Best Italian Restaurants in South Waterfront

24 restaurants available nearby

1. Il Terrazzo

4.6

Exceptional(761)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Southwest Portland

Booked 7 times today

Il Terrazzo in Southwest Portland is a beacon of authentic Italian cuisine, where every dish promises a culinary journey to Italy. Praised for its "best pasta in Portland, period" and an ambiance that complements its exquisite meals, Il Terrazzo offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Willamette River and Mt. Hood. Guests rave about the generous portions and the quality of the dishes, especially the lasagna, which is a crowd favorite. The wine selection is meticulously curated, featuring both Italian classics and local favorites, enhancing the dining experience. According to one enthusiastic diner, "This was the best Italian food I’ve ever had." With its delightful staff and the personal touch of the owner Michael, who often checks in with guests, Il Terrazzo stands out as a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine taste of Italy in Portland.

2. Nostrana

4.7

Exceptional(5622)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Southeast Portland

Booked 59 times today

Nostrana in Southeast Portland is a gem for those seeking authentic pizzeria cuisine with a touch of the Pacific Northwest. Since its opening in 2005, Nostrana has been celebrated for its dedication to simple, regionally inspired Italian dishes, prepared with integrity and flair. The heart of its menu is the wood-fired pizzas, which are a must-try according to delighted patrons. One review raves about the "Bologna pizza, loaded with creamy mortadella, pistachio crema, burrata, provolone, and basil, all on a crispy, wood-fired crust," describing it as "flavor in every bite!" The atmosphere is consistently praised as warm and inviting, perfect for a special night out or a casual dinner. Join the chorus of admirers and make Nostrana your next culinary stop for an exceptional pizzeria experience.

3. Dolly Olive

4.8

Exceptional(171)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Northwest Portland

Booked 31 times today

Dolly Olive in Northwest Portland is not just a dining destination but a cocktail haven, celebrated for its exceptional Italian aperitifs and a buzzing aperitivo hour. Patrons consistently rave about the unique and flavorful cocktails, with one guest exclaiming, "I tried the Dolly Martini for the first time... and it was incredible!" The cocktail bar at Dolly Olive stands out for its meticulous attention to detail and quality, ensuring every sip complements the Southern Mediterranean flavors that the restaurant proudly serves. Whether it's for a pre-show drink or a leisurely evening out, Dolly Olive promises a cocktail experience that's both authentic and unforgettable, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

4. Serratto

4.7

Exceptional(2455)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Pearl District

Booked 25 times today

Serratto, nestled in Portland's vibrant Pearl District, is a culinary gem celebrated for its authentic and innovative Mediterranean cuisine. This elegant neighborhood hotspot consistently charms diners with its "superb food" and "great choice of local wines," as one reviewer raves. The menu, rich with dishes inspired by Italy, France, and the broader Mediterranean region, changes seasonally to ensure freshness and variety, featuring natural meats, the freshest seafood, and locally sourced produce. Patrons repeatedly praise the knowledgeable staff and the "consistently great" food, making Serratto a beloved go-to for a "reliably nice night out" or a special occasion. Its commitment to quality and authenticity makes every meal a delightful Mediterranean escape right in the heart of Portland.

5. Grand Amari

4.7

Exceptional(147)

Price: Expensive

• Italian • Southeast Portland

Booked 3 times today

Grand Amari is a traditional Italian dining destination inspired by the food traditions of Italy, fine Italian wine, and amaro. We are working with pasture raised proteins, seasonal local organic produce, and highlighting the quality of handmade products. Simplicity and care in our approach is key. Start your evening off by perusing our extensive wine list while enjoying a platter of scallop crudo with a glass of grower Champagne. Follow that with our delicate handmade agnolotti or squid ink bucatini, then indulge in grass fed bistecca alla fiorentina or salt crusted branzino. Don't forget to get a bottle of Barolo with your bistecca! Wrap up your dinner with an array of Italian desserts and our indulgent amaro cart and menu.

6. Oven and Shaker

4.7

Exceptional(242)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pearl District

Booked 27 times today

Portland's Oven and Shaker is a popular dining destination for locals and visitors who crave artisan pizzas and unique bar drinks served in a warm and inviting setting. The nettle pesto arancino rice ball made with parmesan risotto and mushrooms and the fried calamari and octopus fritto misto with lemon and honey make stunning starters. In addition to traditional pizza choices, like margherita and bianca, Oven and Shaker crafts specialty pizzas, like the maple pig topped with apple butter, smoked ham, pork belly and maple mascarpone, the goat cheese topped with roasted leeks, prosciutto and aged balsamic and the vegetarian cauliflower topped with peppers, olives and cheese. Accompanying your pizza with a craft beer or cocktail, like the pineapple trainwreck made with rum, lemon, pineapple and ginger syrup, is a winning idea.For a sweet finale, enjoy Oven and Shaker's homemade mint chocolate stracciatella gelato.

7. clarklewis

4.5

Awesome(2522)

Price: Expensive

• 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 Mama Mia Trattoria restaurant

8. Mama Mia Trattoria

4.2

Awesome(1794)

Price: Moderate

• 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.

9. The Star Portland

4.6

Exceptional(300)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pearl District

Booked 1 time today

At The Star Portland, located in the vibrant Pearl District, the Cocktail Bar stands out as a beacon of craftsmanship and style. Patrons consistently rave about the "refreshing goodness" of artisan cocktails like the Tropicale and Sangira, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The bar's atmosphere is praised as "very cool and modern" with a "nicely stocked back bar" that showcases a "small but well-curated selection of rotating taps." Guests appreciate the "friendly and attentive" staff, making it a top choice for those seeking a memorable cocktail experience in Portland. Whether it's for a post-wedding celebration or a casual Tuesday trivia night, The Star Portland delivers exceptional drinks and a welcoming vibe that keeps locals and visitors coming back.

10. Piattino

4.6

Exceptional(503)

Price: Moderate

• Italian • Pearl District

Booked 1 time today

Piattino, nestled in the vibrant Pearl District of Portland, boasts an exceptional Cocktail Bar that truly stands out. With a glowing reputation for its "yummy cocktails," guests consistently rave about their experiences. One visitor highlighted the delightful Old Fashions and the curated drink suggestions that perfectly complemented their meal. Another noted the "amazing cocktails" alongside impeccable service, adding to the overall charm and sophistication of the establishment. Piattino's full bar invites patrons to indulge in creatively crafted cocktails, ensuring each visit is as memorable as the dishes they serve. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Piattino's Cocktail Bar offers a unique blend of quality, authenticity, and warm hospitality that makes every sip an experience to cherish.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

H
Haylee
Portland / Oregon •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
Serrato delivered a perfect evening with friends-elegant ambiance, exceptional service, and incredible food. The chille shrimp was divine and dessert the ideal finale. A truly unforgettable dining experience!
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SerrattoPrice: Expensive• Italian• Pearl District
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4.7
B
Brad
Portland / Oregon •5 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Nostrana delivers on all fronts: great service, a beautiful interior, and fantastic food from beginning to end. We went for our anniversary and were very satisfied!
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NostranaPrice: Expensive• Italian• Southeast Portland
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4.7
E
Elizabeth
San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
They had me at Focaccia! This restaurant is a total gem. Wonderful intimate ambiance, great staff, nice to see the chefs working away in the open kitchen. The food will keep you coming back - I know I will! I visited with a friend and we shared focaccia bread and three dishes and then each had a dessert - so perfect!!! Top notch fresh ingredients make the difference here - Yum!
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Dolly OlivePrice: Expensive• Italian• Northwest Portland
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4.8
E
Eric
Portland / Oregon •8 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
The service was outstanding. Our meals were quite tasty and the perfect size portions that didn't leave us feeling like we had to overeat. We really enjoyed watching the Christmas ships preparing for their voyage that night.
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Il TerrazzoPrice: Moderate• Italian• Southwest Portland
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4.6
S
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
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4.2

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South Waterfront

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Best Italian Restaurants in South Waterfront

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24 restaurants available nearby

1. Il Terrazzo

2. Nostrana

3. Dolly Olive

4. Serratto

5. Grand Amari

6. Oven and Shaker

7. clarklewis

8. Mama Mia Trattoria

9. The Star Portland

10. Piattino

See what locals rave about

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