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This charming restaurant brings a touch of Italy to Lake Oswego

If you’re looking for authentic Italian food, look no further: Riccardo’s is the real deal! This small, intimate restaurant in Lake Oswego has been owned and operated by Georgette and Riccardo Spaccarelli since 1980, and many of the recipes used today come from “Nonna Rica,” Riccardo’s grandmother. The couple still travels to Italy every year to taste wine, bringing back only the best of the best.

Penne
Penne, Nichole Neupert Google Local

In the warmer months, you have two great dining options at Riccardo’s, either inside the cozy ristorante or outside on the terracotta-tiled patio (“La Terrazza”), decorated with hanging baskets of flowers and a central fountain. The patio is so beautiful, you won’t believe you’re just a few steps away from a busy road. There’s simply no better place to be on a beautiful, warm day.

The terrace
La Terrazza, Riccardo’s Google Local

Offering both lunch and dinner, Riccardo’s prides itself on serving only the most authentic Italian dishes. For an appetizer, try the soup of the day or the crowd favorite, “Capesante ai Ferri,” made with fresh sea comb seared on the iron and served with a savory celeriac puree and salsa verde.

Veal cutlets
Veal chops, Dan Snyder Google Local

Two of the most popular dishes on the dinner menu are the “Lasagna Delle Marche” made with layers of fresh egg pasta, Riccardo’s meat sauce, besciamella and fresh parmigiano reggiano and pecorino romano cheeses, and the “Ravioli Della Casa,” a sacchetti al porcino pasta filled with porcini mushrooms, ricotta, mozzarella, Swiss, fontina and parmigiano cheeses, breadcrumbs, vegetables, herbs and spices, and served in a sage butter sauce. Regulars also love the “Costatine di Agnello,” made with Oregon Anderson Ranch rack of lamb, seasoned with rosemary and spices, caramelized onions and a demi-glace, then served with polenta and sautéed vegetables on the side.

Lasagna
Lasagna, Shawn H Google Local

For dessert, try the “Torte di Amore”, a double chocolate frosted layer cake, or their delicious tiramisu. They also have a lighter but equally good lunch menu with soups, salads, paninis and pastas. And if you prefer to stay home, they also offer a bake-at-home menu, where you can get full lasagna dinners for two or four people, including soup or salad, bread and a bottle of wine.

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Linguine
Linguine, Shawn H Google Local

Riccardo’s also has an extensive wine list with a variety of Italian imports that you can order by the glass or bottle, and your knowledgeable server can point you in the right direction if you need help choosing. The wine list is so long that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better selection of Italian wines everywhere in the Northwest! Plus, every second Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. the restaurant hosts a wine tasting with an antipasti platter for just $20.

wine bottles
wine bottles, Riccardo’s Google Local

And as if the exceptional food and wine weren’t enough, you’ll be blown away by the professional staff who go out of their way to make you feel welcome and like family. The drinks, starters and mains are perfectly timed so you never feel rushed and can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as the delicious food is magically presented to your table at just the right moment.

Tiramisu
Tiramisu, M Nicer Google Local

Riccardo’s is a high-end eatery, so be prepared to spend a little money, especially if everyone at the table is getting drinks and dessert. This makes it a great option for date night, a party, or just a nice family meal. They take reservations for both lunch and dinner, which is recommended, especially if you’re celebrating a birthday or anniversary or are traveling with a larger group. Parking can be limited, so carpooling is encouraged or give yourself a few extra minutes to find a spot on the street if the small lot is full.

Lamb
Lamb, No Google Local

Across the parking lot you’ll find Riccardo’s, which also runs Cafe Marzocca and Vin Italy, a coffee shop and wine shop open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Opening hours:

  • Lunch: Monday – Friday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
  • Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Address: 16035 Boones Ferry Road, Lake Oswego

Telephone: (503) 636 4104

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