Papa Gino's — Restaurant in Fairhaven

If I could give Papa Gino’s a Michelin star after my recent visit, I absolutely would — and it’s all thanks to a culinary experience wrapped in melted cheese, served with a side of pure excellence, and orchestrated by none other than the Maestro of Hospitality himself: Kevin.

From the moment I stepped through the doors, I felt like I had entered a sacred temple of pizza. The warm aroma of fresh dough and rich marinara hit me like a beautiful Sicilian sonnet — but what truly made this visit legendary was Kevin. This man doesn’t just work at Papa Gino’s — he is Papa Gino’s.

Kevin greeted us with a smile that could light up Fenway Park. His energy was infectious, his recommendations spot-on (try the Rustic Pizza — trust Kevin, it’s divine), and his attention to detail could rival that of a Swiss watchmaker. My order was taken with such enthusiasm and care, it felt like I was being personally invited to a five-star dinner by a close friend who just happens to be a pizza genius.

Not only did Kevin ensure everything was cooked to absolute perfection (I’m convinced he has a sixth sense for oven timing), but he also made the whole dining room feel like a community. I watched as he effortlessly connected with every customer — remembering names, asking about their day, cracking jokes that had the whole place laughing. This guy could run for mayor and win in a landslide.

The pizza? Heavenly. The service? Immaculate. The atmosphere? Electric. Kevin? A living legend.

Papa Gino’s, if you’re reading this — give Kevin a raise, a medal, a parade — something! Because he turned a regular night into an unforgettable one, and in a world full of fast food and forgettable service, Kevin stands out like a shining, pepperoni-topped beacon of excellence.

10/10. Will return. Will request Kevin. Will tell my grandchildren about...

I've always liked papa Gino's pizza . The place was not busy inside at all . It was also dirty . The trash bins were full ..like I couldn't put one plate in when we finished . The staff was rude ! very short when asked anything . I asked for plates and forks . They hold the front of the fork the part that I'm putting in my mouth with their hand.. I asked her for new forks because she just held the front with her hand and I don't really want her hand or her germs in my mouth . Instant attitude. Also asked me how many plates I want when I'm standing there with my wife and two kids I said there are four of us so four plates . Then she asked how many forks . And then knifes I said ...we need four of everything. It seemed like she was getting some weird pleasure out of asking me the same question over and over . The staff were playing music way to noisy completely inappropriate music. I was under the impression this was a family style pizzeria I have a two-year-old in a five-year-old they don't need to hear hip-hop music . I don't subject them to music like that at home or allow it I'd appreciate it if I could go out and just have a normal meal and be able to talk and actually hear my family . Also the air was so cold no matter where you sit it feels like vents are all over you blowing on you . I'll never go...

I don't know where there are any other remaining Papa Ginos aside from the Fairhaven location but the Dartmouth & North End locations closed down years ago, that's too bad because the Fairhaven store apparently has no regard, appreciation or respect for customers keeping their doors open. I ordered take out, the hot dogs were completely black/burnt (photo attached), the Papa burgers completely burnt & dry, the Linguica pizza may as well have just been cheese. It's so offensive that instead of tossing those nasty, completely burnt hot dogs in the trash they instead would wrap them up, box them then charge me fully aware it was just inedible, that says a lot. When I called the manager was very rude, abrupt, cut me off & offered no apology, however did offer to replace them so at least there was that but how about properly interacting with a customer & caring about why food so badly cooked would still be...