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Portland Pizzerias: Top Ten
Chicago casserole style vs. New York style vs. Neapolitan/Roman thin crust; "which pizza is the best" battles have been going on for generations (full list of regional styles). So who is the winner? There isn't a flat out winner because one has to realize that the styles of pizza are vastly different and are in their own category. Once you know your preference, all you have to do is find who does it the best out of all the top pizzerias in Portland.
Thin Crust (New York, Neapolitan, Roman, Italian)
Apizza Scholls [map it]
Sure there are rules; no take out, cash only, three topping maximum and the lines can be long. But hands down, Apizza Scholls is worth wading through the Soup Nazi-Like reign. The combination of fresh ingredients and pristine oven temperatures create a mouth watering, near perfect artisan pizza that is slightly charred, crispy and chewy in all the right places.
Ken's Artisan Pizza [map it]
It's all in the name. The streamlined menu doesn't waste time with heavy pastas or calzones (salads and antipasto starters are available). Ken's puts all their heart into the wood-fired crust, high quality ingredients and atmosphere. The price is a little high, around $13 for the personal 12" pizzas.
Escape from New York Pizza [map it]
For foldable, NYC style pizza by-the-slice, you really have one stop in Portland. There are usually three ready pizzas to choose from; cheese, pepperoni and the daily, but that is all you need. Seating is limited at this tiny NW23rd location, but folding pizza is perfect for walking around if the weather agrees. Pies to order are also available.
Lucca [map it]
Lucca serves Italian comfort dishes with Northwest flare, like wood-fired pizzas, fresh rotisserie items, housemade pastas and organic salads. The refined yet casual atmosphere, plus kids menu, makes it family-friendly without sacrificing grown-up perks like polished service, sophisticated (but well-priced) wine and retro-inspired cocktails. Streamlined wood accents and warm lighting, along with the brick oven focal point, create a modern Italian countryside feeling, which the neighborhood has eagerly embraced, filling the dining room with couples on romantic dates and young families alike.
Mississippi Pizza Pub [map it]
Looking for great thin crust pizza, local beer and live music? Mississippi offers that nightly. The bar/venue is separated from the main dining area, but both can get extremely busy as the night progresses. The bar area seating is ideal and cozy for a show, but get there early.
Nostrana [map it]
Don't let the out-of-place strip mall off Morrison fool you. Nostrana offers a swanky Italian dining experience in addition to their take on traditional uncut Italian style. Nostrana is an ideal spot for taking the parents when they are in town.
Medium Crust (Greek, New England Style, American Traditional)
Flying Pie Pizzeria [map it]
You can travel all over the pizza style spectrum at Flying Pie (four types of hand-tossed, chewy crust are available from extra thick focaccia style to extra thin). Friendly people, good pizza and a big fresh salad bar make this a popular spot before or after a show at the Academy next door (SE location).
Pro: Vegan cheese and gluten-free crust option upon request.
Con: If you pull the short straw and show up during a little league banquet.
Old Town Pizza [map it]
Smack in the middle of the historic Old Town/Chinatown lobby of the 125+ year old Merchant Hotel, the ambience is enough for the visit. This is the family style pizzeria that I remember. At Old Town Pizza you will find lots of tasty crust and lots of even tastier toppings in a fun environment. The reclaimed, vintage furniture is another nice touch (the taller patrons should avoid the sewing table for two to save from knocked knees). Suggested: Pesto Special (homemade pesto sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, feta and pine nuts)
American Dream Pizza [map it]
The pastry like crust combined with exclusive ingredients makes American Dream stand out. Delivery is free, but can take a while. The location is warm and inviting with friendly staff. The interior walls are covered with customer decorated pizza boxes. Do note that a lot of the fresh produce toppings are added after the pizza is cooked. Gluten-free crusts are also available.
Beyond Thick Crust (Deep Dish, Chicago Style)
Dove Vivi [map it]
Dove Vivi gives its own take on the Chicago deep dish with a slightly chewy cornmeal and grain flour crusts. All the toppings used are prepared fresh in house and are all local (when available). The menu options might be a little intimidating at first (blue cheese and roasted eggplant?), but trust Dove Vivi these unique items are married together for a reason. You won't be disappointed. Pizzas are also offered par-baked so you can bake at home at your convenience.
Local franchises not to be overlooked
