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Hangry Backpacker

The Ultimate Guide to Pizza in Portland

July 11, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 2 Comments

Pizza in Portland is underrated. Portland, Oregon is quietly becoming one of the great pizza cities in the United States. While New York, Chicago, New Haven and Detroit receive acclaim and praise for longstanding pizza traditions, Portland has flown under the radar and become a pizza town to rival the legends.

Hangry Backpacker Portland Pizza Guide

Portland restaurants focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This mentality, coupled with an abundance of talent and an experimental nature among Portland chefs, is the perfect combination for a slew of great pizza. And that’s just what the Portland pizza world is: GREAT.

The following are the Hangry Backpacker’s reviews of pizza in Portland, Oregon. Each restaurant is judged on atmosphere, prices, service, quality of ingredients and, most of all, tastiness of the pizza.

A “Next Day” rating, from 1 to 5 (bad to good), is also given to each pizza, along with comments on whether the pizza is best reheated in the oven, microwave or eaten cold.

At the end of the list is a brief mention of my favorite neighborhood slice shops.

Need more travel info Stumptown? Check out my Portland, Oregon Travel Guide.

**The Hangry Backpacker is not an influencer. All pizzaventures are funded by the Hangry Backpacker. None of these reviews or ratings have been affected by such means, deals or handouts.

***This list is updated frequently, with new Portland pizza reviews added accordingly. If there is pizza in Portland that needs our attention, let us know in the comments or send us an email. Latest Update: 11/13/22

Pizzeria Otto

Pizzeria Otto may be the best pizza in Portland. The wood-fired pies are traditional Neopolitan style pizzas (which they are quick to point out) with an occasional local twist. The local twist at Otto is unique, local ingredients, such as a mushroom pizza with “foraged mushrooms” – that’s about as Portland as you can get.

Most importantly, the thin crust pizza at Otto never misses a beat. The usual suspects on the menu never waver from spectacular. The Diavola – “spicy” salami and peppers – is an easy choice, but the daily specials are truly something spectacular. I had a daily special pizza with sopressata, ricotta, spicy fermented honey and rosemary that remains one of the best pizzas I have ever consumed. (And that’s A LOT of pizza.)

Pizzeria Otto Portland Oregon

The small restaurant in Northeast Portland on Sandy Boulevard – a second location is in the works – has limited seating and can be quite busy. Getting stuck in a middle table is less than comfortable when busy, but the atmosphere is fun with plenty of happy diners watching the open kitchen in action and classic movie posters lining the walls.

Prices at Pizzeria Otto are slightly on the high side, though average for Portlandia. Pizzas come in at less than $20 for a pie, but one pizza can feed UP TO two people. Two pizzas are adequate for three hungry eaters. Otto’s pizzas are worth every penny, though. This is a place where the quality is much higher than the price.

Next Day (5): Don’t waste leftovers from Pizzeria Otto by eating it cold or popping it in the microwave. Reheat this pizza for a few minutes in the oven, and it’s almost as good as the night before.

Dove Vivi

The name is fancy, but the prices are not! This small pizza joint on East Glisan and 28th Street serves a very Portland-style pizza. The thick, almost lasagna-like pies are made with a gluten-free, cornmeal crust, perfect for all of the sensitive stomachs in Portland. 

Pizzas do not appear to be large but are very dense. A salad and a slice is filling. Two slices is sufficient for a stuffing. The pizza is so filling that three people can fill up on one pie. The sausage and peppers is an easy choice for a first-time diner at Dove Vivi, although the meatless goat cheese pizza is just as satisfying.

Dove Vivi Pizza Portland Oregon

The only drawback to Dove Vivi is limited options for carnivores – and the limited seating. Only two pizzas on the menu come with meat, though you can add meat to others. Dove Vivi is a unique instance where their pies are phenomenal, despite largely being meatless. Otherwise, the pizza is flawless. 

The dining room is small and open, with a cozy feeling. It’s a good place to take a date, and I’ve felt a little out of place when dining in by myself. Luckily, it’s a casual affair.

Next Day (4): For best results: Place leftover pizza in the oven at 400 degrees. Do not preheat. In about 10 minutes, the pizza is ready and might be even better than the night before.

Pizza Jerk

Pizza Jerk is a cozy neighborhood pizza joint in Portland. This place is probably best for those looking to chill out over a pitcher of beer and pizza. The pies are a little greasy, but that pairs perfectly with a Northwest IPA. 

Most of the pizzas at Pizza Jerk are thin crust, with pan options available. The White Pie is a thin crust winner. Local flavors are represented with vegan options and even a clam pizza. The pan pizzas are usually quite the guilty pleasure in action, although they are very greasy and, on occasion, come out a little bready. 

Pizza Jerk Northeast Portland

The atmosphere at Pizza Jerk is perfect for the location. It has a cool neighborhood feel, and is largely devoid of the Portland hipster or yuppie vibe. Unfortunately, the prices are horrendous. The cheapest pizza is the cheese pizza, which is $20 for a 12-inch pan or 18-inch thin crust. Most pies come in closer to $30. Only pizza in Portland can have such high prices and warrant expansion to a second location.

Pizza Jerk has good pizza and an appealing, nostalgic neighborhood vibe serving Northeast Portland (the original location on NE 42nd Street). However, the pizza is simply not worth the price.

Next Day (2): Don’t eat leftover Pizza Jerk cold. The pan pizza is more like stale breadsticks at this point. Pan and thin crust reheat okay in the oven, but the grease really comes out the next day.

Ken’s Artisan Pizza

Ken’s Artisan Pizza started at their well-known bakery in Northwest Portland. Thankfully, Ken (I’m assuming he is the purveyor of pizza) knows what he’s baking with pizza, too. Depending on whom you ask, a good pizza begins with the crust or the sauce. I believe it starts with good crust. Ken’s Artisan Pizza comes from bakers and has some of the most well-made pizza in Portland.

The atmosphere at Ken’s matches the name. Yes, it’s as bougie as the name sounds, but they back up their pretentious title with fantastic pizza. It comes as no surprise that the restaurant has an extensive wine list. And it goes without saying that a place serving “artisan” pizza is going to be expensive. The pizzas at Ken’s are a little expensive. Expect to pay about $15 for a pie that essentially feeds one person. 

Kens Artisan Pizza Portland Oregon

Ken’s Artisan Pizza is really good. Is it worth taking a few people out for Friday night pizza? With better values elsewhere – places that also serve damn good pizza – it’s hard to say. Ken’s is in the gray area between being really good and overpriced.

Next Day (4): Ken’s Artisan Pizza holds up fairly well for the next day. It’s not particularly special cold, and the microwave does not serve Ken’s pizza justice. A few minutes in the oven is adequate for a tasty next-day feeding.

Blind Onion

The Blind Onion is my personal favorite place for pizza in Portland. The pizza isn’t going to win awards, and it’s not sexy or revolutionary. It has curbside appeal in a paradoxical kind of way. The first time I saw this less-than-polished restaurant I had to stop in for a slice. 

The pie is typical American-style pizza, not too thick or thin. They menu has traditional pizzas, as well as a few unusual and local varieties. Blind Onion Portland has good pizza. It’s simple, straightforward and good.

Prices at Blind Onion are high at first glance, but in comparison to most other local pizza in Portland these pies are a deal. Like a large, expensive pizza should, a Blind Onion pizza can feed three to four people. 

Blind Onion Pizza Portland Oregon

The atmosphere at Blind Onion is even better than the value. Pizza joints are supposed to be dark, cozy and welcoming. And maybe sport a healthy layer of wear and tear. Patrons shouldn’t have to put on a nice shirt or worry about which wine pairs well with their pizza. Blind Onion is what it is – good pizza with a chill vibe.

When I want good pizza – regular, unpretentious pizza – Blind Onion is where I go. The pizza, service and value is good. The atmosphere is second to none.

Next Day (3): Blind Onion pizza is good cold. It reheats okay, whether that’s in the microwave or the oven, though it’s not quite the same as fresh. The downside to “next day” pizza from the Blind Onion is that it doesn’t hold up for more than a day or so.

Life of Pie

I don’t get it. Maybe it’s the name. It is a good one. Life of Pie is one of the hottest and most popular places for pizza in Portland. The lines of people waiting outside, even in the cold rain, is clear evidence. But the pizza isn’t groundbreaking or game changing. It’s okay, maybe good, but it isn’t great. 

Like so many of the options for pizza in Portland, the brick oven is on display and at work for all of us to watch. The brick oven craze produces some great pizza, but Life of Pie isn’t quite on the same level as other brick oven joints in PDX. The thin crust is pretty good. The in-house mozzarella is a plus, and the chili oil is another bright spot.

Life of Pie North Portland

The good part about Life of Pie is that prices are reasonable. Pizzas feed one to two people and range from $11-15. Life of Pie does have a great happy hour – $5 for a margherita pizza is a great deal in Portland. Pair that with $4 pints, and it’s a recipe for happiness.

The drawback to happy hour is that it brings in crowds, so customers can expect a line, a wait and slow service during, and immediately after, happy hour. The busy atmosphere is lively and open. Life of Pie’s model borders on fast casual (ordering at a counter, bussing your own table) rather than full service, so the wait and premature tip is a little frustrating.

Next Day (5): Life of Pie is excellent day old pizza. The pizza is good cold, microwaved (20-30 seconds) or in the oven.

Blackbird

Blackbird Pizza fits perfectly within the complex of food in Portland. About half of the menu is made up of vegetarian and vegan options. And, at times, it has the Portland hipster vibe in full force. 

Blackbird has the usual choices for any American-style pizza restaurant, but also has some different options for pizza in Portland. The chicken carbonara is an interesting pizza, and the lamb sausage (not that uncommon) is an artichoke-lover’s pizza dream. The traditional pies are also quite good.

Blackbird Pizza Chicken Carbonara

The atmosphere of Blackbird Pizza is laid back in the daytime. The restaurant itself is pretty cool. One half is a bar, while the other half has seating and – in Portland, of course – plenty of pinball. The bar always seems to be chilled out. 

Prices at Blackbird are average, and the value is pretty good. Small pizzas can feed two people. Large pizzas are about $25, but are filling and will leave plenty of leftovers. Blackbird also has a good happy hour that knocks a buck off beer. Tuesdays offer good deals on medium pizzas.

The restaurant is a fun place to go, but, honestly, it’s dirty. It’s not dirty in the cool, worn out kind of way. Rather, in the few times I’ve stopped in, the menus, tables – the whole restaurant – needs a good scrubbing. 

Next Day (3): Blackbird Pizza is best reheated in the oven. Personally, I bake it for a few minutes, then broil it for about two minutes. It comes out alright. Blackbird is okay reheated in the microwave, but this is not a good cold pizza.

Apizza Scholls

My initial experience at Apizza Scholls was underwhelming. Considering the price and what I felt was a limited menu, the pizza did not make up for it. The second chance at one of Portland’s most prestigious pizza joints was different. It was great and lived up to the hype. 

Apizza Scholls has simple, American-style pizza done to perfection. The crust, from fresh-daily dough, is perfectly fluffy with the slightest crunch on the outermost layer. The crust is the best in Portland. The fresh mozzarella is flawless, the sauce is good and the house-made sausage is impeccable.

Toppings, aside from the meat, are okay. Although fresh, none stand out.

Apizza Scholls Portland Oregon

Apizza Scholls prices are not cheap (about $25 for a pie), but thankfully the 18-inch pizza is filling for 2-3 people. 

The atmosphere at Apizza Scholls is fine but not especially cool. The two separate sides, with no interior walkway, is odd (due to something about the building lease) and confuses a lot of first-time customers

Next Day (4): The next day quality of Apizza Scholls is fantastic when reheated in the oven (about 350F). The microwave yields a chewy pizza. Don’t go for a cold slice of Portland’s favorite pizza. Not good.

East Glisan Pizza Lounge

In Northeast Portland, on the corner of Glisan and 80th Street, is East Glisan Pizza Lounge. The interior of this neighborhood pizza joint is nicer than one might expect when looking from the outside. East Glisan definitely has the neighborhood lounge vibe going for it, although it lacks some of the necessary traits to be one of Portland’s best pizza places.

East Glisan Pizza Lounge Portland Oregon

The pizza at East Glisan is a mix of great and underwhelming. The house-made meatballs are awesome. The flavors on the capicola are excellent. But the sauce tastes like it comes from a can. And the crust is incredibly basic, definitely not representative of the photos online. Considering the mediocre quality of the pizza, prices are high – $15-18 for a 12-inch that feeds two.

Happy Hour at East Glisan Pizza Lounge stands out, though. The daily slice specials are unique, not just your run-of-the-mill pepperoni or margherita. 

Next Day (3): The next-day quality of East Glisan pizza is good reheated in the oven. Microwaving this pizza produces a floppy triangle of sogginess. Eating it cold is fine until you reach the crust, which is tougher than beef jerky.

Hogan’s Goat

Hogan’s Goat is a neighborhood pizza place that deserves to be known as more than a neighborhood pizza place. This is probably the most underrated pizza in Portland. The restaurant is tucked away on a little street off Sandy Boulevard in Northeast Portland’s Rose City Park neighborhood. 

Hogan’s Goat is a small restaurant that is easily missed by most passing drivers. Those who notice the small goat sign and choose to stop in are rewarded with one of the best pizza experiences in Portland. 

Hogan’s Goat doesn’t have a bad pizza. The crust is light and fluffy, with a slight crunch. The sauce is not overpowering, perfectly fitting the pies. The Joe Louis is a fantastic rendition of the common sausage and peppers pizza. Perhaps the most spectacular creation at Hogan’s Goat Pizza is the Ricotta Love. This pizza is phenomenal, and is one of the single best pizzas in Portland.

Hogans Goat Pizza Portland Oregon

Overall, prices are more than fair. There are a couple of pies that are more expensive, but most are very reasonable. Hogan’s Goat Pizza has a few beers on tap and has plenty of wine to choose from, too. All is reasonably priced. The atmosphere in Hogan’s Goat is relaxed and welcoming, with some of the best customer service at ANY restaurant in Portland. 

Next Day (4): Hogan’s Goat is very good reheated in the oven for a few minutes. A microwave reheat leads to a soggy mess, and cold yields an underwhelming and chewy pizza that doesn’t do Hogan’s Goat Pizza justice.

Old Town Pizza & Brewing

There are two significant drawbacks to Old Town Pizza. First, the location is in the middle of the filthiest part of Portland. And the vagrants sometimes wander into the restaurant. During my most recent visit, there was an aggressive panhandler outside, shouting obscenities at passersby, and a second unwelcome individual had to be escorted from the restaurant.

The second drawback to Old Town Pizza are the prices, which are far too high for ordinary pizza. Large pizzas will set you back about $30, which is far too much for regular pizza. Aside from unwanted guests and high prices, the atmosphere at Old Town Pizza is cool. It is in a neat old building with a cozy feel.

The pizza at Old Town is surprisingly pretty good when fresh, but it is pretty greasy. The ingredients come together nicely, but nothing stands out aside from the visual similarities to a frozen pizza.

Old Town Pizza Downtown Portland Oregon

Overall, Old Town Pizza & Brewing is decent pizza. Unfortunately, the location and price are absolutely not worth going out of the way for pizza. It should be noted, however, that Old Town Pizza has a second, new location in North Portland, in an area that is much cleaner and easier to access.

Next Day (2): Old Town Pizza is a greasy, sloppy mess when reheated in the microwave. All flavors are lost when eaten cold. In the oven, the pizza is okay, but the pleasant surprise when eaten fresh is lost. 

Via Chicago

Via Chicago, located in the center of the popular Alberta Arts District, is the place to go for Chicago deep-dish pizza in Portland. The pizza itself is pretty good, with some of the best crust in Portland.

Via Chicago functions more as a slice shop for Alberta Street wanderers, though whole pies are available. The meaty pizza is a classic, hearty deep dish option. The pepperoni doesn’t disappoint. And the four cheese is fantastic. There are also vegan and vegetarian options each day. As mentioned above, the crust of Via Chicago pizza is phenomenal. It’s worth noting twice.

Via Chicago deep dish pizza Portland Oregon

A slice is filling, and two slices is a lot. Prices are good, too. They vary from $4.00-4.75 for a single slice, but the deep-dish nature is worth more. Whole pies (large, 14-inch) range from $25 for pepperoni to $29 for meaty. The good part about deep-dish pizza is that it is filling. One pizza can easily feed three to four people.

Via Chicago’s atmosphere is light and open. The small shop has indoor and outdoor seating and is perfect for those looking for a slice while wandering Alberta Street’s shops.

Next Day (3): Do not eat this pizza cold. The crust is hard as a rock. Reheating in the oven is fine, but it is easily burned. Surprisingly, Via Chicago Pizza reheats very well in the microwave.

Oven and Shaker

Oven and Shaker pizza has unique flavors coming out of a brick oven in Northwest Portland. Unfortunately, that’s where the positives end. The excellent flavors are overshadowed by outrageous prices and runaway toppings. Thin crust is great, but this pizza is more like filo dough with pizza toppings. The pizzas are small. Without appetizers, one pizza is likely insufficient for two people.

Oven and Shaker pizza is the epitome of overpriced, over-hyped pizza in Portland. The prices are in line with Portland’s Pearl District, with a pint of beer even more than most Portland restaurants. For one beer and two pizzas that appear significantly larger than they are (image below misleading), my bill was $50. Before the tip!

Oven and Shaker Pizza Portland Pearl District

The vibe of Oven and Shaker fits its location. The Pearl District of Portland is a trendy area with overpriced everything, and this pizza place fits right in. The elaborate, craft cocktails are appealing, but the fresh chopping of wood in the open kitchen is a bit much. We get it. Everything is fresh.

Despite good service and excellent flavors, there are many other great places for pizza in Portland with significantly better value.

Next Day (5): Oven and Shaker may be the best day-old pizza in Portland. It is fantastic cold pizza, good in the microwave and better reheated in the oven than eaten fresh. If there is one positive to Oven and Shaker pizza, it’s the next-day quality.

Scottie’s Pizza Parlor

Scottie’s Pizza Parlor is a tiny little bright spot of pizza in Southeast Portland. Among the gentrifying and trendy shops on SE Division Street, Scottie’s serves up delicious pies in a comfortable, if a little confined, atmosphere. 

The pizza is an excellent blend of New Haven-style pie with a twist of Portland. The Portland twist is evident in political messages visible on the restaurant’s walls, as well. That’s fine, though, because we’re here to eat pizza. And Scottie’s does have some really good pizza. 

The simply-named #1 is the most popular pizza on the menu. The defino – a pie sliced into squares with red sauce, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil, parmesan and a touch of oil – is an excellent pizza. The sausage, mushrooms and olives (with some excellent olives) is another tasty pizza. The crust on these pies is okay. It does not make or break the pizza. 

Scotties Pizza Parlor Portland

Scottie’s is tiny. During the middle of the day, it is possible to find a stool at one of the two small seating areas. If the weather is good, there are a couple more tables outside. Otherwise, carryout may be the best option for trying Scottie’s Pizza Parlor.

Scottie’s pizza is great, but the prices are high. Slices come in at $3-4 each, and whole pies are about $30. Another drawback is the lack of beer on tap, although there are some great fountain sodas available. My personal favorites are the Cock‘n Bull ginger beer and, as always, RC Cola. When it’s time to splurge on some damn good pizza in Portland, Scottie’s Pizza Parlor is worth consideration. I haven’t met Scottie, but it seems like he knows what he’s doing.

Next Day (5): Scottie’s Pizza Parlor is one of the best day(s)-old pizza in Portland, Oregon. It is absolutely great in the microwave, oven or even cold.

Ranch PDX

Pizza and ranch go hand-in-hand, right? Well, that depends on the person. And the ranch. At this aptly-named pizza shop in the Woodlawn neighborhood of North Portland, ranch comes with the pizza. 

Ranch PDX is another viable candidate for the best pizza in Portland. The now-former purveyor of another place on this list suggested I try Ranch PDX. It was a great recommendation. The small, neighborhood pizza joint serves very, very good Sicilian-style pies in a casual atmosphere. 

The relatively small menu at Ranch covers some basic pizzas, as well as a few unique house specialties. The #4, an excellent pizza with ricotta, sausage, basil and dried red chili peppers, is one of the best fresh pizzas in Portland. The thick Sicilian crust at Ranch is made to perfection. The edges have a buttery crisp that leads into a fluffy center. It is a filling pie, but not especially heavy.

Ranch PDX Woodlawn ricotta pizza

Specials at Ranch are a nice blend of their own style and a little bit of Portland. The special on my most recent visit was topped with taleggio and kale, among other things. The kale was fine, as it was not overpowering. Taleggio is good, but it may be strong for some palates.

The ranch (sauce/dressing) at Ranch PDX is perfect. I assume – I sincerely hope, but I forgot to ask – that the sauce is made in-house. For drinks, the basics are available. There isn’t a huge variety of beer on tap, but there is enough. Pizza is the focus anyway.

The restaurant itself is small, so it may be best to consider eating during a slower time of day. Prices at Ranch PDX seem high at first, but the pizzas are filling. One whole pie can easily feed a few people. There are also cheaper, smaller portions available.

Next Day (4): Ranch PDX pizza is pretty good day-old pizza. It is decent cold pizza, and it is great when reheated in the oven. I do not recommend microwaving this pizza, though. It becomes chewy, but reheating in general brings out a lot of flavors.

Pinky’s Pizza

Pizza and whisky is not the most common combo, but maybe it should be. If there is a place in Portland to eat excellent pizza with an equally impressive selection of high-quality whiskies, Pinky’s has to be the best place.

In North Portland’s industrial and warehouse-filled Overlook neighborhood – a neighborhood that is largely overlooked when it comes to pizza – Pinky’s has great pizza in an inviting atmosphere. The unassuming pizza joint sits on the corner of Interstate and Shaver, a stone’s throw from I-5 and less than half a mile from the popular Historic Mississippi Avenue,

Aside from the quirky and bizarre decorations (and the wall of whisky), Pinky’s has a vibe eliciting comfortable neighborhood pizza joint. Most importantly, though, the pizza is top notch.

Without any pretentious championing of freshness or source proximity, the ingredients Pinky’s employs are clearly top notch. The sauce, cheese and crust are all good. The meatballs are excellent. The pepperonis are something special. The variety of peppers makes me happy. Even the onions, somehow, are noteworthy.

When the pizza is this good, the source is not important. I appreciate a menu that is straightforward. All of the fluff, fancy adjectives and fanciful stories mean nothing unless the resulting pizza is good. And Pinky’s pies are just that.

pinkys pizza with meatballs and peppers north portland oregon

Pinky’s Pizza is a cool spot with a sizable menu of mainstay pies that will make it hard to choose. I tried the double pepperoni (adding red onions) and the meatball (housemade meatballs, peppers, etc). Both were excellent. The 12-inch pies are enough for two people and prices are reasonable (about $20).

Next Day (5): Pinky’s pizzas make for great leftovers. Just avoid the microwave. If you’re impatient, it makes for a pretty good cold slice. Reheated in the oven, it is fantastic. Pop your leftover pizza in the oven at 350. When it reaches temperature, keep it in for 3-5 more minutes. When it’s done, the pizza might be even better than when it was fresh.

Assembly Brewing

Assembly was one of my most anticipated pizza tastings in Portland. From the time I heard the brewery was set to open up in a big, new Southeast Portland location – with a specialization in Detroit-style pizza – Assembly Brewing pizza was in my sights.

Unfortunately, it took some time to make it to the brewery. Busy months of Hangry Backpacker travel prevented an early visit. Soon after, the world shut down, and I was unable to get a taste of this elusive pizza on site for years.

Eventually, I made the trip to the SE Foster haven for the best combo of all: pizza and beer. Expectations were high.

Perhaps my expectations were too high.

For starters, Assembly Brewing’s facility is cool. The atmosphere is inviting, lively but not rowdy. They have done an excellent job creating a really cool space. Service is good, and the beer is pretty good, too.

The pizza is a different story. Detroit-style pizza is one of my favorites, but Assembly Brewing pies look better than they taste. I chose “The D,” recommended by the server as the most popular and go-to choice. It arrived as a hybrid of The D and the Supreme. Honestly, this was totally fine with me.

Assembly Brewing Pizza Portland Oregon

The crust/dough is pretty good, and that is critical for a Detroit-style pizza. That’s the best of it, though. The sauce comes off lacking any flavor, and the toppings are very mediocre.

It’s not terrible, but I would not seek it out in a city that has a tremendous amount of great pizza. $40 (with tip, BEFORE beer) for an underwhelming pizza is frustrating. 

The draw to Assembly Brewing is the beer and the atmosphere – not the pizza.

Next Day (2): Assembly Brewing pizza does not improve the next day. Eating this pizza cold does not do it any favors. Reheating in the microwave is not much better. An oven reheat yields an okay day-old slice, but the best result is to reheat this pizza on the stove.

My preference is to reheat it in a nonstick skillet, covered, on low heat for a few minutes until the cheese starts to melt again. At this point, I turn up the heat to medium-high, cover it for a couple of minutes, and then remove the cover for a couple more until the bottom of the crust is crispy.

This is the best reheating method, but it remains very mediocre. Hopefully, on my next visit to Assembly Brewing, the pizza is as good as the beer.


Coming Soon!

We’ve got a list of dozens more places in our search for the best pizza in Portland, Oregon. The following reviews, among others, should be available in the coming weeks:

  • Lovely’s Fifty Fifty
  • Red Sauce
  • Handsome
  • Many, many more!

Pizza by the Slice in Portland

Rovente and Straight From New York are the slice kings of Portland pizza. A lot of Portland’s most popular local pizza chains serve slices as well, such as Sizzle Pie, Shmizza, Hot Lips and Pizzicato, but I typically seek out smaller pizza joints. These are my go-to shops for a quick slice of pizza in various Portland neighborhoods:

Baby Doll Pizza by the slice Portland Oregon  pizza by the slice Portland Oregon

Alberta

  • Via Chicago (mentioned above)

Boise (Mississippi/North Williams)

  • Mississippi Pizza & Pub

Creston-Kenilworth (SE Gladstone)

  • Gladstone Street Pizza – Happy hour late-night slices

Downtown Portland

  • Sizzle Pie West
  • 21st Century Pizza

Kerns

  • Baby Doll
  • Slice (in the Zipper)

Northwest Portland

  • Escape From New York Pizza
  • Straight From New York

Sunnyside (SE Belmont)

  • Straight From New York – one of the best places for a slice in PDX! Slices here are more than a stale old triangle of cheese and pepperoni. They are inventive and fresh, with decent value for a quality slice.

Hosford-Abernathy (Inner SE Division)

  • Scottie’s Pizza Parlor (mentioned above)

SE Hawthorne

  • Rovente Pizzeria
  • Blackbird Pizza
  • Straight From New York Hawthorne

Straight From New York Belmont Portland Oregon

Portland is a great pizza city, and there are (almost!) too many pizza joints to test. I hope these pizza reviews enhance your pizzaventures! I never tire of pizza, so stay tuned for updates.

Filed Under: Eat

Traveling as a Couple: 15 Vital Tips!

July 3, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 8 Comments

Couples traveling together have their work cut out for them. Traveling with a significant other is a challenge for most, and it’s certainly nothing like a cheesy rom-com.

hangry backpacker traveling as a couple in Koh Lanta Thailand

I know. I’ve traveled solo for months, and I’ve also traveled for several months with my girlfriend. Neither is easy, but there are additional challenges faced when traveling with someone else.

The relationships of backpacking and long-term traveling couples rarely survive the trip. Check out Solo Travel Vs. Travel with a Girlfriend for more on the differences of solo travel versus traveling as a couple.

Traveling as a couple requires work. Correction: happy traveling as a couple requires work. Here are 15 tips to help couples traveling together enjoy the experience and avoid frustrations with their significant other:

1. Be Patient

Exercising patience is an important part of any relationship. When traveling, it is paramount for a couple to remain patient. In order to continue having fun and enjoy the destinations, patience goes a long way in keeping moods even and avoiding conflict.

2. Be Nice

Don’t misplace blame. If something goes wrong – when something goes wrong – don’t be a jerk. It’s pretty simple.

We should all try to be nice to one another. Hopefully, couples are nice to each other already, but in the daily frustrations that come with travel, it can be easy to quickly blame someone else for misfortunes or missteps. Cooler heads prevail, and couples that are nicer to each other will travel happily.

3. Be Honest

Honesty is the best policy. Well, honestly, after having that maxim drilled into my head from a young age, I think that’s a load of crap. Brutal honesty just leads to arguments and hurt feelings. Anyway, to keep the peace on the road, be honest with your travel partner. 

Don’t be agreeable to everything. Worrying about keeping your significant other happy all the time, while disregarding your own preferences and desires, will only lead to resentment. Speak up. If you’re not enjoying a place or need to slow down, say something! It’s better to vocalize opinions sooner. Bottling up feelings is likely to lead to a massive argument. The bad part about couples arguing while traveling is the distraction from the adventure. 

Honest couples will avoid future conflict and travel happier.

4. Spend Time Apart

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right? If that’s not the case, how about this: take some time apart from your significant other when traveling, so you don’t get sick of each other. 

Even if it’s only a few hours one day a week, spending time alone is important for couples traveling together. Most people don’t have identical interests. Couples should take care to recognize their differences while traveling and make a habit of regularly spending time apart.

On beaches, I like to float in the water or chill beneath an umbrella. My girlfriend will spend hours scouring the shore for rocks and seashells. On days I need to be productive, I’ll find a bar or a coffee shop to work while she’s shopping, watching Netflix or doing who-knows-what. These times apart are what keep us together.

5. Know the Travel Situation

Clarify the travel situation beforehand. Are you traveling as a couple in an equal partnership? Is one person the leader?

It’s important for couples to understand how major travel decisions will be made before setting off for months on the road together. An inexperienced traveler should not take charge over everything in the name of equality.

Relationships should be partnerships, with certain levels of give-and-take. When thousands of miles from home in an unknown land, it’s not all about ensuring each person feels valued in decision-making. If couples are equally experienced and knowledgeable about the destination, that’s a wonderful advantage! 

When one person is a little green to backpacking or long-term travel, it’s okay to follow another’s lead. Skills can be honed over time. The primary focus is always smart and safe travel.

6. Talk It Out

Relationships go through rough spells. Couples backpacking or traveling long-term experience the same difficulties. 

When relationship problems arise on the road, it doesn’t matter how much time is spent apart. Unresolved issues will fester into something worse. If travel is taking its toll on the relationship, or the arrangement is not working out, talk it out or slow down before the situation worsens. Assuming you want to salvage a relationship, talking it out as soon as possible is the best course of action when traveling. 

The worst part about relationship problems on the road is that they get in the way of traveling. Don’t let frustrations with a significant other get in the way of exploring the world and happy travel.

7. Do Couple-y Activities

Being thousands of miles from home does not absolve couples from relationship duties. Treat your girlfriend/boyfriend/spouse like they are just that and the trip will go smoother.

Making time for date nights and coupley activities with your travel partner is a great way to maintain a certain level of happiness on the road. Lack of familiarity with a destination is not an excuse. Bike rides, walks in the park or going to see a movie can be fun activities almost anywhere in the world.

I’d rather go to a museum than an amusement park, but it didn’t stop me from getting on a rickety, questionably-safe ferris wheel in Armenia. Did I enjoy it? No, not really. The rusty ride from Soviet times terrified me, but I would do it again.

rusty Soviet ferris wheel Yerevan Armenia

8. Chip in on the Bill/Decisions

This one is easy. Even if your significant other is financing the travels, make a point to contribute every now and again. Pay for drinks, dinner or admission to an attraction. If you’re lucky enough to get a free ride, make the effort to pitch in on occasion. The gesture is appreciated.

If major travel plans are made by your significant other, contribute to lesser decisions to ease the burden of responsibility. Research the destination and find an activity or restaurant to try. Easing the responsibility of little things helps couples maintain a happy state of travel.

9. Make Friends

Making friends while traveling is more difficult for couples. Backpackers and other solo travelers are often reluctant to approach couples. Traveling couples are less inclined to leave their comfort zone and strike up conversations with strangers, but making friends abroad is just as important as it is at home.

Finding new friends abroad adds a little excitement to the journey. Going out for dinner with others will be more than another meal. New conversations and ideas make daily travel experiences more lively. 

Be cautious of meeting an oddly friendly couple. They just might mistake friendship for promiscuity, pull out a bag of blow and invite you to an orgy. Because that actually happened to my girlfriend and me in Asia. 

Backpackers are a friendly bunch, and most are not presumptuous groupies. For a better travel experience for couples, find some normal people and make new friends. 

10. Be Patient

Yes, again. It’s that important. There is no more important tip for couples traveling together than to be patient, even when it’s hard.

There is no point in being flustered over having to wait for your travel partner. The only result will be further annoyance and an irritated travel partner. And there is no reason to constantly be in a rush when traveling. Timeliness is a valuable trait to have, but the best travel is slow and appreciates the little things.

The way I avoid growing impatient is through timing. I don’t rush to get ready and leave when I know I’ll have to wait. Instead, I time it so we’re both ready about the same time. When time is more important – for instance, when catching a plane or a bus – and we need to leave at 10:00 AM, I say we need to leave at 9:30. 

My methods may be misleading, but conflict, annoyance and frustrations are avoided. I also hope my girlfriend doesn’t read this and catch on to my scheme.

11. Be Spontaneous

Sticking to a strict schedule is a great way to make travel boring and uninspiring. For couples, wandering aimlessly is a fun opportunity to explore a destination.

As a solo traveler, I often pick a direction and go. When traveling with a significant other, wandering new cities is a lot more fun. I often overlook sights that draw the attention of my girlfriend. Wandering with her, I’m led to areas that I would otherwise likely miss.

When it comes to sharing unique experiences, structured travel leaves little time for spontaneity and imagination. Freely-traveling backpackers and long-term traveling couples will see more of their destinations. With two heads and less structure, they are likely to let spontaneity take hold and have the most memorable adventures.

12. Make Sacrifices

One of the best things about traveling as a couple is that my girlfriend is much smaller than I am. As a large human (six-foot-three and about 250 pounds), this is a welcome benefit. She is gracious enough to let me encroach into her space on buses and planes. In places like Southeast Asia where transportation is rarely comfortable, her generosity speaks volumes.

dirty marshrutka in Yerevan Armenia
Marshrutka

I’m not all selfish, though. I have spent many hours sitting on a toddler-sized stool in the aisle of a jam-packed marshrutka (minibus in former Soviet countries), letting her have the seat. And I oblige her desires for shopping and cheeseburgers, as well.

Making sacrifices is crucial for couples to travel harmoniously. Travel, especially backpacking and long-term travel, is not a comfortable affair. Partaking in activities that are of no interest, ceding unused space on planes and eating what your travel partner wants are part of happy travel for couples. 

13. Choose Mutually-Appealing Destinations

Expanding on making sacrifices, mutually appealing destinations are important for couples traveling together. Letting your significant other choose the next travel stop is also a good idea. 

Long-term travelers and backpackers often set off without strict plans, and couples may not always agree on the next destination. Letting your travel partner pick destinations, or choosing a destination that is mutually appealing, is a good way to keep both parties happy. 

14. Pack Appropriately

One foolproof method to piss off your travel partner is to pack like an idiot. Healthy and able backpackers are responsible for carrying their own stuff. Don’t pack more than you can practically handle.

Proper packing is packing light and smart. Practical packing will allow for more comfortable travel and less worrying. All backpackers have their own baggage to haul, and it is not their responsibility to pick up the extra weight of a travel partner. Happy traveling as a couple – and avoiding undue strife – begins with smart packing.

15. Have Fun!

The most important part of traveling is to have fun. With all of the challenges and distractions that accompany traveling with a significant other, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Couples travel together to see and explore something new with someone special. Don’t let daily frustrations or petty differences hinder a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Hangry Backpacker traveling as a couple in Cambodia

If the days of travel grow long and mundane, remember the reason you travel. Find something fun to reignite the wanderlust. Couples have the benefit of traveling with someone else to help keep them motivated and positive. Travel comes with difficulties and challenges, but they are temporary and manageable. Never forget to have fun!

Filed Under: Lagniappe

Landing in Hanoi: First-Time Visitors’ Guide

June 28, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Landing in Hanoi is a sensory overload for first-time visitors to Vietnam. The enormous city is loud, crowded and overwhelming. 

literature temple Hanoi Vietnam

Hanoi is a great city to experience the culture and urban lifestyle of Vietnam. After adjusting to the bustling city and conquering the daunting task of crossing the street, Hanoi reveals itself to be more than another big city. It is one of the world’s most interesting travel destinations.

There is a lot for first-time visitors to consider before landing in Hanoi. Travelers should prepare accordingly, and knowing what to expect is the first step to fun, smart travel in the second-largest city of Vietnam.

There are fewer reasons to worry when traveling as part of a tour group, but it is always best to have an idea of what really awaits you on the ground. After all, many books paint a lovely picture, but it isn’t all unicorns and pixie dust.

Unicorn Cafe Hanoi Vietnam

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is no exception. This buzzing city takes some figuring out. Here are a few tips to help for a smooth adjustment:

Landing in Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport

Landing at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport is a little intimidating. Despite being a massive city, the airport is not very large. Even though the airport pales in comparison to the likes of airports in Bangkok, Singapore or Kuala Lumpur, Hanoi International is airport chaos. The few signs in English are not helpful, and there is little in the way of anyone directing the crowds of confused foreigners. 

Here are some valuable tips for getting out of Noi Bai as quickly as possible:

  • Have proper visa paperwork printed out and completed. There are a few forms to fill out upon arrival. Do this as quickly as possible.
  • Lines appear as disorganized crowds near a counter with immigration officials. It does not matter which line you choose. GET IN ANY LINE. Unless an official employee specifically directs you elsewhere, hopping in ANY LINE can save over an hour of waiting.
  • If a visa is required, payment must be cash in US Dollars. 
  • After paying the visa entrance fee and receiving the approved paperwork, hop in an immigration entry line and continue waiting.

Navigating through the debacle that is immigration at Hanoi International Airport is a tedious, frustrating and haphazard affair. Using these tips can save time and headaches.

After passing through immigration, there is an area with currency exchange, ATMs, a few shops and sim cards stands. Personally, I suggest getting a sim card. It takes a few minutes for 4G access, a working local number and plenty of data for about $10 USD. (This makes you wonder why cell phone service is so expensive in the United States.)

Finally, into the open area of the airport, visitors are met with a sea of drivers waiting for travelers. Do not hop into a random taxi in a Vietnamese airport. One of the most common scams in Vietnam starts with unassuming travelers hopping into taxis. An innocent ride from the airport to the hotel will wind through a city, make unplanned stops and stop at another hotel. The final cost is often several times larger than the original, agreed-upon sum. This scam has a few variations, but they all go back to untrustworthy taxis and tourists getting ripped off.

Avoiding the airport taxi scam in Vietnam is easy. It’s as simple as arranging airport transportation before landing. A driver reserved through a hotel or hostel may cost slightly more than the going rate for an honest taxi, but the assurance of not being scammed is worth a few extra bucks.

Get Your Bearings

Hanoi is overwhelming, and it’s important for first-time visitors to try to get their bearings and familiarize themselves with the area as quickly as possible. Quickly establishing a certain level of comfort will help combat any anxiety over navigating and exploring the area in the coming days. It’s best to hit the ground running in Hanoi.

Hanoi Vietnam Old Quarter fruit seller

After settling in at the hotel/hostel, familiarize yourself with the immediate surrounding area. This is true of arriving in any new place, but the Old Quarter of Hanoi is a chaotic Vietnamese labyrinth. It is easy to be confused and get lost (not the good kind of getting lost). Find a nearby mini-mart and pick up a few essentials. Then, locate the nearest ATM. These simple steps help to ease the mind and senses.

There are a lot of free walking tours of Hanoi. Find one of these groups and join to quickly get your bearings, learn about the area and locate the highlights of a visit to Hanoi, Vietnam.

Crossing the Street in Hanoi

Crossing the street is intimidating in Hanoi. It’s such a challenge that, yes, it requires a specific section for tips. In the words of a Vietnamese friend of mine before I landed in Hanoi: “Crossing the street in Hanoi, you risk your life.” 

He was laughing as he said this, but motorbikes will appear out of nowhere and crossing even a small street in Hanoi is no comedic affair. It requires intent, focus and nerves.

Hanoi traffic never stops, and the few pedestrian crossing signs are largely ignored by motorists. Tourists just landing in Hanoi are easy to spot, often frozen on street corners waiting for an opportunity or an opening – an opening that probably will not come until nightfall – to cross the street.

If the traffic never stops, how do you cross the road? 

First, envision a path across the street. Then, wait for the moment to start walking. When that moment comes, start heading to the opposite side of the street. Walk deliberately. It is very important to make eye contact with approaching motorists. The motorbikes are not going to stop, but they will slow down and weave around pedestrians. 

Whatever you do, don’t freeze. And don’t run. Keep moving, even if it’s slow. 

Crossing the street in Hanoi is something that takes a few tries to really learn. It is frightening at first, but after a few instances of real-life Frogger, you’ll get the hang of it.

If confronting the mad traffic in Hanoi still triggers anxiety, there is an easy alternative that occasionally helps. Find a local that is about to cross the street. Stick near the local and follow along until you reach the other side.

There is a simple rule of utmost importance when it comes to Hanoi traffic: Be careful; pay attention to all vehicles; be patient.

busy street Hanoi Vietnam Old Quarter


For more on travel in Vietnam check out these tips and guides:

Complete Vietnam Travel Itinerary & Guide 

Traveling Vietnam During Tet

Hanoi vs. Ho Chi Minh City: Same Same but Different

Beer in Southeast Asia

Choosing a Southeast Asian Travel Destination


Walk & Wander in Hanoi

Walking is essential to healthy, happy travel. In Vietnam, especially Hanoi, there are additional benefits to wandering on foot. 

It is difficult to ride anywhere in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Almost all transportation is via one of the millions – literally, there are millions – of motorbikes in the city. By walking, travelers avoid risks of taxi scams. Intoxicated tourists are an easy target for taxi thefts in Vietnam. Partying travelers should try to go on foot without straying far from the hotel. It is also safer to walk than ride. Thousands of people die on motorbikes in Vietnam each year, and tourists in Hanoi will quickly see why. 

The neverending benefit of wandering afoot is the fact that walking travelers will see more and learn more. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is so densely full of shops, markets and people that it takes days to explore. Doing so on foot is the only way to thoroughly wander and find all the hidden nooks, crannies and alleys.

Street Food in Hanoi

Hanoi, especially in the Old Quarter, is one of the best street food cities in the world. First-time visitors can expect a sensory overload and street food around every corner.

For more specifics on diving into the street food scene in Vietnam’s capital, check out Old Quarter Hanoi: It’s not all Pho & Games.

Food in Hanoi is, generally, very cheap. It’s not uncommon for tourists to incur price surcharges (more on scams below), but usually it is an insignificant amount for food. Ask about price before ordering – it’s perfectly acceptable and not considered rude – and if the price seems too high, move along. Don’t get suckered into paying too much for simple street eats. 

Hanoi Vietnam street market

Don’t be afraid to have a closer look at the many fresh, unusual eats. Those who follow curious stomachs are likely to find more authentic, local experiences. What appears to be nothing more than a hole in the wall or simple food cart may wind up serving one of the best meals in the world. As always, consider food safety when delving into street eats.

Scams in Hanoi

There are tourist scams everywhere in Vietnam. The most common is the “tourist tax”, where locals will simply charge tourists a premium. This one is largely unavoidable, and it’s usually pretty small. The average Vietnamese worker makes about $200 a month, so it’s hard to argue against their attempts at making extra money. Additionally, there’s no reason to get mad about a tourist tax and swear against Vietnam when you already know it’s going to happen.

The worst scams in Vietnam are airport taxi scams, as mentioned above. These often cause oblivious travelers the most money. The safest bet is to walk or arrange taxis beforehand. 

Perhaps the most common scams in Vietnam involve fruit. These are common in Hanoi, especially in the parks. Women carrying fruit wearing the typical Asian conical hat will place their haul on tourists, then tell them to take a fun picture holding the fruit. After taking the photo, money is demanded. Another fruit scam involves fruit sellers quoting one price to tourists, then another. Often they give incorrect change and raise the initial price. The scam is meant to be quick and confuse tourists.

Rainy Hanoi Vietnam Old Quarter

Buy fruit in Vietnam from markets. The sellers at street markets aren’t looking to scam every passing tourist.

Too many travelers gripe about scams in Vietnam, but there’s no reason to complain. Tourist scams in Vietnam are not a secret, and most travel guides for Vietnam and Hanoi mention the scams. Those who travel to Vietnam and still fall victim to these simple scams are either oblivious or did not do any research. 

Travel scams are an annoying part of travel anywhere. The problem is especially prevalent in Vietnam and, more so, within Hanoi. With a little research and preparation, however, first-time visitors to Hanoi can explore, have fun and avoid these misfortunes.


Hanoi is a fascinating city. And there is no better place for wandering in Vietnam than Old Quarter Hanoi. The city is budget-friendly, has great food and is chaotic enough to entertain any traveler. 

That same chaos makes Hanoi overwhelming for first-time visitors. Knowing what to expect will help travelers avoid mistakes and maximize fun in Vietnam’s capital from the moment the plane touches down.

Filed Under: City Guides

Food Safety in Southeast Asia

June 20, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 2 Comments

Food safety is one of the biggest challenges backpackers face when wandering through Southeast Asia. Not knowing what you’re eating can be a fun experience, but it can also be risky.

Street Food pastries Malaysia

Backpackers in Southeast Asia often find themselves off the beaten path faced with unusual eats. For most of these travelers, it’s not if they get sick, it’s when. Here’s how travelers and backpackers facing food in Southeast Asia can eat safely and avoid getting sick: [Read more…] about Food Safety in Southeast Asia

Filed Under: Eat

Visiting Tillamook, Oregon

June 18, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 5 Comments

Tillamook is a small city in northwestern Oregon. The city is nestled in between the Oregon Coast Range and the Pacific Ocean. Tillamook, Oregon is also a popular stop for roadtrippers taking US Highway 101, otherwise known as the Pacific Coast Highway.

Tillamook Creamery Oregon

For day-trippers from Portland or travelers passing through on the Pacific Coast Highway, Tillamook is an easy stopping point with tasty and picturesque attractions for visitors. [Read more…] about Visiting Tillamook, Oregon

Filed Under: City Guides, Get Lost

Solo Travel vs. Travel with a Girlfriend

June 13, 2019 By Hangry Backpacker 1 Comment

Traveling with a significant other – in my case, traveling with a girlfriend – is a drastically different way to see the world than solo travel.

solo travel versus travel with girlfriend

The differences can range from eating to transportation, and each type of travel has its advantages and unique daily challenges. [Read more…] about Solo Travel vs. Travel with a Girlfriend

Filed Under: Go Alone, Lagniappe

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