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Best Contemporary Italian Restaurants in Downtown

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Mama Mia Trattoria restaurant
1. Mama Mia Trattoria
4.3
Awesome(1786)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary italian • Downtown
Booked 18 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 Kimpton Hotel Vintage Portland restaurant
2. 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 Tartuca restaurant
3. Tartuca
4.8
Exceptional(62)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary italian • NE Portland
Booked 18 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
4. clarklewis
4.6
Exceptional(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
5. 3 Doors Down Cafe and Lounge
4.4
Awesome(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 Don's Favorite Foods restaurant
6. Don's Favorite Foods
4.9
Exceptional(89)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary italian • Beaverton
Booked 2 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
  • Pamela
    Portland / Oregon •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    This is a regular spot for my friends and I. It’s fabulous!
    More info
    clarklewisPrice: Expensive• Northwest• Southeast Portland
    •
    4.6
  • OpenTable Diner
    Cleveland / Akron / Canton •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 16 Nov 2024
    AMAZING GLUTEN FREE!! Celiac friendly, gf calamari, my dreammm!!
    More info
    Mama Mia TrattoriaPrice: Moderate• Contemporary Italian• Downtown
    •
    4.3
  • Alma
    Portland / Oregon •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 14 Nov 2024
    Our meal at Tartuca was the best we’ve had in a while! This neighborhood spot does Italian pasta like none other in Portland. Service was warm and well attentive and the food was phenomenal. We recommend ordering off the extensive wine list. Jeff, the manager, is very knowledgeable and made us recommendations to pair with our meal. We will be back!
    More info
    TartucaPrice: Expensive• Italian• NE Portland
    •
    4.8
  • Stephanie
    Portland / Oregon •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 9 Nov 2024
    The most amazing manicotti I’ve ever had. It’s hard to walk that line of ‘there’s a lot going on here’ and ‘there’s too much going on here’; and every dish nailed it at Don’s. Every course was perfectly timed, the service was amazing. It was pretty cold inside the restaurant so I would highly recommend wearing a sweater, but the wine selections are so good they’ll warm you right up! We can’t wait to come back at the next special occasion! 🎉
    More info
    Don's Favorite FoodsPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary Italian• Beaverton
    •
    4.9

Discover best Contemporary Italian restaurants in Downtown

Discover the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine right in the heart of Downtown Portland, Oregon, where a selection of restaurants offers a sophisticated blend of traditional and modern flavors. These establishments are renowned for their dedication to authenticity and innovation, featuring house-made pastas, artisan cheeses, and exquisite culinary techniques that elevate every dish. The dining scene in Downtown Portland is vibrant and diverse, with a special spotlight on Italian eateries that provide a memorable gastronomic experience. Each restaurant prides itself on exceptional service, a cozy ambiance, and a commitment to high-quality ingredients, ensuring every meal is both delightful and satisfying. From classics like veal picatta and cioppino to inventive dishes that surprise and enchant, these venues cater to every palate, promising an Italian dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, Downtown Portland's contemporary Italian restaurants are a culinary destination not to be missed.

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