Leeward

"Housed in what was once a men’s department store in downtown Portland, Leeward is a contemporary, Italian restaurant where, like a good suit, everything is tailor-made. Almost the entire menu is prepared and baked in-house, whether that’s the focaccia or carte di musica that accompanies their homemade chicken liver mousse. You can’t go wrong here with any of their constantly rotating shareable plates like salty, crispy artichokes and butter-poached radishes. Or their freshly made pastas that range from light and pillowy sheep’s milk gnudi or the heartier pork and beef rigatoni bolognese. The dining room is large enough for celebrations but still feels spacious and warm, making it the perfect fit for any type of special occasion. While reservations book up quickly, there are plenty of bar seats and smaller tables that are saved for walk-ins." - Alana Dao

"Find respite from the notoriously windy section of Free Street at aptly named Leeward, where gorgeous plates of Maine scallop crudo and beef and pork ragu bolognese have made this pasta haven a fast favorite. Led by Jake and Raquel Stevens — whose resumes include Portland, Oregon’s beloved Beast and Portland, Maine’s beloved Drifter’s Wife, both now closed — Leeward also offers a smart selection of low-intervention wines to go with its house-made" - Stasia Brewczynski

"Jake Stevens of Maine pasta favorite Leeward, received nominations for Best Chef in New York State and the Northeast." - BySam Stone

"Housed in what was once a men’s department store in downtown Portland, Leeward is a pasta-centric restaurant where, like a good suit, everything is tailor-made. Almost the entire menu is prepared and baked in-house, whether that’s the focaccia and crackers, fresh pappardelle that’s filled with slowly braised beef cheeks, or the sorbetto and gelato for dessert. The dining room is spacious and warm, making it the perfect place for a special occasion." - Alana Dao 2, Team Infatuation

"Recently named a James Beard Award semifinalist for Best New Restaurant, Leeward has navigated its first two years in business with relative aplomb. Owners Raquel and Jake Stevens serve Italian fare, including handmade pasta and a rotating menu of small plates featuring seasonal and local ingredients. The chicken liver mousse and burrata are popular starters." - Kate McCarty