Shakey's Pizza Parlor

Shakey’s Pizza Parlor has been a beloved institution in the American pizza landscape since its founding in 1954, when Sherwood “Shakey” Johnson and Ed Plummer opened the first location in Sacramento, California.[1] What began as a modest operation in a remodeled grocery store at 57th and J Street has evolved into a multi-decade legacy of serving quality pizza, entertainment, and community gathering spaces. The nickname “Shakey” itself carries historical significance, derived from nerve damage Johnson sustained following a bout of malaria during World War II, adding a unique personal story to the brand’s origins.[1] Today, Shakey’s Pizza Parlor continues this tradition of excellence at multiple locations, including the San Gabriel establishment at 866 E Las Tunas Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776, where guests can experience the same commitment to quality food and family-friendly entertainment that has defined the brand for generations.

The restaurant’s founding story is particularly distinctive in the annals of American food service history. When the original Shakey’s opened on a weekend in 1954, the pizza ovens were not yet completed, so Johnson made the pragmatic decision to serve only beer initially.[1] Rather than viewing this as a setback, he leveraged the profits from beer sales to purchase pizza ingredients, which he began serving the following Monday.[1] This resourceful approach set the tone for a business model that would become the first franchise pizza chain in the United States, revolutionizing how pizza restaurants expanded across the country.[1][3] By 1961, the winning combination of pizza, fried chicken, and Mojo Potatoes had proven so popular that Shakey’s had already established 100 locations, demonstrating the universal appeal of the brand’s offerings.[3]

Shakey’s Pizza Parlor distinguishes itself through a comprehensive menu that extends well beyond traditional pizza offerings. The establishment serves authentic thin-crust pizza prepared according to recipes refined over seven decades, complemented by crispy fried chicken and the signature Mojo Potatoes that have become synonymous with the brand.[4] For families seeking convenient dining options, the San Gabriel location offers lunch buffets that provide variety and value, making it an accessible choice for groups and busy families. The restaurant’s classification as both a pizza restaurant and buffet restaurant reflects this diverse approach to satisfying customer preferences and dietary needs.

The atmosphere at Shakey’s Pizza Parlor has always prioritized community and entertainment alongside food quality. The original concept, established as “Ye Public House,” incorporated live ragtime music and jazz performances, featuring banjos and player pianos throughout the establishment.[2] This entertainment-focused philosophy continues today through modern amenities including a dedicated kids’ game area and Fun Zone with arcade games and prizes, ensuring that families have engaging activities while enjoying their meals.[4] This commitment to creating memorable experiences rather than simply serving food has been central to Shakey’s identity since its inception.

The San Gabriel location at 866 E Las Tunas Dr, San Gabriel, CA 91776, can be reached at +1 626-285-1215 for reservations, delivery orders, or inquiries. As a family restaurant, Shakey’s Pizza Parlor welcomes guests of all ages and offers pizza delivery services for those preferring to enjoy meals at home. The establishment represents the continuation of a 71-year tradition of bringing people together through exceptional food, entertainment, and community engagement, maintaining the original vision that pizza and beer alone were never enough—the experience of togetherness and enjoyment has always been the true product.[5]