Top Pizza Pizzas in Portland: A Comprehensive Guide
Portland, Oregon is famous for its food scene, and pizza is one of the top culinary delights you can find here. Whether you prefer gourmet options or classic slices, there's a pizza place to suit every taste. This article will guide you through some of the best pizza places in Portland, along with my personal preferences and experiences.
Quick Picks from Portland's Pizza Scene
The pizza lovers in Portland have plenty to choose from, but here are some standout options:
Flying Pie on SE Stark Street
For hand-tossed crust and amazing ingredients, Flying Pie, located on SE Stark Street, is a top pick. This place is loved for its fresh, homemade ingredients and the satisfaction of waiting in a line filled with fellow pizza enthusiasts.
Stark Street Pizza
Communities often have a go-to pizza place that becomes a family favorite. Stark Street Pizza fits this bill. While it's not on the list of my top picks, it remains a beloved choice for many.
Pizza Roma
A more gourmet option, Pizza Roma is a premium pizza place that caters to those seeking an elevated pizza dining experience. The recipes and quality are top-notch, making it a worthwhile stop for pizza enthusiasts.
Nicoll's on Powell
Nicoll's is a great spot for those who enjoy a variety of dishes. Their pizza, while not necessarily their flagship, still stands out as a delicious choice. The location on Powell provides a cozy setting for a casual dinner.
My Three Top Picks
After extensive trying and tasting, here are my top three pizza places in Portland, based on quality, consistency, and overall experience:
Kensizza
Best Salads and Thin Crust Pizza in Portland: Kensizza is a standout in Portland's pizza scene, known for its thin crusts and exceptional salads. The pizza here is perfectly cooked and the thin crust provides a wonderful texture.
Up and Coming: Red Sauce Pizza
This newly opened pizza brand in Cully has quickly become a favorite. Their red sauce pizza is excellent, and they are known for their fresh and flavorful toppings. This place is definitely worth a visit for those wanting a slice of a rising star in Portland pizza.
Apizza Scholls
Classic and Timeless: Apizza Scholls is a classic that hasn't lost its charm. Even though it became too popular over time, the food remains amazing. The owners and staff used to be close friends, but unfortunately, they are no longer so.
Local Favorites with a Twist
Portland is also home to several small family-owned pizza parlors that offer great pizza. While they may not be as known as the top picks, they provide an authentic taste of the city. Here are some local favorites for you to explore:
Scotties Pizza Parlor
At Scotties Pizza Parlor on SE Division Street, they offer a fantastic crust that is a favorite among regulars. The parlor is a cozy and welcoming environment, perfect for a casual dinner with friends.
Pizzicato
Pizzicato adds a unique twist with their favorite Cesar dressing for dipping slices of Puttanesca. This place offers a delightful and unconventional dining experience.
Hot Lips Pizza
If you're looking for a delicious cheese pizza, Hot Lips is the place to go. Their breadsticks with Ranch dressing are also a must-try. The restaurant is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious food.
Traditional and Vegetarian Options
For those who prefer traditional or vegetarian pizza options, there are several exceptional places in Portland. Here are my top choices:
Round Table's Vegetarian Pizza
Vegetarian Delight: Round Table's Vegetarian Pizza is a favorite for those who enjoy a vegetable-heavy pizza. The crust is perfect, and the sauce and veggies are always fresh and delicious. It's a great choice for vegetarians and those who enjoy a little variety in their pizza toppings.
Bellagios Pizzeria
Garlic Chicken and Delicious Sauce: Bellagios offers a wonderful Garlic Chicken pizza, which is a crowd-pleaser. The crust is great, and the garlic white sauce is delightful. They also have other classic options like Ranch dressing breadsticks, which are equally enjoyable.
Other Notable Places
Here are some other notable pizza places in Portland that are highly recommended by many:
Straight From New York
For a classic New York-style thin crust, Straight From New York is one of the top choices. The crust is crispy and the toppings are generously spread.
Babydoll Pizza
Favorite for its bold topping choices, Babydoll Pizza can be very busy, but they still make good pies. It's a place where you can find unique and exciting pizza creations.
Sizzle Pie
Another place known for its bold topping choices, Sizzle Pie offers something different for those who like a little adventure with their pizza toppings.
Pietros Pizza
The crust at Pietros Pizza is often praised for its quality. The restaurant offers a unique type of crust that many find satisfying.
Hometown Pizza
A relatively unknown pizza shack, Hometown Pizza is a hidden gem. It really gets the job done and is a reliable choice when you're in the mood for a good slice of pizza.
Via Chicago for Deep Dish Pizza
For those craving deep dish pizza, Via Chicago is a great option. While it can be a messy meal, the sauce is very good, making it worth the experience.
Portland's pizza scene is diverse and vibrant. Whether you're in the mood for a classic thin crust, a gourmet experience, or a family-friendly slice, there's something for everyone. Whether you try these top picks or explore the local gems, you're sure to find a delicious pizza in Portland.