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..Denly Gardens Old World Pizza is a beloved, long-standing pizzeria located at 25 Lake St E, Weymouth, MA 02189. Established in 1933, it’s a South Shore institution known for its thin-crust pizza and nostalgic, old-school Italian-American vibe. Here’s a comprehensive look at what makes Denly Gardens special, based on available information and reviews.
Overview
Location: 25 Lake St E, Weymouth, MA 02189
Contact: (781) 335-9882,
[email protected]
Website: denlygardens.com
Payment: Cash only (no credit cards, so come prepared)
Operating Since: 1933, making it one of the oldest pizzerias in the area
Ambiance: A step back in time with a cozy, neighborhood feel. Reviews describe it as a "hidden gem" with a retro atmosphere, complete with classic music and a welcoming, family-like vibe. The owner, often referred to as "Dickie," is known to chat with customers, adding to the homey experience.
Menu and Food Highlights
Denly Gardens specializes in thin-crust pizza, which is the star of the show, but they also offer other Italian-American dishes. Key highlights include:
Pizza:
Style: Ultra-thin crust, often described as so thin "you can read a newspaper through it." It’s greasy, floppy, and packed with flavor, with a distinctive taste that sets it apart.
Toppings: Classic options like cheese, basil/tomato, and various meats. A large 3-topping pizza is around $20, offering great value.
Gluten-Free Options: They offer gluten-free pizza and pasta, which have received positive feedback from the celiac community for taste and safety, though the facility is not dedicated gluten-free, so cross-contamination is a risk. Reviews praise the gluten-free crust for being delicious, unlike some lackluster alternatives.
Ratings: Pizza reviews on One Bite (onebite.app) range from 7.8 to 8.7, with some calling it a "godfather pizza legend" for its unique flavor and crispiness when eaten fresh. However, the crust can get soggy in takeout boxes, slightly lowering scores for structure.
Notable Review: Barstool Sports’ Dave Portnoy reviewed Denly Gardens in January 2024, highlighting its classic appeal.
Other Menu Items:
Appetizers: Buffalo chicken tenders (fresh, hearty, not overly spicy) and Portabella Mushroom Ravioli with a fresh stewed tomato sauce are standout dishes.
Salads: The Caprese salad has mixed reviews—some received dried tomatoes instead of fresh slices, missing basil.
Bread and Meatballs: Fresh bread is described as some of the best, and meatballs are a hit.
Colossal Shrimp: Noted as a highlight for seafood lovers.
Service: Excellent, friendly, and fast, with a staff that makes you feel like a regular. The owner’s personal touch adds to the charm. Takeout is popular, with a high volume of orders indicating strong local loyalty.
Atmosphere: The interior is described as a nostalgic throwback, though some reviews note sticky tables and dated decor, which may not appeal to everyone. It’s a place where locals feel at home, but newcomers might feel slightly out of place initially.
Parking: Limited parking lot space; street parking is an option.
Crowd: Busy, especially for takeout, reflecting its popularity. It’s a local favorite, with some customers ordering weekly.
Reviews and Reputation
Celiac friendly