There is an ever growing number of pizzerias sprouting up in Eastsound, and locals are met with a variety of styles of pizza to suit their preferences. Ladybug Pizza, Portofino’s, Country Corner, and Houlme each present a singularly unique approach to this classic meal, and the town of Eastsound’s four pizza parlors are guaranteed to accommodate any occasion.
Ladybug Pizza, an up and coming establishment, has opened the market to the possibilities of by-the-slice pizza. This pizza has a New York City style, incorporating a thin crust and a classic, greasy feel. The crust is both crispy and chewy at the edges, holding a savory tomato sauce and a thin, smooth layer of cheese. Even for those who prefer the other aspects of the pizza more, the crust is a very enjoyable feature of the slice. Although Ladybug is a slightly more expensive option, it provides a myriad of options for accessible pizza, whether for a single slice or a whole pie.
Portofino’s is an Orcas Island classic, a beloved pizzeria that has been around since the early 1990s. It produces classic pizza that often appeals to families with younger children. It has a rustic feel with a more thick, spongey crust. The sauce is rich with herbs, giving it a distinct flavor, and the cheese is more on the heavy side, appealing to those who enjoy a more cheesy taste. Although the slices are smaller, each element is still appreciably present. This pizzeria provides a more substantial meal, rather than a quick by-the-slice experience.
Country Corner offers a variety of different foods–notably their fresh, house made pizza. This pizza is an extremely accessible option that will appeal to those who are looking for a less expensive and readily available meal. The American-style pizza has a thick and crispy crust. Although the amount of cheese slightly overpowers the sauce, the taste of tomato and herbs is still detectable. This inexpensive and convenient pizza offers customers pizza on the go, as opposed to a sit down meal.
The final establishment differs significantly from the aforementioned pizzerias. Houlme presents a more formal approach to the classic pizza experience. Although it is more expensive than other pizza options, eating at this restaurant is truly special and enjoyable. While Houlme does not offer quite as many options for toppings as others, the pizza they do serve is delicious. This pizza is created using sourdough, giving it a unique taste that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the tomato sauce. The crust is thin and crispy, with a smokey taste that is accentuated by the evidently high-quality cheese.
Each individual prefers a different type of pizza, and the number of pizzerias in Eastsound provides a diverse selection so that everyone can find what they are looking for. Whether they have been around for 30 years, or just opened a few months ago, each establishment has a unique feature to offer and is a welcome addition to our Island. Businesses on Orcas Island have been struggling these past few years, and it is important that we do our best to support them so that these cornerstones of our community can stay open.