The Ultimate DIY Pizza Tour in Portland, Oregon
After New York and Chicago, Portland, Oregon stands out as the third best city for pizza in the United States. The city attracts pizza enthusiasts from across the globe, thanks to its access to high-quality heritage grains that elevate the pizza dough. Consequently, embarking on a pizza tour in Portland is a delightful experience you won’t want to miss.
Consider joining a guided pizza walking tour to sample the city’s finest slices while learning about its rich pizza culture. Alternatively, you may opt for a DIY pizza tour, allowing you to save money and select your preferred destinations.
Our DIY pizza adventure began in the North West District of Portland, particularly in the Nob Hill area close to Slabtown. Located just a 20-minute walk from downtown, this area offers a perfect blend of pizza joints within easy reach, making it ideal for sampling various slices. Don’t forget to stop for a coffee at Never Coffee or Sterling Coffee Roasters along the way.
How to Conduct Your Own DIY Pizza Tour in Portland
Begin your tour at Ranch PDX . As advertised, “This pizza is square,” and indeed, it delivers a remarkable Sicilian-style pizza experience. The thick, airy dough and crispy edges make every slice a culinary delight. Although we sampled the Quarter Cheese and Quarter Pepperoni, options such as Quarter Hawaiian, Quarter Gourd Thymes, Quarter Veggie, and Quarter Vegan also await. This establishment is a must-visit to kickstart your pizza exploration.
Slices from $7.50
Opening Times: Sunday to Thursday, 11 AM to 9 PM; Friday to Saturday, 11 AM to 10 PM
Address: 916 NW 21st Ave, Portland, Oregon, 97209
Escape From New York Pizza
A visit to Escape From New York is essential as it was Portland’s first by-the-slice shop. The establishment’s thin, floppy slices are crafted with whole milk mozzarella, a unique sauce from whole tomatoes and fresh garlic, and handmade dough prepared daily. Arrive promptly, watch the chefs in action, and select from various flavors, including the slice of the day—ideal for enjoying inside or on the outdoor seating.
Slices from $4.95
Opening Times: Monday to Friday, 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Address: 622 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, Oregon
Next, savor Detroit-style pizza at Wild Child . The restaurant’s scrumptious square slices are built on a 72-hour aged sourdough base, topped with options such as Cheese, BBQ Chicken, and Pepperoni, along with inventive choices like Maui Wowie and Pesto Chicken Ranch. A perfect third stop after some refreshments.
Slices from $6.75
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 12 PM to 9 PM
Scottie’s Pizza Parlor
While we didn’t stop at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor , it deserves mention for those with a bigger appetite. They primarily serve whole pizzas, but if you have room, you can try the Burrata, Pepperoni, Suprema, and the Hawaii 5-0-5. Enjoy the outdoor seating if the weather allows.
Slices from $3
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 12 PM to 8 PM
Address: 685 NW 21st Ave, Portland, Oregon
Tips for Your DIY Pizza Tour in Portland
- Order of Visits: Follow the sequence outlined to transition smoothly from one establishment to another in just a couple of hours.
- Accessibility: Ensure all pizza places are within walking distance to maximize your experience.
- Operating Hours: Confirm the opening hours and days to prevent disappointment.
- Slices Availability: Visit locations that offer slices to sample more varieties without overindulging.
- Reservations: Check if reservations are necessary for busy establishments.
- Lengthen Your Tour: Spread your pizza exploration throughout the day by incorporating coffee, beer, cocktails, and ice cream breaks.
Consider starting at Sterling Coffee for an exceptional Chai Latte, continue with ranch pizza options at Ranch PDX , enjoy a brew at Breakside Brewery , then delight in slices at Escape From New York . Sample ice cream from Salt and Straw , and visit Barista for an energizing coffee. If cocktails appeal to you, Freeland Spirits offers beautiful selections, including flights.
Additional Pizza Spots to Explore in Portland
As a premier destination for pizza, Portland boasts a plethora of establishments worth visiting. Here is a curated list of more pizza locations to consider for your self-guided tour:
- The Star
- Lovely’s Fifty Fifty
- Pop Pizza
- Dimo’s Apizza
- Nostrana
- No Saint
- Paladin Pie
- Ken’s Artisan Pizza
- Red Sauce Pizza
- Apizza Scholls
- Vincenzo’s Pizza
- Reeva
Thus concludes your guide to organizing a DIY pizza tour in Portland. Whether you choose the suggested establishments or chart your unique path, enjoy your pizza journey!
