For many long-time residents of Montgomery County, the name Shakey’s Pizza Parlor conjures a flood of nostalgic memories– the aroma of fresh pizza, the clatter of arcade games, and the joyful chaos of family outings. Before the proliferation of modern pizza chains, Shakey’s offered a truly unique and beloved dining experience that left an indelible mark on the local community, especially for those who came of age in the 1970s and 80s.
Founded in Sacramento, California, in 1954 by Sherwood “Shakey” Johnson and Ed Plummer, Shakey’s was a trailblazer, becoming the first franchise pizza chain in the United States. Johnson, whose nickname stemmed from nerve damage sustained during World War II, infused his parlors with a distinctive atmosphere. Beyond just pizza, Shakey’s “Ye Public House” concept embraced live entertainment, often featuring Dixieland jazz and banjo players, setting it apart from more traditional eateries.
At its peak, Shakey’s boasted an impressive 500 locations worldwide, a testament to its innovative blend of food and fun. In Montgomery County, two prominent locations served as hubs for family entertainment. There was a popular spot in Gaithersburg on Bureau Drive, one in Bethesda at the corner of East West Hwy and Wisconsin Ave., and another in Rockville on Rockville Pike.
The impending arrival of the Rockville Pike location was even heralded by the local press. The Washington Daily News, on July 6th, 1967, excitedly announced: “Shakey’s Pizza Parlor and Ye Public House will open July 12 at 1471 Rockville Pike. The restaurant will accommodate 300 and offer 21 varieties of pizza. Shakey’s is unique in that it serves no other food than pizza.” Later came their “Mojo Potatoes” (a signature battered fry) and a menu of cold beer pitchers for adults, which became a winning formula.
What truly cemented Shakey’s place in the hearts of MoCo residents was its family-friendly environment. While parents enjoyed their pizza and a refreshing beer, kids reveled in the bustling game rooms, featuring classics like Pac-Man. The open kitchen design, allowing curious youngsters to watch the chefs craft pizzas, added to the interactive and entertaining experience. Birthday parties at Shakey’s were practically a rite of passage for many children.
However, the golden era of Shakey’s began to wane in the 1980s. A series of ownership changes led to shifts in focus and management strategies that, for many, diluted the original charm. Franchisees often felt unsupported by the parent company, and inconsistent visions for the brand led to a decline in quality and customer experience. Increased competition from newer, more aggressive pizza chains also played a significant role in Shakey’s struggles. By the early 1990s, most of the U.S. locations had closed their doors.
Today, the once-ubiquitous Shakey’s Pizza Parlors are a rare sight. Only a handful remain, predominantly in California (47 locations) and a couple in Washington state. For those in Montgomery County who fondly recall the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings of Shakey’s, the memory serves as a reminder of a bygone era of family dining and entertainment. It’s a nostalgic thought that might just inspire a road trip to the West Coast for a taste of the past.