Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Downtown Portland | Upscale Italian Food

29 restaurants in Best Upscale Italian Restaurants in Downtown Portland | Upscale Italian Food

• Bar Rione — Italian · rated 5/5: Step into a sun-drenched corner of Rome where the lively hum of conversation mingles with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked dough and bubbling mozzarella. Artfully topped Roman-style pizzas boast a signature airy crunch, perfectly paired with vibrant spritzes and bitter amari that capture the spirited essence of a classic Italian aperitivo hour. Whether perched at the sleek bar or tucked into a cozy table, guests find a neighborhood sanctuary that celebrates the simple, soulful joy of shared plates and effortless hospitality.
• 10 Barrel Brewing — American · rated 4/5: This high-energy brewpub pulses with a rugged, social spirit, where industrial-chic interiors give way to expansive patios and the inviting warmth of flickering fire pits. Crisp, hop-forward ales flow freely alongside a menu of elevated comfort food, from bubbling wood-fired pizzas to inventive pub classics that capture the essence of a perfect post-adventure gathering.
• Benessere — Italian · rated 4/5: Benessere invites guests into a sanctuary of contemporary style where the air is alive with the tantalizing scents of citrus and spice, promising a meal that nourishes both the palate and the spirit. Signature wings arrive lacquered in a shimmering, aromatic glaze of honey, soy, and ginger, beautifully balanced by the bright, sophisticated tang of tangerine balsamic. It is a destination where thoughtful preparation meets vibrant flair, resulting in a dining experience that feels both indulgent and revitalizing.
• The Mezz — Mediterranean · rated 3/5: The Mezz serves as a sophisticated culinary crossroads where the comforting aroma of bubbling, wood-fired pizzas meets the savory depth of slow-roasted rotisserie chicken and tender braised short ribs. From the briny brightness of freshly shucked oysters to the delicate artistry of hand-rolled sushi, the space hums with a vibrant market-to-table energy that elevates everyday dining into an artisanal experience. Whether pausing for a chef-prepared individual meal or lingering over a decadent family-style tiramisu, guests are immersed in a modern, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the very best of the season’s harvest.
• Caffe Umbria — Italian: This sophisticated Italian coffee house transports guests to a bustling European piazza, where the rich, nutty aroma of masterfully roasted beans mingles with the elegant hum of a neighborhood gathering spot. Beneath the glow of warm lighting and polished accents, patrons savor velvety lattes and artisanal pastries, finding a moment of refined tranquility in every perfectly pulled shot of espresso.
• Caffè Umbria — Italian: Stepping into Caffè Umbria feels like being transported to a sun-drenched Italian piazza, where the intoxicating aroma of slow-roasted beans and the rhythmic hiss of espresso machines fill the air. The space celebrates a rich roasting heritage through velvety blends like the signature Bizzarri and the dark, chocolatey Arco Etrusco, each capturing the soulful essence of traditional coffee culture. It is a sophisticated sanctuary where every cup invites a moment of reflection, wrapped in the warmth of old-world charm and artisanal craftsmanship.
• Hotlips Pizza — Italian: Sunlight streams into this lively neighborhood haunt where the irresistible aroma of golden, blistered crusts and zesty tomato sauce fills the air. The kitchen transforms the humble slice into a gourmet canvas, layering everything from smoky BBQ chicken to the inventive, crisp crunch of apples and walnuts on their signature Waldorf pie. It is a vibrant space where the art of the pizza oven brings people together over steaming, cheese-laden masterpieces that are as bold as they are comforting.
• Gallo Nero — Italian: Stepping into Gallo Nero feels like being whisked away to a sun-drenched Tuscan villa, where the warm glow of candlelight dances across rustic brick walls and the air is thick with the savory perfume of slow-simmered sauces. The kitchen honors the soul of Italian tradition, serving up robust plates of handmade pasta and tender, fire-kissed meats that pair perfectly with a deep, ruby-hued glass of Chianti. It is a place where time slows down over shared bottles of wine and lingering conversation, capturing the spirited essence of a true neighborhood enoteca.
• Oven and Shaker — Italian: The air hums with the vibrant energy of a modern social hub, where the comforting warmth of a roaring wood-fired oven meets the rhythmic, icy clink of a masterfully handled cocktail shaker. A curated library of smoky mezcals and estate-grown tequilas flows freely, inviting guests to linger over artisanal pours and charred, savory bites in a space that feels both sophisticated and electric.
• Piattino — Italian: Piattino invites guests into a lively, social atmosphere where the clinking of wine glasses mingles with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and bubbling cheeses. Artfully arranged platters of artisanal salumi and aged cheeses take center stage, complemented by golden, crisp arancini and savory stuffed mushrooms that celebrate the simple joy of shared plates. From the rustic warmth of freshly baked pane bianco to the delicate crunch of seasoned calamari, every bite captures a Mediterranean spirit designed for lingering conversations and communal dining.
• Spella Caffè — Italian: Stepping into this intimate coffee sanctuary, guests are greeted by the intoxicating aroma of small-batch beans and the rhythmic, artisanal hiss of a meticulously pulled espresso. The experience celebrates a global journey of flavor, where vibrant notes of Ethiopian Harar and rich Guatemalan Tikal are transformed into velvety sips that honor the soul of the bean. Whether lingering over a signature Rossalina espresso or savoring the bright complexity of a Tanzanian peaberry, every cup offers a moment of refined tranquility and craft.
• Lonesome's Pizza — Italian: This spirited urban hideaway pulses with a unique energy, where the rich, nutty fragrance of artisanal coffee meets the savory perfume of hand-stretched dough blistering in the oven. It is a place of delightful contradictions, inviting guests to linger over a perfectly pulled espresso before diving into creative, thin-crust pizzas that redefine the neighborhood slice shop experience.
• 21st Century Pizza — Italian: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of toasted garlic and bubbling cheese, drawing guests into a vibrant space where comfort food takes center stage. Golden-brown dough bites and zesty wings offer a satisfying crunch alongside toasted subs overflowing with savory meats, creating a haven for those seeking bold, nostalgic flavors. It is a lively neighborhood destination where the simple joy of a shared feast is found in every basket of warm bread and every crisp, garden-fresh salad.
• The Star — Italian: Bathed in the soft, amber glow of vintage-inspired lighting, this sophisticated retreat offers a sanctuary of polished wood and plush seating that invites long, intimate conversations. The kitchen transforms seasonal ingredients into artful, soul-warming plates where bold flavors meet refined techniques, creating a culinary journey that feels both familiar and brilliantly elevated. Whether sipping a hand-crafted cocktail at the gleaming bar or sharing a celebratory meal, guests find themselves enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless elegance and effortless charm.
• Grassa — Italian: High-energy and unapologetically bold, this industrial-chic pasta house hums with the sound of rock music and the rhythmic clatter of open-kitchen artistry. Flour-dusted counters give way to bowls of thick, hand-extruded noodles tossed in rich, soulful sauces that bridge the gap between Italian tradition and modern grit. Communal tables and a lively, fast-paced spirit make every meal feel like a vibrant celebration of craft and comfort.
• Old Town Pizza — Italian: Stepping into this historic haunt feels like a warm embrace, where the scent of bubbling mozzarella and charred crust wafts from glowing ovens amidst exposed brick and vintage charm. It is a neighborhood cornerstone where friends and families gather over hand-tossed pies topped with vibrant ingredients, creating a timeless atmosphere that celebrates the simple, soulful joy of a perfectly baked slice.
• Caffe Umbria — Italian: Polished marble and the rhythmic hiss of steam transport guests to a sophisticated Italian piazza, where the deep, nutty aroma of masterfully roasted beans lingers in the air. Each velvety pour and golden-crusted pastry invites a moment of refined indulgence, offering a timeless sanctuary that celebrates the authentic soul and communal spirit of the traditional espresso bar.
• Dolly Olive — Italian: Bathed in soft light and adorned with elegant marble and lush greenery, this chic Mediterranean escape transports diners to the effortless glamour of a sun-drenched coastal villa. The air hums with the clinking of artisanal cocktails as plates of silken house-made pasta and herb-flecked shared bites arrive at tables, offering a sophisticated yet spirited celebration of Italian-inspired flavors.
• Caffe Allora — Italian: Sunlight dances across marble tabletops at Caffe Allora, where the rich aroma of dark-roast espresso and the scent of herbaceous olive oil set the stage for a leisurely escape. The kitchen celebrates the art of the casual meal, serving up vibrant seasonal plates and hand-stretched doughs that transport diners to a breezy Italian piazza with every flavorful bite.
• Gildas Italian Restaurant — Italian: Gildas Italian Restaurant invites guests into a warm, spirited sanctuary where the intoxicating scent of toasted garlic and simmering polpette sets the stage for a true Mediterranean feast. Golden arancini and crisp fritto misto offer a satisfying crunch against the indulgence of creamy burrata and molten baked cheeses, creating a rich tapestry of flavors meant for sharing. This is a place where rustic elegance meets heartfelt hospitality, turning every meal into a vibrant celebration of traditional Italian comfort.
• Piazza Italia — Italian: Stepping into Piazza Italia feels like entering a sun-drenched Roman salumeria, where the air is thick with the savory perfume of aged meats and artisanal spices. Masterfully sliced ribbons of buttery San Daniele prosciutto and spicy, marbled capicollo are artfully arranged on wooden boards, celebrating the rich, time-honored traditions of Italian charcuterie. Each bite offers a journey through Italy’s regions, from the delicate earthiness of bresaola to the bold, fiery kick of authentic Calabrese sausage.
• Sizzle Pie — Italian: This high-octane pizzeria pulses with the energy of heavy metal and neon lights, drawing in a vibrant crowd with the irresistible aroma of charred crust and bubbling cheese. Rebellious, creatively named pies take center stage, layering unconventional toppings onto thin, crispy dough to create a bold dining experience that celebrates both rock-and-roll spirit and inclusive, flavor-forward craftsmanship.
• Mucca — Italian: Mucca invites diners into an intimate, earth-toned sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory promise of a meal crafted with deep intention. The evening unfolds as a rhythmic four-course prix fixe journey, guiding guests through a curated progression of flavors that balance rustic heartiness with a refined, modern touch. It is a destination designed for lingering, where each course arrives as a new chapter in a story of seasonal ingredients and culinary passion.
• Il Solito — Italian: Stepping into Il Solito feels like a warm embrace, where the nostalgic aroma of slow-simmered Sunday gravy and toasted garlic wafts through a space defined by plush leather booths and soulful hospitality. This vibrant neighborhood anchor reimagines Italian-American classics, serving up bowls of silk-smooth handmade pasta and tender meatballs that bridge the gap between cherished family traditions and refined modern dining.
• Pastini — Italian: This vibrant neighborhood haunt hums with the energy of a modern Italian kitchen, where the fragrance of fresh basil and slow-simmered marinara drifts through a warm, light-filled dining room. Guests gather over generous bowls of al dente pasta and crisp, seasonal salads, enjoying a convivial atmosphere that balances casual comfort with the timeless charm of a Mediterranean bistro.
• Mama Mia — Italian: Mama Mia invites guests into a vibrant, social atmosphere where tables are anchored by overflowing charcuterie boards and the golden crunch of crispy artichoke hearts. The air carries the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and briny Manila clams, setting the stage for a communal feast of bubbling fried mozzarella and garden-fresh salads. It is a warm, spirited retreat that celebrates the joy of shared plates and timeless flavors, making every visit feel like a lively gathering among friends.
• IL Terrazzo — Italian: Sunlight dances across the inviting terrace of this elegant Italian retreat, where the air is thick with the comforting aroma of slow-simmered Bolognese and earthy, mushroom-rich Boscaiola. Each plate serves as a vibrant celebration of tradition, from the golden, aromatic threads of saffron-infused Zafferano to the rustic textures that define a truly soulful and sophisticated dining experience.
• Curry Pizza House — Indian: Curry Pizza House serves as a vibrant culinary crossroads where the bold, aromatic spices of the East meet the comforting, cheesy indulgence of a classic American parlor. The air hums with the scent of toasted masala and golden-fried samosas, inviting guests to share inventive snacks like fiery Desi garlic sticks and crisp, spice-dusted chips that redefine traditional comfort food. It is a lively destination where familiar favorites are reimagined through a lens of heat and heritage, offering a playful, flavor-packed experience that bridges two worlds in every bite.
• Pizza Schmizza — Italian: This high-energy neighborhood hangout pulses with a playful spirit, inviting guests into a vibrant space where the aroma of melted cheese and zesty spices fills the air. Tables overflow with golden, crispy tater tots and gooey "Schmozzarella" sticks, creating a communal feast where friends tear into pull-apart "Dipsticks" and savory wings amidst a backdrop of lively conversation and unpretentious fun.