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Shakey's Pizza Roars Back: Nostalgia Meets New
22 Nov
Summary
- Shakey's, America's first pizza franchise, is launching a comeback.
- The brand plans a new flagship in Culver City, blending old and new.
- Once at 500 locations, Shakey's has 43 US restaurants today.

Shakey's, the historic first franchise pizza chain in the United States established in 1954, is initiating a comprehensive revival. The brand, which has seen its U.S. footprint shrink from 500 outlets at its zenith to just 43 locations, is poised for a significant resurgence. This comeback is spearheaded by the development of a new flagship restaurant in Culver City, Los Angeles, designed to artfully blend cherished nostalgic elements with contemporary design aesthetics. This initiative signifies the commencement of a full-scale revitalization, with a refreshed brand image slated for implementation across all existing Shakey's restaurants within the next two years.
The recently renovated Culver City flagship embodies this vision, transforming a former pub-style pizza parlor into a space that honors the brand's legacy while embracing modernity. The design incorporates iconic Shakey's touches, such as familiar picnic-style tables and the distinctive Shakey's seal, alongside new features that create an elevated yet inviting atmosphere. This strategic renovation, conceived by John Tilley of the Jacmar Companies, aims to evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, reinforcing Shakey's new slogan, 'the people's pizza parlor,' and its commitment to being a 'second home' for its patrons.
Shakey's is committed to maintaining its core offerings, including its classic pizzas and famous mojo potatoes, ensuring that the comeback retains the beloved tastes that customers expect. The brand's resurgence also leverages its rich history, which includes serving as a backdrop for popular films and being a cherished spot for generations. By reconnecting with its roots and community-centric approach, Shakey's aims to re-establish itself not merely as a chain, but as a cherished neighborhood institution, reminding customers that 'we're your neighborhood parlor.'




