Barhop Brewing and Artisan Pizza — Restaurant in Sequim

I'm surprised to be writing this, but writing it I am. Barhop has the best pizza that I've had in the last 30 years. I actually went back and read all 50 of my prior reviews for pizza restaurants trying to find one that impressed me as much as Barhop did yesterday. I found none. I can legitimately say that I've never had better pizza in Washington State, at least as far as I could remember, going back to the mid '70s.

With that made perfectly clear, there's really not much to say about why it's so good, but I will point out the important things. First, the crust is perfect. It's clearly aged with great flavor and chew, not overly thick or thin, and has a wonderful flavor that's not bland or watery. Second, the sauce is seasoned generously without being overwhelming. There is a subtle balance of flavors that highlight the tomato base. Lastly, the toppings are each gourmet-quality. On my first visit I opted for the meat lovers pizza and appreciated everything from the sweet sausage to the spicy pepperoni. It was all wonderful.

As always, I really think the pizza could use a little more sauce and slightly less cheese, but that's a personal preference. I was not disappointed, at all, in the ratio of sauce to cheese. Even better, the person taking my order was knowledgeable enough to try and talk me out of extra sauce, pointing out that it would very likely compromise the structural integrity of the pizza, making it a floppy mess. I told him that I'm aware of that risk and deal with it often. I just appreciate that he took the time to spell that out for me and trust that he would offer similar good advice to others. That's really excellent customer service right there. That said, I don't think I really got my extra sauce, but obviously I don't care at this point because the pizza was so good.

I have no complaints, but would make one suggestion. Personally, I thought there was a little too much flour on the crust of the cooked pizza. My lips were a little gummy after just a couple of slices. It would be a good idea to pay more attention to tapping the excess flour off the dough, or perhaps consider switching to something like semolina flour which doesn't have the same issue, typically. As expertly as the pizza was prepared, however, I feel I have little right to criticize.

I paid $25 for a 12-in pizza which is on the pricey side, for sure, but in this case, every dollar of that cost was on the pizza. So I will say that this was a very good value.

Beyond the professional advice I got while placing the order over the phone, the rest of the service was similarly excellent. Very friendly. Dude even complimented my shirt. The pizza was ready when they said it would be ready and there were no issues whatsoever with completing the transaction.

I live 3 hours away from Sequim. I very well might make a drive just for the pizza in the future. Likely a few times a year. If you are fortunate enough to live on the Olympic peninsula, you should make an effort to get out to Barhop as often as possible. For my part, I will be ordering again, today. And very likely again, with the whole family, tonight.

On the Portnoy Scale (which everyone knows the rules about), this pizza is...

I will apologize up front - I have a beer picture but the pizza was inhaled at an accelerated pace due to the 26.5 mile bike ride around Sequim.

First - the parking is a bit limited on the east side of the building, plan on parking on the west side worst case. The indoor open space is great - light and airy. Essentially two dining spaces are available - north and south sides.

We ordered the veggie pesto pizza - I am sure in the original format tastes great but they were out of pesto. I would have loved it I am sure but being vegan meant the would have had to decline it anyway.

Now for the bad - they were out of a few what I think of as basic ingredients. Why it was not so bad - I mostly couldn’t have them anyway. 🤣

And, for the good - their sourdough crust is one of the best o have eaten - loved it! It folded like a New York crust and made eating it so easy.

So we did without pesto and cheese - stop groaning, it tastes good without it! We added black olives - recommend you try that too.

The in house brewery selections we good. I tried the Porter - tasty! Hubby had the NW Nights Hazy IPA and Heathen Scotch beers. All good and true 16 ounce pints!

If your are in the area this is...

I’ve been here twice already, and each time I have had a wonderful experience. This place is way too charming, and super family friendly! Lori is seriously SO sweet and just a pleasure to talk with & see. She feels like a long-time family friend, and is so accommodating. The food is absolutely delicious! Sure it’s higher priced but what Artisan pizza place isn’t these days? And the beer from tap was ✨chefs kiss✨ so GOOD! paired well with our pizza! 10/10 highly recommend. I love bringing my kids in to hang out and chill, my oldest plays games and my toddler likes to run and socialize with everyone until we eat. Did I mention the art displayed? Very interesting pieces and I believe the owner did them - very creative and a pleasure to look at! This will definitely be a staple in our house as far as good food for the whole family. We’re usually not a fan of artisan pizza, but this place for sure has changed that experience for me! Come support local, family owned, bomb pizza! 🤘🏽✨I wish I took pictures from earlier but you...