Shakey's Pizza Parlor — Restaurant in Escondido

Among the few remaining dine-in quick-serve pizza places, this is the best around. Got a pan crust combination with meats and veggies which was very good. The crust was tasty enough with a nice crisp on the cornicione and bottom, but I think I'd like their regular thin crust better. The sauce was very tasty and they apply the perfect amount, unlike many places where you can hardly taste it. Some complain there's not enough cheese, but I think it's just right. Just ask for extra if you're a big cheeshead. There are shakers at the tables with grated parmesan and red pepper flakes.

The salad bar is about the best I've seen at such places, with two lettuce types plus spinach, and more fresh toppings and dressings than you need. It's great that they offer a one-trip option for only $6.89 to complement a meal. They also have a decent selection of beers on tap.

For the $15 all-you-can-eat lunch, they add a variety of hot foods to the buffet like fried chicken, potatoes, pasta, garlic bread, meatballs, and of course pizza. It's a good deal compared to many other hot lunch options where you pay about the same for just a burger, chicken sandwich, or kabob wrap.

Prices are reasonable, service was fast and friendly, it's very clean and spacious with a small arcade, and the excellent health score is icing on the cake. I hope they'll be able to stay in business as the operating expense on the massive standalone building that used to house a Sizzler must be...

Shakey’s Pizza Parlor is fantastic! If you’re craving a true old-school pizza experience, this place delivers in every way. The pizza tastes like classic pizza-parlor pizza comfort food at its finest, and the fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. It reminds me of KFC style chicken but without that heavy salty aftertaste, which makes it even better.

They also have a full salad bar with lots of fresh toppings and a huge variety of dressings. It's a great addition whether you want to build a big salad or just grab a plate to go with your pizza and chicken.

Another thing I love is that they serve beer, hard seltzers, and even cocktails. Whether you’re coming with family or meeting friends, it fits the vibe perfectly.

And yes.... they have a lunch buffet! We all miss the old Pizza Hut buffet and Shakey’s has kept that dream alive. Fresh pizza coming out, crispy chicken, salad bar, and all the classics. It’s nostalgic and delicious.

Do not leave without trying the mojos. These thick-cut seasoned potatoes are absolutely to die for. Dip them in ranch or go all in with their warm cheese sauce..... either way, you’re going to thank yourself. And just when you think you're finished, they even offer dessert to top it all off.

Shakey’s is the kind of place where you get great food, great variety, and that fun, old school family friendly vibe....

I will admit I haven't been to a Shakey's in a hot minute. I was again surprised to see there's only one in the entire San Diego area as there are a bunch all over the LA and Orange County areas. I always love a salad bar so it prompted me to make the drive here.

They have a pretty big menu but I decided to go with the lunch buffet to try a bit of everything. It's a casual atmosphere and you seat yourself, tons of seating so you're not fighting for a spot anywhere. It's open and they have music playing that's not too loud. Really good spot for large groups.

The buffet options were great, they had several pizzas to choose from as well as garlic bread. The salad bar had so many options to make an amazing salad and everything was well-stocked and fresh. The bar was clean too because you know sometimes people just kind of make a mess especially when there are dressings involved. What actually really stood out to me was the chicken, I think it was grilled and not fried. It was so good! I'm still thinking about it. The mashed potatoes and mojos were really good too, so I guess the carbs won me over this time.

Overall a really good deal for what you get, just wish there...