X
10Jan

Visit One of Portland's Gems, Ava Gene's

Whether you are a Portland native or tourist, there are a few restaurants you’ve either been to or heard of and been told you need to go to. One of these essential Portland restaurants is Ava Gene’s.

Located in the heart of Portland’s Division Street district, Ava Gene’s is a gem. Started by chef, owner, and Portland celebrity Joshua McFaddan, Ava Gene’s is a gorgeous restaurant with a Roman inspired menu that uses the best local produce and meats grown and raised by farmers and ranchers in the Pacific Northwest. Walking in, guests are greeted with sparkling white marble floors, many hanging globe lights, and a darker yet inviting ambiance.

The waiters are full of knowledge and more than willing to help you decide what to order on Ava Gene’s menu that changes daily due to what is in season. Every dish at Ava Gene’s is driven by one or two perfectly in-season ingredients. The starters are focused on different vegetables including options like fried cauliflower with brussels sprouts and broccoli in chili honey, focaccia with kale pesto, and a squash based dish. Ava Gene’s also has a delicious and extensive salad menu, which seems to be constantly coming out from the kitchen and placed on tables. The salad sampler board is a great way to share with others in your party and get a taste of multiple salads.

Ava Gene's in Portland

We can’t forget about the star of the show, the pasta. Ava Gene’s pastas are handmade with grains and flours sourced from local farmers, and some milled in house. The flavors are unique and unlike pasta you will experience anywhere else. The pasta dishes are also ever-changing based on what is in season, such as their current offerings including spaghetti with Manila clams, garlic, thyme, potato and ramps, ravioli with ricotta and kale pesto, or Cavatelli with pork sausage and leeks. The flavors of the Ava Gene’s pasta truly explode in your mouth, and you can’t help but smile as you take each bite.

While Ava Gene’s is not cheap, we recommend sharing pasta and eating family style. Also, take advantage of their regional Italian wine list and their creative cocktail menu. The dessert menu, of course, is also a winner. Featuring items like Tiramisu, Gelato, and Pana Cotta, this menu, like the others, is also dependent on what is in season.

Ava Gene’s recently started their weekend brunch menu, but definitely try for dinner first! The dining experience is one of the best in Portland, and the service is unmatched. Though, don’t think you can just walk in and get a table. Reservations for Ava Gene’s go fast, so be sure to check their website at least a week ahead of when you plan to go. If you are looking for some of the best food, and the best dining experience, Ava Gene’s is it.

Ava Gene's in Portland, Oregon

Ava Gene’s

3377 SE Division St.
Portland, OR

Visit Site Portland, Oregon Restaurants

About the Author

Related

Upgrade While Saving Money at Crossroads!

Upgrade While Saving Money at Crossroads!

Crossroads was founded in 1991 by Jerry Block & Chip Gerken, one of the first to make a break in the...

Read More >
Paddle the Day Away in Hood River

Paddle the Day Away in Hood River

One of the most popular destinations in the Gorge is Hood River. A little less than an hour and a ha...

Read More >
Wine, Homemade Candles, Flowers, and Fun with Flora Dee Candle Co.

Wine, Homemade Candles, Flowers, and Fun with Flora Dee Candle Co.

Danielle Director, an event coordinator by day & candle maker. Daniel knows how to throw an event, &...

Read More >
This Dessert Themed Salon Leaves You Feeling Sweet!

This Dessert Themed Salon Leaves You Feeling Sweet!

Elle says her love for painting nails started at a young age & grew into her passion. Elle started S...

Read More >
Family Fun at PDX Flea & Food!

Family Fun at PDX Flea & Food!

The last Sunday of every month over 40 artists, makers and creators of vintage, handmade, and locall...

Read More >
Buffalo Exchange in Portland

Buffalo Exchange in Portland

Buffalo Exchange started in 1974, as a way to create a fashionable clothing “Exchange”. In the pas...

Read More >

Get in the Know

Name

Article Search

Article Categories