Introduction
If you’re a fan of South Shore bar pizza, you know the thrill of discovering a new spot. Last night, I stumbled upon an unexpected gem in West Bridgewater, MA: the Samoset Rod & Gun Club. Known to locals for its Friday night gatherings, the club has become an unassuming hub for one of Massachusetts’ best-kept secrets — bar pizza. With its vintage charm and welcoming atmosphere, this hidden spot offers an authentic experience that transports you back to simpler times. Pizza nights here are open to the public btw.
The Venue: A Throwback to the Good Old Days
Walking into the Samoset Rod & Gun Club feels like stepping into a classic VFW hall. The rustic vibe hits you immediately, with wood-paneled walls adorned with mounted taxidermy — a nod to the club’s hunting roots. It’s the kind of place where you expect to find an old-school jukebox and a lively group of regulars sharing stories over a cold beer. And I found just that.
The hall, which can be rented out for parties and events, is spacious yet cozy. On Friday nights from 5:30 to 8:30, it transforms into a lively pizza hub, drawing in locals for its popular “Pizza Night.” This isn’t just any pizza night; this is where you’ll find genuine South Shore bar pizza, made the way it’s been done for decades.
The Bar Pizza: A Taste of Tradition
What makes South Shore bar pizza so special? It’s all about the crispy, thin crust, fresh shredded cheddar cheese, and sauce that brings it all together. At the Samoset Rod & Gun Club, the bar pizza is cooked in well-seasoned 10×1 pans — a hallmark of authentic bar pizza joints. These pans have seen countless pizzas over the years, adding a seasoned flavor that only comes from years of use. Pizza is ordered from the pizza window around the corner from the bar. The menu is tacked to the wall. See pic below.
The dough was quite different from all other bar pizza spots though. Almost like they used a dough recipe for a NY Style pizza. Definitely did not use this classic South Shore Bar Pizza Dough Recipe, but was still very good.
Drinks and Atmosphere: The Perfect Pairing
No bar pizza experience is complete without a cold beer, and the Samoset Rod & Gun Club delivers on that front too. They have a full bar (cash only) with a selection of cheap beers, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back Friday night. The drink prices are refreshingly reasonable, a stark contrast to the inflated rates you might find at trendy city bars. The crowd was friendly and welcoming, a mix of regulars and first-timers, all brought together by their love of pizza and a good time.
Unexpected Fun: The Meat Raffle
Adding to the charm of the night was an unexpected event: a meat raffle. As I first stepped into the front door I noticed people eagerly clutching tickets, hoping to win a variety of fresh cuts. It was an experience that felt quintessentially local, a slice of small-town New England life that you don’t often find in the age of modern gastropubs and fancy pizzerias. I didn’t win anything, but it added a fun, communal vibe to the night.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit for Bar Pizza Enthusiasts
If you’re a fan of South Shore bar pizza and looking for a new spot to add to your list, the Samoset Rod & Gun Club should be at the top. It’s an unpretentious venue with a warm, nostalgic feel that complements the delicious bar pizza perfectly. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a well-kept secret — a hidden gem that captures the heart of what makes bar pizza so beloved in this region.
So next Friday, if you find yourself craving bar pizza and cold beer, make your way to West Bridgewater. Grab a beer, enjoy a pizza (or two), and soak in the old-school charm of the Samoset Rod & Gun Club.
Pro Tips for Your Visit:
- Arrive Early: Pizza Night starts at 5:30, but some nights it can get very busy, so arriving early ensures you get a seat and a fresh pizza. On busy nights there will be a long wait for your pizza, so arrive thirsty!
- Order at the Pizza Window: You place your pizza order at the pizza window located to the right of the bar by the bathrooms. They’ll bring your pizza out to you when ready.
- Bring Cash: The club operates like a classic bar and does not take cards. Cash only.
- Join the Meat Raffle: They don’t do this every Friday but I highly recommend going on a night they are. Even if you don’t win, it’s a fun way to engage with the locals and enjoy the full experience.
Next time you’re on the hunt for a new bar pizza spot, remember that sometimes the best places aren’t the ones with flashy signs or Instagram pages. They’re the cozy, off-the-beaten-path spots like the Samoset Rod & Gun Club, where good food and good company come together every Friday night.
