Classification: Traditional
Location: Tonka Bay, Minnesota
We moved into our current residence over a decade ago, and I know I've mentioned it a few times, but an early assignment was laying out the land, not just for pizza, but for nail salons, tanning beds, and CBD dispensaries, etc. In the surrounding ten-mile radius are dozens of places that we patronized in our early days as settlers, but haven't visited in the ensuing years, and Joey Nova's in one such place. It's decent enough, and I have no quarrel with them, but it got me thinking about the overlap of quality and convenience.
This pizza is in No-Man's Land because even though it's a reasonably solid offering, I'd estimate 6-7 better pizzas that don't require as long a commute. We're also well outside of their delivery range, so maximum effort is required to make this the pizza of choice, and take-out isn't a great option, since it's a 15-minute drive, and wifey demands her pizza piping hot. So, if you MUST hop in your car for a dine-in experience, wouldn't you rather drive a little farther down the turnpike for a superior-performing pizza? For me, the answer is a resounding yes. So, if events conspire toward an evening at Joey Nova's, I will joyously abide. But for me and my house, they reside in the narrow range of "Best Pizza That Is Between Seven and Eight Miles From My Home." Much more convenient (and often better) options are closer, and a there's a multitude of great options if we expand our field up to, oh.....say 12 miles. But it's a little nice room at Joey Nova's, and it's decent pie. (6 of 10 stars)