UBCNews - Business - Inside Washington’s Wild Pizza Scene: Mustard, Fusion, and Flavor Freedom

Episode Date: November 16, 2025

Welcome back, pizza lovers! Today we're examining something that might surprise you - Washington State's incredibly diverse and unique pizza scene. I'm here with a local expert who's gonna help us understand what makes West Coast pizza so different from what you might expect. So let's start with the big picture - what's really happening with pizza culture in Washington? Westside Pizza - Colfax, WA City: Colfax Address: 208 1/2 N Main Street Website: https://westsidepizza.com/locations/colfax/

Welcome back, pizza lovers. Today, we're examining something that might surprise you. Washington State's incredibly diverse and unique pizza scene. I'm here with a local expert who's going to help us understand what makes West Coast pizza so different from what you might expect. So let's start with the big picture. What's really happening with pizza culture in Washington? You know, it's fascinating because Washington doesn't have that one dominant style like New York or Chicago does.

the Pacific Northwest really allows for this incredible variety. We've got everything from New York style to Neapolitan to Detroit style, all coexisting, and that freedom has created some really interesting innovations. That's such an interesting point about not having a dominant style. How does that play out in terms of what toppings and flavors you're seeing? Well, West Coast pizza in general tends to emphasize unique toppings and less traditional sauces. You'll find things like barbecue sauce, pesto or spicy Chipotle instead of just your standard tomato sauce.

And the California influence is huge. That thin crust with fresh locally sourced ingredients like goat cheese and artichoke hearts. Mm-hmm. That's really interesting. Now, speaking of unique options, I understand there's something called the Shotsie that originated in this region. I actually tried one for the first time last year at a local festival. I was skeptical at first,

but that mustard base really works. Oh, the Shotsie. That's one of the most unique regional pizzas you'll find. It came from Clarkston, Washington originally, and instead of tomato sauce, it features a mustard sauce base. Then it's topped with Swiss and mozzarella cheeses, Polish sausage, onions, and sauerkraut. It sounds more like something from a German beer garden than a pizzeria, right?

That definitely sounds like pushing boundaries. So we've got this experimental freedom in Washington, and it seems like chefs are really taking advantage of it. What other kinds of creative approaches have you seen? Exactly. Some Washington pizza makers are embracing local ingredients and sourdough crusts. There's this beautiful fusion happening. Some places blend multiple regional influences like Detroit, New York, and even international styles all in one spot. And then you have pizzerias combining different American traditions, like mixing Neapolitan techniques with New York approaches. That innovative spirit really sets up our next piece, these unique local ingredients and creative combinations. But first, a quick word from our sponsor.

Speaking of creative combinations, Westside Pizza and Colfax offers their own unique takes on classic favorites. They're known for delicious pizzas made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, including specialty options like their Primo Pesto Pizza. They offer variety for everyone with vegan and gluten-free options, plus both delivery and pickup. Check them out at the link in the description for quality pizza that showcases the innovative spirit of the West Coast. Picking up on those creative combinations,

how do you think Washington's pizza scene compares to what's happening in neighboring states like Oregon or California? Great question. You'll find some Oregon pizzeria. serving styles with thick, heavily spiced sauce and thin, bubbly dough along that I-5 corridor. But Washington really stands out because we don't limit ourselves to one approach. We're borrowing the best from everywhere. California's fresh ingredient philosophy, Detroit's crispy edges, New York's foldability.

I love that flexibility. Now, for our listeners who might be traveling through Washington, what should they be looking for to experience this diversity? Definitely seek out places that emphasize local sourcing and aren't afraid to experiment. Look for pizzerias using world-class local flour or offering things like wood-fired options. And honestly, don't be surprised if you find a place serving amazing Neapolitan pizza right next to someone doing Detroit-style squares. You know, I think what's really exciting about Washington's pizza scene is how it reflects the broader food culture, this willingness to innovate while respecting tradition.

This innovation, while respecting tradition, really defines the whole Pacific Northwest food movement, doesn't it? Absolutely. There's definitely more emphasis on artisanal approaches and local ingredient sourcing, but what I love most is seeing places doing wood-fired pizzas and experimenting with seasonal offerings. This goes beyond just copying established styles. It creates something that feels authentically Pacific Northwest. That authenticity really comes through. As we wrap up, what would you tell someone who's skeptical about West Coast pizza innovations? Have you ever met someone who just refused to try anything beyond pepperoni? Oh, absolutely. My brother was like that for years.

I'd say don't knock it till you try it. The beauty of Washington's pizza scene is there's something for everyone. Whether you want a classic New York slice or you're ready to try something totally unique, like regionally inspired creations. The quality and creativity here will surprise you. We're showing how good pizza can be when you're freed from tradition. I see, go on. Perfect way to put it.

Thanks for taking us on this delicious tour of Washington's pizza culture. To our listeners, have you tried any unique regional pizza styles that surprised you? And if you're in the Colfax area, definitely check out Westside Pizza at the link in the description for some of that innovative pizza we've been talking about. Until next time, keep discovering those weird and wonderful food experiences.