When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Boxcar Pizza
Why Boxcar Pizza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Boxcar Pizza is a standout vegan pizzeria located in Portland, Oregon’s vibrant Kerns neighborhood. Opened in August 2020 by Odie O'Connor during the COVID-19 pandemic, the restaurant specializes in Detroit-style pizzas with thick, crispy crusts made from a 70-percent hydration sourdough. The unique vegan pizzas feature innovative plant-based ingredients like coconut oil mozzarella, seitan bacon, soy curl chicken, and tofu-based cheeses, offering a full spectrum of flavors typically expected from traditional pizzas. Boxcar Pizza operates within The Zipper, a lively mixed-use development on Sandy Boulevard, providing a trendy yet welcoming atmosphere with seating for up to 100 guests, making it an ideal meetup spot for friends, families, and casual dates. The menu offers diverse options including a cheeseburger pizza, a pesto special inspired by popular culture, and specialty pizzas featuring vegan renditions of blue cheese and ricotta. Notably, the restaurant accommodates gluten-free and alternative diets, expanding accessibility for various dietary needs. The space promotes fast service with friendly staff and accepts multiple payment methods, including credit cards and mobile payments, enhancing convenience. Its unique blend of quality vegan food, inviting ambiance, and smart service makes Boxcar Pizza a great place to enjoy a social meal with friends while experiencing plant-based culinary creativity.
Here's what people think of Boxcar Pizza
As of recent, Boxcar Pizza holds a 4.8-star rating based on 938 reviews.
Customers from various platforms generally praise Boxcar Pizza highly, reflected in its strong 4.8-star rating from over 900 reviews. Many reviewers highlight the exceptional quality of the vegan Detroit-style crust, describing it as perfectly thick, crispy, and satisfying, which sets it apart from typical vegan pizzas. The innovative use of plant-based cheeses and toppings like seitan bacon and soy curl chicken received positive remarks for successfully replicating traditional flavors and textures. Reviewers also appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable service and the lively atmosphere of the space. The availability of gluten-free and alternative diet options is another frequently mentioned benefit, making the restaurant accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around occasional inconsistency in flavor delivery, particularly with certain specialty items like vegan pepperoni, which a few customers found lacking depth or authenticity. A minority expressed disappointment that while the pizza was creative, it did not always meet their expectations in taste or execution. Despite these critiques, the broad majority of user sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, concluding that Boxcar Pizza offers one of the best vegan pizza experiences in Portland with an inviting space to gather with friends and family.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Travis
This is hands down my favorite vegan restaurant and the best pizza I've ever had, period. The menu is incredible with a huge variety of topping options. The flavor is HUGE with the three different pizzas I've tried here. I wish I could try them all but Bacon Damn Sure has quickly cemented itself as my favorite. You can't go wrong here, it's one of a kind and unlike any other pizza I've had. Cheers to the owner for creating something truly special!
Christine Dickey
The food was delicious! We are from out of town, and we'd never been to Boxcar Pizza before. I am gluten free and vegan, so finding good pizza is tough. This was THE BEST vegan, gluten free pizza I've ever had! They also had Cheesy Garlic Bread that had a gluten free option. Simply amazing!
Kelly Chashchin
Holy heck! This place kicks a**! I have missed good pizza as a vegan and this place was some of the best pizza I’ve had as a vegan or even as a non-vegan. The Jimmy Pesto was so delicious, I am still thinking about it. The crispy cheese on the edges were awesome. The caesar salad was refreshing, but needed a little umami to fully imitated. The Bianca was also good, but is a most simplistic pizza. Genuinely love this little shop and cannot wait to come back!
Ms May
**Boxcar Pizza Soars: A Portland Masterpiece of Dough, Fire, and Flavor** PORTLAND, Ore. — In a city that takes its pizza seriously, **Boxcar Pizza** isn’t just competing—it’s rewriting the rules. Tucked away in a vibrant corner of Portland’s culinary landscape, this unassuming spot delivers pies that are equal parts creative and crave-worthy, with a wood-fired finesse that leaves no doubt: This is one of the best pizzerias in America. The **Head On Collision** is the kind of pizza that sparks obsession. A perfect marriage of chewy, blistered crust and bold toppings—spicy soppressata, honey that crackles into caramelized gold under the heat, and creamy stracciatella that cools the fire—it’s a symphony of contrasts. Each bite is a thrill ride, balancing heat, sweetness, and richness with the precision of a chef who knows exactly what they’re doing. Then there’s the **Bacon Damn Sure**, a pie that elevates simplicity to brilliance. Smoky “bacon”, caramelized onions, and a swirl of béchamel meld into something greater than the sum of its parts, while the crust—airy at the edges, crisp beneath—proves Boxcar’s dough game is untouchable. This isn’t just pizza; it’s craftsmanship. Even the classics shine. The margherita, with its vibrant tomato sauce and milky fresh mozzarella, is a testament to the power of perfect execution. But Boxcar’s true magic lies in its willingness to take risks, turning each pie into a conversation piece without ever sacrificing flavor for novelty. The space itself—rustic, warm, buzzing with energy—feels like the ideal setting for this kind of culinary alchemy. Servers move with the ease of people who know they’re serving something special, and the aroma of wood smoke and melting cheese wraps around you like an invitation to stay all night. Boxcar Pizza isn’t just a meal; it’s an event. With every slice, it makes the case that Portland’s pizza scene isn’t just keeping up with the giants—it’s setting the pace.
Chetan Gandotra
We had the Jimmy pesto, and it was hands down the best pizza I have ever had! It’s been almost 2 weeks and I looked up the place to post a review, as I am still dreaming about that pizza sitting a thousand miles away from Portland. No one should miss this kind of food in their lives. Please, do yourself a favor and go try this amazing place!
How to reach Boxcar Pizza
None
Website: None
Why Boxcar Pizza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Boxcar Pizza with your friends?
Boxcar Pizza in Portland stands out as an exceptional gathering spot for friends and family because it perfectly combines a warm, inviting atmosphere with a menu that delights diverse palates. Whether your group consists of pizza aficionados or people with specific dietary needs like vegan or gluten-free, Boxcar Pizza ensures everyone feels included without sacrificing great taste. Their specialty is Detroit-style square pizza, celebrated for its thick, crispy crust and rich, layered flavors that satisfy all kinds of cravings. The vibe at Boxcar Pizza is casual yet vibrant, making it an ideal place to relax and connect with others over shared food experiences. Its commitment to plant-based options means that even those who prioritize sustainability or dietary restrictions are thoroughly catered to, creating a sense of community and care within your group. With a strong 4.8-star rating from over 900 reviews, the restaurant inspires confidence that your visit will be enjoyable and memorable. The combination of delicious, innovative pizza and a welcoming environment makes Boxcar Pizza a natural hub to rally your friends or family for a casual meetup filled with good food and great company.
What activities can groups enjoy at Boxcar Pizza?
Boxcar Pizza offers a variety of experiences tailored to groups looking to socialize, celebrate, or simply enjoy a night out. First and foremost, it’s a destination for savoring authentic Detroit-style pizza, with options that range from traditional cheese and pepperoni to inventive vegan creations like the Bianca or Cheeseburger pizzas. The square, thick-crust slices are perfect for sharing, encouraging conversation as everyone passes around and samples different flavors. Beyond the pizza, the restaurant offers sides such as vegan wings in multiple flavors (Sriracha Lime, Buffalo, BBQ), which add excitement and variety to the communal dining experience.
In addition to the food, Boxcar Pizza provides a casual dining space with both indoor and outdoor seating, accommodating different group sizes and preferences. The outdoor seating area, in particular, is perfect for social gatherings in good weather, offering a relaxed ambiance where conversations can flow freely. Customers can also take advantage of takeout and delivery options if they want to bring the Boxcar experience to a home gathering or a picnic in the park. The restaurant’s casual yet trendy atmosphere fosters easy interaction among groups, making it a great place for celebrations, casual meetups, or even informal work-from-outside-the-office days with friends.
Why is Boxcar Pizza perfect for group meetups?
Boxcar Pizza excels in providing a space that’s both comfortable and conducive to socializing, a key attribute for groups. Its layout supports mingling: tables are arranged to be spacious enough for groups without feeling cramped, and the welcoming ambiance invites guests to linger without pressure. The staff’s friendly and attentive service enhances the experience, ensuring that groups receive prompt help with menu recommendations and accommodating any specific dietary needs.
Another reason Boxcar Pizza appeals to groups is its diverse menu, especially for those with varied preferences. The restaurant’s strong focus on plant-based and vegan pizzas means that groups including vegans or those with allergies (such as dairy allergies) can enjoy the meal together without compromise. Gluten-free options also widen accessibility, an important factor when coordinating groups with different dietary requirements. This inclusive approach helps eliminate common challenges when planning group meals.
Price-wise, Boxcar Pizza offers good value for the quality and quantity of food, making it affordable for casual group outings. Their commitment to sustainable practices, like using plastic-free packaging and reusable tableware, adds a feel-good element to your meetup, resonating with eco-conscious groups. Overall, Boxcar Pizza’s thoughtful blend of atmosphere, menu, service, and sustainability makes it an ideal venue for any group looking to enjoy excellent pizza in a friendly, inclusive environment.
What makes the pizza at Boxcar Pizza unique and ideal for sharing?
Boxcar Pizza’s signature is its Detroit-style pizza, which is notable for its thick, airy crust with a crispy, caramelized cheese edge. The square shape not only distinguishes it visually but also makes it especially practical for sharing among groups. Each slice is large and hearty, allowing multiple people to enjoy different toppings without skimping on flavor or volume. The crust’s combination of crunch and softness offers a texture contrast that keeps guests coming back for more.
Their menu shines with bold flavor combinations and quality ingredients supporting both traditional and vegan diets. For example, the Bianca pizza features plant-based mozzarella, ricotta, and sausage, topped with fresh basil and spicy red pepper flakes, delivering complexity and depth in every bite. Another standout is the Cheeseburger pizza, which cleverly mimics classic cheeseburger flavors using vegan cheddar, ground beef crumbles, pickles, and a secret burger sauce — a conversation starter that invites groups to share and compare their tastes.
Boxcar Pizza also accommodates special dietary preferences or restrictions by offering gluten-free crust options, ensuring no one in your group has to miss out. This careful attention to crafting pizza that is both adventurous and accessible makes it perfect for group dining, where tastes often vary widely but the joy of sharing remains the focal point.
How does Boxcar Pizza's environment enhance the group dining experience?
The ambiance at Boxcar Pizza significantly contributes to its appeal as a group-friendly restaurant. It features a casual, trendy décor that reflects Portland’s vibrant food culture, creating an atmosphere that is relaxed yet lively. Ambient lighting and modern design elements make the space feel comfortable and welcoming, a place where groups can feel at home celebrating milestones or simply catching up.
Outdoor seating options add flexibility and charm, especially during warmer months, allowing groups to enjoy fresh air while sharing meals. The layout respects personal space while still fostering the social buzz of community dining. Moreover, the staff are known to be friendly and accommodating, adding an extra layer of warmth to the experience and making groups feel valued.
Accessibility is another environmental factor that matters: Boxcar Pizza offers parking validation and is pet-friendly, meaning that groups can include furry friends in their meetups, expanding how inclusive and enjoyable the gathering can be. With these thoughtful environmental touches, Boxcar Pizza goes beyond food — it creates a gathering space that uplifts the social experience for groups of any size.
What makes Boxcar Pizza a sustainable and conscious choice for group dining?
Boxcar Pizza’s commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices stands out as a strong reason why groups concerned about environmental impact would choose to meet here. The restaurant uses plastic-free packaging and reusable tableware, minimizing waste associated with dining out. This approach aligns with growing consumer awareness and preference for businesses that prioritize planetary health, making your meetup not just fun but also conscientious.
The plant-based menu is itself a significant contribution to sustainability, as vegan and plant-based diets generally have lower environmental footprints than traditional meat-heavy menus. By offering a wide variety of delicious plant-based pizzas, Boxcar Pizza provides an opportunity for groups to enjoy flavorful meals while supporting greener eating habits.
This ethical stance combined with a casual, welcoming atmosphere means that your group outing can be both socially enriching and environmentally responsible. Choosing Boxcar Pizza sends a positive message and fosters connections not just among your friends but also with the broader community’s values.
How convenient and accessible is Boxcar Pizza for group outings?
Boxcar Pizza offers convenient hours, typically open daily from late morning until 10 PM, making it flexible for lunch, dinner, or casual evening meetups. Its location on NE Sandy Blvd in Portland is easily accessible for most locals and visitors, with parking options available including validated parking, which removes barriers for groups driving to the venue.
In addition to dine-in, Boxcar Pizza provides takeout and delivery services, giving groups alternatives if they prefer a more private meetup or want to bring high-quality pizza to an event outside the restaurant. The restaurant also supports contactless payments, including Apple Pay, which streamlines transactions for groups settling bills, making the entire experience smoother.
For groups planning an event or larger meetup, Boxcar Pizza’s friendly staff are willing to accommodate needs and make the process straightforward and enjoyable, ensuring your gathering happens without logistical stress.
Boxcar Pizza is undoubtedly a standout venue for anyone looking to host a memorable meetup with friends or family in Portland. With its unique Detroit-style pizzas, broad appeal to diverse dietary preferences, welcoming environment, sustainable practices, and convenient services, it hits all the right notes for group dining. Whether you want to share innovative vegan pizzas, enjoy casual outdoor seating, or simply gather for great food and company, this eatery is a winning choice that leaves everyone smiling.