Little River House of Pizza — Wood-Fired Pies and Italian Classics in Horry County
What to expect at Little River House of Pizza
Little River House of Pizza is a casual neighborhood spot in the unincorporated community of Little River, just north of Myrtle Beach in Horry County. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas with a thin, charred crust and Italian-style toppings, alongside pasta dishes, sandwiches, and appetizers. The dining room has a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with exposed brick and warm lighting—the kind of place where you can linger over a meal without feeling rushed.
The wood-fired oven is the centerpiece of the operation. Pizzas cook quickly at high heat, which gives them a distinctive texture: a crispy exterior with a slightly chewy interior and visible char marks. The menu rotates seasonally, but you'll typically find both traditional combinations (margherita, pepperoni) and house specials with less common toppings. Pasta portions are generous, and the kitchen also makes its own dough daily.
Key Takeaways
- Little River House of Pizza uses a wood-fired oven to cook thin-crust pizzas with a charred, crispy finish in just a few minutes.
- The restaurant is located in Little River, a small community north of Myrtle Beach, making it a quieter alternative to downtown dining.
- Beyond pizza, the menu includes fresh pasta, Italian sandwiches, and appetizers, with dough made in-house daily.
- The space is casual and family-friendly, suitable for weeknight dinners, dates, or small groups without reservations required for most visits.
Location and hours
Little River House of Pizza sits on Highway 17 North in the Little River area, roughly 15 minutes north of central Myrtle Beach. The location is easy to spot from the road and has its own parking lot. If you're staying in Myrtle Beach proper or visiting attractions along the Grand Strand, it's a short drive but far enough away to feel like a neighborhood restaurant rather than a tourist trap.
Hours vary by season. During peak summer months, the restaurant typically stays open later to accommodate the influx of visitors to the area. Winter hours are shorter. It's worth calling ahead or checking their current hours before making the trip, especially if you're planning a dinner visit on a weeknight.
The pizza menu and wood-fired technique
The wood-fired oven reaches temperatures around 800 degrees Fahrenheit, which means a pizza cooks in roughly 90 seconds to two minutes. This speed and heat create the signature crust: thin enough to fold, crispy on the bottom, with visible blistering and char on top. The dough is made fresh daily, so the texture changes slightly depending on hydration and fermentation time.
The menu includes both classic Italian pizzas and house creations. A margherita pizza here will have fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomato sauce on that thin, charred base. Specialty pies might feature prosciutto, roasted vegetables, white sauce, or combinations you won't find at chain pizza places. Prices are moderate for wood-fired pizza—typically in the $12 to $18 range for a standard pie, depending on toppings.
If you're ordering for a group, note that these pizzas are personal to medium-sized, not the large delivery pies you might be used to. Two people can comfortably share one pizza, or order individual pies if appetites are hearty.
Pasta, sandwiches, and sides
Beyond pizza, the kitchen makes several pasta dishes daily. These are typically Italian classics—lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo, penne arrabbiata—prepared in smaller portions than you'd find at a traditional Italian restaurant. Pasta is a good option if someone in your group doesn't want pizza, or if you want to try multiple things.
The sandwich menu includes Italian-style options like meatball subs and Italian cold cuts on house-made bread. Appetizers usually feature bruschetta, calamari, or garlic knots. These are designed to complement pizza rather than replace it, so portions are moderate and prices reflect that.
Dining atmosphere and service
The interior is casual and unpretentious. Exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and simple wooden tables create a neighborhood trattoria feel without the formality. The space is comfortable for families with children, couples on a date, or groups of friends. Noise levels are moderate—you can have a conversation without shouting, but it's not a quiet, intimate space.
Service is friendly and efficient. Staff know the menu well and can answer questions about toppings or preparation. The restaurant doesn't take reservations for most visits, so expect a short wait during peak dinner hours (typically 6 to 8 p.m. on weekends). Takeout is available if you prefer to eat elsewhere.
When to visit and what to know
Little River House of Pizza works well for a casual weeknight dinner, a weekend family outing, or a break from the busier restaurant scene in central Myrtle Beach. The neighborhood location means fewer tourists and a more local crowd, especially on weeknights. Summer brings more visitors to the area, so expect busier service and longer waits during peak season.
If you're driving from Myrtle Beach, allow 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic on Highway 17. The restaurant is close to other Little River attractions, including the Little River Inlet and nearby beaches, so you could combine a meal here with a morning walk or beach visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are not typically required and are not usually taken. Walk-ins are welcome, though you may wait 15 to 30 minutes during peak dinner hours on weekends. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times is a good idea if you're visiting during summer or on a Friday or Saturday night.
Can I order pizza for delivery?
Little River House of Pizza primarily operates as a dine-in and takeout restaurant. Delivery may be available through third-party apps depending on your location and current service area. Calling the restaurant directly is the fastest way to confirm delivery options.
Are there vegetarian pizza options?
Yes. The kitchen can build a vegetarian pizza with fresh vegetables, cheese, and sauce. A margherita pizza is also vegetarian. Ask your server about seasonal vegetables available on the day you visit, as the menu changes with ingredient availability.
How far is Little River House of Pizza from downtown Myrtle Beach?
The restaurant is roughly 15 minutes north of central Myrtle Beach via Highway 17, depending on traffic. It's in the Little River community, which is quieter and less developed than the main tourist corridor but still easily accessible for a day trip or dinner outing.
What's the price range for a meal?
A wood-fired pizza typically costs $12 to $18 depending on toppings. Pasta dishes and sandwiches range from $10 to $16. Appetizers are $6 to $12. A meal for two with pizza, a drink, and an appetizer usually runs $30 to $50 before tax and tip.