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Mingo

4.5 star rating
based on 14 reviews

Category: Italian

Neighborhood: Southwest Portland
12600 SW Crescent St
Ste 120

Beaverton, OR 97005
(503) 646-6464
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Hours:

Mon. 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Tue-Fri. 11:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Sat. 5:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Sun. 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Parking:
Street, Garage, Private Lot
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Price Range:
$$
Attire:
Casual
Good for Groups:
Yes
Good for Kids:
Yes
Takes Reservations:
Yes
Delivery:
No
Take-out:
Yes
Waiter Service:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes
Outdoor Seating:
Yes
Good for:
Dinner
Alcohol:
Full Bar

14 reviews for Mingo

Review Highlights   

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"The Mingo Drop cocktail is perfectly lemony not too sweet." (in 4 reviews)
user photo
"It's right on the MAX line, and the entrance actually faces the courtyard…" (in 4 reviews)
user photo
"Dessert, Cream cooked with Vanilla bean and chilled, served with seasonal…" (in 4 reviews)
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One of the Business' Favorite Reviews What's This?

Photo of Nisha D.

Elite '09

17

104

Nisha D.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
9/25/2008

Mmm tasty simple Italian food with excellent service. You could tell each detail of each salad/entree/dessert was planned to perfection. I had the Salad Mingo, halibut, and the panna cotta. I usually don't like custardy desserts but since I've heard so much about their panna cotta, I decided to give it a go. Mmmm it was like ice cream. So good! I got mine with blackberries which was a nice touch.

We had a large company group (~35) and they managed to serve all of us in a timely manner and were really careful about making sure we were done with each entree before giving us the next. The pinot noir was excellent, but I don't know which one I got.

Definitely try this place! Even if it means coming out to Beaverton.

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Photo of Daniel H.

 

5

29

Daniel H.

Beaverton, OR

4 star rating
11/25/2009

I've been wanting to check this place out for awhile now, so the baby mama and I went there last night.

I've never actually been to this little development in downtown Beaverton. Parking was okay--had to hunt a bit to find a spot, but it looks like they're still expanding the lot.

When we checked in, the place was 90% full, and we were offered a table immediately (we did have reservations.) The maitre d' suggested that if we wanted to wait just a bit, he might have a booth opening up shortly. We opted to grab a seat at the bar and wait for the booth. It did take us a bit to get a drink at the bar. The bartender seemed more interested in talking to the guy next to me than taking our drink order. But, she eventually did, and we got our drinks. A Ketel One and tonic and a Spanish coffee. Both were acceptable... Not too weak, but not heartily poured either.

The patrons in the booth were enjoying their post-dining banter, so when another table opened up, the maitre d' offered it to us. We decided to wait a bit longer for the booth. The booth patrons showed no signs of leaving, so when a table by the window opened up, the maitre d' offered it to us, and this time we accepted. I am one of those people who prefers to be comfortable when he eats, and sitting at a table in the middle of the room has never felt comfortable to me. Call me crazy. But the window table was just fine.

Our server arrived promptly (with a little appetizer,) and went over the menu with us in great detail. My dining partner had quite a few questions about the menu, and the server was patient and informative (perfect customer service.) A formaggi pizza and gnocchi were ordered, bread was brought out promptly, and more drinks were delivered.

The food was good. I didn't try the pizza, but the gnocchi was a tasty dish. Different, in that it's not made with potatoes, but good.

I'm not sure the food was worth the price tag, but the service definitely was. It was obvious that everyone working here actually made an effort to serve the customers (the bartender might be an exception, but I won't judge someone from one experience.) They were friendly, helpful, and hospitable.

So... Looking for good Italian food in Beaverton with exceptional service? Check out Mingo--you won't be disappointed.

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Photo of Bryan R.

 

0

1

Bryan R.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
10/15/2009

Ever since one of my clients took me to Mingo for lunch a few years ago, I've insisted on going here every time I have a meeting in Beaverton. The artichoke ravioli is definitely a favorite, though I've never been disappointed with anything on the menu. The cocktails are great, and it's one place I can always count on to have Campari on-hand.

Service is always excellent and love the outdoor seating.

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Photo of Nancy L.

 

21

61

Nancy L.

Beaverton, OR

4 star rating
8/12/2009

Beaverton needed this more upscale, non-chain, dining option. At first I thought it would be too fancy, but hubby and I quickly felt comfortable. Beautiful setting, hubby and I  were so fortunate to go on a day when we  could appreciate the gorgeous landscaping b/c they opened the windows/doors.

Our waiter was very attentive and helpful with suggestions. The food was colorful and cooked perfectly. Dessert was perfect. It all made for a perfect anniversary dinner!

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Photo of Katy L.

 

0

7

Katy L.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
11/4/2009

I love their happy hour.  Bar maven, Monica, makes a mean cocktail and is very knowledgeable on their wines.  They always have a very nice red or white for only $4.00/glass.  New on the menu are meatballs, which were very tasty.  The only minor complaint I have is you get only 2 meatballs (they are very small) and for $6.00 there should have been at least 3.  But as I said, they were delicious.  They are now open for lunch, which I'm very happy about.  The bar is small and adjacent to the beautiful dining room.  Service is always exceptional and  a favorite place to meet friends after work.

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Photo of Ellen L.

 

1

9

Ellen L.

Hillsboro, OR

2 star rating
8/13/2009

In a phrase: Well... it was all edible.

I was lured in by the rave reviews and the on-MAX location at the crescent.  The decor is interesting and I'm sure it's super charming when the garage doors are opened to the patio, but what good is there to say about the expensive FOOD?  

The food was like if they served fancy italian food on planes.  As we left we chuckled at the large stack of blankets near the door.  Should have asked the stewardess*cough*waitress for one at our chilly table.  Not to brag--but we make way better gnocchi at home.. who'd pay $16 for that twice?  Ick!  Don't order the imported Italian beer either.  The house bread and olive oil gets my approval.

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Photo of Catherine G.

 

1

39

Catherine G.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
3/23/2009

Very nice layout and friendly knowledgable waitstaff. The Mingo Drop cocktail is perfectly lemony not too sweet.

Without meaning to I had a great vegetarian meal with the mushroom crepes and artichoke ravioli. Both were nicely done. For dessert I had the dark chocolate hazelnut torte which was fantastic but so rich I had to take some home with me (darn!).

I liked this restaurant for its location and because, unlike the other Mingo, they take reservations which makes a Saturday night stress free. The only drawback for us was sitting next to a table with a small child and an infant. The concrete floors mean their fussing and noise echoes. Not romantic. Still we'll go back.

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Photo of jan m.

 

5

13

jan m.

Aloha, OR

5 star rating
10/12/2008

What would I do without Mingo?  I'd probably have to move.  Cry, then move.  

My husband and I have been dining here frequently over the past 4 years.  It is easily the restaurant we've eaten at most since living in the area, which I guess makes it our favorite.  Yes, it has great food, great service and great wine and cocktails.  But one of the most remarkable and unusual things about this establishment is the consistency of the quality and service.  Many of the folks who work there have been around since our first visit (and probably from the beginning).  That says a lot to me about this place, and everyone is always so darn happy and friendly.

I love that Mingo always has items on the menu that don't make me feel guilty about eating out.  Many dishes are simply prepared and use olive oil based sauces instead of lots of butter or cream (but they have those too).

Last night's meal consisted of a spinach salad with pears, hazelnuts and shiitake mushrooms, perfectly balanced in a nicely acidic dressing.  The grilled scallops were cooked perfectly, infused with the flavor of bay leaves sandwiched between.  Lots of yummy flavors in a simple yet satisfying veggie-orzo pasta bed.  

Thank you, Mingo, for being so dependable over the years!

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Photo of marlynn s.

 

10

14

marlynn s.

Portland, OR

5 star rating
4/18/2008

When we moved to the burbs, I mourned the loss of easy access to luscious upscale Italian eateries. Then I stumbled upon Mingo West. It is absolutely my favorite place to have a nice dinner in the burbs. (decarli is #2 only because I have just been there once).

My husband and I go to Mingo West for date nights. I've had work lunches and dinners here. It's a great girls' night out spot. I've taken the kids here, and when it's nice out, it's even more family friendly because you can sit outside and the kids can run around the little "park" area if (when) they get restless. You can dress up, or dress down, it doesn't matter: all is good here at Mingo West.

I often complain about the lack of good pasta dishes in Portland, but the pasta dishes at Mingo West have never disappointed me. Their signaure Penne al Sugo de Carne is amazing, especially with a rich Chianti. When they have their seafood pasta special, I always get that. Can't recall the name but it's prawns and scallops with pasta in a rich but not-too-heavy cream sauce. Yum. Their spaghetti bolognese is incredible. Their salads are great to split, and their desserts are satisfying. I usually get their gelato. The wines are always enjoyable and I've never gone wrong with a suggestion from our waiter.

I have to admit, the entire time we lived on the eastside or closer to town, I never made it to the Mingo on NW 23rd: the lines were too long, and I am always super hungry and impatient. It's never been a problem at Mingo West. Parking can be difficult sometimes on warm weather days when the crowds are out (Typhoon Beaverton is also in The Round), but there's always a spot in overflow parking, and of course, it's right on the Max line so that's always an option too.

So if you are on the westside and looking for some great Italian food in a comfortable environment, I highly recommend Mingo.

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Photo of Ian R.

 

11

28

Ian R.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
7/23/2008

There are a lot of reasons to like Mingo's suburban outpost: the food, the bar, the fact that its one of the only good places in Beaverton ... but more important than all of those is the otherworldly panna cotta with amarena cherries.

Seriously, I've considered just going for the panna cotta and have come very close to ordering seconds, something I've never done any where.

There are a lot of good PCs in the Portland area (Toro Bravo, Nostrana) but none come close to Mingo's in tastiness and sheer size.

One time they scrapped the cherries for some sort of candied orange and I almost cried.

As for the rest of the menu, its all good and that should be enough considering we're talking about the food wasteland that is Beaverton.

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Photo of Amy w.

 

0

14

Amy w.

Forest Park, IL

4 star rating
4/11/2009

Truly a nice place to dine.  The atmosphere is very enjoyable.  The food was equally yummy.  I would recommend this.

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Photo of jill j.

Elite '09

149

257

jill j.

Mill Valley, CA

4 star rating
2/18/2008

A pleasant place in the pleasant suburbs of SW Portland.  Warm bustling space.  Perfect service.  Tasty Italian comfort food.  

I was a little worried that Mingo would feel a little strip-mall-ish, but this short block of Crescent Ave. is a bit of an oasis in the sea (mixed metaphors, anyone?) of bike shops and fast food in Beaverton.  It's right on the MAX line, and the entrance actually faces the courtyard there.  It was a cold winter night when we dined there, but it appears that the whole restaurant opens up (via large glass garage-door-style walls) to the patio area and would be very nice in the summer.  

The host was very friendly on the phone as he gave me directions without a hint of "you must not be from around here" attitude AND very welcoming in person as he seated me before the rest of our party arrived.  Our server was equally friendly and accommodating and patient.

We ALL ordered the Sugo beef penne for which Mingo is famous, shared a nice bottle of wine -- the list of wines is not too long, not too short, but JUST RIGHT and favors Italian vintages -- and a delicious warm apple tart, the thought of which is making my mouth water right now.  I'm thinking of going back later in the week to try some other dishes.  

Total bill including tip for 3 people was ~$140.  
I also noted that corkage is $15.

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Photo of Angela B.

 

13

252

Angela B.

San Diego, CA

5 star rating
8/1/2007 2 photos

Mingo is the suburban sister to the original Caffe Mingo located in NW Portland. Mingo is located at The Round in Beaverton, with great outdoor seating on the perimeter of the community park and steps away from the Max tracks.

This place is bustling (duh...where else can you go if you live in Beaverton). Be prepared to wait for a seat and kill some time with a glass of wine, and strike a pose on one of the park benches to do some people watching as the train whizzes by .

Just like the NW location, Mingo features fresh Italian food in a space with festive and vibrant decor. It's hard to be disappointed with anything on the menu...everything at Mingo is always so damn good.

Check out the scallops on the starter menu...for $9 you get 3 giant scallops drizzled with a light pesto sauce. The dish was to-die-for, very filling, and  a great alternative to some of the more expensive entrees in the $20 range.

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Photo of marki v.

 

40

155

marki v.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
10/30/2007

Do you wanna know how food will taste in Italian heaven?? Then head to Mingo.
                                                                                               __
                                                                    Heaven             |   |
                                                                           is                 |   |
                                                                        here!            _|   |_
                                                                                             \        /
                                                                                                 V
Getting a taste of heaven is
as easy as climbing 6 steps!                                  (6)  _______
                                                                                            |               |
                                                                   (5)     ______ |               |
                                                                            |                               |
                                                    (4)     ______|                               |
                                                            |                                               |
                                       (3)  ______|                                               |
                                             |                                                              |
                       (2)   ______|                                                              |
                              |                                                                             |
         (1)  ______|                                                                             |
               |                                                                                            |
Start        |                                                                                            |
_______|                                                                                            |
|_____________________________________________ _|

These are the steps three of us took:

(1) Spiedini di Gamberi:
                                          Appetizer, Skewers of shrimp and croutons seasoned with fennel and red pepper flakes, cooked in oven

(2)Caprese:
                    Appetizer, tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil and EVOO

(3)Mushroom Ravioli:
                                     Special, excellent.

(4)Lamb risotto:
                           Special, creamy with small chunks of lamb.

(5)Penne al sugo di carne:
                                              Penne with beef braised in Chianti and espresso. This will almost take you to heaven.

(6)Panna Cotta:
                           Dessert, Cream cooked with Vanilla bean and chilled, served with seasonal berries. You will be in heaven.

It turns out you can't be in heaven forever, yeah so we had to make our drive back to reality!

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