Where is the best Columbia pizza? It’s an important question. Pizza is a go to treat for many kids.
Originally from Columbia, I have moved many times myself, and I know how important it is to get your bearings. Feeling like an outsider comes in many forms, including not knowing where to get a good pizza.
Obviously, good pizza is a matter of opinion more than an exact science. But, as I said, I’ve found pizza from Little Italy NYC to Alaskan Islands, and here’s my take on Columbia’s best pizza:
1. Long Time Local Favorite
Labrasca’s has been around since my dad was in college. Like a lot of mom and pop favorites, it isn’t much to look at from the outside, but the vibe inside, from paintings and low lights to the bar and the cannoli and staff – the atmosphere is great fun for lunch dates or date nights. They also have excellent to-go, easy menu, and fair prices.
The house makes their own Italian dressing for their crazy cheese salads (I hope you like cheese), which I’d recommend. They pizza style is New York, but the place is all its own- love it or hate it – but locals rallied to save it after the Thousand Year Flood for a reason. This is located on Ft. Jackson Blvd/Wildcat Road near the entrance, and exit 10 off 77, near a shopping center with Petsmart and Marshalls, also near the iconic Columbia Egg Roll Chen.
2. Best Among Teens, Collegians, & Friends
Want to impress your teen? Looking for a fun date night out with friends? Take them to Village Idiot right downtown in Five Points. It’s got a cool name, cool location, and cool door. First, like a secret society, you enter and climb the stairs into a big open space with fun signs, old games, big screen, beer by pitcher, and awesome signature pies. Plus, it’s a college favorite, so they do awesome summer sales. We last hit it up before a Fireflies game. They have other locations as well around town.
3. NYC Vibe & Family-Friendly
Those who aren’t a fan of these two usually love Schiano’s. There’s one on Forrest Drive and one near the Publix on Two Notch Road in the Northeast by Spring Valley High School. It claims to be totally authentic. Also a family place, Schiano’s has all your typical NYC options, from subs to pasta to salad, and good flavor. Sit down or to-go options, NYC interior, rat pack music and neon lights, this might be the vibe you’re looking for.
4. Cheapest & Most Kid-Friendly
The cheapest place to get pizza and most kid-friendly is definitely Cici’s. They do pizza, wings, and desserts to-go, but eating inside is easy with their super affordable buffet that offers just about everything: chicken noodle soup, salad, pasta, the basics, and several fun signature styles including BBQ chicken pizza, macaroni and cheese pizza, buffalo chicken, and more. Don’t see your favorite? Just tell them and they’ll bring it to you for no charge.