For years, a small little restaurant, Broken English was a place on Lincoln Avenue, just North of the Apollo Theatre. That and Salt & Pepper for breakfast and lunch were mainstays in the area, but during Covid ( or thereabout) they ceased to exist, leaving an empty spot on the bust street. Since then, the Apollo has returned and now what was Broken English is now something a little different and very unique. It is now a pizza parlor, BUT, not just a pizza parlor, a NEW YORK style pizza. Yes, no little squares, but slices!
Recenly opened, the Neon Gardens & The Slice Hut are a combination dining spot. They have two dining areas, an outside patio ( that is what they call a “pop-up” allowing them to change it with the seasons) and a small area known as The Slice Hut ( a self serve, find a seat or grab and go venue). The Lincoln Avenue storefront has garage doors allowing them to open them ( weather permitting) giving diners a chance to feel on the street. They also have tables on the sidewalks.
Tonight they had what one might call an open house to introduce us to the building, the staff ( quite friendly) and of course, the flavors. It was bustling , but we were able to try a little of the menu. I know, that I will return to do a full review after they are settled in. FYI- There is a game room that for many will be a trip down memory lane ( 1990’s games and even pin-ball), and from what I hear, there will be some entertainment on special nights. The dining rooms and bars are filled with TV screens for sports nuts, the bartenders make a great drink and the atmosphere is that of a fun-filled destination spot.
On the way to this restaurant, I was speaking with my Connecticut grandkids who reminded me that this is New York pizza. In other words, not cut into easy to pick up little squares, but the way the East Coast east pizza, SLICES. There is evidently an art to how one folds a slice in order to prevent one’s shirt from being covered in tomato sauce and sausages. For those petrified of making a mess, Neon also offers what they call Pizza Pinwheels and Pizza Rolls. For those that prefer thicker pizza, they have Detroit Pizza ( with the delicious caramelized crust) available. In other words, no matter your preferance, you can bring the entire family here and all can have what they want.
They also have salads, sandwiches and appetizers, so everyone can find something. To top off the evening, try their Gelato10 flavors ( cup or cone)
By the way, the bar has everything you might be looking for and a great number of craft brews. Neon Gardens is located at 2576 N. Lincoln Avenue ( Slice Hut is inside) and is open as follows:
Monday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Tuesday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Wednesday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Thursday: 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Friday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 pm – 12:00 am
The phone number 872-315-2177 website www.theneongardens.com
There is street parking, some metered, some not. I will return to do a full tasting very soon!!!
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