Mangia! The Best Italian in Eugene

By: Jessica Force | August 11 2011
Posted in Eugene - Find It - Eugene

Photo: iStock user fotohunter

You don’t have to fly across the pond to taste some of the best Italian food. Simply explore the Italian eateries that Eugene, Oregon has to offer. From modern, local and seasonal dishes, to simple, traditional and authentic family recipes, the Willamette Valley has enough Italian variety to keep you full and coming back for more!

Ambrosia, Best Variety:
If you’re looking for a restaurant that will provide you with delicious Italian food with a modern twist, Ambrosia is the spot for you. Located at 174 East Broadway in Downtown Eugene, the crowd tends verge on the “adult” side, but the menu caters to all ages. From the potato gnocchi sautéed with fresh, local tomatoes, capers and basil, to the Pizza Estate (Fresh Mozzarella, tomatoes, arugula and roasted garlic), Ambrosia has it all. They also offer a fantastic Happy Hour Menu with tasty small bites at affordable prices. Fun fact: Ambrosia is home to the first wood-burning oven in Eugene, making it even more traditionally irresistible.

Mazzi’s, Best Atmosphere: 
Trying to find a delectable Italian dish and an atmosphere to go with it? Go to Mazzi’s. Situated next to The Hideaway Bakery off of Amazon Parkway at 3377 E Amazon, Mazzi’s is one of the best Italian/Sicilian eateries the Willamette Valley has to offer. Mazzi’s began when the son of Tommaso “Mazzi” Ernandes wished to keep his father’s Sicilian heritage alive, and has done just that. The dishes, originating from authentic Favignana recipes, add to Mazzi’s mission: to make you feel right at home. You’ll definitely feel cozy and comfortable with the tantalizing aroma of fresh baked bread and pasta made on-site. Try the organic minestrone soup for an appetizer, and the mouth-watering lasagne for your main meal.

Noli, Quickest Bite:
If you need to satisfy your craving for authentic, rich Italian food (and quickly!), head on over to Noli at 296 E 5th Avenue in Eugene’s Fifth Street Market. With the majority of their pasta dishes ranging from $8-10, both your stomach and wallet will appreciate the meal. Try the Spinach Fettuccine with Bolognese with meat sauce, and topped with fresh basil and cheese (for only $9!). All pasta dishes come with a side of fresh, warm bread. If you’d like something a bit lighter, try the Grilled Prosciutto Wrapped Salmon over greens, with balsamic vinaigrette and Portobello mushroom topped with fresh tomato-basil pesto salsa crufa. Davide Mulone, co-owner of Noli, believes that “food should be a pleasurable experience; a kind of art.”

Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria, Most Authentic:
One of my favorite Italian restaurants in all of Eugene is Beppe & Gianni’s Trattoria. Located just beyond historic Hayward Field at 1646 E 19th Avenue, this inviting space has it all. When you first sit down to eat, order the Bruschetta Mista: bread freshly roasted on the grill, with an assortment of toppings which include fresh tomatoes with basil and garlic, olive tapenade, and marinated Italian beans. Make sure you ask about their daily specials, which are also superbly delectable. For an entrée, order the Pasta Carbonara, with whole egg, crispy pancetta, and yummy cream—a salty, cream-filled dish sure to bring you back for more.

Osteria Sfizio, Most Modern:
One of the latest Italian additions to Eugene’s long list of eateries is Osteria Sfizio. Sfizio is located at 105 Oakway Center, adding to its modern yet authentic atmosphere. The menu strives to remain local and fresh, featuring dishes such as the artisanal salumi with mustard & pickles or the local salad mix with strawberries & balsamic vinaigrette. Most dishes are available in half orders, to satisfy either your small hunger, or your Italian sized all-you-can-eat mentality.