Tucked into Northwest Portland, Bistecca is a wood-fired steakhouse that blends Pacific Northwest flavors with Italian elegance. With its warm design, glowing grill, and cocktail-forward menu, it’s the kind of place that works equally well for a celebratory dinner, date night, or a night out with friends.
Bistecca is helmed by Chef Gabriel Pascuzzi, winner of Top Chef Portland, who brings his Italian-American roots and Pacific Northwest sensibilities to every dish. The result is a menu that feels both refined and approachable, with a distinct personality you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
What We Ordered
Bistecca’s menu is all about bold flavors and thoughtful details, from creative cocktails to refined small plates and indulgent entrées. On our visit, we tried a little of everything—drinks, appetizers, mains, and sides—and left seriously impressed.
Cocktails
The cocktails were easily a highlight of the evening—among the best I’ve had in Portland.
- Fragola Festa – their take on a spicy margarita, layered with strawberry and heat for the perfect balance.
- Cosmo – made with their own house-made limoncello, adding a bright, citrusy punch to a classic.
- Aperol Spritz – part of a spritz menu with multiple options, leaning into the Italian aperitivo spirit.
- Spring Sunset (zero-proof) – crafted with no-proof gin, strawberry, and an egg foam. Light, refreshing, and every bit as thoughtful as the boozy options.
Appetizers
We kicked things off with a trio of starters:
- Crab Cakes – golden and flavorful, with a crisp exterior.
- Lobster Rolls – buttery, decadent, and indulgent.
- Hamachi Crudo with Watermelon – the standout of the bunch, offering a perfect balance of delicate fish and juicy sweetness.
Entrées & Sides
The main courses showcased both refinement and creativity.
- Filet – beautifully seasoned and perfectly cooked.
- Scallops – plated elegantly, with a sear that made them as striking visually as they were delicious.
- Burger – unlike any other in Portland, stuffed with oxtail and foie gras for a rich, indulgent twist.
- Gnocchi with Shaved Truffles – silky, decadent, and luxurious.
For sides, we ordered:
- Wood-Fired Mushrooms – smoky and savory.
- Mashed Potatoes – creamy comfort food at its best.
- Italian Elotes – a fun, flavorful spin on a classic.
Ambiance
Bistecca’s design walks the line between sophisticated and welcoming. The wood-fire grill sets a cozy tone, while the polished space feels elevated without being stuffy. Service was warm and attentive, and the overall vibe made the evening feel like something special without crossing into pretentious.
Final Thoughts on Bistecca
For those looking for more than just a steakhouse, Bistecca is a standout addition to Portland’s dining scene. With a Top Chef winner at the helm, the cocktails are exceptional, the menu offers a mix of indulgence and finesse, and the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.
Whether you’re drawn in by the wood-fired steaks, inventive cocktails, or simply the chance to try a burger stuffed with foie gras, Bistecca is well worth a visit. We’ll definitely be back to explore more of the menu and relive some of these standout dishes.