Fratelli - Pearl District

A rustic atmosphere with stucco walls and candlelit tabletops, this Italian restaurant in the Pearl District is perfect for a special occasion. Intimate seating provides the ideal setting for a romantic dining experience. The menu highlights fresh, local ingredients in hearty, traditional, northern Italian cuisine. Yummy dishes like the pan seared rockfish with tomato, olives, and extra virgin olive oil or the seared chicken wrapped in prosciutto with parmesan polenta and mushroom jus make this a mouthwatering location to visit. Desserts do not disappoint and neither does the extensive wine list. Definitely a place to consider for Valentine's Day (during which they will have a special "aphrodisiac"prix fixe menu for $39 per person, call for reservations) or just anytime you want to have a special evening out :)

For more info, go to:
www.fratellicucina.com

Pastini Pastaria - NW/NE/SE/SW Portland, Beaverton, Bridgeport Village,

A locally born chain, these quick and easy Italian restaurants pack in families and couples every day for yummy meals. Starters include multiple types of bruschetta, antipasto plates and a large variety of salads. For the main course, options like rigatoni con chicken cacciatore, baked ziti with grilled italian sausage, fettuccini alfredo are all on the menu to tempt your tastebuds. Grilled panini and other sandwiches are also available for those who want a non-pasta option.

There is also a kids menu with items like pizza bread, macaroni and cheese, and chicken fingers with veggies. All kids meals are $5.50 and includes a soda. All restaurants are open for lunch and dinner. The entire menu is available to-go, so feel free to call ahead if you're in a hurry. Pastini is also available for catering.

For more info, go to:
http://www.pastini.net/

Mama Mia Trattoria - SW Portland

As an Italian girl myself, this delicious southern italian style cooking is right up my alley! Homemade mozzarella, handmade pasta...mmm! Their focus is on the dishes made by southern Italian immigrants who adapted the food of their motherland to the available ingredients in their new American homeland. Everything is made from scratch, using the best possible ingredients and they use local products whenever possible.

The candlelit tables are cozy, and the dishes are generously portioned, which makes it a great place for groups. It's definitely a place where families can pass around the plates to share. Stuffed portobello mushrooms, manicotti, gnocchi, tiramisu and an ample wine list are just a few things on the menu here. They also have a kids menu with items like spaghetti and meatballs, pizza, and ravioli. Enjoy a happy hour? All of the food on their happy hour menu is $3 with a beverage purchase from 3pm-7pm weekdays.

For more info, go to:
www.mamamiatrattoria.com/