Directly across the plaza from its sibling steakhouse, Bistecca, Hey Luigi brings the Italian tradition of aperitivo hour to Portland's Slabtown neighborhood. The name is a nod to the owner’s father, and the whole place is built around that classic ritual of drinks and snacks. The space itself is dark and moody, designed to feel like a transportive Italian bar with a distinct Northwest edge. Inside, the room seats just 32 people, creating an intimate setting defined by vintage posters, a lush plant wall, and porcelain finishes. You’ll also see the owner’s personal cookbook collection worked into the decor, sitting alongside custom artwork.
The concept centers on spuntini – small plates meant to be paired with a drink before dinner, or to make a meal of. The menu starts with things like calamari and anchovy toast, but a core item is "Nonna's Bread," a family recipe that grounds the modern space in tradition. From there, it moves into a focused list of imported pastas and heartier dishes like mushroom risotto, though a solid burger is always an option. For dessert, there are glazed pistachio donuts and an adult ice cream float.
The cocktail list is central to the experience, mixing Italian classics with house creations that use Pacific Northwest ingredients. Expect drinks named after pasta shapes, like the "Bukatino," alongside a banana-forward rum drink called the "Evil Monkey" and a non-alcoholic "No! Groni." With its late weekend hours, the bar has become a go-to for date nights and late dinners, and patio seating opens up during the warmer months.
Hey Luigi Cocktail & Pasta Bar
