Shakey’s Pizza Parlor

It’s a bar, a pizza buffet, and a salad bar, but how does it measure up?

Shakey’s, like A&W, today seems to enjoy much more success and popularity with its overseas restaurants than in its original, competitive American market.

The restaurant is primarily a pizza buffet of the thin (but not crispy) crust variety. Pasta, other sides, and drinks are also included in the cost, which is just over ¥1,000 per adult.

We checked out the newer location in the Plaza Shopping Center on 330. The atmosphere is open, and set up like an American bar and grill, with old country music playing in the background.

Pizza toppings range from traditional pepperoni or Hawaiian-style with ham and pineapple, to more exotic offerings, like corn or squid. The squid pizza is hard to miss: it includes both meat and squid ink, a distinct black color dotted throughout the cheese. The flavor is very subtle to the point of being unnoticeable, but the novelty makes it a must-try.

As this is Japan, white rice and Japanese curry are available, and is decent (though we’re partial to Coco’s). We recommend trying the potato medallions, thick slices of white potatoes that are fried and crispy on the outside, topped with seasoning, and tender on the inside. You won’t be able to eat just one!

Shakey’s Salad BarWe were surprised to learn that the salad bar was not only an extra ¥300, but that the extra fee was for just one trip to the salad bar, with a smallish salad plate. This meant piling on salad and fruit, and though we liked the offerings, we didn’t really think the fee for the one plate was worth it.

For dessert, there’s an orange smoothie machine, offering a juicy end to your meal. Coffee and a selection of teas are also available, plus soft drinks—all are unlimited, so be sure to sample them.

Though not the best thin pizza on island, and the extra cost for one trip to the salad bar is disappointing, we still think the atmosphere and food are worth trying, perhaps for lunch while shopping at Plaza, or as part of a family outing.

Hours: 11:00-23:00

English ok, English menu

Yen & Dollars