When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne)
Why Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne) is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Straight From New York Pizza on Hawthorne Boulevard in Portland offers an authentic New York-style pizza experience that makes it an ideal place to gather with friends. The pizzeria is known for its casual, welcoming atmosphere enhanced by refurbished wooden booths and a nod to nostalgic décor with pinball machines, reminiscent of classic NY pizzerias. Their menu features made-to-order pizzas with diverse toppings, including gluten-free crust options, allowing guests with dietary preferences to enjoy a slice comfortably. Favorites include the margherita and pesto pizzas, appreciated for their fresh, distinct flavors. The venue also serves beer and provides an inviting space for lunch or an afternoon pizza break. Its location on the bustling and trendy Hawthorne Boulevard makes it a convenient and vibrant spot for friends to connect over delicious, affordable pies. Attentive and efficient service ensures minimal wait times, which enhances the casual dining experience. Overall, the combination of authentic NY-style flavors, a casual yet engaging environment, and accommodating service contributes to its appeal as a meetup spot.
Here's what people think of Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne)
As of recent, Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne) holds a 4.2-star rating based on 362 reviews.
Customer reviews of Straight From New York Pizza on Hawthorne show a generally positive sentiment, resulting in a solid 4.2-star rating from 362 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the authenticity of the New York-style pizza, with particular praise for specialty pies like margherita and pesto with feta and tomatoes. Reviewers appreciate the casual and inviting ambiance, the quick and friendly service, and the inclusion of gluten-free crust options which broaden accessibility. The nostalgic décor including pinball machines adds charm and makes the spot feel both fun and genuine. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out inconsistencies such as the pizza sometimes arriving cold when ordered for delivery, and the sauce lacking tang or distinctiveness for certain palates. Some users mention the food as acceptable but not exceptional, highlighting room for improvement in taste and temperature consistency. Despite these issues, many customers enjoy the overall experience and value the affordability and convenient Hawthorne location. In conclusion, while a few critiques address flavor nuances and delivery quality, the overall consensus appreciates Straight From New York Pizza as a dependable venue to enjoy classic NY-style slices in a congenial setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
C Yager
Pretty tasty thin crust pizza, pepperoni not greasy. The side ceaser salad was just ok. Pinball machines added a nice touch, not very busy on a Tuesday night . Street parking only which can be an issue. Fast service.
GoodGuyTheo
absolutely a BANGER and a must visit for a pizza lover Service is absolutely boof pack and when you order they look like they might kill themselves or you for even daring to want to eat pizza. Its comical how angsty and lame the dude serving us was, brother was so embarrassingly rude it could convince me not to come back even though i enjoyed the pizza so thoroughly. The pizza is gas cannot lie though
Grant Mooney
one of the best slices i've had in portland. fattttt slice for 4.50. epic. great music complimenting the vibes
Greg Henigan
I don’t like writing bad reviews, but…… They deserve one. I no longer go to the Hawthorne location because the service is so poor. The pizza is good. If you can get it. Location is awesome. I had 3 different tries eating here in the last 6 months and left 3 times because of a lack of slices. I mean like 2 slices of veggie and that’s it. I asked each time if there were pizzas on their way out and/or what the wait time was. Either got a stone cold dead eye stare or was told they weren’t making more-as if I was crazy for asking. You sell pizza by the slice people. No pizza place waits until all slices are gone before starting more. It’s not difficult. Full disclosure, I have never worked at a pizza place, but I would think you would want to never run out of pepperoni and cheese slices. I feel like the problem is staffing because the Belmont location is NEVER like this. Belmont SFNY staff is great. Been there 20+ times. They have pizza ready or they are making it. Always. And they are friendly.
Michelle Reu
I order a pizza meaty pizza and expected tons of meat and flavor with onions and other ingredients. I got my order and I was very disappointed by the look and how thin everything was. The ingredients were just rolling off the pizzas due to how small the ingredients were. Secondly, there was hardly any pizza sauce and the dough was beyond dry. There was barely any flavor or none at all. I feel like this pizza was already frozen since the crust was hard to bite into. In my opinion, I do not believe this was a NEW York pizza and paid 35.00 for 7 slices. Everyone was looking forward to the pizza whom Portland constantly talks about this place and the reviews. My whole team I bought it for were all disappointed by everything and for the prices, it didn’t even serve 10 people.
How to reach Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne)
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Why Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne) may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne) with your friends?
Gathering friends or family for a casual meetup calls for a venue that combines great food, a comfortable atmosphere, and enough entertainment to keep everyone engaged. Straight From New York Pizza on Hawthorne delivers just that, making it an ideal spot to rally your crew. Known for serving authentic New York-style pizza, this place creates a nostalgic vibe for those craving classic flavors in Portland. The welcoming environment encourages relaxed socializing, whether you come for a quick slice or a longer hangout. With a solid 4.2 rating from over 360 reviews, the pizzeria balances quality and approachability, catering to both New Yorkers missing the taste of home and pizza lovers looking for a dependable choice. Beyond the food, the venue boasts fun elements like pinball machines to spark a bit of friendly competition or just playful downtime. This mix of tasty pizza, casual ambiance, and social activities puts Straight From New York Pizza at the top of the list for hosting meetups with friends or family, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied both in appetite and camaraderie.
What food experiences can you expect at Straight From New York Pizza (Hawthorne)?
The main attraction at Straight From New York Pizza is, of course, their authentic New York-style pizza, which features a hand-tossed thin crust topped with flavorful tomato sauce and melty mozzarella cheese. Many patrons praise the classic Margherita pizza for its simplicity and fresh taste, capturing the essence of the city's beloved slice. The menu also includes creative pies like the pesto pizza with feta and tomatoes, reflecting an ability to offer variety while staying true to traditional roots. Gluten-free options have garnered positive remarks as well, with guests appreciating the flavorful sauce and perfectly balanced toppings that make their dietary needs easy to accommodate. While some reviews note occasional inconsistencies in temperature or tang in the sauce, the overall consensus remains that the pizza hits the right balance of authenticity and taste at a reasonable price point. Whether ordering a personal slice or sharing a whole pie, the food at Straight From New York Pizza makes a solid foundation for a group gathering or casual hangout.
What activities and features make Straight From New York Pizza perfect for group meetups?
Straight From New York Pizza offers more than just excellent food to keep your group entertained and connected. One standout feature is the presence of vintage pinball machines, which inject an element of nostalgia and fun into your visit. These games create a natural icebreaker and can spark friendly competition among friends, enhancing the social experience beyond just sharing a meal. The restaurant’s casual yet renovated interior—with updated woodwork, comfortable booths, and a clean kitchen—provides a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages lingering conversations and group bonding. The efficient service also means groups won’t be left waiting too long, making it easier to coordinate larger parties without frustration. Located in the lively Hawthorne district in Portland, it’s conveniently accessible and surrounded by other local attractions, giving your meetup potential for pre- or post-pizza activities. Together, the food, games, and cozy environment are thoughtfully curated to cater to groups looking for a place to relax, laugh, and enjoy each other's company.
Why is the location of Straight From New York Pizza on Hawthorne ideal for meetups?
The location of Straight From New York Pizza on Hawthorne Boulevard makes it a strategic meetup spot for locals and visitors alike. Hawthorne is a vibrant street known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and cultural spots, which adds to the overall experience and versatility of your gathering. Being situated in this lively neighborhood means friends can easily combine their pizza visit with other activities like browsing nearby boutiques or grabbing coffee afterward. The area’s accessibility by public transit and ample parking options simplify the logistics of group meetups, reducing barriers for assembling friends from various locations. Moreover, the Hawthorne community itself is known for its relaxed, friendly vibe—mirroring the ambiance inside the pizzeria—which helps set the tone for a casual, enjoyable hangout. This mix of convenience and ambiance turns the location into more than just an address; it becomes part of the memorable experience you create with your group.
How does the ambiance and service at Straight From New York Pizza contribute to group enjoyment?
The ambiance at Straight From New York Pizza balances casual comfort with a hint of vintage charm, making the environment highly conducive to socializing. The updated interior, which replaced the previous establishment, features inviting booths and warm woodwork that make sitting down with friends feel informal yet cozy. This relaxed setting allows groups to feel at home, encouraging longer visits and easy conversation. Service at the pizzeria is generally described as efficient and friendly, ensuring that groups receive their orders with minimal wait time, a critical factor in any successful meetup. Employees often engage warmly with young adults, creating a sense of community and rapport that enhances the overall experience. This blend of approachable customer service and inviting decor helps transform what could be a simple meal into a shared social event, where everyone can focus on enjoying each other’s company without distraction.
What makes Straight From New York Pizza a smart choice compared to other pizza places?
Choosing Straight From New York Pizza over other options stems from its commitment to delivering authentic New York-style pizza that stands out by taste and authenticity in Portland’s diverse food scene. While some peers might offer similar dishes, this pizzeria ties its identity to New York roots, which resonates with those seeking that specific style and flavor profile. It also maintains affordability, making it accessible to groups who want a satisfying meal without overspending—important when dining with family or multiple friends. The venue's dual focus on food quality and social elements like pinball machines gives it an edge by offering more than just dinner; it creates a happening place to hang out. Even with occasional critiques about sauce tang or slice temperature, the majority of reviews reflect an overall strong, positive experience. This combination of traditional fare, engaging atmosphere, and welcoming service makes Straight From New York Pizza a dependable, smart choice for hosting your next group meetup.
What should you know before planning a large meetup at Straight From New York Pizza?
Planning a large group gathering at Straight From New York Pizza requires considering factors like seating capacity, peak hours, and food preferences to ensure a smooth experience. While the interior has been recently updated with booths and comfortable seating, it remains a moderately sized pizzeria, so calling ahead or visiting during off-peak hours is advisable to secure space. The menu is well-suited for groups due to its variety of pizzas and accommodating dietary needs such as gluten-free options; however, sharing among a diverse group might require pre-ordering or discussing specific ingredients to keep everyone happy. Additionally, the casual vibe means it's more of a hangout spot than a formal event venue, which might shape your meetup’s tone. Finally, be mindful that some reviews mention occasional cold pizza or mild issues with pizza sauce flavor, so arriving early or discussing preferences with staff can help avoid any service hiccups. Taking these simple steps will help your gathering run smoothly and leave guests with fond memories of both the food and the fun.
How can groups maximize their meetup experience at Straight From New York Pizza?
To get the most out of your time at Straight From New York Pizza, plan your meetup to blend eating with social activities in the welcoming ambiance. Start by sampling a range of pizzas to share, including the highly recommended Margherita and the creative pesto variety, to please varied palates. Encourage some friendly competition on the pinball machines, which add lively breaks between bites and help everyone relax. Consider timing your visit to avoid the busiest hours, usually lunch or early evening rushes, so the group can linger comfortably and chat without rush. Bring along some casual games or conversation starters to enhance the already social atmosphere. Lastly, since the location is in a bustling district, plan for potential after-meal walks or visits to nearby shops, keeping the energy of the meetup alive beyond the pizza place itself. By thoughtfully mixing food, entertainment, and socializing, your gathering at Straight From New York Pizza becomes more than a meal—it becomes a memorable occasion.
What makes Straight From New York Pizza stand out in Portland's food community?
Straight From New York Pizza distinguishes itself in Portland’s eclectic culinary scene through its specific dedication to replicating the iconic New York slice experience. This focus on authenticity appeals strongly to third-generation New Yorkers and other pizza aficionados who seek recognizable, reliable flavors that transport them to the East Coast. Unlike places that might experiment heavily with toppings or styles, this pizzeria honors tradition while still allowing slight innovations, such as the inclusion of specialty pizzas and quality gluten-free crusts. The commitment to decent pricing paired with a nostalgic yet fresh atmosphere also earns it loyal patrons. Beyond the food, its location on Hawthorne—a hub for community and creativity—anchors it as a local favorite. This reputation, combined with steady positive reviews describing the pizza's taste and the enjoyable environment, solidifies its role as a vibrant part of Portland’s food identity and an ideal social destination.
What do customer reviews reveal about the experience at Straight From New York Pizza?
Customer feedback on Straight From New York Pizza reveals a broadly positive experience centered on good food, welcoming service, and a comfortable hangout spot. Many reviewers compliment the authentic New York-style pizza, highlighting the quality of the crust, the balanced cheese-to-sauce ratio, and the flavorful toppings that appeal to traditionalists and newcomers alike. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff receive praise for making diners feel at home and engaged, especially among younger patrons who enjoy the social vibe. However, some comments address minor drawbacks such as occasional inconsistencies in pizza temperature or a lack of zest in the tomato sauce, reflecting typical challenges in busy pizzeria operations. Despite these small critiques, the overall consensus from over 360 reviews is that the establishment offers a satisfying, reliable, and fun pizza experience worth revisiting. This balance of enthusiasm and honest critique illustrates why Straight From New York Pizza remains a go-to choice for groups looking to enjoy good food in a lively setting.
How does Straight From New York Pizza accommodate dietary restrictions or special preferences?
Straight From New York Pizza shows thoughtful consideration for guests with dietary restrictions by offering gluten-free pizza options that have been well received by those needing them. Customers report that the gluten-free crust is well-made, with a good texture and robust flavor profile, making it a rare gluten-free pizza choice that satisfies without compromise. Sauce and toppings maintain the restaurant’s signature flavors, ensuring that dietary accommodations do not come at the expense of authenticity. For groups comprising people with varying preferences—vegetarians, gluten-sensitive individuals, or those seeking classic vs. inventive toppings—the menu’s variety supports inclusive ordering, making it easier to please everyone. This openness to customization and respect for dietary needs enhances the overall appeal of the pizzeria as a gathering spot where everyone can comfortably find something they enjoy without hassle.
Why is Straight From New York Pizza a smart choice for casual celebrations or family gatherings?
Straight From New York Pizza fits perfectly for casual celebrations and family gatherings due to its relaxed atmosphere, quality food offerings, and social vibe. The comfortable seating and approachable service make it easy for diners of all ages to feel welcomed, while the menu’s popular staples appeal widely across generations. The presence of entertainment options like pinball machines adds a lighthearted touch suited for families with kids or groups looking to extend their time together beyond eating. Its affordability means hosting a larger group doesn’t break the bank, allowing celebrations to focus on connection without budget stress. Additionally, the location on Hawthorne provides a fun and lively backdrop that naturally lifts the festive spirit of any occasion, making it an excellent choice for memorable gatherings centered around good pizza and great company.