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Portland › Portland › Nostrana
NostranaB+Worth Trying
1401 SE Morrison St #101, Portland, OR 97214
· Italian restaurant, Cocktail bar, Northern Italian restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1976 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Destination Italian with standout wood-fired pizza, handmade pastas, and polished ambiance, but expect a 22% service charge, premium prices, and occasional service inconsistency.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Nostrana delivers exceptional wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas in an elegant, lively dining room that draws repeat guests and special-occasion diners across Portland. However, inconsistent execution on busy nights—cold pasta, pacing issues, service lapses—prevents grade A territory, and the 22% automatic service charge creates friction despite quality ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings. A strong neighborhood destination for those who prioritize pizza excellence and ambiance over flawless reliability.
Restaurant Summary
Nostrana feels like a polished neighborhood classic where the room hums and the wood oven glows. Service often comes across as warm and welcoming, and many guests linger over pastas and wine flights. One diner put it simply: "The pizza stopped our table mid-sentence." However, there is a 22 percent service charge on all checks, and a handful of guests describe inconsistent service on busy nights. The cooking leans Italian tradition with Northwest ingredients rather than theatrics. Expect blistered pizzas, handmade pastas, trout and rotisserie chicken, plus the occasional gnocchi night. It suits diners who enjoy elevated comfort and a thoughtful wine list more than experimental cuisine. Most nights deliver deep satisfaction, though pacing and execution can wobble at peaks. Families can do well here if they steer toward Margherita pizza, simple linguine with tomato butter, or sides like mashed potatoes. There is no stated kids menu, but the pizza-first approach works; adventurous eaters can branch to trout or tagliata. Prices are premium and the service charge applies, so set expectations before bringing a crew.
At a Glance
- Standout wood-fired pizzas and handmade pastas
- Elegant, lively room ideal for dates and celebrations
- 22% automatic service charge with separate tip line causes confusion
- Execution inconsistency reported on busy nights (cold pasta, pacing)
- Pricing is high for Portland; plan spending before ordering
What Sets It Apart
- wood_fired_pizza_program
- award_winning_reputation
- northwest_sourcing_with_italian_roots
What People Love
- Crackly, blistered pizza crusts
- Thoughtful wine pairings and flights
- Gnocchi specials that feel handmade and tender
- Warm lighting and inviting design
Points of Concern
- 22% service charge added to all checks; some guests miss the notice and also tip again
- Service inconsistency: occasional rudeness or inattentiveness amid many great interactions
- Pacing issues at peaks: cold pasta or courses landing together
- Pricing is genuinely premium ($30+ pastas, $22+ pizzas) which may surprise casual diners
- Review patterns are consistent with polarized views around service charge and value; experiences vary by night
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$62-88 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For kids or conservative palates: Margherita pizza ($22) and Linguine with tomato butter ($32)
- For seafood fans: Idaho Trout ($39) or Cacciucco ($24)
- For vegetarians: Funghi verde pizza ($25) and butter lettuce salad ($18)
Perfect For
- Date night with wine and pizza
- Celebrating an anniversary or birthday
- Pizza-focused family dinner
- Out-of-towners seeking polished Portland Italian
Location Insights
Area: Inner eastside mixed commercial and creative corridor with breweries, studios, and popular dining spots attracting locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; standard urban vigilance at night.
Nearby: Near Belmont and Hawthorne districts, offices by day and lively restaurant-bar scene at night.
BuckmanBuckman is a lively neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial spaces, known for its eclectic dining options, art galleries, and a youthful, hip atmosphere. The dining scene here is diverse, featuring everything from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, often frequented by locals and visitors seeking quality and innovation.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–21:00
Tuesday17:00–21:00
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday16:30–22:00
Saturday16:30–22:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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