Jem Pizza II in Columbia — Wood-Fired Pies and Neighborhood Dining

What Jem Pizza II offers

Jem Pizza II is a wood-fired pizzeria in Columbia's Five Points neighborhood, known for Neapolitan-style pies made in a traditional brick oven. The restaurant focuses on quality ingredients, house-made dough, and straightforward execution — thin crust, fresh toppings, and the char that comes from high-heat wood fire. The space is casual and neighborhood-oriented, with a bar, counter seating, and tables that fill up during dinner service.

The menu centers on pizza but includes salads, appetizers, and sides that complement the main event. Jem Pizza II also operates as a gathering spot for the Five Points community, with a bar program and a setting that works for both solo diners and groups. Hours and specials change seasonally, so checking their current schedule before you go is worth doing.

Key Takeaways

• Jem Pizza II serves wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizza in Columbia's Five Points neighborhood, a walkable area with other restaurants and shops nearby.
• The restaurant operates a full bar and welcomes both walk-in and seated diners, with counter and table seating available.
• Expect casual, neighborhood-style service and a menu built around pizza, with salads and appetizers as supporting options.
• Five Points parking is street-level and shared with other businesses, so arriving during off-peak hours or using nearby lots can make parking easier.

Location and parking in Five Points

Jem Pizza II sits in the Five Points neighborhood, one of Columbia's oldest and most walkable commercial districts. The area runs along Harden Street and the surrounding blocks, with independent restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries within a few blocks of each other. If you are coming from downtown Columbia or the University of South Carolina campus, Five Points is a short drive or longer walk north.

Parking in Five Points is street-level and shared among all the businesses in the area. During peak dinner hours — typically 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends — finding a spot near the restaurant can take a few minutes. Arriving earlier or later, or on weekday evenings, usually means easier parking. Some nearby lots exist, but most people park on the street.

What to order and what to expect

The pizza menu changes seasonally and features both classic Neapolitan combinations and house specials. Classic options like Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil) and variations with cured meats, vegetables, or seasonal produce are standard. The wood-fired oven cooks pizzas quickly — usually three to five minutes — so expect your order to arrive faster than at a conventional pizzeria.

Beyond pizza, the menu typically includes a small selection of salads, often built around seasonal greens and simple dressings. Appetizers and sides vary but might include items like burrata, cured meats, or roasted vegetables. The bar offers beer, wine, and cocktails, with the selection tilted toward Italian wines and local or regional craft beers. Prices are moderate for wood-fired pizza in a neighborhood setting — a single pie typically costs between $15 and $25, depending on toppings.

When to go and how busy it gets

Jem Pizza II is busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings, particularly between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. During these times, the bar fills up and tables have a wait. Weekday evenings are quieter, and lunch service (when available) is typically less crowded. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, Tuesday through Thursday afternoons or early evenings are good times to visit.

The restaurant does not take reservations for most seating, though groups may be able to call ahead to arrange timing. Walk-ins are welcome at the bar and counter, and you can order and eat there without a table reservation. During very busy periods, expect to wait 15 to 30 minutes for a table, though bar seating and counter spots often have shorter waits.

Five Points as a destination

Jem Pizza II is one reason to visit Five Points, but the neighborhood itself is worth exploring. Within a few blocks you will find other independent restaurants, coffee shops, vintage and specialty shops, and galleries. The area has a strong community feel and hosts events throughout the year, from street festivals to gallery openings. Many people make an evening of it — dinner at one restaurant, drinks at a bar, browsing shops or catching live music elsewhere in the neighborhood.

Five Points is also close to the University of South Carolina campus and the historic neighborhoods that surround it. If you are visiting Columbia and want to experience a neighborhood with character and local business, Five Points is a natural stop.

Dietary considerations and menu notes

Wood-fired pizzerias typically offer vegetarian options easily — salads, cheese pizza, and vegetable-topped pies are standard. Vegan diners can usually order pizza without cheese or with dairy-free alternatives if available; calling ahead to confirm what the kitchen can do is a good idea. Gluten-free crust is not always available at wood-fired pizzerias because of cross-contamination risks in the oven, so if that is a concern, ask when you arrive or call beforehand.

The restaurant's bar program means alcohol is available, but non-alcoholic drinks (soft drinks, coffee, water) are also served. If you have specific dietary needs or allergies, mentioning them when you order helps the kitchen prepare your food safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation at Jem Pizza II?

Most seating is first-come, first-served, and walk-ins are welcome. Large groups may call ahead to let the restaurant know they are coming, but individual diners and small groups typically do not need a reservation. Bar and counter seating are usually available even during busy times.

What are the hours?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. Checking the restaurant's website or calling ahead before you go ensures you arrive when they are open. Many pizzerias adjust hours seasonally or close for staff breaks, so a quick call saves a trip.

Is there outdoor seating?

Many Five Points restaurants have outdoor or patio seating, though availability depends on the season and the specific restaurant. Jem Pizza II may have outdoor options during warmer months; calling ahead or checking their current setup when you arrive will tell you what is available.

Can I order pizza to go?

Most wood-fired pizzerias offer takeout, though pizza travels best when eaten within a short time. If you are ordering to go, ask the restaurant how they package it to keep it warm and how long you have before quality declines. Eating at the restaurant or nearby is usually the better experience.

What is the price range?

Individual pizzas typically range from $15 to $25 depending on toppings and size. Salads, appetizers, and drinks are priced separately. A meal for one person usually costs $20 to $35 before tax and tip, depending on what you order.