Downtown Troutdale has a new reason to linger. Via Tinto, a wine bar that opened earlier this month, has moved into the space that previously housed Grateful Coffee and Flowers, bringing wine, beer, mocktails, and small bites into a warm, welcoming room.
The story begins the way neighborhood openings often do, with word of mouth. A reader tipped off Bridgetown Bites about the well-designed space, the “sweet folks” running it, and the fact that nonalcoholic options are part of the menu. The site followed up by speaking with owner Olivia Monti to learn how the project came together.
The name has a personal touch. Monti explains that “via tinto” is essentially the way of red wine, and she remembers drinking tinto de verano, a refreshing mix of red wine and limonata. Via Tinto soft opened on November 22 and officially opened on December 5. It is a 21-plus venue.
Monti is a native Oregonian who has lived in downtown Troutdale for nine years. She describes falling for the town’s trails, river access, and potential as it grows. Her hospitality background includes corporate event planning, managing a brewery, and studying hospitality and tourism at Mount Hood Community College.
Inside, the bar reflects a hands-on build. Monti painted walls, sourced furniture, repurposed old church pews as benches, and revealed original floors that had been covered. The wine list rotates and spans places from the Willamette Valley to France and New Zealand. Guests can order by the glass or bottle, there are no flights, and there is a corkage option for outside bottles.
Food stays flexible. Via Tinto offers snack-style nibbles, charcuterie boxes by pre-order, and encourages guests to bring in takeout from nearby Troutdale restaurants. Live music and events are part of the plan, and there is a small retail section with greeting cards, gift bags, and wine-themed gifts.