Gumba

Absolutely superb… a coworker and I made reservations for Gumba. After a long flight from Atlanta we were running late. We called the restaurant they let us change our reservation to 30 minutes later. John, the manager, came over to check on us and make sure we were great. The food was amazing, the ambiance as well. Will definitely be back when i visit Portland again.

On Alberta street where there are so many food options to choose from, this one is definitely up there! Gumba is a hidden gem on Alberta. I didn't know much about it until my girlfriend told me about their incredible Wednesday Sandwich Day... traditionally I would call them an Italian/pasta joint with a twist, but this took them to the next level. Of course we went there on a Wednesday to have their famous fried chicken sandwich... probably one of the Top 10 I've ever had. Crunchy, flavorful, messy, and a kick of heat. Doesn't get much better. We also gave their burger and tater tots a try! Burger was a unique flavor... chicken definitely won that battle. Tots were awesome!! Eric, one of the servers was incredibly friendly and welcoming. He also hooked it up with some great fry sauce. Paired perfectly with the tots. I also think we were able to convince them to bring back their special Ruben sandwich on Wednesdays as well. You bet we will be back!! Went back as promised and got pasta and dessert!! It did NOT disappoint. Unique flavors and good service!!

Vegetarian Food Review: (I wish there was an option for 4.5) 1 entree option for vegetarians and Fry Bread with Burata. Delicious Food and the service was lovely. I tried the layered baked pasta for my main course. Did not try desert. Will do that next time and update review. Let me know what you all think.

As a solo diner, you’re often asked when being seated, “just you today?” - not at Gumba. Imagine a dining experience where being by yourself is embraced. Sitting alone at the bar, the soft edison lighting creating a gentle glow that illuminates your red wine in a way so deliciously romantic that you find yourself lost in the moment, only to be brought back and mesmerized by the local art showcased on the walls that makes you consider skipping dessert (don’t!) so you might justify bringing a piece home with you to remember the night… whether you choose to dine alone or with a partner or friends, there is no one better than the staff to make you feel at home and welcome. Behind the bar you’ll find an especially lovely human, Rex - listen to any recommendation he provides or risk absolute disappointment.

I was a little disappointed considering the high rating. First off, I seemed to wait far longer than everyone else around me getting their food, and when I finally got mine it was barely warm, so think it was forgotten about in the window. Cold pasta isn't ideal, but I'll give them a little credit because everyone else seemed to get theirs quickly and piping hot, so I think I was a one off. But also, the overly rich flavors and saltines was too intense to finish the dish. The noodles themselves were fantastic, but they were drowned out by being covered in candied/salted infused shallots and a bucket of black pepper. Completely blew my taste buds out after a few bites. Which is disappointing to spend $20 on a pasta dish without protein and not be able to finish it. The cocktail was fantastic though and staff were fairly friendly.