In the heart of Beaverton, Oregon, Hapa Pizza is a must-visit destination for pizza lovers seeking a creative twist on a classic favorite. Combining traditional pizza-making techniques with bold, multicultural flavors, Hapa Pizza has quickly become a local favorite, offering an unforgettable dining experience that stands out in Portland’s vibrant food scene.
As you’ll see, Hapa Pizza is more than just outstanding pizza and a welcoming atmosphere.
Armed with a great friend from our collaboration with 47knuckles Media, we visited the pizza shop and met the owner, Mr. Aaron Truong, to better understand the “six W’s”: Who, What, Why, When, Where, and How.
The Happy Accident
When we asked Aaron where the idea to create this type of experience came from, he explained that it was not a genius idea but a “happy accident” that seemed like a “no-brainer” to him. Aaron is second-generation Asian, and his wife is fourth-generation Asian. Aaron was raised on traditional Asian foods, while his wife grew up on a more Western diet.
As fate would have it, Aaron wanted to make pizza for his wife, knowing it was one of her favorite foods from childhood. He fell in love with the art and craft of creating a masterpiece. He started infusing some ingredients that he was familiar with from his childhood, and that was the birth of the ‘ummms and aaaahs’ emitted from a slice of Hapa. What started as a labor of love for the apple of his eye transitioned to a regular presence at the Cedar Mill Farmers’ Market and into a brick-and-mortar location in Beaverton.
The name “Hapa” originates from the Hawaiian term for someone of mixed ethnic heritage, often referring to part Asian or Pacific Islander descent. True to its name, Hapa Pizza blends diverse culinary influences, merging classic Italian pizza with flavors from Hawaii, Japan, Korea, and beyond. The outcome is a menu brimming with inventive and delectable dishes that challenge the conventions of traditional pizza.
The Experience
As we opened the door to go inside, a young man asked us if it was our first time here, before we met Aaron. We answered in the affirmative, and the man with half a slice in his hand and the other half almost finished in his mouth said, “This is more than pizza! This is way above pizza.” This sentiment aligns perfectly with Aaron’s view of what Hapa is all about. Hapa’s mission is to “give people an experience that combines a unique culinary creativity that they have never seen on pizza before, a warm, genuine, familial sort of hospitality.” He surrounds himself with people who “wanted to do something special beyond themselves that serve and bless the people around us.”
Hapa Pizza’s modern, laid-back vibe makes it an excellent place for families, friends, and solo diners. The friendly staff and open kitchen add to the inviting atmosphere, where guests can watch their pizzas being handcrafted.
Hapa and the Social Impact
Not only is Hapa one of the most refreshing palatal carnivals in the greater Portland area, but following divine instruction, Hapa is also creating the Ultimate Co-Lab environment. Besides the pizza shop, a beer and wine bar will be featured, along with a dessert counter, offering vendors a chance to showcase their products to the public. All the items will pair well with pizza, making the experience even more enjoyable.
First and foremost, Aaron expresses that church ministries shape the man he is today. While at the farmer’s market, “trading food with each other, supporting each other, encouraging each other, using our platforms to promote each other… All of those experiences have really shown us the value of community and how we really can’t do this alone, that we are so much better together than in competition with each other.” Aaron believes those experiences instilled in him the values he lives by today.
Hapa Pizza is the ideal destination if you’re craving pizza that defies convention!
Location: 12755 SW Broadway St, Beaverton, OR 97005
Perfect for: Casual dinners, family outings, and food adventurers seeking bold flavors.
Don’t forget to let them know that The Portland Image sent you.
Watch the video of the interview we had with Aaron.
