I wanted to visit before they closed the business as did many others that night. I was hugely annoyed that a 20% to was automatically added. That's a surcharge not a tip.
News is that Cafe Castagna is preparing to close mid-May and undergo some sort of transformation into something "new." Breaks my heart, since I've only just discovered the charms of this magical nook. From the velvety chopped chicken livers on toast (with cornichons & dill), to melt-in-your-mouth arancini, our starters were divine, as was a really good bottle(s) of a German Sylvaner, recommended by staff as an alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. I enjoyed the moules frites as my main, and it was truly the best batch of mussels mariniere I've had in Portland in nearly 6 years. The atmosphere is fantastic--this is a chic, small, low-key bistro, with a handsome bar, retro/modern decor, knowledgeable & congenial staff, and a truly fantastic kitchen. They knocked it out of the park, as far as I'm concerned. I salute Cafe Castagna as it's making it's victory lap. What a truly wonderful spot (that I've discovered too late!)