James Beard Award-nominated chef Cathy Whims has introduced Enoteca Nostrana, a new wine bar alongside her famed Italian concept Nostrana in Portland, Oregon. Milanese design practice Memphis Group served as the inspiration for the design, which is characterized by bold geometry and an array of patterns.
Home to up to 3,000 bottles, a custom, two-story wine cellar is framed in steel at the heart of the interior and emits an inviting glow. Champagne cork-inspired barstools line the 15-seat quartz bar, while sound absorbing material wrap the walls in order to balance the acoustics of the atmosphere. Locally based architect Rick Potestio designed the bar’s detailed tilework, which spans the floors, stairs, and bar face. Bathrooms are also endowed with art installations like interactive murals that wash the walls in alternating red, green, and blue lights. Enoteca Nostrana also features two private dining rooms—the 25-seat Enoteca Basso on the main floor and the 35-seat Enoteca Alto on the mezzanine.
