waffle. It’s golden and crisp, loaded with two rashers of bacon, two fried eggs and drenched in maple syrup. There’s no subtlety here and all the better for it. This isn’t brunch for posing; it’s brunch for eating.
Mains continue in the same vein. A Spicy Chicken Schnitzel features a panko-crumbed chicken breast, fried to a crunch, then smothered in cheese sauce and jalapeños. It walks a pleasing line between comfort and rebellion, the heat cutting through the richness just enough.
The Chimichurri Rump is a mighty 350 grams of expertly grilled beef topped with a vibrant Argentinian chimichurri which lifts the meat without bullying it. And the portion size makes it clear no one here believes in allowing diners to leave hungry.
Dessert is where indulgence reigns. Proudly old-school Malva pudding comes soaked in syrup and accompanied by custard that remembers its purpose. It’s definitely a dessert that exists to make you happy.
Porta Taverna serves food people love, cooked properly and delivered with warmth.
Open Tue-Sat 9-21h30, Sun 9-15h00; 39 Basson St; 021 6120531.
