If you’ve spent any time in Northern Kentucky lately, you know the corner of 7th and Washington is basically the heartbeat of the city's comeback. But right there, tucked into the 43 West 7th Street spot, is a place that everyone thinks they already know. Honestly, mention Dewey’s Pizza - Covington to anyone in the tri-state area and they’ll probably nod and start talking about the House Salad or the way the dough tossers put on a show for the kids.
But there is a specific reason why this location feels different than the one in Oakley or Crestview Hills. It isn't just the exposed brick or the fact that it sits right next door to Braxton Brewing Co. It’s actually something much more specific to the "Cov" vibe that most casual diners miss.
What Makes the Covington Spot Unique
Most people don't realize that Dewey’s Pizza - Covington was actually a massive milestone for the brand. It opened right around their 25th anniversary, making it the 25th location in the chain. Because of that timing, they didn't just copy-paste the layout from their other shops.
For one, this is the only spot where you’re going to find a dedicated cocktail program. While most Dewey's are strictly "beer and wine" territory (pairing a local MadTree or Rhinegeist with your pie), Covington was the designated testing ground for signature cocktails. You’re talking about drinks specifically designed to cut through the richness of a 17-inch Bronx Bomber.
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Then there’s the Braxton connection. It’s basically the ultimate "unspoken" partnership. You can sit at the Braxton taproom next door, order your pizza via a QR code, and they’ll bring it right to you. It’s that rare kind of urban synergy where two local giants just decided to make life easier for everyone involved.
The Menu: Beyond the "Dante’s Inferno"
Look, we all know the classics. If you haven’t had the Edgar Allan Poe with those whole roasted garlic cloves and goat cheese, have you even lived in the Midwest? But if you’re heading to the Covington location, you have to look at the seasonals.
- The Harvest Salad: This thing is legendary. We’re talking field greens, toasted pumpkin seeds, figs, and Boursin cheese. It’s only around for a limited time, usually through late March, and people legitimately mourn when it leaves the menu.
- The Porky Fig: If you think fruit doesn’t belong on pizza, this might be the one to change your mind. It uses a fig jam base with prosciutto and red onions. It's sweet, salty, and kind of aggressive in the best way possible.
- The Tito Santana: This is a sleeper hit. It’s basically a taco pizza but elevated—think taco sauce, beef, and all the fixings, but on that signature Dewey's crust that manages to stay chewy and crispy at the same time.
Wait times here can get a little wild on Friday nights. Like, "don't show up at 6:30 PM with a party of eight and expect a table in ten minutes" wild. They don't take reservations. It's old-school first-come, first-served. But honestly? Grab a beer at the bar or walk over to Braxton. The staff is famously good at texting you when your table is ready.
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Why the "Dough Show" Still Matters
It's easy to be cynical about "entertainment dining," but watching the kitchen crew at Dewey’s Pizza - Covington is actually impressive. They have these big glass windows where kids (and, let’s be real, adults) can watch the dough being hand-tossed.
Founder Andrew DeWitt—who actually got the nickname "Dewey" as a kid—started this whole thing because he was obsessed with the art of the toss he saw at shops in Seattle. In an era where most chains are using frozen disks or mechanical presses, seeing a human being throw a circle of flour and water five feet into the air is kind of refreshing.
Plus, if you have kids with you, the staff will often give them a little ball of "play dough" to mess with at the table. It keeps them occupied while you're waiting for your Don Corleone to finish baking. It’s a small touch, but it’s why this place is a staple for local families.
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The Local Giveback
One thing you might see on a Monday or Tuesday night is a "Giveback Night." The company has this philanthropic arm called DewMore. They’ve raised over $2 million for local charities since 2009.
If you happen to be there during one of these events, a portion of your bill goes directly to a local non-profit—usually schools, mental health organizations, or neighborhood groups. It makes the $25 you spent on a specialty pie feel a little more like a community investment and less like a carb-loading session.
Planning Your Visit
If you want the best experience at Dewey’s Pizza - Covington, here is the move:
- Timing is everything: Try to hit them for a late lunch (around 1:30 PM) or an early dinner (before 5:00 PM). Tuesday through Thursday are your best bets for zero wait times.
- The Parking Situation: It’s Covington. There is a paid lot nearby and plenty of street parking, but don't forget to feed the meter. The city is pretty proactive with those tickets.
- Dietary Hacks: They offer a 12-inch gluten-free crust. Just keep in mind it’s a shared kitchen, so if you have a severe allergy, let them know immediately. They also have vegan cheese options that actually melt, which is a big win for the plant-based crowd.
- The "Half-and-Half" Rule: You can split any 13-inch or 17-inch pizza. It’s the only way to settle the "meat vs. veggie" argument without buying two separate pies.
Basically, if you’re looking for a spot that feels like the "real" Covington—gritty enough to be cool but polished enough to bring your parents to—this is it. Just make sure you check the seasonal menu before you order the "usual." You might find something better.
Next time you're in the neighborhood, skip the national chains and head to the corner of 7th. Grab a seat by the window, order a custom cocktail (since you're at the only location that has them), and watch the world go by on Washington Street while you wait for that first slice.