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South Park, the mecca of pizza

Post updated 18 Nov 2022

I’ve been campaigning on the West side of Dayton a lot lately, and the concept of food desert has been setting in. I’ve tried to eat at locally owned places- Marilyn’s Grill on Gettysburg (now downtown at First and Main), Moe’s Fish and Chicken, the new Cheesesteak guy on W. Third by the old Home Avenue plant, Dragon China, Napoleon’s,  Diamond D’s Diner, Huffies BBQ. But for every one of these, there are probably an equal number of closed places. Even among the national chains, the pickings are slim. And although I understand the need for security, the thick plate glass and revolving food door, remind me I’m not in my ‘hood. That bothers me.

That businesses have to invest in roll-down door covers, security cameras and those plexi-glass walls, tells me that things aren’t the way they should be. Also note, for every place that has the carousel, there is one that doesn’t- and they can be blocks away from each other.

Compared to South Park, where my dining choices go from sushi to spaghetti and breakfasts to burgers, I have a smorgasbord all within a half mile of my house. Just for example, I’m going to list all the options for pizza.

Of course- we also have delivery from Donato’s, Papa John’s and Domino’s, which are all just up the Wayne Avenue hill. Mar 2019- add in Pizza Hut on Wayne in the old Family Video.

I don’t think I’ve missed any- but, by my count- that’s 19 18 20 20 choices for fresh pizza, we may be in the center of the pizza universe in the county. If I’ve missed any- please add in comments. If you have opinions on which makes the best pizza- you can add that too.

To me, pizza diversity is the most important economic indicator of a healthy community. Sure, Oakwood might have Dorothy Lane Market- but, when it comes to pizza- I’m sorry- we’ve got you beat.

To me, success as a city commissioner would be seeing a resurgence of locally owned independent food places across the city. Neighborhood bars, pizza, restaurants- gathering places for our community. I’ve actually got a pretty good idea on how to make it happen, without spending too much in the way of tax dollars.

In the meantime, keep looking at this list- and thinking, I want to live in his neighborhood.

updated Nov 18 2022

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Deborah Cool-Llorens

Hello David,
     Bella Sorella Pizza, a new food truck operated by two sisters, has a fabulous wood fired pizza. They travel the Dayton area throughout the week and on  Saturdays they can be found at The Webster Street Market.  Their breakfast pizza with a fried egg is a must as well as their pesto pizza. Enjoy!

Geoff

Just thought I would mention that Uno’s is a franchise operation owned by locals.  I am unaware of much in the way of kitsch on its walls, however.

Big Al

Have to second Bill Daniels’ reuben pizza at the SPT and Pizza Factory locations.  I had my doubts when I tried it but it’s now one of those classics I recommend to friends.  Two thumbs up!

Gladgirl

Not walkable or delivered but I would like to add Marion’s and also Joes pizza on Airway. Both are local pizza institutions. I was raised on Ron’s in Miamisburg and often make the drive just for their pizza. It calms my homesick moments even though I’m only about 30 minutes north. 
I enjoy trying pizzas in New York and Chicago but nothing compares to our locals!
 

djw

Lotsa good stuff on there. Tried the Wheat Penny for lunch earlier this week; peaches, pickled onions and pork belly.  It’s my new favorite thing, I think.  

Dave C.

Based on the number of responses, your readers are more interested in pizza than politics.  
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It’s understandable.  
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Unlike local politics, eating pizza is a generally pleasant experience.