High Street Pizza & Pour House draws crowds to Portsmouth, VA’s historic High Street with Detroit-style pizza and craft pours.
Owners Tim and his wife launched the spot four years ago after a COVID lockdown lasagna hustle exploded into pizza fame.
Locals pack the place for its vibe and rotating specials that keep everyone coming back. 😋
How High Street Pizza & Pour House Won Portsmouth Hearts
Tim Kenrick started in a small Italian kitchen years back, learning the ropes of fresh ingredients and fast service. His wife joined with her sommelier skills to build a beer and wine list that pairs perfectly with their vision. Portsmouth welcomed them fast when they opened on High Street in historic Olde Towne.
The duo sold out their first lasagna batches during lockdown, proving demand for homey comfort in tough times. They pivoted to Detroit-style pizza, a style rare in Hampton Roads, and lines formed quick. Neighbors shared stories of driving through tunnels just to grab a slice on opening weekends.
High Street sits blocks from the Commodore Theatre, turning movie nights into pizza runs for families. Couples claim corner tables for date nights, while groups spill onto the patio during art walks. The spot became a hub where locals bump into friends from church or work every visit.
Rotating specials like farmers market pizzas pull in Saturday crowds who chat about Portsmouth events. Tim tweaks the menu weekly based on fan requests, from burger-inspired pies to band-themed creations. Creatives linger over wine while sketching ideas on napkins near the exposed brick walls.
Baron’s Pub across the street paved the way for High Street’s success over 30 years. New spots like this one build on that trail, hosting pop-up events that draw corporate teams. Portsmouth feels alive when laughter echoes from the pour house late into Friday nights.
Wife’s Level 2 sommelier expertise curates 20 taps and bottles that match the dual pizza-pour concept. Tim credits her for turning casual drop-ins into loyal regulars who plan visits around new releases. High Street binds the community through shared tastes and High Street stories passed table to table.
Food Highlights
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Pepperoni and Honey Pizza: Crispy edges hold spicy pepperoni and sweet honey drizzle that locals crave after long workdays. 🔥😋
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Hot Honey Pizza: Fiery honey glaze over cheese pulls crowds seeking bold heat balanced by Detroit-style crust. Must-try for spice lovers. 🔥
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Peppa Pig Pizza: Bacon and pepperoni combo delivers smoky pork punch in every square, perfect for meat fans. 😋🥪
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with house dressing and croutons refreshes before pizza feasts every time. 🥗
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Walker Texas Rancher: Ranch-drizzled pie packs bold flavors that Portsmouth ranch enthusiasts order weekly without fail. 🧀
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Bianca Pizza: White pie with garlic and cheese offers light yet rich option for non-tomato fans. 😋
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Shrimp Be Poppin: Shrimp pops with garlic butter atop crust make seafood lovers detour across the river. 🍤
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Lawn Boy Pizza: Band-inspired veggie special rotates greens and cheese for fresh weekly twists. 🥬
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In-N-Out Pizza: Burger-style toppings mimic fast-food fave on thick crust for nostalgic bites. 🍔
Atmosphere
Exposed brick walls and intimate lighting create a cozy pour house feel where strangers chat over craft taps. Patio buzzes with families on sunny weekends near the farmers market action. Energy peaks Friday nights when theater crowds flow in post-movie.
High Street hums with classic rock tunes and friendly staff weaving through packed tables. Locals own the space, claiming spots for hours with wine flights or beer samplers. Vibe shifts from chill lunches to lively evenings without missing a beat.
Bottom Line
Drive the tunnel for High Street Pizza & Pour House to taste Detroit-style pies rare in Hampton Roads that sell out fast. Pair slices with sommelier-curated pours during patio hangs or theater nights in Olde Towne. Portsmouth locals swear by it for weekly escapes that blend pizza, beer, and High Street charm perfectly.
Address: 501 High St, Portsmouth, VA 23704
📞 (757) 956-5775
🕔 Tue–Wed 5–10PM, Thu–Sat 11AM–10PM, Sun 11AM–9PM (closed Mon)