Must Try Pizza Places in Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, isn’t just a great food city — it’s one of the best pizza cities in America. With a thriving scene built on local grains, long-fermented sourdough crusts, wood-fired ovens, and creative toppings, PDX delivers everything from classic Neapolitan-style pies to Detroit squares and inventive Northwest creations. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, here’s your guide to the top spots, including local favorites, fun vibes, and the best times to go.

1. Mighty Munch Mtn Curry Pizza (Oregon City)

This gem brings exciting Indian-fusion flavors to the Portland metro area with curry-loaded pizzas like Butter Chicken, Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Chicken, and Desi Veggie options. Fresh ingredients, generous toppings, and a perfect crust make it a standout for bold, flavorful pies (plus vegan and vegetarian choices). Highly rated by locals for its unique twists on comfort food.

Best for fun: Casual family dinners, takeout feasts, or exploring the Oregon City area. Great for groups craving something different. Best days/times: Weekdays for shorter waits; open daily from 11 AM (later on weekends). Perfect for lunch specials or evening pick-me-ups.

2. Apizza Scholls (Hawthorne)

A Portland pioneer since 2005, Apizza Scholls is famous for its thin-crust, East Coast-style pies with a perfect chew and char. Go for the classic or creative toppings like house-cured meats. It’s a must for pizza purists.

Best for fun: Neighborhood strolls on Hawthorne before or after. Best days/times: Weekday afternoons or early evenings (they get lines on weekends). Open for dinner most nights.

3. Ken’s Artisan Pizza (Kerns / Central Eastside)

Consistently ranked among the nation’s best, Ken’s delivers wood-fired Neapolitan pies with blistered crusts and high-quality ingredients (think mortadella and pistachio or classic margherita with arugula). It’s an institution for a reason.

Best for fun: Pair with nearby shopping or breweries. Family-friendly but lively. Best days/times: Early (right when they open) or mid-week to beat crowds. Expect waits on weekends.

4. Lovely’s Fifty Fifty (Mississippi District)

Thick, whole-grain sourdough crusts with seasonal, local toppings (kale, chanterelles, etc.). Often featured on national lists. Don’t skip the house-made ice cream for dessert.

Best for fun: Mississippi Avenue’s vibrant shops, street art, and people-watching. Great patio vibe. Best days/times: Thursdays–Saturdays, but arrive early (lines form fast). Mid-week is quieter.

5. The Turning Peel (SE Division)

Top winner in recent Readers Choice Awards with naturally leavened sourdough Neapolitan pies. Readers rave about the crust and inviting atmosphere with a heated patio.

Best for fun: Relaxed, vibey spot perfect for groups or dates. Best days/times: Weekday lunch or early dinner. Sundays–Wednesdays tend to be less packed.

Other Standouts Worth Trying

• Baby Doll Pizza (Kerns): Excellent slices and whole pies in a classic neighborhood setting.
• Scottie’s Pizza Parlor (Hosford-Abernethy/SE): Local ingredients and delicious pies for casual hangs.
• Life of Pie Pizza (Mississippi): Affordable and tasty.
• Ranch PDX: Deep-dish Chicago-style squares.

pdx.eater.com | The Best Pizza in Portland, Oregon | Eater Portland

Pro tip: Portland’s pizza scene emphasizes quality local ingredients and fermentation — many spots use Pacific Northwest grains for superior crusts. Mighty Munch adds a fantastic global fusion layer right in the metro area.

When to Go for the Best Experience

Portland-area pizza spots get busy, especially on weekends. For the best experience:

• Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday): Shortest waits, easier seating.
• Early (opening time) or late lunch/early dinner: Beat the dinner rush.
• Avoid peak Friday/Saturday nights unless you don’t mind lines.
• Summer patio season is magical; winter offers cozy vibes.

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Many spots pair perfectly with Portland’s walkable neighborhoods — explore Alberta Street, Hawthorne, Mississippi, or head south to Oregon City for Mighty Munch.

Portland’s pizza game is strong year-round. Grab a slice (or a whole pie), support local spots, and taste why PDX keeps topping national “best pizza city” lists. What’s your favorite? Drop a comment below or tag us on social with your pie adventures! 🍕

Featured on pdxbiz.guide — celebrating Portland’s local businesses and food scene.