At lunchtime tomorrow, April 14, Stoked Pizza will officially throw open its doors in Brookline's Washington Square. It's the first brick-and-mortar location for the popular food truck (which will remain in operation). In what was previously the short-lived Sunny Boy space, Stoked has a dining room that begins with a ramp that slopes down into the action, including a view of the Pavesi pizza oven nestled between the kitchen and the bar.
The dining room is cozy, featuring red leather banquettes that run along the side walls. There are patterned formica tables in the center of the room as well as along the front of the space, and a circular bar wraps its way around the side wall and leads into the kitchen. Above the bar, a sign provides dual definitions of the work "stoked," touching on both fire and excitement.
The wall opposite the kitchen and bar is furnished with bold stereo wallpaper, a reminder of co-owner Scott Riebling's musical background. A bassist, he has played with Letters to Cleo, Weezer, Tracy Bonham, and Nina Gordon, to name a few.
Stoked's back wall houses a fake fireplace that is decorated with paper wood. A large painting that references the movie "The Sandlot" hangs on the wall in front of the kitchen, and distinctive circular light fixtures hang from the ceiling. Another playful element of the restaurant is found in an unusual space — the bathroom. Stoked's signature red color is painted on one side of the wall, while a pizza Pac-Man game is painted on the other side with large pies chasing after smaller slices of pizza.
Stoked will initially be open for lunch and dinner, with brunch to follow soon. There's a tiny patio for those who wish to enjoy pizza in the sun, weather permitting. Boston Magazine shares a look at the opening menu, which includes pizzas with and without tomato sauce; Brussels sprouts; two types of wings; meatballs; a salad; and chicken fingers with fries. Vegan pizza is available as well. On the beverage side, there's a small selection of beers, wines, and cocktails — including three cocktails on draft.
