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About Us

The friendly staff at Portofino’s Authentic Italian Restaurant have a history in the Waco area and around the globe! Owner, Nick Colaku, first came to Texas in 1999, but his cooking career started well before that. Nick was born in Albania before moving to Rome to work in a Pizza Restaurant. He started as a dishwasher but quickly showed what he had to offer and learned to cook. In 1974, at the age of 17, Nick moved to New York’s Little Italy. Armed with a knowledge of Italian Cuisine, he quickly made a footprint in several Italian restaurants. Thats when he truly fell in love with food. Portofino’s Authentic Italian Restaurant’s menu pulls from Nick’s experiences In Italy and New York, taking all that he learned and making it his very own!
After visiting his brother, Nick knew his future was in Texas and moved to Waco in the mid 2000s with his wife and children. Nicks family has been with him every step of the way! His wife is always by his side and his sons are never too far. The restaurant is home away from home for Nick’s family and an amazing dining experience for yours! Stop in today to taste the best, authentic Italian cuisine in Waco! Come taste the bold flavors Nick and his family prepare from a history of great flavors!

Our Locations

Delicious Food.
For the Entire Family.

To learn more about where we are located please see the WACO, TX map, along with a street view of our building, provided on this page. Also, a listing of our hours can be found in the displayed contact box. If you need additional assistance, or to schedule your next event, our friendly staff can be reached on our Contact Us page.

Here at PORTOFINO’S AUTHENTIC ITALIAN RESTAURANT, your satisfaction is important to us. Our continued success relies on happy customers like you to spread the word about your outstanding dining experience, as well as for referrals. Please feel free to leave a review of your visit on our Testimonials page, and be sure to tell your friends about us!