Once upon a time, the mural-sized brick oven that dominates 3925 NE MLK Blvd hosted pizza projects imagined by a doomed Italian-barbecue joint. When Jason French took over the space in 2008, he opened Ned Ludd with a defiant mission—to cook everything in that six-foot-deep monster. Everything, that is, except pizza. 

French has finally seen the wood-fire light. Starting Monday, December 16, pizza will reign on Monday nights—three 14-inch varieties per night alongside a few Ludd-ite salads, seasonally intense and typically among the best in town. French envisions raucous nights, aided by checkered tablecloths, 80s hip hop on the sound system, and pitchers of beer—“whatever we’re pouring on tap.”

Expect one classic margherita pizza in the mix. But mostly, Monday night at the Ludd will embrace the house philosophy—read my review for an in-depth exploration—meaning seasonal and handcrafted everything, channeled through unexpected flavor profiles. 

A couple of combinations in the works: smoked trout, pickled red onions, chickweed, mustard and smoked goat cheese and charred brassicas with fermented chiles, anchovies, garlic and pecorino. They might be brilliant experiments or noble misfires, but this much is certain: they will be interesting.

Meanwhile: French tells us he is eyeing the space next door recently vacated by Dragonfly Chai for Ned Ludd events, collaborative chef dinners, pickle projects, and perhaps, at last, a stove. Stay tuned for details.

Ned Ludd Monday Night Pizza
3925 NE MLK Blvd Jr
503-288-6900
Beginning December 16
5:30 – 10 pm