The Great Debate: Oregon’s Best BBQ / Pizza / Seafood Spots Ranked
Portland’s Mississippi Avenue neighborhood offers an unbeatable mix of culinary creativity and laid-back charm, making it a prime spot for those craving some of Oregon’s best barbecue. Just a short drive northeast of downtown Portland, this vibrant district is home to Pine Street Market, which hosts a variety of vendors including some standout BBQ joints. One place that regularly earns praise is Matt’s BBQ, where the Central Texas-style smoked brisket and ribs are smoked low and slow over oak and pecan wood, delivering deep smoky flavors that linger beautifully. The smoky aroma drifts through the market, inviting visitors to savor these hearty meats alongside inventive sides. Early evenings on weekends are an especially lively time to visit, as the crowd swells and the energy feels festive, making it a flavorful experience that’s about more than just food.
About 90 minutes south of Portland near the town of Eugene, the Willamette Valley boasts more than just vineyards—it’s also home to some of the state’s most inventive pizza spots. In the heart of Eugene, the neighborhood around Broadway is known for its artisan slices, with places like Track Town Pizza standing out for their wood-fired crusts. Here, the dough is fermented for days, lending a complex tang that crisps perfectly in the oven, while toppings range from locally foraged mushrooms to creamy Oregon hazelnuts. A walkable district with galleries and boutiques nearby makes it easy to pair a pizza run with a leisurely afternoon exploring downtown Eugene. Visiting in spring or fall offers a pleasant, mild climate to stroll the streets and enjoy a slice outdoors.
For seafood lovers, Newport on the central Oregon coast is a must-visit destination, about two and a half hours southwest of Portland. The historic Bayfront district is a bustling hub of fishing boats, seafood markets, and waterfront eateries. At places like Local Ocean Seafoods, visitors can watch fishermen unload fresh catches from the dock, then savor oysters, Dungeness crab, and Pacific salmon prepared with minimal fuss to highlight the regional bounty. The nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium adds an educational layer to the visit, with exhibits showcasing native marine life such as sea otters and giant Pacific octopuses. The winter months bring brisk air and crashing waves that intensify the coastal experience, making a seafood feast after a stormy beach walk especially satisfying.
In southern Oregon, Ashland offers a surprisingly excellent pizza scene amid its reputation as a cultural hub for theater and arts. Located about 15 miles north of the California border, Ashland’s downtown district features several wood-fired pizza spots like Standing Stone Brewing Company, where pizzas are paired with local craft brews and emphasize seasonal, locally sourced ingredients from the Rogue Valley. The blend of mountain air, a lively arts community, and cozy dining rooms with rustic decor creates an inviting atmosphere for an evening meal. Summer evenings shine here, with extended daylight and outdoor seating that captures both the mountain vistas and the town’s relaxed vibe.
Heading west from Portland, the Tillamook Bay area on the northern Oregon coast offers a seafood experience rooted in the region’s rich dairy and fishing industries. Just under two hours’ drive from Portland, the town of Tillamook is best known for its cheese factory, but nearby bayside eateries serve some of the freshest shellfish in the state. Visitors to the Saltwater Oyster Bar can savor oysters harvested from the cold, clear waters of the bay, accompanied by views of fishing boats and tidal flats. The Wetlands Edge Trail nearby provides an easy, scenic stroll that highlights the coastal ecology, offering a perfect complement to a seafood-focused day. Late spring and early summer bring optimal oyster seasons and mild weather for exploring.
In Portland’s bustling Pearl District, one can find a fusion of urban sophistication and down-to-earth flavors in its barbecue offerings. Podnah’s Pit Barbecue, a staple in this revitalized warehouse district just northwest of downtown, is famous for its pit-smoked meats cooked over oak and cherry wood in a traditional Texas style. The intimate dining room and open kitchen invite diners to watch the pitmaster in action, while the dry rubs and savory barbecue sauces provide a robust flavor profile. The Pearl District’s art galleries and boutiques make for a full day of exploration, with a barbecue dinner offering a perfect conclusion. Early fall is an ideal time to visit, as the weather cools and the district buzzes with seasonal art walks and cultural events.
Finally, in the coastal town of Astoria, about 90 minutes northwest of Portland at the mouth of the Columbia River, seafood takes on a distinctly historic and cultural flavor. Bowpicker Fish and Chips is a legendary food cart known for its unique preparation of albacore tuna, battered and fried to golden perfection. While the fish stand itself is casual, visitors can explore the nearby Astoria Column for panoramic views of the river and Pacific Ocean, or stroll the historic downtown with its Victorian architecture. The combination of stunning scenery, maritime heritage, and fresh seafood creates an experience that feels quintessentially Pacific Northwest. Visiting during the late spring or summer offers clearer skies and longer daylight hours to fully enjoy the coastal charms after a satisfying meal.