If you’re looking for an escape to Italy while you’re in Battle Ground, Washington, then don’t miss out on Pasta Gigi’s! While their environment is rather upscale, the warm and personable approach that owner Kathy Aikens brings to the table will leave you feeling like you’re a part of the family.
The Owner
Texas-born and bred, Aikens grew up in small communities around the country growing up due to her father being a minister. When she came to Battle Ground 14 years ago with her husband, she got that homey feel that reminded her of her roots.
This was also when she decided to start training at culinary school and studied under a chef who taught solely Italian and French cuisine. Before even graduating culinary school, she started up her own catering business and was handling massive amounts of business right from the get-go. Through her contacts, she came to find out that Pasta Gigi’s was the name of a small French and Italian delicatessen right there in Battle Ground. She decided to buy them outright. The original owner of the delicatessen was named Peggy, but went by…you guessed it, Gigi.
To see more photos of Pasta Gigi’s, click here
After Kathy took over the delicatessen she began doing themed dinners once a month and they were constantly sold out. A great start to a great future in Italian dining.
Five years ago they moved into what use to be an art gallery, but what is now home to their very creatively laid out restaurant. The photos displayed throughout the restaurant, upstairs and down, are by an artist friend of Aikens’ who took all of the photos in France. For you art lovers out there, they’re worth a gander.
The Ambiance & Food
The setting itself is very unique and ideal for a romantic evening out. I sat upstairs on the second floor, where this is only one table with two very fine looking armchairs. Near the table is a fireplace, giving you the sense of intimacy and warmth. Downstairs you’ll find a larger seating area, but not that large. The top floor has more seating with a full bar, and don’t forget the patio outside. Unfortunately, when I dined there that evening, it was too freddo to dine al fresco.
And while you may find that their policy is “come as you are” as to not alienate any type of clientele, don’t let that put you off. The ambiance is still chic and upscale.
Pasta Gigi’s specialties include their house pasta, but they’re also known for their unique Crespelle. This is a dish that I personally have always said I would have on my menu if I ever opened up a restaurant. A dish you cannot find anywhere in New York, according to Aikens, I can tell you firsthand you can’t even find it in Italy! Clearly, great minds think alike here. And while Kathy’s crespelle recipe varies greatly from my own, it’s worth ordering! The sauce is phenomenal!
But it’s not just their specialties that are delicious. Speaking as someone who has lived in Italy off and on for over 10 years, I was delightfully surprised with their unique approach to their Insalata Caprese, and their Zuppa Toscana was to die for. And the piece de resistance has to be their cannoli which you can’t leave the restaurant without ordering. The flavors are out of this world delicious!
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