Portland, Oregon, has become a pizza haven, where culinary artistry meets the simplicity of a perfectly crafted pizza. From classic Neapolitan to inventive gourmet creations, Portland’s pizzerias boast a diverse array of flavors and styles. In this guide, we’ll embark on a mouthwatering journey to rank 15 perfected Portland pizzas by type, showcasing the city’s rich pizza landscape in 2022.
Classic Margherita – Apizza Scholls: The Epitome of Simplicity
At Apizza Scholls, simplicity reigns supreme. The Classic Margherita is a testament to the traditional Neapolitan style, featuring a thin, chewy crust adorned with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Apizza Scholls’ commitment to quality ingredients and perfecting the classics places their Margherita at the top of our list, setting a high standard for the Portland pizza scene.
Wood-Fired Neapolitan – Ken’s Artisan Pizza: A Taste of Naples in Portland
Ken’s Artisan Pizza has mastered the art of Neapolitan-style pizza, and their Wood-Fired Neapolitan is a testament to this expertise. The thin, blistered crust serves as the foundation for a pizza topped with high-quality ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and a touch of basil. With a nod to Naples, Ken’s Artisan Pizza captures the essence of authentic Neapolitan flavors right in the heart of Portland.
New York Style – Scottie’s Pizza Parlor: Big Slices, Big Flavor
For lovers of the iconic foldable slice, Scottie’s Pizza Parlor is the go-to spot for New York-style pizza in Portland. The massive slices boast a thin, yet sturdy, crust, allowing for the perfect fold. Whether you opt for a classic cheese slice or indulge in inventive toppings, Scottie’s commitment to authenticity ensures an experience that transports you to the bustling streets of New York City.
Detroit Style – Via Chicago: A Square Slice of Motor City Magic
Via Chicago brings the flavors of the Motor City to Portland with their perfected Detroit Style pizza. The square-shaped, thick crust pizza with caramelized edges is a textural delight. Toppings are generously nestled into the cheese, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that defines this iconic style. Via Chicago’s dedication to authenticity makes their Detroit Style pizza a standout in the Portland pizza scene.
Chicago Deep Dish – Baby Doll Pizza: Windy City Indulgence
Baby Doll Pizza pays homage to Chicago’s deep-dish legacy with their aptly named Chicago Classic. Layers of cheese, sausage, and tangy tomato sauce create a hearty, satisfying pizza experience. The golden, buttery crust complements the robust flavors, offering a taste of Chicago’s pizza tradition in the heart of Portland.
Portland-Style – Lovely’s Fifty-Fifty: A Local Twist on Tradition
Lovely’s Fifty-Fifty introduces us to the unique Portland-style pizza, a category unto itself. The crust strikes a balance between thin and chewy, serving as the canvas for inventive topping combinations. Lovely’s commitment to local, seasonal ingredients ensures each pizza is a reflection of Portland’s culinary ethos. Their Portland-Style pizza captures the essence of the city’s creative spirit.
Artisanal Creations – Life of Pie Pizza: Culinary Craftsmanship at Its Finest
Life of Pie Pizza elevates pizza to an art form with their artisanal creations. The Goat Cheese Honey Pie, featuring house-made ricotta and local honey, is a testament to their commitment to culinary craftsmanship. Each pizza is a carefully curated blend of flavors, showcasing inventive combinations that set Life of Pie Pizza apart in Portland’s pizza landscape.
Farm-to-Table Excellence – Tastebud: Savoring the Bounty of the Pacific Northwest
Tastebud takes pizza to new heights with their commitment to farm-to-table excellence. The wood-fired pizzas feature organic, seasonal produce sourced directly from local farms. The chewy crust, flavorful tomato sauce, and high-quality toppings create a pizza experience that celebrates the freshness and simplicity of Pacific Northwest ingredients.
Vegan Pies – Sizzle Pie: Plant-Powered Deliciousness
Sizzle Pie proves that plant-based pizza can be just as delicious and satisfying as its traditional counterparts. With an extensive menu of vegan pizzas, including the Spiral Tap with cashew cheese, arugula, and lemon garlic vinaigrette, Sizzle Pie caters to the growing demand for cruelty-free and flavorful pizza options.
Gluten-Free Options – Virtuous Pie: Gluten-Free Goodness Without Compromise
Virtuous Pie, located in the Division Street Dining District, caters to gluten-free pizza lovers without compromising on flavor and creativity. The gluten-free crust, made in-house, serves as the foundation for inventive plant-based pizzas like the Ultraviolet with walnut and arugula pesto. Virtuous Pie proves that gluten-free can be both delicious and diverse.
Mediterranean Flair – East Glisan Pizza Lounge: A Culinary Journey to the Mediterranean
East Glisan Pizza Lounge takes pizza enthusiasts on a journey to the Mediterranean with their Mediterranean Magic pizza. Toppings like feta, Kalamata olives, artichokes, and tzatziki transport diners to the shores of the Aegean. The thin, airy crust provides the perfect balance to the bold and savory flavors, creating a unique and satisfying pizza experience.
Gourmet Offerings – Oven and Shaker: Where Gourmet Meets Comfort
Oven and Shaker, located in the Pearl District, seamlessly marries classic pizza craftsmanship with gourmet flair. The Fennel Sausage & Tomato Jam pizza, adorned with fior di latte, provolone, and Calabrian chilies, exemplifies their commitment to creative and gourmet offerings. With a stylish ambiance and innovative approach, Oven and Shaker stands out as a destination for those seeking a gourmet pizza experience.
East Coast Authenticity – American Dream Pizza: A Taste of the East Coast
American Dream Pizza brings East Coast authenticity to the Pacific Northwest, particularly with their Brooklyn Deluxe. The generous toppings and foldable slices pay homage to the classic New York-style pizza experience. Their commitment to quality and tradition makes American Dream Pizza a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic taste of the East Coast.
Family-Friendly Pies – Flying Pie Pizzeria: A Portland Institution for Decades
Flying Pie Pizzeria, with its family-friendly atmosphere and expansive menu, has been a Portland institution for decades. The Peruvian Purple Potato Pizza, featuring roasted purple potatoes, garlic, and rosemary, showcases the pizzeria’s commitment to unique flavor combinations. With its casual ambiance and extensive topping choices, Flying Pie is a go-to spot for families and pizza enthusiasts of all ages.
Sourdough Sensation – Tabor Bread: An Artisanal Approach to Pizza
Tabor Bread, located in Southeast Portland, adds a sourdough twist to the pizza scene. The sourdough crust creates a unique flavor profile, offering a delightful alternative to traditional pizza. Tabor Bread’s commitment to artisanal baking shines through in their sourdough sensation, providing pizza enthusiasts with a distinct and satisfying experience.
Conclusion:
Portland’s pizza scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, styles, and culinary innovation. From the traditional perfection of Apizza Scholls’ Margherita to the inventive creations at Life of Pie Pizza, each pizzeria on this list contributes to the rich and diverse pizza landscape in the city. Whether you’re a fan of classic Neapolitan, crave the bold flavors of Detroit Style, or seek the comfort of East Coast authenticity, Portland has a perfected pizza waiting for you in 2022. As you embark on your pizza pilgrimage through the city, savor each slice and celebrate the culinary artistry that makes Portland a true slice of pizza heaven.
