As one of the new owners of Al Forno Mount Hood Pizzeria in Rhododendron,
Robin Klein credits her predecessor, Stephen Ferruzza, for building a
successful restaurant. Klein noted the excellent food, nice decor and the
pizza’s reputation among a solid following of locals and visitors alike.
“We’re really really grateful that we have the opportunity to acquire this
business,” Klein said. “I love it.”

Klein, who has worked at the restaurant for the past few years, noted that the
new ownership is not going to change much, keeping the same menu and
recipes, but she does plan on a few smaller tweaks. The menu will expand
with a pear pizza and will also offer most dishes as prepared or with vegan
ingredients.

“We’re able to maintain the authenticity,” Klein said. “We’re not really trying
to change too much.”

She also added that the restaurant has an expanded back patio and will be
adding a new pizza oven this month, which will help keep hungry customers
happy.

Klein and her partner Robis Marks took over at the end of last summer, and
despite entering the business during the pandemic, Klein reported that things
went fairly well. Their fortitude was tested with the September wildfires and
the harsh winter weather, which included the wind storm that wrecked their
tent covering the patio.

Klein added that in the future they hope to add some music and other
entertainment, building on the feeling of community in Rhododendron.
“We’re excited about the summer,” she said. “I think the community right
there in Rhody is going to be special.”

Al Forno Ferruzza is located at 73285 E. Hwy. 26 in Rhododendron. Hours of
operation are from 4-10 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, and noon to 10 p.m.
Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For more information, visit mapleaqua.com.