Nostrana in Portland
Located in Portland’s lively Buckman neighborhood, Nostrana is a celebrated destination for Italian cuisine. Since opening in 2005, the restaurant—founded by chef Cathy Whims and her husband, David West—has become known for rustic Italian dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and a commitment to fresh, local ingredients. Its philosophy draws on the Italian concept of “nostrani,” meaning “ours,” and emphasizes locality and seasonality.
Nostrana combines Italian culinary traditions with Pacific Northwest ingredients and has helped shape Portland’s dining scene. This guide covers the restaurant’s history and visitor information, as well as nearby cultural landmarks: the Oregon Pioneer Monument, Pioneer Courthouse Square, and the Oregon Historical Museum. For more about Nostrana, see Portland By Mouth and Buona Domenica.
History and culinary influence
Cathy Whims and Nostrana’s founding
Chef Cathy Whims has contributed to Portland’s culinary evolution since the late 1970s. Her early work at Produce Row Cafe helped cement the city’s focus on locally sourced ingredients (Around Portland Tours). She later rose from dishwasher to chef and co-owner at Genoa, a fine-dining Italian restaurant that introduced Portlanders to all-evening Northern Italian feasts (Portland Monthly).
In 2005, Whims and West opened Nostrana at 1401 SE Morrison Street, transforming a former grocery store into a neighborhood trattoria (Portland By Mouth). Whims’ Italian travels and mentorship under Marcella Hazan informed the restaurant’s approach: highlight the quality of local ingredients through simple, rustic preparations. Whims explains:
“Local is the most powerful selling word in the market and it is never taken in vain. In Italian, it is nostrani or nostrane... whose literal meaning is ours. To shoppers, ours means it’s better because it has travelled a short distance to the market, hence it’s fresher” (Buona Domenica).
Place in Portland’s dining scene
When Nostrana opened, Portland was beginning to gain national recognition for its food scene. The restaurant became a leader among Portland’s Italian eateries, praised for thoughtfully prepared dishes and a welcoming atmosphere (OregonLive). It has also trained future culinary talent and helped launch other concepts, including Enoteca Nostrana and Oven and Shaker (Buona Domenica).
Nostrana has introduced industry practices such as automatic gratuity for more equitable staff compensation (Around Portland Tours). Its Negroni Social also inspired Portland’s broader Negroni Week celebrations (Thrillist).
What to see and do
At Nostrana
The menu includes the Insalata Nostrana, a radicchio salad, wood-fired pizzas, and handmade pastas. It changes with the seasons, reflecting the restaurant’s focus on local ingredients (Portland By Mouth). Nostrana also has a patio area.
Oregon Pioneer Monument
Erected in 1902, the Oregon Pioneer Monument is a bronze tribute to Portland’s early settlers, located in Chapman Square. Bas-reliefs on the monument depict scenes from Oregon’s settlement era.
The monument is a site for heritage celebrations, community gatherings, and seasonal events such as Pioneer Day, which features music and storytelling. Nearby attractions include the Portland Art Museum, Pioneer Courthouse Square, and Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Known as “Portland’s Living Room,” Pioneer Courthouse Square is a central public plaza and gathering place. Built in 1984 on the site of Portland’s first downtown post office and next to the historic Pioneer Courthouse, it reflects the city’s pioneering heritage.
The square hosts concerts, markets, and seasonal festivals such as “Music in the Square.” The fountain and the “Allow Me” statue are popular photo spots. Visit the official site for current event information.
Oregon Historical Museum
The Oregon Historical Museum covers the state’s past, with exhibits about Indigenous cultures, pioneer history, and contemporary developments. Permanent and rotating displays include “Oregon’s Indigenous Peoples” and “Pioneer Life,” as well as special exhibitions on the Oregon Trail and local artists. Check the museum website for current programs.
Practical visiting information
Nostrana
- Location 1401 SE Morrison Street, in Portland’s Buckman neighborhood.
- Hours Dinner Tuesday through Sunday, typically 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with last seating around 9:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
- Reservations Strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during special events. Book online via OpenTable or by phone. Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.
- Getting there and parking Accessible by car, public transit, and bike. Parking is primarily on the street and can be limited at peak times; nearby lots and garages offer additional options.
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms. Guests with specific accessibility needs should contact Nostrana in advance.
- Current information Check Nostrana’s website or social media for the most current hours.
Oregon Pioneer Monument
- Location Chapman Square, downtown Portland.
- Hours Daily, dawn to dusk.
- Admission Free; no tickets required.
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, with paved walkways; public transportation is nearby.
Check the City of Portland Parks & Recreation website for possible guided tours and event updates.
Pioneer Courthouse Square
- Location SW Yamhill & Broadway, Portland, OR.
- Hours Daily, 5:00 AM to midnight.
- Admission Free.
- Accessibility Wheelchair accessible, with accessible transit stops nearby.
- Getting there and parking Easily reached by public transportation, including MAX Light Rail and buses. Nearby parking garages are available.
Oregon Historical Museum
- Location 1200 SW Park Ave.
- Hours Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Thursdays until 8:00 PM. Closed Mondays and major holidays.
- Admission $15 for adults; $12 for seniors and students; free for children under 12 and members.
- Tickets Available online or at the door.
- Accessibility and amenities Fully accessible, with elevators, accessible restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.
- Getting there and parking Easily reached by public transit. Parking is available in nearby garages.
Tips
- For Nostrana, reservations are recommended. Check current hours and review the menu before visiting; follow the restaurant online for updates and special events.
- For the Oregon Pioneer Monument, bring a camera; early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the park and nearby attractions. Restrooms and parking are a short walk away.
- At Pioneer Courthouse Square, visit early in the day for a less crowded experience.
- At the Oregon Historical Museum, buying tickets online can help avoid lines. Guided tours offer deeper insights, and at least two hours is recommended for a visit.
- For a richer exploration of Portland’s history and culture, consider pairing a meal at Nostrana with visits to the city’s historical sites. Consider downloading apps like Audiala to deepen your experience.
Nearby places
Near Nostrana, the Alberta Arts District is known for galleries, boutiques, and street art; Mississippi Avenue offers historic charm and vibrant nightlife; and the Eastbank Esplanade has scenic walking and biking along the river.
Other notable Italian restaurants in Portland include Mucca Osteria and Cascina Spinasse.
Explore Portland’s historical and cultural sites, including the Oregon Pioneer Monument, Pioneer Courthouse Square, and the Oregon Historical Museum. For more planning resources, see Travel Portland and City of Portland Parks & Recreation.
A map is available for directions to Nostrana.
FAQ: Visiting Nostrana
Q: Does Nostrana accept walk-ins?
A: Walk-ins are occasionally accepted, but reservations are recommended.
Q: What is the dress code?
A: Smart casual attire is appropriate.
Q: Are gluten-free options available?
A: Yes, some gluten-free dishes are offered. Notify the staff of dietary needs.
Q: Are children welcome?
A: Yes, and a kid-friendly menu is available.
Q: Is Nostrana open for lunch?
A: No, only dinner service is offered.
Q: Does Nostrana have outdoor seating?
A: Yes, there is a pleasant patio area.
