Step off NW 23rd Avenue and into a time capsule where the neon hums, the ovens roar, and slices crackle with New York swagger. Escape From New York Pizza has served Portland since the 1980s, keeping the ritual simple: big pies, crisp bottoms, generous cheese, and quick smiles behind the counter. Locals swear by the fold, visitors chase nostalgia, and the prices still feel friendly. If you crave a slice that tells a story—with every blistered bubble and spicy sauce note—this is your next stop.
A Garage Frozen in Time
Escape From New York Pizza feels like a beloved garage that never upgraded—because it never needed to. Posters curl at the edges, the counter is close, and the ovens radiate a steady heat that’s almost theatrical. At 622 NW 23rd Ave, the city rushes by, but inside, the pace is slice-fast and old-school cool. With 4.5 stars across 2,000+ reviews, it’s a ritual as much as a restaurant. The unfussy space lets the slices do the talking, and they speak fluent New York—thin, sturdy, perfectly bronzed, ready to fold and devour without apology.
The Slice Mechanics: Thin, Crisp, No Slump
Here, the geometry of a classic slice is religion: thin base, leopard spots of char, and zero slump. Regulars praise the crisp bottom that resists gravity, yet bends precisely at the fold. The sauce brings a subtle spice, bright and slightly tangy, while cheese melts into a glossy blanket. Pepperoni cups curl and pool, sausage brings fennel warmth, and combinations hit that nostalgic bullseye. It’s feel-first pizza—hot, fast, and balanced. Even East Coasters nod with approval, calling it the real deal. If you judge by crust integrity, EFNY passes with scorching, blistered colors.
Old-School Service, Neighborhood Soul
Service here matches the vibe—quick, friendly, and personal. Regulars shout hello, staff remembers favorites, and the owner’s New Yorker cadence anchors the room. Reviewers call the team “super cool” and “family.” There’s a small window perch, a couple outdoor tables, and counter space that favors conversation over ceremony. You point, they reheat, and within minutes you’ve got a slice with attitude. It’s the kind of hospitality that thrives on routine and rhythm—a little banter, a lot of heat, then that first perfect bite. Old-school values, zero pretense, and plenty of heart.
What to Order: Pepperoni, Sausage, and The Combo
If indecision hits, start classic: pepperoni for that curled-cup crisp, or Italian sausage for fennel-forward richness. The combination pie is a fan favorite—layers of fresh toppings that stay harmonious on a thin base. Cheese-only lets the sauce shine, a slightly spicy, tangy note that regulars love. Slices are large, priced kindly, and meant to satisfy fast. Everything’s by-the-slice, so you can sample the spectrum. However you choose, the crisp underside and balanced ratios keep each bite clean, foldable, and nostalgic. Bring cash or card—and an appetite for seconds.
Pricing That Respects the Ritual
In a neighborhood where trends can nudge prices upward, EFNY keeps it refreshingly real: slices and pies in the $1–10 comfort zone. It’s a wallet-friendly fix for a quick lunch or late bite without sacrificing quality. Dough is made fresh each morning; the value shows up in the texture and flavor. You’ll get generous portions, classic toppings, and no upsell pressure. Pay, perch, and eat—simple. For those chasing authentic taste without the fuss, this price-to-pleasure ratio lands just right. Nostalgia shouldn’t cost extra, and here, it doesn’t.
When to Go: Hours and Flow
Open daily from 11:30 AM to 11 PM, EFNY is a reliable stop for lunch, dinner, or a late-night fix. Weekdays bring a steady stream of regulars; evenings can get lively as NW 23rd hums. If the downtown scene at night feels busy, swing by afternoon for a relaxed window seat and sunshine on your slice. They close at 11 PM and reopen 11:30 AM Thursday onward, so timing is easy. Quick turnover keeps slices hot and fresh without the wait. It’s slice culture on a dependable schedule.
Plan Your Visit: Location, Contact, Access
Find EFNY at 622 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210, tucked amid boutiques and cafes. Tap 45.5273554, -122.698353 into your map for precise routing. Call +1 503-227-5423 for quick questions, or browse efnypizza.net for basics. Street parking can be tight; consider walking, biking, or rideshare. Grab a bar stool or post up at the window for prime people-watching while your slice reheats. It’s easy to slip in, refuel, and be on your way—full, satisfied, and a little nostalgic.
Why It Endures: Reviews and Reputation
Across more than 2,000 reviews, a chorus repeats: true New York-style, crisp crust, fair prices, and friendly service. East Coasters praise the authenticity; locals love the no-frills dependability. Highlights celebrate killer pies, quick counter charm, and that perfect cheese-to-sauce balance. Some note spicy sauce or downtown grit outside, but the slice experience wins hearts. This veteran shop has aged into legend by staying itself. If pizza nostalgia had an address in Portland, this would be it—hot, fast, folded, and unforgettable.