The best pizza in Newton, Massachusetts is...

at 57 Lincoln. It’s south shore bar style and has the crispiest edges and tastiest sauce. Obviously this is just my opinion but many people believe this to be true.

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With that said, if you’ve spent time on the South Shore of Massachusetts, you’ve likely encountered an unassuming, yet beloved culinary tradition: South Shore bar pizza. For many, it’s more than just a meal—it's a symbol of local pride and heritage. But what exactly is South Shore bar pizza? Where did it originate, and why has it remained a regional staple for decades? Let’s dive into the rich, cheesy history of this South Shore classic.

What is South Shore Bar Pizza?

Before we delve into its history, let's define what makes this pizza so unique. South Shore bar pizza is a personal-sized pizza, typically 10 inches in diameter, known for its ultra-thin, crispy crust and edges that are browned to near perfection. It’s baked in a well-seasoned, greased steel pan, giving it that signature crunch and charred bottom. Toppings go edge-to-edge, ensuring that every bite is full of flavor, and mozzarella cheese is often mixed with cheddar for a distinct taste.

The style is communal and casual, often served in dive bars or family-friendly taverns across the South Shore. It's not just a pizza; it’s an experience—often accompanied by pitchers of beer and lively conversations.

A Slice of History: The Origins of South Shore Bar Pizza

The exact origins of South Shore bar pizza are a bit murky, but most historians agree that the tradition dates back to the post-World War II era. As soldiers returned home from Europe, they brought with them a craving for pizza—a dish they had encountered in Italy. At that time, pizza was relatively new to the American palate, and its popularity was starting to surge.

In the late 1940s and 1950s, working-class families and bar owners in the South Shore region, particularly in towns like Brockton, Randolph, and Abington, began to develop their own take on this new favorite. What set South Shore bar pizza apart from other regional styles was its accessibility. Small, local bars often lacked large commercial pizza ovens, so they turned to smaller, more manageable pizza pans that could fit into their existing kitchen setups. This birthed the crispy, personal-sized pizza we know today.

Community at Its Core

Unlike the pizzas coming out of New York or Chicago at the time, South Shore bar pizza wasn’t about flair or mass production—it was about community. These pizzas were made to be shared in a casual, no-frills environment. Patrons would gather at their local tavern, order a pizza or two, and enjoy a cold beer while catching up with friends and neighbors.

The Secret Ingredient: The Tavern

While the pizza itself is mouthwatering, it’s the setting that truly gives South Shore bar pizza its magic. Bars and taverns across the South Shore became the heart of the movement. Legendary spots like the Lynwood Cafe in Randolph and Cape Cod Cafe in Brockton helped define the culture around this iconic pizza. These establishments have been serving loyal customers for generations, often passing down secret dough recipes and cooking techniques from one generation to the next.

Why South Shore Bar Pizza is Having a Moment

Despite its long-standing regional popularity, South Shore bar pizza has remained largely under the radar—until recently. Thanks to social media and the rise of pizza tourism, this humble pizza style has garnered attention from food critics, influencers, and hungry travelers. Dedicated Facebook groups and Instagram pages highlight where to find the best pies, while fans argue over their favorite toppings and venues.

This pizza isn’t just trending locally anymore; it’s becoming a viral sensation, and with good reason. Its simplicity, combined with its deep-rooted connection to the South Shore community, has struck a chord with food lovers nationwide.

How to Experience South Shore Bar Pizza for Yourself

While the heart of South Shore bar pizza lies in its home region, several spots now offer shipping, so you can enjoy this pizza no matter where you are. Of course, if you want the full experience, there's no substitute for visiting the South Shore itself. Explore iconic spots like:

  • Cape Cod Cafe (Brockton): A true pioneer in the world of bar pizza.

  • Lynwood Cafe (Randolph): Known for its unique spin on the classic.

  • Poopsie's (Pembroke): A favorite for locals and visitors alike.

If you're looking to recreate the magic at home, some pizzerias even sell their dough and pre-made pizzas for you to cook up in your own kitchen.

South Shore bar pizza is more than just a culinary delight—it’s a slice of history, a connection to the past, and a living testament to the South Shore’s working-class roots. Whether you’re a lifelong local or someone eager to try something new, this pizza is a must-try. With its crispy edges, cheesy goodness, and rich history, it’s no wonder South Shore bar pizza is finally getting the recognition it deserves.

Kevin Woo