I’ve been a fan of Chef Matthew Sigler since he arrived in Portland a few years ago – he’s been making my personal vote for best pastas in Portland. Recently, he made the move from Renata to open Il Solito, which is conveniently even more closely located to my house and by my favorite beer bar. They just opened this week on April 17, but I had a chance to try some of their dishes at a media preview, and I was there on opening night paying my own way. Il Solito is located downtown, at the previous Pazzo space as part of Hotel Vintage, at 627 SW Washington Street. Here’s a look at Il Solito PDX so far. I usually wait a little bit for a new restaurant before I give my thoughts, but some places seem to be firing on all cylinders right away – Il Solito appears to be one of them.
The space has been updated to have lots of light and feel airy, but at the same time with plenty of nods with framed photos, plates, Italian tiles, a nod to Italian family and nonna, Michelangelo’s David- of Italian American classic restaurants. There is a cheeky bit of decor intertwined though- a perfect representation of the intent of the menu, traditional and familiar but also unexpected fun modern touches.
I always have mixed feelings about whether to dine alone or with others. If I dine alone, then I don’t have to share the pastas – I never know which one is going to blow me away and that I want the whole dish. And there may be times I might appear just for a pasta dish. But, if I bring friends, then I can order even MORE food from the menu – there are sooo many dishes I have liked.
