Smoking Monkey Pizza — Restaurant in Seattle

Smokey Monkey Pizza Magnolia: A Culinary Wonderland Worth Every Bite

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Smokey Monkey Pizza’s new Magnolia location, and let me tell you—this is not just a meal; it’s an experience! From the moment you walk through the door, you’re greeted by a warm, vibrant atmosphere that perfectly balances a laid-back vibe with a touch of upscale charm. The smell of wood-fired perfection wafts through the air, promising an unforgettable culinary journey.

The Food: A Flavor Explosion

The Oceanic Calamari was a revelation. Lightly battered to golden, crispy perfection, each bite was a symphony of flavors. The calamari was tender, fresh, and paired with a tangy, zesty dipping sauce that made it absolutely irresistible. This dish alone is worth the visit—Smokey Monkey clearly knows how to set the bar high.

Then came the Monkey Kingdom Pizza. Imagine this: a perfectly charred crust, airy yet crispy, topped with a medley of bold, fresh ingredients that dance together in harmony. The sweet-and-spicy notes of their signature sauce paired with the smoky meats and bursts of garden-fresh herbs had me savoring every bite. It’s a masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of what pizza can be.

The Ambiance: Inviting and Electric

The restaurant itself is a feast for the senses. The decor is a quirky yet elegant mix of industrial and jungle-inspired elements, complete with hanging greenery and exposed brick. The lighting creates a cozy glow that’s perfect for a casual dinner or a celebratory night out. Live acoustic music filled the air, setting the tone without overpowering conversation—a rare and much-appreciated touch.

Exceptional Service

The staff at Smokey Monkey Magnolia are nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment we sat down, our server treated us like VIPs, offering detailed recommendations and ensuring our glasses were never empty. You can tell they genuinely care about creating a memorable experience for their guests.

Final Thoughts

Smokey Monkey Pizza Magnolia has quickly cemented itself as a must-visit gem in the neighborhood. Whether you’re craving an out-of-this-world calamari appetizer, a pizza that redefines perfection, or just a place to unwind with great music and even better company, this is the spot.

Bravo, Smokey Monkey—you’ve outdone yourselves. I can’t wait to return and bring...

Smoking Monkey Pizza's new Magnolia location opened with a lot of promise, and there are definitely things to like. The prices are reasonable, a welcome change in a city where pizza can break the bank. The food quality has potential, and when the pizza is good, it's quite good. The bread options are fantastic, and the pepperoni is some of the best in the area—definitely a must if you are a meat eater.

However, there are some significant issues holding this place back. The pizza can be unevenly cooked, and the topping ratios sometimes feel off. The baked goods are a consistent disappointment; at best, they're bland, but more often than not, they arrive burned or stale. Avoid ordering them altogether.

One of the most attractive aspects of Smoking Monkey is their delivery service, which doesn't come with the exorbitant fees that many other places in the city tack on. I've had several deliveries arrive promptly, which is a plus. That said, expect your food to be cold upon arrival. A quick stint in the oven will help revive it and as an added bonus, crisp up any sogginess from the uneven baking practices mentioned above.

The major concern, however, isn't the temperature (easily fixed), but the state of the pizza upon delivery (see photo). On two separate occasions, the pizza has arrived looking like it was drop-kicked or launched from a cannon, smashed against the side of the box. This is a significant problem, compounded by the fact that Smoking Monkey offers zero customer service. Contacting them about the issue, even with photographic evidence, yields no response.

I genuinely want Smoking Monkey to succeed, but when your order arrives looking like it was slammed against a wall, it's hard to justify the cost (its cheaper than other pizza in the city, but not CHEAP). If you're able, I recommend picking up your order. But honestly, you're probably better off heading to Slice Box down the street (if they're open). The potential is there, but until Smoking Monkey addresses these issues, it's hard...

This place has a unique sci-fi theme that you don't see often in pizza joints. The decor is fun, with monkeys and space motifs, creating a light-hearted and engaging environment. It's not just about the pizza; the ambiance adds to the overall experience, making it a memorable visit.

Service: The staff was friendly and attentive, which is a bonus in any dining experience. They managed to split our salad without us even asking, which was a nice touch. However, do note that during peak times, wait times can be a bit longer due to the size of the place.

Pizza: Quality: The pizza here is a highlight. I tried the Goatsmary pizza, which had a chili oil base with provolone, goat cheese, rosemary, cashews, and parmesan. The combination was unique and delicious, with a great balance of flavors. The crust was a standout - not too thin, not too thick, with a nice chew and flavor. Selection: They offer a variety of specialty pizzas that are packed with toppings. If you're into pepperoni, their Pepperoni Perfection lives up to its name with a generous, wall-to-wall coverage of pepperoni that crisps up nicely.

Other Menu Items: The crispy cauliflower was a hit; it had just the right amount of crunch and was seasoned well. The Monkey House Salad was fresh and a good complement to the rich pizzas.

Value: Prices are reasonable for the quality and creativity you get. Happy hour deals are particularly good, offering some items at a nice discount, like their draft beers and certain food items.

Overall: Smoking Monkey Pizza in Magnolia offers more than just a meal; it's an experience. From the themed decor to the inventive pizza offerings, they manage to make pizza night an event. Whether you're a local or visiting Seattle, this spot is worth checking out for a slice of something different. Just be prepared for potentially longer waits if you go...