Rick's Pizza Pub in Columbia — Casual Dining with Local Roots
What Rick's Pizza Pub Offers
Rick's Pizza Pub is a neighborhood pizzeria in Columbia that serves hand-tossed pizza alongside wings, sandwiches, and appetizers in a casual, unpretentious setting. The restaurant operates as a sit-down and carryout spot with a bar, making it a place where you can order a pie for dinner or grab a slice with a drink after work. The space has the feel of a local hangout rather than a chain — wood-paneled walls, sports on the television, and a mix of regulars and families.
The pizza menu includes traditional red-sauce pies and specialty options, with the ability to customize toppings. Beyond pizza, the kitchen turns out fried wings, Italian sandwiches, and appetizers like breadsticks and salads. Prices sit in the moderate range for a full-service restaurant with alcohol service, making it accessible for a casual meal without the formality of fine dining.
Key Takeaways
- Rick's Pizza Pub serves hand-tossed pizza, wings, and sandwiches in a casual bar-and-restaurant setting in Columbia.
- The restaurant accepts both dine-in and carryout orders, with a full bar available for beer and cocktails.
- Customizable pizza toppings and a variety of appetizers make it suitable for solo diners, small groups, and families.
- The space has a neighborhood feel with sports viewing and a mix of seating options rather than a polished or upscale atmosphere.
Location and Hours
Rick's Pizza Pub is located in Columbia, South Carolina. Before visiting, confirm the current address and hours by calling ahead or checking their social media pages, as restaurant locations and schedules can change seasonally or due to staffing.
The restaurant typically operates for lunch and dinner service, with extended hours on weekends. If you plan to visit during a specific time — such as a lunch break or late evening — a quick call ensures they are open and can give you an accurate wait time if the space is busy.
Dine-In and Carryout Options
Rick's Pizza Pub accommodates both dine-in and carryout customers. If you want to eat at the restaurant, you can order at the counter or from your table and enjoy your meal in the dining area or at the bar. The casual atmosphere means there is no reservation system or dress code — walk-ins are welcome.
For carryout, you can call ahead to place an order and pick it up at a set time, which reduces wait time if you are in a hurry. Pizza travels well and holds temperature reasonably in a box, making it a practical choice for taking home or to a gathering. The restaurant also sells individual slices if you want to try something without committing to a whole pie.
Menu Highlights and Customization
The pizza menu features both house specialties and a build-your-own option. House pies typically include combinations like meat lovers, vegetarian, and regional or seasonal variations. Each pizza comes in standard sizes, and you can request extra cheese, light sauce, or any topping substitutions when you order.
Wings are available in various sauces and heat levels, from mild to hot, and pair well with pizza for a shared meal. Italian sandwiches round out the savory offerings, and appetizers like breadsticks and salads provide lighter options or shareable starters. Beverages include beer on tap and in bottles, soft drinks, and typically coffee or iced tea.
Atmosphere and Who Goes There
Rick's Pizza Pub draws a mix of regulars, families, and people stopping in for a casual meal or drink. The decor is straightforward — no tablecloths or ambient lighting — and the noise level is moderate to lively, especially during sports events or weekend evenings. Television screens show games, and the bar is a natural gathering spot for people watching the action.
The restaurant works well for a weeknight dinner with kids, a lunch with coworkers, or a casual date. It is not the place to go for a quiet, romantic evening or a business dinner requiring privacy, but it is exactly right if you want good pizza in a relaxed, no-fuss environment where you can be yourself.
Parking and Accessibility
Rick's Pizza Pub has parking available on-site or nearby, typical for a neighborhood restaurant in Columbia. Street parking or a small lot usually accommodates the customer volume, though peak dinner hours may require a brief search for a spot.
If you have mobility concerns or other accessibility needs, call ahead to ask about entrance, restroom, and seating arrangements. The restaurant staff can let you know what to expect and may be able to reserve a convenient table if you give them notice.
Price Range and Payment
A large pizza typically costs between $12 and $18, depending on toppings and size. Wings, sandwiches, and appetizers range from $6 to $12 per item. A meal for one person — pizza slice or two, a drink, and an appetizer — usually runs $12 to $18 before tax and tip.
Rick's Pizza Pub accepts cash and major credit cards. If you are ordering carryout, confirm payment methods when you call, as some locations may have preferences or temporary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order Rick's Pizza Pub online or through a delivery app?
Many local pizzerias partner with delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub, though not all do. Call the restaurant directly to ask whether they use a delivery service or if they only handle phone orders for carryout. Ordering directly often avoids the markup that third-party apps add to prices.
Do they offer gluten-free or vegan pizza?
Some pizzerias offer gluten-free crusts or vegan cheese, but availability varies by location and supplier. Call ahead to ask what options they have. If they do not carry these items, they can usually suggest nearby restaurants that do.
Is Rick's Pizza Pub good for a large group or party?
Yes, if you order in advance. Call to let them know how many people are coming and what you want to order. They can prepare multiple pizzas and appetizers ahead of time, and you can eat in the dining area or take everything to go. Large orders may take longer during busy hours, so plan accordingly.
What time is best to avoid a wait?
Lunch hours (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and early dinner (5 p.m. to 6 p.m.) tend to be quieter than peak dinner time (6 p.m. to 8 p.m.) or late evening. Weekday visits are usually less crowded than weekends. Call ahead if you want to know the current wait time.
Can I bring my own beer or wine?
Most restaurants with a liquor license do not allow outside alcohol due to state law and licensing restrictions. Rick's Pizza Pub has a bar, so outside beverages are not permitted. Order from their selection instead.