Simons Pizzeria in Charleston: Wood-Fired Pizza and Italian Classics

What Simons Pizzeria Offers

Simons Pizzeria is a casual Italian restaurant in Charleston's downtown area known for wood-fired pizzas and traditional Italian dishes. The menu centers on thin-crust pizzas made in a wood-burning oven, alongside pasta, salads, and appetizers. The dining room has a relaxed neighborhood feel—exposed brick, warm lighting, and a visible kitchen—that makes it work equally well for a quick lunch, date night, or family dinner.

The pizzas are the main draw. Simons offers both classic combinations (Margherita, pepperoni) and house specials that rotate with the seasons. Toppings are fresh and the crust has the characteristic char and slight smokiness that comes from wood-fire cooking. Pasta dishes lean toward straightforward preparations—carbonara, bolognese, seafood options—rather than heavy cream sauces. Prices are moderate for Charleston's downtown dining scene.

Key Takeaways

• Simons specializes in wood-fired pizzas with fresh toppings and a charred, smoky crust that defines the restaurant's identity.
• The menu also includes pasta, salads, and appetizers, so non-pizza eaters have solid options.
• The restaurant sits downtown and has a casual, neighborhood atmosphere rather than formal fine dining.
• Reservations are recommended on weekends, especially during tourist season, though walk-ins are often accommodated.

Location and Hours

Simons Pizzeria is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, within walking distance of the historic district, galleries, and other restaurants. Street parking is available but can be tight during peak hours; a nearby parking garage offers an alternative if you're visiting on a busy evening or weekend.

Hours typically run from late morning through dinner service, though it's worth checking ahead during off-season months or holidays. The restaurant is closed on certain days of the week—confirm current hours before you go, as restaurant schedules can shift seasonally.

What to Order and What to Expect

Start with the wood-fired pizzas if you haven't been before. The Margherita is a good baseline—it shows off the quality of the dough, sauce, and mozzarella without distraction. House specials change, so ask your server what's current. If you're sharing, order one pizza per two people; the portions are generous.

Pasta dishes are reliable but less distinctive than the pizza. The carbonara and seafood pastas are popular choices. Salads are fresh and work well as a starter or light main course. Appetizers like bruschetta or fried calamari are solid if you want to graze before the main course arrives.

Service is friendly and informal. Expect a casual pace—this isn't a rushed-turnover spot. Wine and beer are available; the wine list focuses on Italian selections at reasonable markups.

Best Times to Visit

Lunch is quieter than dinner and a good time to go if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere or shorter wait. Weekday evenings are moderately busy. Friday and Saturday nights fill up quickly, especially during spring and fall when Charleston's tourism peaks. If you're visiting on a weekend, calling ahead to reserve a table prevents a long wait.

Summer can be slower as locals leave the city and tourists thin out. Winter brings holiday crowds but also quieter weekday periods. The restaurant is a popular spot for casual group dinners, so expect a mix of couples, families, and friends at most times.

Parking and Getting There

Street parking along King Street is free but limited and turns over quickly. If you can't find a spot nearby, the Saks Parking Garage is a short walk away and charges an hourly rate. Ride-share services (Uber, Lyft) are reliable in downtown Charleston and eliminate parking concerns if you plan to have wine or beer with dinner.

If you're staying in the historic district or nearby hotels, Simons is walkable. The restaurant is also accessible by CARTA bus if you're using public transit.

Price Range and Payment

Pizzas typically run in the mid-range for Charleston—expect to pay between $14 and $22 depending on toppings and size. Pasta dishes are similarly priced. Appetizers and salads are $8 to $14. A meal for two with one pizza, a salad, and drinks usually totals $40 to $60 before tip.

The restaurant accepts all major credit cards and cash. No reservations are required for small groups, but calling ahead for parties of four or more on weekends is a good idea.

Why Simons Fits Into Charleston's Food Scene

Charleston's restaurant culture emphasizes fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking, and Simons follows that template. The wood-fired oven is the star—it's a technique that requires skill and attention, and the restaurant doesn't hide it. You can see the pizzas being made, which adds to the appeal.

The casual, unpretentious vibe also reflects Charleston's shift toward neighborhood restaurants over white-tablecloth formality. Simons works as a regular spot for locals and a solid choice for visitors who want good food without the fuss or the price tag of fine dining. It's the kind of place you'd return to, not just visit once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not required for small groups but are recommended for parties of four or more, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Call ahead to check wait times if you're visiting during peak hours.

Can I get pizza to go?

Yes, Simons offers takeout. Call ahead to place an order, especially during dinner service, so your pizza is ready when you arrive. Takeout pizza travels well and holds up better than pasta for transport.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes. The Margherita pizza is vegetarian, and you can build a custom pizza with any vegetable toppings. Several pasta dishes and salads are also vegetarian or can be modified to be.

What if I don't like pizza?

The pasta menu is solid and offers several non-pizza options. Salads are fresh and filling. If you're dining with a group, order a mix of pizzas and pastas so everyone finds something they enjoy.

Is there outdoor seating?

Simons has limited outdoor seating depending on the season and weather. Call ahead if outdoor seating is important to you, as availability varies.