Our Story
Three generations of Italian cooking, one neighborhood kitchen.
Trattoria Modo was born in a tiny kitchen in Bologna, where Chef Elena Rossi learned to make pasta at her grandmother's side. Every Sunday, three generations gathered around a flour-dusted table, rolling tagliatelle by hand while the ragù simmered on the stove. Those afternoons taught Elena something that culinary school never could: that food is love made visible.
After years running kitchens in Milan, New York, and San Francisco, Elena and her husband Marco decided to open their own place — a trattoria in the truest sense of the word. Casual, welcoming, and deeply committed to the craft. They chose Portland for its obsessive food culture and commitment to local sourcing, and they opened the doors in spring of 2018.
Today, Trattoria Modo is a neighborhood anchor. The pasta is still made by hand every morning. The produce comes from farms within 50 miles. The wine list is small but thoughtful — mostly Italian, mostly family-run wineries. And on any given night, you'll find a mix of first dates, family celebrations, and regulars who've become friends.
Our Philosophy
We believe in the Italian tradition of cucina povera — making extraordinary food from simple, honest ingredients. Nothing on our menu requires a recipe you couldn't follow in a home kitchen. The difference is care: we make our own pasta, simmer our own stocks, and source ingredients at peak season from farmers we know by name. We don't take shortcuts, and we don't think you should either.
Meet the Team
The people behind every plate, every pour, and every warm welcome.
Elena Rossi
Executive Chef & Co-Owner
Born in Bologna, trained at ALMA, with stints at Osteria Francescana and Del Posto. Elena runs the kitchen with an exacting eye and a grandmother's warmth.
Marco Bianchi
General Manager & Co-Owner
Marco manages the front of house with effortless Italian charm. He curates the wine list, remembers every regular's name, and makes sure every guest leaves happy.
Lucia Verdi
Pastry Chef
Lucia's desserts are the talk of the neighborhood. A Portland native who trained in Florence, she brings local berries and Italian technique to every sweet plate.
Press & Recognition
Kind words from the food community.
“Trattoria Modo delivers rustic Italian cooking that feels both timeless and fresh — a neighborhood gem that punches well above its weight.”
“The handmade pasta at Trattoria Modo is some of the best in the city. Chef Elena Rossi's tagliatelle al ragù is a masterclass in restraint and depth.”