An authentic taste of Italy is available only a block from the University of Oregon campus. Beppe and Gianni’s Trattoria has been a staple for fresh, handmade Italian food since its opening in 1998. The restaurant is owned by Beppe Machi and John “Gianni” Barofsky, who have now worked together for more than 20 years.

The pair also own La Perla Pizzeria, a more casual dining space on 13th and Pearl specializing in Neapolitan pizza.  Sicily-born Machi, who moved to Eugene in 1979, believes the success of Beppe and Gianni’s is due to the simplicity of the meals.