When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE
Why Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE, located on Southeast Division Street in Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant community hub known for its delicious New York-style pizza served with a distinct artisanal touch. Founded in 2015 by Scott Rivera and Amy Coplen, the parlor has gained a loyal following thanks to its commitment to quality and community values. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for meeting up with friends. Its unique square and round pizzas, featuring locally sourced ingredients and house-made mozzarella and ricotta cheeses, create an authentic and satisfying dining experience. Highlights of the menu include classic margherita, pepperoni, and bianca (sauceless) pies, alongside fresh Caesar salads, garlic knots, and cannoli for dessert. Scottie's operates with a socially responsible philosophy, paying its workers a living wage and offering a Pay It Forward program ensuring no guest leaves hungry. The pizzeria’s rustic, New York-inspired decor—with pizza boxes adorning the walls—adds to its inviting charm, making it a must-visit for casual diners and pizza enthusiasts alike. Outdoor seating and takeout options enhance its accessibility, and while it operates limited hours (Wednesday through Saturday evenings), each visit promises a genuine slice of Portland’s pizza culture.
Here's what people think of Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE
As of recent, Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE holds a 4.7-star rating based on 832 reviews.
User reviews of Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE consistently praise the pizzeria's commitment to quality and community. Positive feedback frequently highlights the delicious, authentic New York-style pizza with its distinctive poofy rims and leopard-spotted crusts, baked to perfection in a high-temperature electric deck oven. Customers appreciate the generous slice sizes, fresh house-made cheeses, and thoughtfully curated menu options accommodating vegetarians. Reviewers also commend the friendly customer service, inviting ambiance, and the parlor’s social values like fair wages and food accessibility programs. The unique decor and community-driven atmosphere contribute to the overall positive experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional long wait times and limited seating, leading to slower service during peak hours. A few customers expressed that while the pizza is good, it may fall short of 'great' compared to other pizzerias, and demand often means pizzas can sell out quickly, sometimes requiring advance planning. Despite these critiques, the consensus is overwhelmingly favorable, with a high average rating reflecting consistent customer satisfaction. In conclusion, Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE is widely regarded as a friendly, socially conscious spot known for quality pizza, ideal for gatherings despite minor service delays.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jennifer Gaddis
Scottie's pizza is amazing! I make a point to visit every time I'm in Portland and always send my friends there when they visit the city. The crust (naturally leavened - yum!) is so delicious and the sauce and toppings are perfection. I've been coming to this location since they opened almost a decade ago. It's a really special place and I'm so glad to see it thriving. Prices are good and the hospitality of the staff and owners is top notch. My kid loves getting slices there too! Super family friendly.
Skylar Goldberg
Really good pizza. My ideal well done crust. Canolis were great too! Just wish the inside was larger with more of a selection of alcohol.
Ben Woodruff
Portland has fantastic pizza overall, but Scottie's is at the top. Not only is their pizza fantastic, but the employees are super kind and courteous as well. I had a custom pizza request and they helped me make it extra special. The #1 pizza is a 10/10 pie that tastes straight out of Italy. BIG shout-out to Jo in particular for making sure my pizza was perfect for when I proposed :) It was so much better than I could have imagined! THANK YOU!!!
tube sockington
First, the positives. the granny slice was an absolute banger. now for the negatives. man. I don't know if it is a result of splitting attention between two locations now but the pizza yesterday was bad. uneven cook (burnt in middle) and nearly zero rise at the crust edges. crust had nearly no flavor and poor gluten structure. front staff gentleman was apathetic at best and rude at worst. the ladies in the back were more interested in throwing things at one another than properly cooking a pie that it came out blackened in the center and only properly leopard spotted at the edges. from now on, if I don't see the owner here when i walk in, I'm walking right back out.
Brian Fok
Delicious thin crust slices. Exactly what I was looking for before my flight out of Portland. Came across this pizza spot on Reddit as a place to go for some slices, and it did not disappoint! Will definitely be back the next time I'm in the area.
How to reach Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE
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Why Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Scottie's Pizza Parlor SE with your friends? When gathering a group of friends or family, finding a spot that combines great food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a sense of community is essential, and Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE in Portland provides just that. With a stellar 4.7 rating from over 800 reviews, this pizzeria offers more than just pizza; it offers an experience that invites connection and shared enjoyment. The large, flavorful pies crafted from naturally leavened dough made from Pacific Northwest wheat offer a crust that is crisp yet airy with a subtle sourdough tang that pizza enthusiasts cherish. Beyond the quality of the food, the ambiance is intimate yet lively enough to energize any meetup with warmth and friendliness. The owner’s genuine enthusiasm and the staff’s kindness create a space where everyone feels welcomed and valued. For groups, Scottie’s offers appropriately generous pizza sizes — including 18-inch round and 16-inch square pies — making it easy to share and savor multiple varieties. Whether meeting up to celebrate a special occasion or just unwind after a busy week, Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE provides an ideal backdrop to enjoy delicious food and good company in Southeast Portland.
What activities and features make Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE perfect for a group meetup? First, the pizza itself serves as a central gathering activity—ordering a variety of pies to share encourages conversation and communal eating, which are core to any successful social outing. The place offers pizza by the slice at an affordable price, which is perfect for casual drop-ins or mixing smaller bites with full-sized pies for the group. Its cozy interior with quirky decor — including walls lined with pizza boxes — creates a fun and casual environment that invites interaction and exploration of different pizzas. The smaller size of the restaurant means groups often experience a friendly, neighborhood vibe where the staff knows many customers by name, amplifying the feeling of belonging. Scottie's also sources its ingredients locally and organically when possible, ensuring that guests appreciate not only the taste but the thoughtfulness behind each ingredient. Additionally, the use of a service charge instead of tipping fosters a more relaxed, community-oriented service experience. This approach ensures customers focus on enjoying their meal and company without the usual pressure associated with gratuities, making the meetup more comfortable and inclusive.
How is the pizza at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE unique and why does it stand out to pizza lovers? Scottie’s combines elements of New York and Neapolitan pizza styles to create a hybrid that appeals to a wide range of tastes. The dough is naturally leavened and fermented slowly, resulting in a crust that is both crisp on the outside and soft on the inside with a distinctive sourdough flavor. This sophisticated dough preparation sets Scottie’s apart from many other local pizzerias, making each bite memorable. Their menu features 18-inch round pies alongside 16-inch square grandma-style pies, offering variety not only in shape and size but also in flavor profiles. One standout pie, the Defino, is a much-lauded grandma-style square pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, oregano, garlic oil, pecorino romano, and tomato sauce. This particular pizza is a labor of love, with only 15 made per day, so it’s highly sought after and worth reserving in advance. The emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients like organic California-grown tomatoes and locally sourced vegetables elevates each pizza’s flavor profile. Scottie’s also offers generous slices at a budget-friendly price, enabling groups to sample different flavors without overcommitting, which is ideal for a gathering and discovering new favorites.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE conducive to social gatherings? Scottie’s is located on Division Street in Southeast Portland, a bustling area that's easy for locals and visitors alike to access, making it convenient for group meetups. Though the indoor space is described as small and cozy, the charm lies in its intimate feel, encouraging a communal atmosphere rather than sprawling anonymity typical of larger venues. The small size fosters a neighborly ambiance where patrons can easily engage with one another and the staff, which is ideal for groups seeking a friendly environment. The decor adds to the casual vibe, with creative touches like pizza boxes decorating the walls, giving diners something fun and unique to focus on beyond the food. For those who prefer outdoor seating, there are a few tables outside which can be perfect for enjoying Portland’s often mild weather in a relaxed setting. The combination of welcoming staff, inviting decor, and strategic location makes it a perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and cheer for your favorite slice with friends or family.
How accessible and accommodating is Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE for diverse groups and dietary preferences? While Scottie’s does not offer strictly gluten-free pizza, their crust is made from naturally leavened sourdough, which is generally lower in gluten and easier to digest for many people with sensitive stomachs, though celiacs should avoid it. This subtle attention to ingredient quality and preparation reflects the pizzeria’s broader commitment to catering thoughtfully to customers’ needs. Their simple yet versatile menu allows groups to pick from a range of toppings and styles, which means there’s something for everyone — from classic pepperoni lovers to fans of herbaceous, gourmet options like the Defino pie. The option to order personal 10-inch pizzas in addition to larger sizes means smaller parties or individuals within a group can customize their meal to suit their taste. Scottie’s emphasizes using organic, locally sourced produce whenever possible, appealing to health-conscious diners and supporting sustainability—an important consideration for many groups today. For those looking to combine pizza with local beer or dessert, Scottie's complementary offerings round out the experience without overwhelming guests. Overall, the place balances simplicity and sophistication in a way that welcomes many different palates and preferences, making it inclusive and group-friendly.
What should groups expect from the service experience at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE? One standout aspect of Scottie’s is their service charge model, a deliberate choice to replace traditional tipping. This approach removes the social complexities of tipping and ensures that customers receive attentive and consistent service with less pressure. Guests report experiencing warm, friendly, and genuine hospitality from the staff, which adds to the comfort and ease of dining here, especially for group events where coordination and timing matter. The owner, Scottie, is highly approachable and known for his humble and kind attitude, enhancing the overall atmosphere of goodwill and connection. Groups can expect that the staff will be accommodating regarding pizza orders, suggestions, and special requests, making it easier to manage larger, more diverse groups smoothly. The informal yet skilled service matches Scottie’s mission to bring happiness through well-crafted pizza in a welcoming setting. This reliable, friendly service ensures that meeting up with friends or family is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
How do cost and value factor into hosting your meetup at Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE? Although prices may be somewhat higher compared to typical fast-food pizza venues, customers agree that the quality, size, and flavor of Scottie’s pies justify the cost. The pizzas are notably large and filling, meaning groups can order fewer pies to share, ultimately providing good value. Slices available for $3-4 allow groups or individuals to try multiple flavors without committing to whole pies, making it budget-friendly when you just want to taste-test. The use of high-quality, organic ingredients and handcrafted sourdough dough produce a premium product that feels worth every penny. Ultimately, Scottie’s strikes a balance between gourmet craft and casual pricing, making it accessible for group meetups without sacrificing deliciousness or experience. Many customers return because the satisfaction from the pizza and the environment outweighs the cost, positioning Scottie’s as a go-to choice for memorable, quality pizza gatherings.
What makes Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE a memorable meeting place beyond just the food? Beyond the pies themselves, Scottie’s Pizza Parlor SE exudes a sense of place and personality that helps groups create lasting memories. The combination of skilled pizzaioli handcrafting each pie with care, the owner's friendly presence, and attention to sustainable ingredient sourcing generates a unique dining atmosphere. The decor, from quirky pizza boxes on the wall to the bustling, neighborly vibe, creates a stimulating yet relaxed scene conducive to conversation and laughter. The small yet mighty space encourages interaction among patrons, making new connections easier and making regulars feel at home. Guests often remark on the feeling that Scottie’s is more than just a pizzeria — it is a community hub where pizza brings people together. Whether it’s the thrill of trying the coveted, limited-availability Defino pie or simply enjoying an afternoon slice with friends, Scottie’s fosters a shared experience that extends beyond the meal, making it an ideal venue for any kind of get-together.