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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Portland

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mama Mia Trattoria restaurant
1. Mama Mia Trattoria
4.2
Awesome(1793)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 16 times today
Mama Mia Trattoria in Downtown Portland is a haven for those craving authentic Italian comfort food. With every dish meticulously crafted from scratch—from mozzarella to fresh pastas and divine sauces—this restaurant transports diners straight to a traditional Italian kitchen. Reviewers rave about the "delicious homemade pasta" and claim the chicken parmigiana and lasagna are "some of the best" they've ever had. The warm atmosphere and glowing reviews confirm it's a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Italy. As one satisfied customer put it, "Everything was so delicious! I can’t wait to go back!" Mama Mia Trattoria consistently exceeds expectations, making it a standout in Portland’s culinary scene.
A photo of Tartuca restaurant
2. Tartuca
4.8
Exceptional(80)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Northeast Portland
Booked 7 times today
At Tartuca in Northeast Portland, the essence of the Pacific Northwest is celebrated through a unique Italian culinary perspective. Since its inception in 2022, this gem on Mississippi Avenue has been enchanting diners with its commitment to hyper-local, farm-direct ingredients, allowing the true quality of the produce to take center stage. Praised for its "excellent Italian food with a NW twist," Tartuca's menu changes with the seasons, ensuring each dish reflects the freshest, most vibrant flavors. Reviewers rave about the "perfectly cooked pasta" and "amazing pizza," with ingredients like candied spruce tips adding a distinctive PNW flair. The restaurant's cozy back patio and bustling, hip interior create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for enjoying their artisanal wine list and delightful dishes. Tartuca's approach to simple, high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of the Northwest.
A photo of clarklewis restaurant
3. clarklewis
4.5
Awesome(2522)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Southeast Portland
Booked 5 times today
Clarklewis in Southeast Portland is a gem for Northwest cuisine enthusiasts, offering a stellar farm-to-table experience that captivates both locals and visitors. This bustling eatery not only emphasizes local, organic, and sustainable fare but also brings Italian-inspired creativity to its dishes. The open kitchen with its large oak-burning oven adds a unique touch, enhancing the flavor profile of each meal. As a pioneer in Portland's culinary scene since 2004, Clarklewis has been consistently lauded for its high standards and innovative dishes. Reviewers rave about the "exceptional dining experience" and often mention the "perfectly prepared" meals and "attentive service." Whether it's the seafood delights like oysters and Chinook salmon or the masterfully crafted lamb ragu pasta, each dish is a testament to the quality and authenticity of Northwest cuisine. Clarklewis is undoubtedly a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in Portland.
A photo of 3 Doors Down Cafe and Lounge restaurant
4. 3 Doors Down Cafe and Lounge
4.0
Excellent(1820)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Southeast Portland
At 3 Doors Down Cafe and Lounge in Southeast Portland, the essence of Italian cuisine is brilliantly captured and served with a local twist. This cherished establishment is renowned for its dedication to authenticity and quality, offering a menu that delights with "big bowls of pasta and shellfish, perfectly grilled fish and meats." Patrons consistently praise the "delicious sauces" and home-made pasta, underscoring the restaurant's commitment to traditional Italian cooking. A diner enthused, "The Ziti with Vodka Sauce? It's really really good. They made us feel like family!!!" This warm, inviting atmosphere combined with exceptional Italian dishes makes 3 Doors Down a must-visit for food enthusiasts craving genuine Italian flavors paired with innovative Pacific Northwest flair.
A photo of Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland restaurant
5. Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland
(0)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Kimpton Hotel Vintage in Downtown Portland is not just a place to stay; it's a vibrant social hub known for its exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service. Guests consistently rave about the bar’s unique cocktails, like the spontaneously created "10 Minutes Ago," and the inviting happy hour that features complimentary wine tastings, making it a beloved spot for both locals and travelers. The atmosphere is described as having a "cool, young, good vibe," complemented by live music on some nights, crafting a perfect backdrop for unwinding and socializing. Reviews highlight the bartender's skill and the overall excellent service, ensuring every visit is memorable. Whether it’s the quality of the drinks or the warmth of the welcome, Kimpton Hotel Vintage’s bar scene truly stands out as a premier destination in Portland.
A photo of Don's Favorite Foods restaurant
6. Don's Favorite Foods
5.0
Exceptional(101)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Beaverton
Booked 4 times today
At Don's Favorite Foods in Beaverton, Chef Don Salamone and his team passionately deliver an authentic Italian dining experience that resonates deeply with both the locals and visitors. The monthly-changing menu features dishes rooted in Italian tradition, like "gnocchi like my Ma used to make" and Italian sausage that hints at familial recipes. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant, noting, "Some of the best pasta I have ever had" and "Rivals my very skilled Sicilian friend's cooking." This boutique eatery not only serves up exquisite Italian fare but also creates a warm, intimate atmosphere where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Kyle
    Portland / Oregon •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This was our second time at Don's and they exceeded our already high expectations from our previous visit. We were there for the Feast of Seven Fishes menu, got a cocktail to start and did the 1/2 pour wine pairing. They batch their cocktails and it's the best Nigroni I've ever had. The menu was filled with familiar seafood dishes prepared in unique ways. Everything was perfect all around. It's rare to find a place that feels as special as Don's. It's our favorite restaurant in Portland, maybe anywhere.
    More info
    Don's Favorite FoodsPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Beaverton
    •
    5
  • SusanVIP
    Portland / Oregon •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We thoroughly enjoyed our dinner at Clarklewis. Classic Northwest Fresh cuisine worthy of a birthday, anniversary or other celebration. We had beet salad, root salad, pizza and pasta and all were top notch. The holiday decor of Noble firs and white lights was simple and stunning. We will return.
    More info
    clarklewisPrice: Expensive• Northwest• Southeast Portland
    •
    4.5
  • Jerome
    Austin •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    The food was top-notch, and the wait was quite reasonable. The focaccia was truly the best I’ve ever had, and I’ve had a lot of focaccia. I would return just for the focaccia. The waiter was great. Not a noise factory, nice ambience, nice staff. One thing: since they no longer serve pizza, they shouldn’t say on their window that they have pizza.
    More info
    TartucaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Northeast Portland
    •
    4.8
  • Stephen
    Portland / Oregon •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 10, 2024
    This is a REAL Italian Restaurant. My wife and I only know of a few in the area and this is one of them. Just because a restaurant serves pizza and pasta does not make it an Italian Restaurant. This one has a menu featuring many real Italian dishes including Italian desserts and Italian cocktails and wine, even Grappa! The service was prompt and courteous, the food was delicious, and the ambiance was wonderful. We arrived an hour before our reservation but was promptly seated anyway. I really don't understand why anyone would give this restaurant less than 5 stars. We found free street parking right in front on the restaurant. But if you can't find street parking, there are two pay parking lots right across the street. We are adding this place to our list of favorite Italian Restaurants and I'm sure will be returning many times in the future.
    More info
    Mama Mia TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.2

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Portland

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine in the heart of Portland's Exclusive district, a hub for culinary innovation and refined dining experiences. This page is your gateway to exploring top-rated restaurants that specialize in modern Italian fare, each offering unique interpretations of classic dishes infused with local ingredients and creative flair. The dining scene in this locale is renowned for its commitment to quality and exclusivity, providing an intimate atmosphere ideal for those seeking a memorable meal. Each restaurant listed here is celebrated for its sophisticated ambiance and meticulous service, ensuring a dining experience that goes beyond the meal itself. From handcrafted pasta dishes to expertly curated wine lists, these establishments prioritize a holistic approach to Italian dining. Whether you're planning a special occasion or a casual outing, our selection of contemporary Italian restaurants in Portland's Exclusive area promises to satisfy your culinary cravings with unparalleled finesity and style. Engage with a culinary tradition that seamlessly blends innovation with the comforts of Italian cooking in Portland's distinguished dining landscape.

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