Portland Pizza Tour

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $75 per person and lasts approximately 2 hours.
• Number of Stops: You visit six renowned Portland pizzerias, each offering unique styles and flavors.
• Expert Guide: Led by Beau La Fave, a knowledgeable local with a passion for pizza and Portland’s food scene.
• Included Stops: The tour features stops at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor, Ranch PDX, Wild Child Pizza, Escape From New York Pizza, Life of Pie, and Pizza Thief.
• Food Experience: Each pizzeria provides generous pizza samples, with some featuring distinctive crusts like wood-fired or sourdough.
• Reviews: The tour boasts a perfect 5.0 rating based on 51 reviews, with many praising the guide’s expertise and the variety of pizza styles.
• Scheduling: Most bookings are made about 38 days in advance, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.
• Additional Info: The tour includes mobile tickets and concludes at Pizza Thief in Portland’s vibrant neighborhood.

Portland Pizza Tour: An Expert-Guided Journey Through Local Pizzerias

The Portland Pizza Tour offers a flavorful exploration of the city’s pizza scene, led by Beau La Fave. For $75, you enjoy a 2-hour walking experience that covers six top pizzerias across Portland, each showcasing a different style and culinary approach. The tour is perfect for foodies, locals, and visitors eager to try distinctive pizza varieties, from Pacific Northwest-inspired crusts to authentic New York slices.

This guided experience is designed to be lively and engaging, with plenty of pizza to share at each stop. The tour features expert insights into Portland’s restaurant culture and the stories behind each pizzeria. While the length is manageable and the group size limited to 20**, it’s best to come hungry—the portions are satisfying, and leftovers are often encouraged. Advance booking is recommended, with most tours booked about 38 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $75 per person for an all-encompassing pizza journey
• Duration of approximately 2 hours offers a manageable, fun experience
• Visit six renowned pizzerias, each with its own style and story
• Led by Beau La Fave, a guide praised for his knowledge and personable style
• Includes ample pizza samples at each stop, with options ranging from wood-fired to sourdough crusts
• Almost perfect reviews, especially highlighting guide expertise and variety of flavors
• Tour ends at Pizza Thief, in a lively Portland neighborhood
• Suitable for most travelers and accessible, with service animals allowed

Starting Point: Scottie’s Pizza Parlor in NW Portland

The tour begins at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor, a local favorite known for its Pacific Northwest wheat-based crust. The 18-inch round and 16-inch square pies are made with organic California tomatoes, top-quality cheeses, and locally sourced herbs. The secret to their crust is the naturally leavened sourdough flavor, offering a crisp yet airy texture.

This stop sets the tone for the tour, showcasing how Portland’s local ingredients and craftsmanship influence pizza-making. The 10-minute visit allows ample time to taste freshly prepared slices, with the option to purchase additional items if desired.

Ranch PDX: Portland’s Unexpected Pizza Innovator

Next, the tour visits Ranch PDX on NW 21st, a pizzeria with a unique origin story. Born as a humble popup in 2017, Ranch Pizza has grown into a full restaurant, redefining Portland’s pizza landscape. The spot is known for unconventional toppings and creative combinations, making it a favorite for those seeking something different.

The 10-minute stop provides a chance to sample their innovative slices. The story behind Ranch’s evolution from passion project to established restaurant highlights Portland’s support for culinary experimentation.

Wild Child Pizza: Creative Flavors and Bold Styles

Wild Child Pizza in NW joins the tour as a vibrant addition to Portland’s pizza options. Created by the team behind Portland Gear, Wild Child is known for bold flavors and creative twists. The pizzeria emphasizes visionary recipes that showcase style and innovation, making each slice an experience.

The 10-minute visit allows tasting distinctive pies with bold toppings and unusual flavor pairings. The creative spirit behind Wild Child reflects Portland’s avant-garde culinary scene.

Escape From New York Pizza: A Slice of Tradition

A highlight of the tour is Escape From New York Pizza, Portland’s oldest slice shop. Established to bring authentic New York-style slices to the city, this spot offers a taste of timeless classic pizza. The legacy of tradition and craftsmanship is evident in their thin, foldable slices.

The 10-minute stop provides an opportunity to enjoy nostalgic flavors and authentic recipes that have withstood the test of time. This location embodies Portland’s appreciation for heritage-style pizza with a local twist.

Life of Pie: Sustainable Wood-Fired Pizzas

Life of Pie in Portland is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas, emphasizing sustainability. They use sustainably sourced wood in their climate-conscious ovens, imparting a distinct smoky flavor to each pie. Their focus on local ingredients and eco-friendly practices makes this stop stand out.

The 10-minute visit offers a chance to sample crispy, smoky crusts along with fresh toppings, showcasing how sustainability and culinary excellence can go hand in hand.

Pizza Thief: Sourdough and Artisanal Cheeses

Pizza Thief is celebrated for sourdough mastery and exceptional cheeses. The dough features a special blend of wheat, creating a distinctive flavor and texture. The 10-minute stop emphasizes artisan craftsmanship, with creative toppings and a bold crust.

This location offers a unique take on Portland’s pizza scene, highlighting the importance of artisanal techniques and flavor innovation. It’s a perfect spot for those wanting craftsmanship and creativity in every bite.

The Guide and Local Neighborhoods

Led by Beau La Fave, the tour’s expert guide is praised for his knowledge, personable style, and ability to personalize the experience. The tour winds through Portland’s vibrant neighborhoods like the Alphabet District and the Nob Hill area, passing Cinemat 21, a local independent cinema. This adds a cultural layer to the experience, blending food and local character.

The group size is kept to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging experience. The walk covers approximately 2 miles, making it a manageable pace and an opportunity to explore Portland’s charming streets.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The tour begins at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor in NW Portland and concludes at Pizza Thief on NW Vaughn. The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward, and the tour is near public transportation for easy access. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.

Most bookings are made about 38 days in advance, emphasizing its popularity. Remember to come hungry, as the ample samples at each stop often lead to leftovers. Cancellation policies allow for free cancellations if done more than 24 hours in advance, but late cancellations are non-refundable.

Portland Pizza Tour: A Flavorful Insider Look

This tour delivers a comprehensive slice of Portland’s pizza scene, combining local history, innovative styles, and expert storytelling. The six stops cover a range of traditional and modern pizzerias, each adding a different flavor to the overall experience. The guides’ knowledge and personality turn a simple tasting into a personalized journey through Portland’s culinary culture.

While the pace is brisk and the walking distance modest, the generous portions and variety of styles keep it lively and satisfying. The cost of $75 provides excellent value for an experience that combines food, culture, and local storytelling. This tour especially suits pizza enthusiasts eager to learn about regional styles and artisan techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While the tour focuses on pizza, the stops feature varied toppings and styles, so vegetarians and those with dietary restrictions should find options at each location. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider for specific needs.

Are alcoholic beverages included in the tour?
No, alcoholic drinks are not included. Guests have the option to purchase beverages at each stop.

How far do we walk during the tour?
The tour covers about 2 miles of walking through Portland neighborhoods, making it comfortably paced for most guests.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.

Can I join the tour on short notice?
Most bookings are made about 38 days in advance, so last-minute reservations may be limited depending on availability. It’s advisable to book early.

Is the tour accessible for persons with mobility challenges?
The tour involves walking about 2 miles, which may not be suitable for all mobility levels. However, the tour is near public transportation and designed to be manageable for most.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

What makes this tour different from other food tours in Portland?
The focus on pizza, variety of styles, and the knowledgeable guide make this a standout. It combines culinary exploration with insights into Portland’s neighborhoods and local culture.