I love pizza, and Eugene, Oregon has some amazing options to choose from. As a local foodie, I’ve tried many pizzerias in the area and can’t wait to share my top picks with you.
Whether you’re craving a classic Margherita or something more adventurous, Eugene’s pizza scene has something for everyone.
In this article, I’ll guide you through the 5 best pizza restaurants in Eugene, Oregon that will satisfy your pizza cravings. From wood-fired creations to New York-style slices, these spots offer a range of styles and flavors.
Get ready to explore Eugene’s pizza paradise with me!
1. Hey, Neighbor! – Friendly
I recently visited Hey, Neighbor! in Eugene and was blown away by their pizza. They make hand-tossed neo-Neapolitan pies that are simply delicious.
The crust is perfectly crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside.
The toppings are fresh and flavorful. I tried their margherita pizza and loved how the basil and tomatoes tasted like they were picked from a garden that morning. The cheese was melty and stretchy in all the right ways.
The staff is super nice and helped me pick out the perfect pie. They clearly care about making great pizza and it shows. The restaurant has a cozy, welcoming vibe that made me feel right at home.
I can’t wait to go back and try more of their pizzas. If you’re looking for amazing pizza in Eugene, Hey, Neighbor! is definitely worth a visit. Your taste buds will thank you!
Rating: 4.7 (162 reviews)
Location: 605 W 19th Ave, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (541) 505-9302
Website: Visit Website
2. Mezza Luna Pizzeria
I recently stopped by Mezza Luna Pizzeria and was blown away by their delicious pizza. The crispy crust had the perfect amount of chew, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful.
The atmosphere was cozy and welcoming, with a friendly staff that made me feel right at home. I loved how they had both classic and creative pizza options to choose from.
My favorite was their signature Mezza Luna pizza, topped with a mouthwatering blend of cheeses, meats, and veggies. The portion sizes were generous, and I left feeling fully satisfied.
I also appreciated that they offer delivery and pickup options, making it easy to enjoy their tasty pies at home. Next time you’re craving pizza in Eugene, I highly recommend giving Mezza Luna a try!
Rating: 4.6 (851 reviews)
Location: 933 Pearl St, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 684-8900
Website: Visit Website
3. The Wheel Apizza Pub
I love The Wheel Apizza Pub for its unique take on pizza. They blend New Haven-style “apizza” with San Francisco-inspired naturally leavened dough. The result is truly special.
The focus on local ingredients really shines through in every bite. I tasted the freshness from farms like Little Wings and Long’s Meat Market. It’s great to support local producers while enjoying such tasty food.
Their in-house brewery is a big plus. I tried a few of their beers made with Oregon-grown ingredients. The diverse selection pairs perfectly with the pizzas.
The Wheel captures Eugene’s local-focused culture beautifully. It’s become one of my go-to spots for pizza and beer in town. The quality and care put into every aspect of the experience keeps me coming back.
Rating: 4.6 (683 reviews)
Location: 390 Lincoln St #101, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 735-3860
Website: Visit Website
4. Hey Neighbor! – Campus
I recently stopped by Hey Neighbor! on campus and was blown away by their pizza. They specialize in hand-tossed neo-Neapolitan pies that are simply delicious. The crust has that perfect balance of crispy and chewy that I love.
The toppings are fresh and high-quality. I tried a classic Margherita and it was bursting with flavor from the San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil. The cheese was melty and perfectly distributed.
The vibe inside is great too – it has a fun, casual atmosphere that’s perfect for grabbing a slice with friends after class. The staff were super friendly and gave great recommendations when I couldn’t decide what to order.
I’m already planning my next visit to try more of their creative specialty pies. If you’re looking for top-notch pizza near campus, Hey Neighbor! is definitely worth checking out. I think I’ve found my new go-to pizza spot in Eugene.
Rating: 4.7 (458 reviews)
Location: 1621 E 19th Ave, Eugene, OR 97403
Contact: (541) 505-9302
Website: Visit Website
5. Bellizzi’s Pizza Joint
I love stopping by Bellizzi’s Pizza Joint for a quick slice or a whole pie. The aroma of fresh dough and melted cheese hits you as soon as you walk in. It’s a cozy spot with a friendly vibe that makes you feel right at home.
Their pizzas are always hot and delicious. I’m a big fan of their classic pepperoni, but they also have some unique toppings if you’re feeling adventurous. The crust is just right – not too thick or thin, with a nice crispy edge.
The staff at Bellizzi’s is always helpful and quick to serve. Even when it’s busy, they manage to keep things moving smoothly. I’ve never had to wait too long for my order, which is great when you’re hungry for pizza.
If you’re in the mood for something other than pizza, they’ve got you covered. Their salads are fresh and tasty, and the garlic knots are a must-try. They’re perfect for sharing or as a side to your main dish.
Rating: 4.5 (440 reviews)
Location: 1600 Coburg Rd #2, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 686-9996
Website: Visit Website
The History of Pizza in Eugene
Pizza has been a beloved part of Eugene’s food scene for decades. Local pizzerias have shaped the city’s tastes with unique recipes and fresh ingredients.
Origins and Growth
I remember when pizza first arrived in Eugene in the 1950s. Small family-owned shops popped up, bringing Italian flavors to our college town. By the 1970s, pizza had become a staple for University of Oregon students.
Bene Gourmet Pizza opened in the 1980s, started by a local accountant. It grew from one shop to multiple locations. Other longstanding favorites like Track Town Pizza near campus have fed hungry Ducks for generations.
Influence of Local Ingredients
I’ve seen Eugene’s pizza evolve to showcase our amazing local produce. Many pizzerias now use ingredients from the Willamette Valley.
Hazelnuts, mushrooms, and berries often make surprise appearances on pies. Some places even use local microbrews in their dough recipes. Farm-to-table pizza has become a point of pride.
Seasonal specials highlight what’s fresh each month. Fall brings pumpkin and apple pizzas, while summer means heirloom tomatoes and zucchini. This focus on local flavors gives Eugene pizza its own unique identity.
Characteristics of a Great Pizza
I think great pizza comes down to two main things: top-notch ingredients and time-honored techniques. When these come together just right, it creates pizza perfection.
Quality Ingredients
I always look for pizzas made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The sauce should be made from ripe tomatoes, ideally San Marzano tomatoes for that perfect sweet-tart flavor. Fresh mozzarella cheese makes a huge difference too.
I love when pizzerias use locally-sourced toppings when possible. Things like fresh vegetables and herbs really elevate the pizza. The crust is key – it needs to be made with high-protein flour, yeast, salt, and water. No additives or preservatives.
Good olive oil drizzled on top adds amazing flavor. I also appreciate when places offer unique gourmet toppings like prosciutto, arugula, or roasted garlic. But even simple margherita pizza can be incredible with the right ingredients.
Authentic Techniques
I believe authentic pizza-making techniques are crucial. The dough should be hand-stretched, not rolled out with a pin. This creates those lovely air bubbles in the crust.
Wood-fired ovens are ideal. They get super hot, cooking the pizza quickly and creating a perfectly charred crust. The high heat also helps toppings cook evenly.
I love watching skilled pizzaiolos toss and spin the dough. It’s not just for show – it helps create that thin, crispy center and puffy outer crust. Proper baking times are crucial too. Just a minute or two can make the difference between perfect and burnt.
Letting the dough ferment slowly builds amazing flavor. And using a pizza peel to slide it into the oven helps maintain its shape. These little details really add up to create pizza magic.
