Chicago Pizza Company in South Carolina: Deep-Dish and Stuffed Crust Locations
Where to find Chicago Pizza Company in South Carolina
Chicago Pizza Company operates locations across South Carolina, bringing the city's signature deep-dish and stuffed-crust styles to the Lowcountry and Upstate. The chain has restaurants in Charleston, Greenville, and Columbia, each serving the same menu of thick, cheese-heavy pies that define Chicago pizza culture. You can dine in, order carryout, or have pizza delivered to your home, depending on which location you visit.
The Charleston location sits in the downtown area and draws both locals and visitors looking for a break from traditional Carolina barbecue. The Greenville and Columbia spots serve similar crowds—people who grew up eating Chicago pizza or want to try the style for the first time. Hours vary by location, so check ahead before you go, especially on weekends when wait times can run long.
Key Takeaways
- Chicago Pizza Company serves deep-dish and stuffed-crust pizzas at multiple South Carolina locations, with dine-in, carryout, and delivery options available.
- The signature deep-dish pizza takes longer to cook than thin-crust styles—expect 20 to 30 minutes even if you order ahead.
- Stuffed-crust pizzas come with cheese baked into the outer edge, making them heavier and more filling than standard pies.
- Most locations offer beer and soft drinks, and many have seating for groups, making them suitable for family dinners and casual gatherings.
What makes Chicago pizza different from other styles
Chicago deep-dish pizza is built upside down from the way most pizzerias work. The crust goes into a round, high-sided pan first, then sauce spreads across the top, then cheese and toppings layer underneath. When it bakes, the cheese melts directly onto the crust while the sauce stays on top, creating a tangy contrast and a crispy, buttery bottom. The result is thicker, denser, and more filling than New York or thin-crust pizza.
Stuffed-crust pizza takes the concept further by folding extra dough around the edge and filling it with cheese before the pie goes into the oven. When you reach the crust, you bite into melted mozzarella instead of plain bread. This style became popular in the 1990s and has remained a Chicago staple. Both styles require a longer bake time—usually 20 to 30 minutes—so plan accordingly if you are ordering for a specific time.
Menu options and what to order
Chicago Pizza Company's menu centers on customizable pizzas where you choose your crust style, size, and toppings. Standard options include pepperoni, sausage, vegetables, and combination pies. You can build your own by selecting from meats, vegetables, and cheese varieties. Sizes typically range from small to large, with deep-dish pies serving fewer people than thin-crust equivalents because of their density and thickness.
Beyond pizza, most locations offer salads, sandwiches, and appetizers like breadsticks or wings. Desserts such as chocolate chip cookies or brownies round out the menu. Beverages include soft drinks, beer at locations with licenses, and sometimes specialty sodas. If you are ordering for a group, ask about family-size options or combination deals, which some locations run seasonally.
Dining experience and atmosphere
Chicago Pizza Company locations are casual, family-friendly spaces designed for quick meals and group gatherings. The Charleston location has a more urban feel with exposed brick and vintage Chicago memorabilia on the walls. Greenville and Columbia spots tend toward bright, open layouts with booth and table seating. Most have televisions tuned to sports, making them popular during games.
Noise levels can be high during peak hours, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings. If you prefer a quieter meal, visit during lunch or early afternoon. The restaurants do not require reservations at most locations, but calling ahead during busy times can help you understand wait times. Carryout is usually faster than dine-in, especially for large orders.
Pricing and what to expect to spend
Deep-dish pizzas cost more than thin-crust equivalents at most pizza chains because they use more cheese, sauce, and dough. A small deep-dish pie typically runs in the mid-range for pizza pricing in South Carolina, while large sizes and stuffed-crust options cost more. Toppings add to the base price, with each additional topping increasing the total. Combination pies (pre-set with multiple toppings) sometimes offer better value than building your own.
Sides, salads, and beverages are priced separately. A full meal for one person—pizza slice or small pie, a drink, and a side—usually costs less than a large pie alone. If you are feeding a group, ordering one or two large pies plus sides is often more economical than individual meals. Some locations offer lunch specials on weekdays, so ask when you call or visit.
How to order and what to know about timing
You can order Chicago Pizza Company pizza by phone, online through their website or app (where available), or in person at the restaurant. Phone orders let you speak directly with staff about customizations and current wait times. Online ordering is convenient if you know exactly what you want and can pick it up at a set time. In-person orders are best if you want to see the menu board or ask questions about toppings.
Deep-dish pizzas take longer to cook than thin-crust pies because of their thickness and the amount of filling. Even if you order ahead, expect the pizza to take 20 to 30 minutes from the time it enters the oven. If you are ordering for a specific time—say, dinner at 6 p.m.—call 30 to 45 minutes before and ask when to pick up. Delivery times vary by location and distance; ask about delivery fees and estimated arrival when you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a deep-dish pizza take to cook?
Deep-dish pizzas typically bake for 20 to 30 minutes because of their thickness and the amount of cheese and sauce. If you order ahead by phone, the restaurant can start your pizza closer to your arrival time, reducing your wait. Stuffed-crust pies may take slightly longer because of the extra cheese in the crust.
Can I get Chicago Pizza Company pizza delivered?
Most South Carolina locations offer delivery, though availability depends on your address and distance from the restaurant. Call the location nearest you or check their website to see if delivery is available in your area. Delivery fees and minimum order amounts vary by location.
Is Chicago Pizza Company good for large groups or parties?
Yes. The restaurants have booth and table seating suitable for groups, and staff can handle large orders. Call ahead if you are bringing more than 8 to 10 people so they can prepare. Some locations may offer group discounts or party packages during slower times.
What is the difference between deep-dish and stuffed-crust pizza?
Deep-dish pizza is baked in a high-sided pan with sauce on top and cheese underneath, creating a thick, crispy crust. Stuffed-crust pizza has extra cheese baked into the outer edge of the crust itself. Both are thicker and heavier than thin-crust pizza, but stuffed-crust adds an extra cheese layer at the edge.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Reservations are not required at most Chicago Pizza Company locations. However, calling ahead during peak hours (Friday and Saturday evenings) helps you understand wait times. For very large groups, calling in advance is a good idea so staff can prepare.