Old Town Pizza Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction: Portland’s Historic Pizza Parlor and Haunted Landmark
Old Town Pizza is a beloved Portland institution, celebrated as much for its rich history and architectural charm as for its hand-tossed pizzas and lively atmosphere. Located in the heart of Old Town Chinatown, this landmark eatery occupies the ground floor of the 19th-century Merchant Hotel, immersing guests in the city’s Victorian past while serving up culinary delights and award-winning craft beers. Beyond its renowned pizza, Old Town Pizza is a gateway to Portland’s enigmatic Shanghai Tunnels, and it remains a hub for ghost stories—especially the legend of Nina, the resident spirit who lends a spectral air to the site (Old Town Brewing; Puzzle Box Horror).
This comprehensive guide explores the historical and cultural significance of Old Town Pizza, details visiting hours and ticketing for tours, and offers insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable visit.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Historic Setting & Architecture
- The Shanghai Tunnels: Tours and Ticket Information
- Haunted Lore: The Legend of Nina
- Dining Experience & Signature Menu
- Award-Winning Beers and Brewery Highlights
- Family-Friendly Features
- Cultural Significance and Nearby Attractions
- Visitor Information: Accessibility, Parking, and Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Conclusion
- References and Official Links
Historic Setting and Architectural Character
Old Town Pizza’s original location is the former lobby of the Merchant Hotel, built in the 1880s by prominent lumber barons (Puzzle Box Horror). The building showcases preserved cast iron beams, exposed brick walls, and vintage Victorian fixtures. Guests order at the original hotel reception desk, now repurposed as the pizza counter. Antique lighting, wooden interiors, and tables crafted from vintage sewing machines create a cozy and mysterious atmosphere that transports diners to Portland’s formative years (Old Town Brewing).
The Shanghai Tunnels: Exploring Portland’s Underground Mystique
Beneath Old Town Pizza and much of Old Town lie the infamous Shanghai Tunnels—an underground network originally constructed for moving goods from the city’s businesses to the Willamette River docks. By the late 19th century, the tunnels gained notoriety for their alleged use in “shanghaiing,” or kidnapping sailors for forced labor (The Ghost In My Machine; Old Town Brewing).
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information for Shanghai Tunnel Tours
- Tour Hours: Tours generally operate daily, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with special evening tours focusing on haunted stories.
- Tickets: Standard adult tickets are around $25, with discounts available for children and seniors.
- Booking: Reserve online via the official Shanghai Tunnels website or at Old Town Pizza’s basement ticket counter.
- Experience: Tours last approximately 60 minutes, offering a unique glimpse into Portland’s commercial and criminal history, as well as its underground mysteries.
Haunted Reputation and the Legend of Nina
Old Town Pizza’s paranormal allure is rooted in the tragic legend of Nina, a young woman allegedly forced into prostitution in the building’s early days. According to lore, after assisting missionaries in exposing illicit activities, Nina was murdered—her spirit said to linger in the former elevator shaft, now a cozy dining booth (Puzzle Box Horror; Haunted Places).
Guests frequently report cold drafts, the scent of floral perfume, and occasional sightings of a woman in period dress wandering the basement or observing diners. Nina’s name is visible carved into the brickwork, a focal point for both curiosity and ghostly fascination (The Ghost In My Machine).
Dining Experience and Signature Menu
Old Town Pizza is celebrated for its hand-tossed pizzas, made from locally sourced ingredients and family recipes dating back decades. Signature pies include:
- Old Town Special: Pepperoni, Italian sausage, mushrooms, olives, and green peppers.
- Veggie: Mushrooms, black olives, green peppers, onions, and tomatoes.
- Margherita: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes on a garlic olive oil base.
The menu also features garlic knots, salads, sandwiches, gluten-free and vegan options, and desserts. The casual ordering system—food at the kitchen counter, drinks at the bar—ensures a relaxed, welcoming environment for all ages (Travel Portland).
Award-Winning Beers and Brewery Experience
Old Town Pizza’s partnership with Old Town Brewing brings an acclaimed craft beer selection to the table. Notably, the Shanghai IPA has earned international awards, and the rotating tap list includes American wheat, Irish red, pale ale, stout, and seasonal specialties. Beer tastings are often included in tunnel tours, and servers are ready to recommend perfect pairings for your meal (Old Town Brewing).
The eastside Old Town Brewing location (Vanport Square) offers a similar menu, a spacious modern setting, outdoor seating, and is fully accessible.
Family-Friendly Features
Old Town Pizza is recognized as one of Portland’s top family-friendly dining options. Spacious interiors, high chairs, a children’s menu, and staff willing to share age-appropriate ghost stories make it a favorite destination for families. The eastside location is especially accommodating, with stroller access and outdoor seating.
Cultural Significance and Nearby Attractions
Old Town District Heritage
Old Town Pizza is woven into the history of Portland’s Old Town, a district shaped by waves of immigrants and entrepreneurs. The area was once home to Japantown, one of the nation’s largest Chinatowns, and a vibrant Black community centered around the Golden West Hotel (Oregon ArtsWatch).
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Old Town Pizza, explore:
- Portland Saturday Market
- Oregon Maritime Museum
- Skidmore Fountain
- Old Town Chinatown shops and cultural landmarks
Many guests combine a meal with a guided Shanghai Tunnel tour for a full immersion in Portland’s past (Portland Ghosts).
Visitor Information: Accessibility, Parking, and Tips
- Accessibility: The Merchant Hotel location has some limitations due to its historic architecture (narrow passages, uneven floors), but staff strive to accommodate all guests. The eastside location is fully accessible.
- Parking: Metered street parking is available nearby but limited. Consider public transportation (MAX Light Rail – Old Town/Chinatown Station), ride-shares, or nearby garages.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended during peak times, especially on weekends and evenings (Old Town Pizza Official Site).
- Safety: Old Town is lively but can be challenging at night. Visit during daylight or early evening for the best experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are Old Town Pizza’s visiting hours?
A: Daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Check the official website for updates and holiday hours.
Q: Are tickets needed to dine or for ghost tours?
A: No tickets are required to dine; separate tickets are needed for Shanghai Tunnel tours.
Q: Is Old Town Pizza family-friendly?
A: Yes, both locations are suitable for families, with a dedicated kids’ menu and high chairs.
Q: Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible?
A: The eastside location is fully accessible. The original Merchant Hotel site has limited accessibility; call ahead for details.
Q: Are gluten-free and vegan options available?
A: Yes, both dietary accommodations are offered.
Q: How do I book a Shanghai Tunnel tour?
A: Book online via the official website or at the restaurant.
Conclusion
Old Town Pizza is a microcosm of Portland’s spirit—where history, mystery, and culinary excellence converge. Whether you’re drawn by the haunted tales, the historic tunnels, or the inviting aroma of fresh pizza and craft beer, a visit promises something for every traveler. Plan ahead, explore nearby attractions, and immerse yourself in a dining experience that’s as much about stories as it is about flavors.
