While New Yorkers continue to boast about their oh-so-special Italian restaurants, Portland has built itself a remarkably robust Italian food scene, from wood-fired pizzas to handmade pastas. Beyond the typical red sauce fare, Portland has captured the Italian dedication to exceptional ingredients, from local artisan polenta at the legendary Nostrana to peak season vegetables at the illustrious Ava Gene’s.

In recent years, the scene has only grown an improved as food carts open into brick and mortars and new spots open from out-of-towners or longstanding Portland chefs. Below, you’ll find Portland’s most exceptional Italian osterias and trattorias; if you’re look for plain-old pizza, this map might be more your speed.