Pizza By Ruffin

Pizza by Ruffin Serves One of Seattle’s Best Lunches | Eater Seattle

"Tucked away on the bottom floor of a Fairview Avenue skyscraper in South Lake Union, this small, weekday-lunch-only pizzeria earned an Eater Award this year for inventive Roman-style (rectangular, focaccia-like) slices. Claiming to be Washington state’s first Black-owned pizzeria, it weaves flavors of the African diaspora into ever-changing specials—our pick is the doro wat slice, which incorporates classic Ethiopian chicken stew for creamy, warming, cumin-y bites. If it’s available, the West African stew slice brings a paprika-heavy spice blend and a generous kick of heat; if it’s not, there are usually other vegan options. Instead of classic tomato or white sauces, we often find green Jamaican curry or pepper jam as the base; the pepper jam and goat cheese slice delivers surprising sweetness and tartness. There are also more traditional combinations, plus wine and beer, but it’s best for a quick lunch eaten hot on site. Though open until 4 p.m., the shop often sells out of its best slices early—arrive by noon for the widest variety." - Harry Cheadle