Cafe Mingo in downtown Portland (be careful that you don't mix it up with Mingo in Hillsboro, also good, but long way away), is a casual, delightful little restaurant in NW. The staff are wonderful and courteous. I drink Port, and for a change I don't get the "baby glass" while everyone else has huge glasses of wine. The beef suga is an unreal dish that you want to eat with no one talking to you so you can fully enjoy it. Wonderful evening, every time we eat there. I do wish they took reservations for small groups, it is so busy on weekends that you can have quite a wait.

My friend and I took advantage of these dog days of summer to sit on the sidewalk patio and dine, which was just perfect. Even though people are walking by and some traffic, it is still pleasant. The Wait staff was friendly but not obtrusive or pompous, and really made it nice to enjoy a relaxing meal consisting of Crostini Trio: two of each so it's plentiful to share; one with pickles was so inspired and delicious, the BLT good, but the fishy one...not so good..maybe it was the stinky cheese but that's the one we didn't finish) Insalata Caprese (heirloom tomatoes and homemade mozzeralla, so fresh so yum). a nice Bottle of Barbera. I had the fresh pasta of the day- a pappardelle with Lamb, so good and also generous with the Lamb, which was so tender and perfectly spiced. My friend had the Sugo of Beef Penne, and it was enjoyed. We followed up with a Tiramisu to share; also lovely. I will definitely be back and hopefully often.

All around great vibe, good food and excellent happy hour. Great location. The ricotta beignets are fabulous. Try them with a caffe coretto and you will be in heaven.

Love everything about this place--except when I cannot get a table or seat at the bar and have to settle for somewhere else to eat....I start off with a loaf of their outstanding bread that soaks up the tastey olive oil. The bartender always picks out a great glass of wine for me to have with my obligatory meal consisting of the Insalata Mingo (best damn salad anywhere--romaine with a lemon garlic dressing) and their signature dish--penne al sugo di carne. Consistently delicious, great service, reasonably priced, and great ambience.