Dragon Pizza, located at 233 Elm St, Somerville, MA, has become a polarizing name in the pizza world, sparking heated discussions across platforms like Tripadvisor, Reddit, and major publications such as the New York Post and Bon Appétit. Known for its artisanal approach, local ingredients, and bold flavors, this pizzeria has garnered attention not only for its food but also for high-profile controversies. Below, we dive into Dragon Pizza reviews, exploring what customers and critics are saying about this Somerville gem, its food, atmosphere, and the events that have shaped its reputation.
Overview of Dragon Pizza
Established in 2018, Dragon Pizza prides itself on crafting pizzas with local ingredients and a focus on quality. The menu features a variety of specialty pizzas, slices, kabobs, and gelato, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM (with extended hours until midnight on Thursday through Saturday), it’s a popular spot in Davis Square for both dine-in and takeout. But what do customers and reviewers think of the experience? Let’s break it down.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Tripadvisor: A Mixed Bag of Opinions
On Tripadvisor, Dragon Pizza holds a ranking of #217 out of 217 restaurants in Somerville, with 34 reviews reflecting a range of sentiments. Some diners praise the pizza for its creative toppings and flavorful crust, with one reviewer noting the "maple bacon slice" as a standout for its unique sweet-savory balance. However, others have criticized the pricing, with large specialty pizzas averaging $27.50 before tax and tip, which some feel is steep compared to competitors like Mike’s Pizza ($19-20 for a pepperoni) or Posto ($22 for a small Neapolitan).
Negative reviews often stem from a 2023 incident involving Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy, which led to a wave of one-star "review bombing" on platforms like Yelp. While Yelp has since moderated these reviews, the event left a mark on Dragon Pizza’s online reputation, with some customers citing the controversy as a reason to avoid the establishment. Others, however, rallied in support, appreciating the owner’s commitment to standing up for the business.
Reddit: Community Buzz and Polarization
Reddit threads, particularly in r/Somerville and r/boston, reveal a divided community. A 2023 post in r/boston titled “Portnoy reviews Dragon Pizza in Somerville. Chaos ensues” garnered 583 votes and 646 comments, highlighting the viral nature of the altercation between owner Charlie Redd and Dave Portnoy. Portnoy’s “One Bite” review gave Dragon Pizza a 6.4/10, calling it “trash,” which sparked a heated exchange where Redd confronted Portnoy outside the shop. The video, viewed nearly five million times, fueled both criticism and support.
Some Redditors defend Dragon Pizza, arguing it’s a quality spot unfairly targeted due to Portnoy’s influence. One user compared it favorably to other local pizzerias like Angelina’s, stating, “Dragon is so much better as far as pizza goes,” though they noted the high cost, with a large pizza exceeding $30. Others, however, found the pizza “mediocre” and felt the controversy overshadowed the food itself. A 2025 thread in r/Somerville about Dragon Pizza’s plea to parents to supervise their kids further stirred debate, with 173 votes and 249 comments reflecting mixed sentiments about the restaurant’s policies and atmosphere.
Media Coverage: From Bon Appétit to New York Post
Major publications have also weighed in. Bon Appétit covered the 2023 Portnoy incident, detailing how owner Charlie Redd’s confrontation with the Barstool founder led to a media firestorm. Redd emphasized his focus on “local ingredients and craftsmanship,” but the article noted the subsequent flood of negative reviews tanking Dragon Pizza’s Yelp rating.
In March 2025, the New York Post reported on a new controversy: Dragon Pizza asked a family to leave due to unsupervised children, sparking further online debate. Some praised the restaurant for prioritizing a safe and comfortable dining environment, with one X post noting, “Kids are gonna be kids, but parents should rein them in.” Others criticized the move as overly harsh, with Dave Portnoy himself chiming in on X, reigniting tensions. This incident, covered by Boston.com as well, highlighted Dragon Pizza’s ongoing struggle to balance customer experience with public perception.
What Makes Dragon Pizza Stand Out?
Despite the controversies, Dragon Pizza has its fans. Reviewers often highlight:
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Unique Flavors: Specialty pizzas like the maple bacon and other creative combinations are frequently praised for their bold taste profiles.
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Atmosphere: The Davis Square location offers a casual vibe, though some note it’s not ideal for families due to recent policies on child supervision.
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Local Focus: The commitment to local ingredients resonates with customers seeking artisanal dining experiences.
However, pricing remains a sticking point. As one Redditor noted, “It’s currently $27.50 on menu, tax and 20% tip brings you to just about $35,” making it a pricier option compared to nearby spots like Beacon Street Pizza ($22-26 for an 18” specialty pie).
The Impact of Controversies
The 2023 Portnoy altercation and the 2025 family incident have undeniably shaped Dragon Pizza’s reputation. The former led to a polarized customer base, with some rallying behind Redd’s defiance and others siding with Portnoy’s critique. The latter, covered by the New York Post, further divided opinions, with X posts reflecting both support and backlash. These events underscore the challenges small businesses face in managing public perception in the digital age, especially when high-profile figures are involved.
Should You Visit Dragon Pizza?
Dragon Pizza reviews paint a picture of a pizzeria with high-quality offerings but a complicated public image. If you’re in Somerville and looking for a unique pizza experience, Dragon Pizza’s creative menu and local focus make it worth a try, especially if you enjoy artisanal flavors. However, be prepared for higher prices and a potentially charged atmosphere due to its media spotlight. For those prioritizing value, nearby options like Mike’s or Beacon Street Pizza might be more budget-friendly.
Before visiting, check the latest reviews on platforms like Tripadvisor or Reddit for real-time insights, as sentiments can shift quickly. Whether you’re drawn by the buzz or curious about the pizza itself, Dragon Pizza remains a talking point in Somerville’s dining scene.
FAQ About Dragon Pizza
Q: Where is Dragon Pizza located?
A: It’s in Davis Square, Somerville, Massachusetts.
Q: Does Dragon Pizza offer delivery?
A: As of now, they primarily focus on dine-in and takeout.
Q: Is the Portnoy review accurate?
A: It depends on your taste. Many disagree with his rating, but the slice style and atmosphere aren't for everyone.
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