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In a heartfelt goodbye that left pizza lovers in Northeast Portland mourning, American Dream Pizza has closed its doors after nearly four decades of serving the community. Founded in the fall of 1985 by Scott McFarland and Sebastian Manilow, this beloved pizzeria became a staple known for its unique traditions and delicious pies.

American Dream Pizza wasn't just about the food; it was about the experience. Kids could draw on their pizza boxes in the Box Contest, adding a personal touch to every order. The secret to their success? A cherished third-generation pizza dough recipe made from non-GMO flours sourced from Pendleton Flour Mills.

Over the years, American Dream Pizza expanded its reach, opening a second location near Oregon State University in Corvallis. The Corvallis spot even caught the attention of former President Barack Obama during his 2008 campaign trail.

However, as all good things must come to an end, co-founder Sebastian Manilow has decided to retire, leading to the closure of the original Northeast Portland location. "I just ripped the bandaid off," Manilow shared with Oregon Live. Emotions ran high as the community reflected on the pizzeria's impact.

Despite attempts to sell to former employees falling through, Manilow remains hopeful that a buyer will step forward to preserve American Dream Pizza's legacy. Ideally, he seeks someone who shares his passion for keeping the spirit of the pizzeria alive.

American Dream Pizza's closure adds to a wave of restaurant shutdowns across the country, including Mod Pizza's financial struggles and the closure of Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles in Pasadena, California.

As Northeast Portland bids farewell to this iconic pizza joint, memories of laughter, good food, and community spirit linger on. The search for a new owner continues, with hopes that American Dream Pizza may someday return to delight pizza enthusiasts once more.

For more updates on local closures and community stories, stay tuned to The U.S. Sun.