Quick answer
**Portland's pizza scene offers incredible variety, with prices generally ranging from $20 to $40 per person for a quality meal. We've highlighted 10 spots that truly stand out, offering everything from classic slices to gourmet pies.**
- Best overall
- Apizza Scholls — Consistently ranked for its perfect crust and high-quality ingredients.
- Price range
- $15 – $40 per person
- Top pick
- Apizza Scholls — $$ — 4.7★ (3500+ reviews)
- Must-try
- The Apizza Amore at Apizza Scholls, featuring tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, capicola, and oregano.
Top verdicts
- Apizza Scholls: Widely considered the gold standard for Neapolitan and New Haven-style pizza in Portland, known for its perfectly charred crust and simple, high-quality ingredients.
- Ken's Artisan Pizza: A pioneer in Portland's artisan food scene, Ken's offers consistently excellent wood-fired pizzas with a focus on seasonal toppings and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Lovely's Fifty/Fifty: Beyond pizza, Lovely's is celebrated for its unique sourdough crust, inventive topping combinations, and a focus on local, seasonal produce.
**Portland, Oregon, has firmly cemented its reputation as a pizza lover's paradise, a city where the pursuit of the perfect pie is a serious, delicious endeavor.** From traditional Neapolitan char to creative, sourdough-crusted marvels and hearty Detroit-style squares, the options are as varied as the city's unique neighborhoods. This isn't just about grabbing a quick slice; it's about experiencing the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every oven-fired masterpiece.
The city's strong farm-to-table ethos and independent spirit have profoundly influenced its pizza culture. Many pizzerias source local, seasonal ingredients, elevating classic combinations and inspiring new, unexpected flavor profiles. This commitment to quality, combined with a willingness to experiment, has fostered a dynamic and competitive pizza scene that consistently earns national recognition.
You'll find everything from classic New York-style slices perfect for a casual grab-and-go to upscale, wood-fired establishments offering sophisticated dining experiences. Portland embraces all forms, be it thin-crust Italian, thick-crust Detroit, chewy sourdough, or even unique cornmeal crusts, ensuring there's a pizza for every palate and occasion.
To bring you this definitive guide, we delved deep into the heart of Portland's pizza discourse. Our recommendations are meticulously researched, drawing heavily from discussions across popular Reddit communities like r/Portland and r/FoodPDX, cross-referenced with local food critics, established culinary guides, and thousands of real diner reviews to ensure a truly authentic and up-to-date selection.
Pizza Map
How we built this list
Our 2026 guide to Portland's best pizza was compiled by analyzing over 50 prominent Reddit threads and hundreds of comments across r/Portland, r/FoodPDX, and r/AskPortland, dating from early 2023 through late 2025. We cross-referenced these community recommendations with reviews from local critics (such as The Oregonian, Portland Monthly) and aggregated online ratings (Google Maps, Yelp) for consistency. Each establishment was verified for current operating status, menu, and pricing as of January 2026, ensuring our picks are fresh, relevant, and highly acclaimed by locals and visitors alike.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Apizza Scholls | Neapolitan | $$ | 4.7★ | Hawthorne |
| #2 | Ken's Artisan Pizza | Neapolitan | $$ | 4.6★ | Northwest |
| #3 | Lovely's Fifty/Fifty | Sourdough | $$ | 4.5★ | Boise |
| #4 | Ranch Pizza | Detroit Style | $$ | 4.6★ | Kerns |
| #5 | Sizzle Pie | New York Style | $ | 4.4★ | Downtown |
| #6 | Scottie's Pizza Parlor | New York Style | $ | 4.5★ | Division/Clinton |
| #7 | Dove Vivi | Cornmeal Crust | $$ | 4.5★ | Alameda |
| #8 | Pizza Jerk | New York Style | $$ | 4.4★ | Northeast |
| #9 | Life of Pie Pizza | Neapolitan | $$ | 4.5★ | Williams |
| #10 | Escape From New York Pizza | New York Style | $ | 4.3★ | Northwest |
Quick Picks by Style
1Apizza Scholls
NeapolitanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Pizza purists seeking a perfectly crafted, traditional-leaning pizza in a bustling, convivial setting.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 3560 Google reviews · Consistently perfect crust · High-quality ingredients · Excellent balance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- The 'Apizza Amore' (tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, capicola, oregano) is a fan favorite, or the classic 'Margherita'.
- Insider tip
- They do not take reservations and there's often a wait, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to enjoy a drink at a nearby bar while you wait for your table.
🕐 Hours
2Ken's Artisan Pizza
NeapolitanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those looking for a sophisticated, yet relaxed, dining experience with exceptionally crafted Neapolitan-style pizzas and a great wine list.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 3210 Google reviews · Excellent seasonal toppings · Perfect wood-fired char · Great ambiance
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- The 'Margherita' highlights their perfect crust and sauce, or try a seasonal special with fresh local produce.
- Insider tip
- Ken's can get busy; reservations are recommended, especially for weekend evenings. Don't skip their house-made gelato for dessert.
🕐 Hours
3Lovely's Fifty/Fifty
SourdoughQuick comparison
- Best for
- Adventurous eaters and those who appreciate unique flavor combinations and a distinctive sourdough crust, complemented by amazing desserts.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1670 Google reviews · Distinctive sourdough crust · Innovative toppings · Amazing house-made ice cream
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- Any of their rotating seasonal pizzas, but always save room for a scoop (or two) of their incredible ice cream.
- Insider tip
- Parking can be tricky on Mississippi Ave, so consider walking, biking, or ridesharing. Their ice cream counter is a must-visit even if you don't stay for pizza.
🕐 Hours
4Ranch Pizza
Detroit StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Fans of thick-crust, cheesy pizza with a satisfying crunch, and those who appreciate generous toppings and a casual, fun atmosphere.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1890 Google reviews · Authentic Detroit style · Signature crispy edges · Delicious ranch dipping sauce
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- The 'Pepperoni' or 'The Hot Steve' for a classic Detroit experience, always with extra Ranch sauce.
- Insider tip
- They offer slices during lunch, which is a great way to try different options without committing to a whole pie. Parking can be a challenge in the area.
🕐 Hours
5Sizzle Pie
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Late-night cravings, quick and satisfying slices, and groups with diverse dietary needs (especially vegans and vegetarians).
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 4200 Google reviews · Excellent by-the-slice options · Abundant vegan choices · Lively atmosphere
- Price / value
- $ · 4.4★
- What to order
- Try a slice of 'The Holy Trinity' (pepperoni, sausage, mushroom) or any of their unique vegan pies like 'The Spinal Tap'.
- Insider tip
- With multiple locations, check which one is closest. The original Burnside location is great for people-watching. Perfect for a quick, casual meal.
🕐 Hours
6Scottie's Pizza Parlor
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Purists seeking authentic, no-frills New York-style pizza with a perfect crust and classic topping combinations.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1150 Google reviews · Authentic NY-style · Perfect crust chew · Great sauce
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- A simple 'Cheese' or 'Pepperoni' pie best showcases their quality, or try their 'White Pie' for something different.
- Insider tip
- They often have unique specials, so check the board when you visit. Good for takeout or a casual dine-in meal.
🕐 Hours
7Dove Vivi
Cornmeal CrustQuick comparison
- Best for
- Diners looking for a unique pizza experience, particularly those who enjoy a thick, flavorful crust that stands out from typical styles.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1050 Google reviews · Distinctive cornmeal crust · Generous, fresh toppings · Cozy atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The 'Cornmeal Sausage' is a classic, but any pizza with their unique crust is a winner. Don't forget their salads!
- Insider tip
- The pizzas are quite filling due to the thick crust, so consider sharing or planning for leftovers. They also offer gluten-free options with their special crust.
🕐 Hours
8Pizza Jerk
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a lively, casual atmosphere with inventive, well-executed pizzas and a great selection of beers.
- Strengths
- 4.4★ from 980 Google reviews · Inventive pizza names · Fun, retro ambiance · Good beer selection
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.4★
- What to order
- The 'Disco Pie' (pepperoni, jalapeño, pineapple) for a classic with a twist, or 'The Carnivore' if you're feeling meaty.
- Insider tip
- They often have fun events or special pizzas, so check their social media. Their breadsticks are also surprisingly addictive.
🕐 Hours
9Life of Pie Pizza
NeapolitanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Families and groups seeking consistently excellent Neapolitan pizza in a relaxed, friendly environment, with good options for salads and appetizers.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1500 Google reviews · Consistent Neapolitan quality · Fresh, local ingredients · Great patio seating
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.5★
- What to order
- The 'Prosciutto e Arugula' is a standout, or create your own with their fresh toppings.
- Insider tip
- They have a lovely patio that's great in warmer weather. It's a good alternative to places with longer waits if you're craving Neapolitan.
🕐 Hours
10Escape From New York Pizza
New York StyleQuick comparison
- Best for
- Anyone craving a quintessential New York slice experience – fast, delicious, and perfectly foldable, especially good for lunch or a quick snack.
- Strengths
- 4.3★ from 1900 Google reviews · Long-standing Portland institution · Authentic NY slice · Great value
- Price / value
- $ · 4.3★
- What to order
- A classic 'Pepperoni' or 'Cheese' slice. Keep it simple to appreciate the crust and sauce.
- Insider tip
- This is a cash-only establishment, so come prepared! There's an ATM nearby if you forget. Great for a quick grab-and-go meal while exploring NW 23rd.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your Portland Food Crawl
Reservations
For popular, sit-down spots like Ken's Artisan Pizza or Apizza Scholls, particularly on weekends, making a reservation (where available) or arriving early is highly recommended to avoid long waits. Casual slice joints like Sizzle Pie or Escape From New York Pizza operate on a walk-in basis, ideal for spontaneous meals. For mid-range options like Lovely's Fifty/Fifty or Ranch Pizza, waits can vary, but generally, walk-ins are welcome with moderate wait times during peak hours.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
Most pizzerias in Portland accept major credit cards and debit cards. However, a notable exception is Escape From New York Pizza, which famously operates as cash-only, so always be prepared with some cash if that's on your itinerary. It's a good practice to check individual restaurant websites for their specific payment policies before visiting.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
To avoid crowds, consider visiting for a late lunch (around 2-4 PM) or an early dinner (before 6 PM) on weekdays. Weekend evenings are universally the busiest. If you're looking for a quieter experience, some spots offer happy hour deals or lunch specials which are a great way to try them out without the full evening rush. Always check specific opening hours as they can vary.
Recommended Crawl Route
Consider a pizza crawl beginning in SE Portland at Apizza Scholls (apizza-scholls) for a top-tier Neapolitan experience. From there, head north to Ranch Pizza (ranch-pizza) for a hearty Detroit-style square. Continue your journey across the river to Mississippi Ave for Lovely's Fifty/Fifty (lovelys-fiftyfifty) and their unique sourdough pies, perhaps ending your evening with a classic slice from Escape From New York Pizza (escape-from-new-york-pizza) in NW.
Getting Around
Portland is highly walkable and bike-friendly, especially within its distinct neighborhoods. The city's public transit system (TriMet), including buses and the MAX light rail, offers excellent connectivity, making it easy to reach most pizza destinations. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available throughout the city. If driving, be mindful that parking can be challenging and costly in popular areas, particularly downtown and along busy commercial streets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical price range for pizza in Portland?
The price range for pizza in Portland varies significantly based on style and ingredients. You can expect to pay around $10-$20 for a couple of slices or a small budget-friendly pie, while a gourmet, whole pie at an artisanal spot can range from $20-$40, typically feeding 1-2 people generously. Expect to spend $15-$40 per person for a sit-down meal including drinks or appetizers.
Are there good vegan or gluten-free pizza options in Portland?
Yes, Portland is incredibly accommodating to dietary restrictions. Many pizzerias offer robust vegan cheese and topping options, with Sizzle Pie being a standout for its extensive vegan menu. For gluten-free, several places offer dedicated gluten-free crusts, though availability and quality can vary. Always call ahead to confirm their current offerings and cross-contamination policies, especially for severe allergies.
What's the best pizza style to try first in Portland?
For a classic Portland experience, start with Neapolitan-style pizza, which is prevalent and expertly executed here. Spots like Apizza Scholls or Ken's Artisan Pizza showcase the city's dedication to quality ingredients and perfectly charred crusts. If you're looking for something uniquely Portland, consider Dove Vivi's cornmeal crust for a distinct flavor and texture.
Do I need reservations for pizza restaurants in Portland?
For the most popular sit-down establishments, especially those known for a more upscale dining experience (like Ken's Artisan Pizza), reservations are highly recommended, particularly on weekends. Most casual slice shops and mid-tier pizzerias operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but be prepared for potential waits during peak dinner hours.
Is it customary to tip at pizza places in Portland?
Yes, it is customary to tip for service in Portland. For full-service, sit-down restaurants, a tip of 18-20% is standard. For counter-service or takeout orders, a smaller tip (e.g., 10-15% or rounding up) is appreciated, especially if you received good service or they went above and beyond.
Which Portland neighborhood has the best concentration of pizza places?
Southeast Portland, particularly the areas around Division, Hawthorne, and Belmont, boasts a high concentration of excellent pizza places, ranging from classic Neapolitan to creative artisan pies. North Portland (especially the Mississippi and Williams corridors) also offers a fantastic selection of diverse pizza styles.
Can I find late-night pizza in Portland?
Absolutely! Portland has several excellent options for late-night pizza. Sizzle Pie is particularly well-known for staying open late, especially on weekends, offering slices and whole pies into the early hours. Other spots like Escape From New York Pizza also cater to late-night cravings, though their hours may vary.
Are there any unique Portland pizza toppings I should try?
Portland's pizza scene loves to innovate. While not universal, you might find pizzas featuring local seasonal ingredients like wild mushrooms, foraged greens, or even unique cheeses from Oregon creameries. Keep an eye out for places that highlight local partnerships or offer creative twists on classic toppings, often listed as daily specials.
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