Portland has long been known for its incredible food scene, from farm-to-table dining concepts to some of the swankiest restaurants in the country. One cuisine that’s testament to this is Italian, with so many incredible hotspots to choose from.
With locally-sourced ingredients and artisanal techniques, Portland’s Italian restaurants are taking pasta, pizza, and everything in between to the next level. So, get ready to say ‘buon appetito’, as we take you on a journey through Portland’s bustling Italian food scene!
1. Campagna Restaurant
Famous for its warm and inviting ambiance, Campagna Restaurant boasts a mouthwatering menu of homey dishes that’ll whisk you off to Rome via the taste buds. From their adored Alfredo sauce to other standout options, the dishes here are full of those rich, iconic flavors that make Italian cuisine so intrinsically beloved. Campagna Restaurant is ideal for any occasion, and one of the many hidden gems amid Portland’s dining scene.
📍151 Marlborough St, Portland, CT 06480
2. Melilli Cafe & Grill
If you’re in the mood for top-notch Italian cuisine with local flare, Melilli Cafe & Grill presents itself as the perfect spot in Portland for an authentic feast. Their pizzas are baked to perfection in their brick-lined oven, with a plethora of other fantastic dishes on offer throughout their extensive menu. So, get ready to enjoy the warm ambiance and friendly service, while indulging in some divine cuisine that ranges from the classics to their signature dishes.
📍264 Main St, Portland, CT 06480
3. Solo Italiano
Looking for an exceptional dining experience in Portland? Step into Solo Italiano, where you will be enveloped in an elegant, cozy atmosphere for a tantalizing fare of Italian favorites. The menu offers a wide variety of dishes, from classic Italian staples to creatively reimagined innovations. It’s the perfect restaurant for anyone on the hunt for something more contemporary than the standard Italian eatery.
📍100 Commercial St, Portland, ME 04101
4. Mucca Osteria
Mucca Osteria is a cozy culinary destination that’s not to be missed. Their selection of Italian dishes is an absolute dream, from succulent scallops to savory steak and pork shoulder, every bite is a revelation no matter what you order. The full tasting menu at Mucca Osteria is perfect for any special occasion, or your next date night if you’re looking to impress.
📍1022 SW Morrison St, Portland, OR 97205
5. Gilda’s
In the mood for delicious Italian cuisine with welcoming service? Look no further than Gilda’s Italian Restaurant. From the beloved Burrata Salad to perfectly cooked seafood, everything is generously seasoned with the freshest, locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure not to leave without indulging in their irresistible desserts like the drool-worthy cheesecake!
📍1601 SW Morrison St, Portland, OR 97205
6. Ava Gene’s
Nestled in Portland’s Richmond neighborhood, this gorgeous restaurant is one of the city’s favorite Italian spots and for excellent reason. Serving up an up-scale fare, indulge in refined classics that have been elevated to match this restaurant’s chic and sophisticated vibe. With so many incredible things on their extensive menu, you’re going to want to try a couple of their must-try dishes, so be sure to arrive on an empty stomach!
📍3377 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
7. a Cena Ristorante
If it’s pasta you’re craving, A Cena Ristorante is the place for you. The intimate restaurant continuously impresses with their fantastic fare of Italian food, being served up with exceptional customer service. From sizzling steaks to their Lobster Ravioli, prepare for a memorable meal at this hidden gem in the Sellwood – Moreland neighborhood.
📍7742 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
8. Luce
For no-nonsense Italian food including house-made pastas, be sure to check out Portland’s adored Luce. Their beautiful space is the perfect setting for a delicious Italian meal. The cute and cozy ambiance is enhanced by the fact that this restaurant is also a local grocery store for Italian goods, so you can take some treats home with you.
📍2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
From traditional trattorias to modern twists on classic dishes, Portland’s Italian restaurants are not to be missed. Whether you’re a fan of delicious pasta dishes or looking for the best pizza in the city, there’s a dish to satisfy every craving. With so much culinary creativity and talent in one city, it’s no wonder that Portland’s Italian food scene is a go-to option when dining out.