Driving through the winding roads of Oregon Route 22, it’s easy to miss the little town of Mill City. Nestled along the North Santiam River, this quiet place, with a population just under 2,000, might seem like a typical stopover on your way to somewhere else. But this town holds a deep-rooted history that’s as rich and textured as the forests that surround it.

Mill City was incorporated in 1941 and quickly became a hub of activity in the Santiam Canyon, largely due to its booming lumber industry.

The town was named after the numerous lumber mills that sprang up in the area, including the Hammond Lumber Company and Santiam Lumber Company. These mills were the lifeblood of the town, providing jobs and shaping the community’s identity. Although many of the original mills have long since disappeared, the town remains proud of its heritage. Today, two mills continue to operate—Frank Lumber Co. and Freres Lumber Plant 3—serving as reminders of the town’s industrious past.

One of Mill City’s most notable landmarks is the Phoenix Column Bridge, which has its own storied history. Originally built in 1888 by Phoenix Iron Works, the bridge was relocated several times before finding its permanent home in Mill City in 1919. Abandoned by Southern Pacific Railroad in the late 1960s, the bridge now serves as a pedestrian and bike path, offering both locals and visitors a scenic view of the North Santiam River below. This bridge is not just a piece of the town’s history; it’s a symbol of Mill City’s resilience and adaptability.

Despite the town’s historical significance, Mill City was not immune to tragedy. In September 2020, the Santiam Fire ravaged the area, causing extensive damage and threatening to erase parts of this beloved community. But the people of Mill City, true to their spirit, have been rebuilding, ensuring that their town continues to thrive.

However, if you’re passing through Mill City, it’s not just the historical sites that will catch your attention. Tucked away on the cliffs along Hwy 22 is a small, unassuming pizza joint that has been quietly serving up some of the best pizza in Oregon for the past 15 years. This is Giovanni’s Mountain Pizza, a family-owned establishment that defies expectations with its extraordinary food and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Giovanni’s is the kind of place that exudes small-town charm. It’s perched on a cliffside, just off the highway, with a view that’s as surprising as the food it serves. The restaurant itself is unassuming, with a simple, shabby exterior that doesn’t hint at the treasure inside. But step through the doors, and you’re greeted with the warm, comforting aroma of fresh pizza dough and garlic—a sure sign that you’re in for something special.

This isn’t your average pizza joint. Giovanni’s has been serving up some of the best pizza in Oregon for years, and it’s clear that the family behind it takes great pride in their craft. Everything here is made fresh daily, from the hand-rolled dough to the toppings, which are always sliced fresh and piled high on each pizza. The care and attention to detail are evident in every bite.

Before you even get to the pizza, though, you have to start with the breadsticks. Giovanni’s has a saying: “Pizza without Breadsticks is like a cheeseburger without French fries,” and once you try them, you’ll understand why.

The breadsticks come in several varieties, but my favorite was the classic garlic and cheddar cheese. They’re perfectly soft on the inside, with a golden, slightly crispy exterior that’s just the right amount of chewy. Paired with the ranch dressing that comes on the side, they’re the ultimate comfort food. It’s hard to stop at just one, and before you know it, you’ll be reaching for another.

But let’s talk about the pizza, because that’s where Giovanni’s really shines. The crust is something truly special. It has a unique flavor that’s hard to describe—there’s a depth to it that you don’t find in most pizzas. It’s crispy on the outside but soft and airy on the inside, creating the perfect base for the toppings.

I opted for a classic pepperoni and sausage pizza, and it did not disappoint. The pepperoni was perfectly spiced, the sausage was rich and flavorful, and the cheese was melted to perfection. Every bite was a delight, and by the time I was done, I was already thinking about when I could come back for more.

Giovanni’s isn’t just about pizza, though. They have a full menu that includes pasta dishes like lasagna and spaghetti with meatballs, both served with their signature garlic bread. The lasagna is a hearty dish with generous layers of noodles, cheese, and a rich meat sauce that’s been perfected over the years. The spaghetti is another standout, with a homemade sauce that’s just the right balance of savory and sweet, and meatballs that are tender and full of flavor. Both dishes come with a salad and garlic bread, making for a satisfying meal that’s worth every penny.

Speaking of which, Giovanni’s might be a bit pricier than your average pizza place, but it’s worth it. The quality of the food and the portions you get make it a great value, and it’s easy to see why this place is always packed, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, and it’s not uncommon to see people who’ve come from miles away just to enjoy a meal here. In fact, many campers from the nearby Fishermen's Bend BLM campground, just 2 miles away, make it a point to stop by Giovanni’s during their stay.

The atmosphere at Giovanni’s is relaxed and welcoming, with a local personality that’s hard to find these days. The tables are covered with personal messages of thanks from travelers who’ve stopped in over the years, adding to the charm of the place. You can watch your pizza being made from scratch, or enjoy one of their massive meatball sandwiches, which are about the size of softballs. It’s clear that this is a place where the food is made with love and care, and that’s what keeps people coming back.

As you wrap up your meal, don’t forget to ask about the homemade soups. The minestrone is a crowd favorite, with a rich, hearty broth that’s perfect on a cool day. They also offer daily soup specials, so there’s always something new to try. And if you’re in the mood for dessert, Giovanni’s has you covered with a selection of sweet treats that are the perfect way to end your meal.

Giovanni’s Mountain Pizza is more than just a place to eat—it’s an experience. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel at home, even if you’re just passing through. The food is outstanding, the service is friendly, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Whether you’re a local or just driving through, it’s worth taking the time to stop by and see what all the fuss is about. You won’t be disappointed.

If You Go:

Giovanni’s Mountain Pizza
146 NW Santiam Blvd, Mill City, OR 97360
Phone: (503) 897-2614

Hours:

• Wednesday - Thursday: 11:30 AM - 8 PM
• Friday - Sunday: 11:30 AM - 9 PM

Make sure to try the breadsticks, order a pizza, and take in the charm of this little mountain town. You’ll be glad you did.