Caffe Mingo
Italian restaurant · Northwest District ·
Handmade pastas & classics with a Northwest touch
Handmade pastas & classics with a Northwest touch
"A longtime neighborhood staple that had been closed since being damaged in a fire last year is now officially closed permanently despite efforts to rebuild; the lot will be redeveloped and the operator, Michael Cronan, has retired from the restaurant business, per Bridgetown Bites." - Paolo Bicchieri
"After a fire on August 5, I learned the beloved Nob Hill Italian restaurant Caffe Mingo and its sibling bar Barba have closed indefinitely." - Janey Wong
"Opened in 1991 by owner Michael Cronan, the cozy Nob Hill Italian has a simple approach to Italian fare like fresh pastas and pizza and became a stalwart for special occasions such as birthday and anniversary dinners; it has closed indefinitely after a fire on the morning of August 5 that caused major damage to both it and its next-door sibling Barba, though no one was injured. Cronan told FOX 12 Oregon he hopes to reopen in six months, saying, "We’ll be back." A couple of longtime patrons have started a GoFundMe campaign to support Caffe Mingo’s 35 staff members." - Janey Wong
"Caffe Mingo’s legacy looms large over Portland’s restaurant scene — it is, after all, where Gumba’s Jesse Martinez once rolled pasta before opening his cart. The original restaurant continues to evoke warmth, tossing little gems with Caesar or gently stirring risotto with roasted seasonal mushrooms. Pasta is often the move here, be it penne with Chianti-and-espresso braised beef or cheese-filled ravioli tossed in brown butter, and the restaurant’s wine cellar is well-stocked with potential pairings. Next door, the restaurant’s sibling knocks out some next-level pastas and salads, as well." - Eater Staff
"Nob Hill’s Caffe Mingo is revered for its pasta, but on a hot day a bowl of starch may not be for everyone. Instead, opt for the restaurant’s take on the Spanish standard: The restaurant’s chilled watermelon and tomato gazpacho arrives topped with Oregon blueberries and micro greens. Mingo boasts a terrific, largely Italian wine by the glass list — don’t hesitate to ask your server for a pairing recommendation." - Nathan Williams