Enjoyed this wonderful treasure with myself and 15 of my friends. Service was ON POINT! Food: We had the Chicken Mediterranean pizza, AMAZING! Plus 20 wings in Hot, the bomb! We live in North Augusta and we come to Columbia 5-6 times a year. This is are new go-to restaurant!
(5)
Taylor S.
I really liked this place! The pizza was New York style and was really good. The only thing that wasn't perfect was the crust, it was a little hard and I usually eat the crust but not in this case, but the rest of the pizza made up for it. I got a cheese piece and a green pepper piece, my boyfriend got a meatball slice, and a pepperoni and jalapeño slice. Both of us enjoyed them! We also got free cheesy garlic bread because I signed up for their rewards plan which was free to sign up for! They also offer pitchers of beer which are fair in price. Also, this place is in a perfect location to go down town once your done eating and drinking!
(4)
Anna D.
i could have just been really drunk but the pizza was VERY good. I came here for their annual put put challenge and had a blast. The village idiot showed all of us in our party a good time. The service was prompt, the beer was good, and the prizes... ummm, i can't remember anymore but I did have a hole in one! From what we all remember, the pizza was perfect for our starving bellies so my overall rating is YES, i will definitely come back again!
(4)
John P.
In the evening this place is hoping with college kids. It doesn't appear they are there for the food though, as many just stand around and talk. With that being said, it's not a place to go for dinner with the family. We went on a Thursday and experienced a loud crowded bar atmosphere. This was my first time here, and If you are looking for a store front you will not find it. All you will see is a little green door on the side of a building for an entrance. We were met with 3 men blocking the door upon our arrival. They were carding people going in. Once through the door, you need to climb the stairs to the restaurant. I did not see a handicap accessible elevator. There also appeared to be 2 more staff security/bouncers inside. For a Thursday, I think they had more bouncers than waiters/kitchen staff. We were seated and promptly waited on. They have specials on each day of the week, so we ordered the $10 pizza special. It came out in about 10 minutes and was very hot. Not to mention it was very good, possibly due to the extra cheese. There are plenty of TVs inside to watch your favorite sports team, don't expect to hear the play by play though. I would consider going back. However, for a family dinner I recommend their other location on Forest Drive. it would provide a quieter dining experience.
(5)
Laurin M.
The Village Idiot is located in the heart of Five Points, and it's a big, upstairs joint tucked away on Devine Street that you might miss if you're not looking for it. Upon entry, you climb up fairly dark, winding stairs that open into a dimly lit, decent-sized restaurant. The place is full of character. Almost everything inside is built from finished (but worn) pine wood and has a summer camp feel to it. Village Idiot is primarily a college joint, and late nights can be chaotic when it transforms into a typical fratty bar scene. Village Idiot is best appreciated when it's a little slower -- Sunday night (if there's not a huge football game) or early in the evening on other nights. The place has cheap drink specials every night (listed on the website), and there are TVs all over the joint, which make it a popular venue to watch sporting events. Finally...the pizza. I think the pizza at Village Idiot is better than Pete's review suggests. It's probably not the best pizza you've ever tasted, but it's made to order, it's reasonably priced, and it's among the better pizza in Columbia. The ingredients are always fresh, but the cooks tend to be a bit skimpy on toppings, which is probably my only complaint (aside from how tiny the bathroom stalls are and the fact that they don't have locks). My favorite combination for Idiot pizza is pepperoni, extra cheese, and banana peppers. I recommend the Village Idiot enthusiastically. It's the only place in Columbia where you can find the college-town, rustic, sit-down beer and pizza joint.
(4)
John C.
All the others are right the reason they get four stars is because they are cheap and pretty good. Great place to eat with your friend if your in college why haven't gone yet. A nothing reason they get a good reveiw is simply their not pops from down the street.
(4)
Pete J.
I know I'm only giving three stars here, but that's mainly due to the fact that the pizza is pretty bad. That small fact aside, the Village Idiot was one of the primary establishments of my social circle in college. The perfect place to meet & kick off the night with pitchers of cheap beer. So perfect, in fact, that sometimes we'd stay there all night & close the place down. I also had four friends who were in a band together & would play there often, so memories of nights at the Idiot are somewhat hazy but always ALWAYS good. Nostalgia aside, this is just your standard college town cheap beer/cheap pizza establishment. Take what you want from that.
(3)
Eric W.
I've lived in Columbia my whole life and The Village Idiot has been around a while. I will say that they are supposed to be known for their pizza, and I did not order pizza. I ordered the philly cheesesteak and it was just not good. The meat was very dry, barely had any cheese, and was overpriced. The restaurant itself is kind of dirty and dark. Probably a fun place to come if you're a college student, but otherwise it's not impressive. I'll admit I probably should have ordered pizza, but I can only review what I experienced, and it was very underwelming.
(2)
Kimela Anne B.
Love their pizza. Everything else is just bland salad only has lettuce.. it's deffiantly a dice and a college student hang out but the pizza is worth it. And at great price.
(5)
Darth J.
Great slices, good prices, a lot of beer options. Sports fans of all ages on game-night (any game, really). I like it - I'm picky about sports/pizza places. I'm from DC - I go to Columbia for the NAC (either you know - or don't know - what the NAC is - DOJ types should know) so it's become my regular spot when I'm down for a class. Two thumbs up. You could walk from the NAC (with a buddy, of course). 4-stars is just right.
(4)
Kel B.
It's a college bar... that's really all there is to say about Village Idiot. It has Gamecock decor and sports on the tv. The pizza is just ok, nothing to write home about, and the place itself is just dull. Boring typical sports bar with college kids and plain Jane food. Yawwwwn.
(3)
Who R.
If you like cheese on your pizza, get the hell outta this place. If you like sauce and bread, you'll love it. Thank God I had cheddar slices in my fridge. #wtf!? #worsepizzaever
(1)
Brian B.
Great pizza, good price on beer too! Our friends took us there for the first time and we will def be back!
(4)
Murray M.
I don't know why the reviews on this place are so bad. Don't expect it to be something it's not. Village Idiot is upstairs, it's wood everywhere, and it kind of feels like you're at summer camp. The beer specials are good, and trivia is really fun. The pizza is cheap, and personally, I like it. You can order by the slice if you prefer. The one thing I don't like is the bathroom - the stall doors don't completely close, and the doors are really short. If other people are also in the bathroom, you'll be staring right at them over the stall door - creepy. Other than that, I give Village Idiot four stars.
(4)
Ted C.
So my friend has lived in Columbia for about two and a half years and still doesn't know much about this city. He really is no help when it comes to finding a good place to eat EXCEPT when it comes to The Village Idiot which he heartily recommended as a place for good pizza. You have to figure that if he knows nothing else but this place the pizza's got to be pretty good. Unfortunately, he didn't know much else about it but a quick smart phone search later and I was on the phone with the 5 points location and went with a large. Since, he only had the slice there he didn't know what was really good so on the suggestion of the order take went with the village special: pepperoni, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, olives and onions. I wouldn't say it was exactly New York style but it was solid pizza. Definitely better than your average chain store. We got it for pick up so it's not like I got to experience the rest of the place but the pizza was solid, the phone service was pretty helpful and I would come back again, probably for a slice.
(3)
Kayla G.
I've been here several times, never been too impressed. Pizza is alright, extremely greasy but with a chewy thin crust. On my last visit, there were little flies in the parmesan shaker. Pretty off-putting. Ordered beers in the same visit and a draft of the same beer I'd had the night before at a different bar tasted totally different--in a bad way. Very watered down. Wonder if there's something wrong with their tap or it was just a bad keg. Pretty fratty as far as the crowd goes, although what do you expect from a place that serves $3 Rolling Rock pitchers? Fine for broke college kids, but i'll be passing from now on.
(2)
Byron K.
Fuck this place. "We shouldn't have even taken this order" that's fine, give us our money back and fuck off. Food was not kept warm, except for the salad. 2 of us yacked up the Stromboli. Your food sucks and is over priced for what you get. Service is awful. At least your door guy was cool. Will never come back.
(1)
Crystal C.
It's a neat place to eat, I loved the music playing the background. The tables show the years of being marked by the patrons of the past, but it adds to the nostalgia of the place. During an off day, this place is a great little family place for a good pizza. The ingredients on the pizza were fresh and tasty, the crust was yummy too, but there was something... kind of lacking in the flavor. Maybe not enough spice, maybe too much, not the right ones. I'm not sure. It was good, but not great. But will definitely return to check out some of their other offerings.
(3)
Gavin W.
Went for brunch. Got there as the door opened at 11:30. Food was not very good. Beer was only coolish, not cold. Took forever to get our food, over an hour. I used to love this place as the pizza is great but after being mistreated and receiving zero apologies on how long it was taking, I will never return and will ensure that all of my friends will know why I do not go to the idiot.
(1)
Maddy K.
We paid for pizza and the pizza man decided go close before they gave us the pizza we paid for. They yelled "we will call the cops if you don't get the fuck out." We obviously weren't leaving without the pizza we already signed for and they cussed at us to get out. Worst customer service and I have never seen someone so rude.
(1)
John G.
When living in a college town you always need to have that go to pizza place. No college town is really complete without it. A place where you can go, order pizza and beer, while watching ESPN or conversing with friends. Village Idiot does a great job at achieving this task. However, environment isn't everything. We are on Yelp and the most important part is the food. The pizza is exactly what you expect. I have never had a complaint about it and have always enjoyed it. I usually go with a double pepperoni pizza and leave satisfied. Does it blow your mind, no, but it's hard to find pizza that does that that's not deep dish. (Yeah, I'm from Chicago.) So getting 4 stars is certainly an achievement. As for the beverages, they have beer. That's all that matters. Don't be a beer snob at a pizza joint. Anywhere else, fine, but not at a pizza joint. Prices are fair and if you're able to get there on a Monday for BOGO night it's a steal. Enjoy.
(4)
Ted N.
A college bar that serves pizza. Cosmetically this place is a dump and probably a fire hazard. But the pizza is traditional NY style thin crust and you can order by the slice. In college we drank and ate there every Sunday without fail. The kickin' chicken is my favorite specialty pizza there. If you want the same style Pizza and dont care for the music or drinking then go to Pizza Man on Rosewood. There is now a satellite Village Idiot location on Forest Dr. It is not as good at the 5 points but pretty close. Lets be frank here "The Idiot" is a good place to go when you are drinking in 5 points and need to soak up the alcohol. Beer pitchers are dirt cheap as well.
(4)
Karen M.
I and my family have eaten at The Village Idoit many times and the pizza is great! It's my favorite NY style pizza place in the Sumter/Columbia areas. But they are mainly a small college bar hangout so it is best to go early evening on a week day though I have been there on a Friday evening and been able to get a table. I'd call ahead to see how busy they were. I can't give them five stars simply because they are not handicap accessible. You have to walk up a steep, winding stairwell to get to them. Also, the ladies room is so tiny I feel that I can bearly move in it and I only weigh 117 lbs. But, none the less, I will put up with both to get a taste of "HOME" as I am from New Jersey and miss a true NY style pizza! P.S. They also deliver to some areas of Columbia.
(4)
Katie R.
BIG fan of Village as all us students call it. The food is good for a bar, and there aren't many bars that serve food, so any food at all is a plus. I've ordered catering from the other Village on Forest Dr. and it was really good. It's an awesome place Fridays and Saturdays and anytime there's a big game on. It's the go-to place for Gamecocks who stayed in town during Gamedays that are away!
(5)
Roy W.
Always reliable food and lot' of tv's. Just a big warning. Bought a discount on Restaurants.com App on my iphone ($4 for $10 worth of food). Manager would not accept the coupon unless it was printed. The app said just to show the mobile coupon to the waitress. Waitress showed it to manager, who refused it.
(3)
Megan K.
been here a couple times for drinks. always with a buch of people. the food is great and prob one of the best pizzas i ever had! and im from philly. the service is friendly and attentive. comfortable place to grab a drink, watch a game or meet some locals.
(5)
Katie R.
BIG fan of Village as all us students call it. The food is good for a bar, and there aren't many bars that serve food, so any food at all is a plus. I've ordered catering from the other Village on Forest Dr. and it was really good. It's an awesome place Fridays and Saturdays and anytime there's a big game on. It's the go-to place for Gamecocks who stayed in town during Gamedays that are away!
(5)
Roy W.
Always reliable food and lot' of tv's. Just a big warning. Bought a discount on Restaurants.com App on my iphone ($4 for $10 worth of food). Manager would not accept the coupon unless it was printed. The app said just to show the mobile coupon to the waitress. Waitress showed it to manager, who refused it.
(3)
Darth J.
Great slices, good prices, a lot of beer options. Sports fans of all ages on game-night (any game, really). I like it - I'm picky about sports/pizza places. I'm from DC - I go to Columbia for the NAC (either you know - or don't know - what the NAC is - DOJ types should know) so it's become my regular spot when I'm down for a class. Two thumbs up. You could walk from the NAC (with a buddy, of course). 4-stars is just right.
(4)
Kel B.
It's a college bar... that's really all there is to say about Village Idiot. It has Gamecock decor and sports on the tv. The pizza is just ok, nothing to write home about, and the place itself is just dull. Boring typical sports bar with college kids and plain Jane food. Yawwwwn.
(3)
Laurin M.
The Village Idiot is located in the heart of Five Points, and it's a big, upstairs joint tucked away on Devine Street that you might miss if you're not looking for it. Upon entry, you climb up fairly dark, winding stairs that open into a dimly lit, decent-sized restaurant. The place is full of character. Almost everything inside is built from finished (but worn) pine wood and has a summer camp feel to it. Village Idiot is primarily a college joint, and late nights can be chaotic when it transforms into a typical fratty bar scene. Village Idiot is best appreciated when it's a little slower -- Sunday night (if there's not a huge football game) or early in the evening on other nights. The place has cheap drink specials every night (listed on the website), and there are TVs all over the joint, which make it a popular venue to watch sporting events. Finally...the pizza. I think the pizza at Village Idiot is better than Pete's review suggests. It's probably not the best pizza you've ever tasted, but it's made to order, it's reasonably priced, and it's among the better pizza in Columbia. The ingredients are always fresh, but the cooks tend to be a bit skimpy on toppings, which is probably my only complaint (aside from how tiny the bathroom stalls are and the fact that they don't have locks). My favorite combination for Idiot pizza is pepperoni, extra cheese, and banana peppers. I recommend the Village Idiot enthusiastically. It's the only place in Columbia where you can find the college-town, rustic, sit-down beer and pizza joint.
(4)
John C.
All the others are right the reason they get four stars is because they are cheap and pretty good. Great place to eat with your friend if your in college why haven't gone yet. A nothing reason they get a good reveiw is simply their not pops from down the street.
(4)
Taylor S.
I really liked this place! The pizza was New York style and was really good. The only thing that wasn't perfect was the crust, it was a little hard and I usually eat the crust but not in this case, but the rest of the pizza made up for it. I got a cheese piece and a green pepper piece, my boyfriend got a meatball slice, and a pepperoni and jalapeño slice. Both of us enjoyed them! We also got free cheesy garlic bread because I signed up for their rewards plan which was free to sign up for! They also offer pitchers of beer which are fair in price. Also, this place is in a perfect location to go down town once your done eating and drinking!
(4)
Anna D.
i could have just been really drunk but the pizza was VERY good. I came here for their annual put put challenge and had a blast. The village idiot showed all of us in our party a good time. The service was prompt, the beer was good, and the prizes... ummm, i can't remember anymore but I did have a hole in one! From what we all remember, the pizza was perfect for our starving bellies so my overall rating is YES, i will definitely come back again!
(4)
Warren R.
Enjoyed this wonderful treasure with myself and 15 of my friends. Service was ON POINT! Food: We had the Chicken Mediterranean pizza, AMAZING! Plus 20 wings in Hot, the bomb! We live in North Augusta and we come to Columbia 5-6 times a year. This is are new go-to restaurant!
(5)
John P.
In the evening this place is hoping with college kids. It doesn't appear they are there for the food though, as many just stand around and talk. With that being said, it's not a place to go for dinner with the family. We went on a Thursday and experienced a loud crowded bar atmosphere. This was my first time here, and If you are looking for a store front you will not find it. All you will see is a little green door on the side of a building for an entrance. We were met with 3 men blocking the door upon our arrival. They were carding people going in. Once through the door, you need to climb the stairs to the restaurant. I did not see a handicap accessible elevator. There also appeared to be 2 more staff security/bouncers inside. For a Thursday, I think they had more bouncers than waiters/kitchen staff. We were seated and promptly waited on. They have specials on each day of the week, so we ordered the $10 pizza special. It came out in about 10 minutes and was very hot. Not to mention it was very good, possibly due to the extra cheese. There are plenty of TVs inside to watch your favorite sports team, don't expect to hear the play by play though. I would consider going back. However, for a family dinner I recommend their other location on Forest Drive. it would provide a quieter dining experience.
(5)
Eric W.
I've lived in Columbia my whole life and The Village Idiot has been around a while. I will say that they are supposed to be known for their pizza, and I did not order pizza. I ordered the philly cheesesteak and it was just not good. The meat was very dry, barely had any cheese, and was overpriced. The restaurant itself is kind of dirty and dark. Probably a fun place to come if you're a college student, but otherwise it's not impressive. I'll admit I probably should have ordered pizza, but I can only review what I experienced, and it was very underwelming.
(2)
Kimela Anne B.
Love their pizza. Everything else is just bland salad only has lettuce.. it's deffiantly a dice and a college student hang out but the pizza is worth it. And at great price.
(5)
Who R.
If you like cheese on your pizza, get the hell outta this place. If you like sauce and bread, you'll love it. Thank God I had cheddar slices in my fridge. #wtf!? #worsepizzaever
(1)
Brian B.
Great pizza, good price on beer too! Our friends took us there for the first time and we will def be back!
(4)
Murray M.
I don't know why the reviews on this place are so bad. Don't expect it to be something it's not. Village Idiot is upstairs, it's wood everywhere, and it kind of feels like you're at summer camp. The beer specials are good, and trivia is really fun. The pizza is cheap, and personally, I like it. You can order by the slice if you prefer. The one thing I don't like is the bathroom - the stall doors don't completely close, and the doors are really short. If other people are also in the bathroom, you'll be staring right at them over the stall door - creepy. Other than that, I give Village Idiot four stars.
(4)
Ted C.
So my friend has lived in Columbia for about two and a half years and still doesn't know much about this city. He really is no help when it comes to finding a good place to eat EXCEPT when it comes to The Village Idiot which he heartily recommended as a place for good pizza. You have to figure that if he knows nothing else but this place the pizza's got to be pretty good. Unfortunately, he didn't know much else about it but a quick smart phone search later and I was on the phone with the 5 points location and went with a large. Since, he only had the slice there he didn't know what was really good so on the suggestion of the order take went with the village special: pepperoni, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, olives and onions. I wouldn't say it was exactly New York style but it was solid pizza. Definitely better than your average chain store. We got it for pick up so it's not like I got to experience the rest of the place but the pizza was solid, the phone service was pretty helpful and I would come back again, probably for a slice.
(3)
Kayla G.
I've been here several times, never been too impressed. Pizza is alright, extremely greasy but with a chewy thin crust. On my last visit, there were little flies in the parmesan shaker. Pretty off-putting. Ordered beers in the same visit and a draft of the same beer I'd had the night before at a different bar tasted totally different--in a bad way. Very watered down. Wonder if there's something wrong with their tap or it was just a bad keg. Pretty fratty as far as the crowd goes, although what do you expect from a place that serves $3 Rolling Rock pitchers? Fine for broke college kids, but i'll be passing from now on.
(2)
Byron K.
Fuck this place. "We shouldn't have even taken this order" that's fine, give us our money back and fuck off. Food was not kept warm, except for the salad. 2 of us yacked up the Stromboli. Your food sucks and is over priced for what you get. Service is awful. At least your door guy was cool. Will never come back.
(1)
Crystal C.
It's a neat place to eat, I loved the music playing the background. The tables show the years of being marked by the patrons of the past, but it adds to the nostalgia of the place. During an off day, this place is a great little family place for a good pizza. The ingredients on the pizza were fresh and tasty, the crust was yummy too, but there was something... kind of lacking in the flavor. Maybe not enough spice, maybe too much, not the right ones. I'm not sure. It was good, but not great. But will definitely return to check out some of their other offerings.
(3)
Gavin W.
Went for brunch. Got there as the door opened at 11:30. Food was not very good. Beer was only coolish, not cold. Took forever to get our food, over an hour. I used to love this place as the pizza is great but after being mistreated and receiving zero apologies on how long it was taking, I will never return and will ensure that all of my friends will know why I do not go to the idiot.
(1)
Maddy K.
We paid for pizza and the pizza man decided go close before they gave us the pizza we paid for. They yelled "we will call the cops if you don't get the fuck out." We obviously weren't leaving without the pizza we already signed for and they cussed at us to get out. Worst customer service and I have never seen someone so rude.
(1)
John G.
When living in a college town you always need to have that go to pizza place. No college town is really complete without it. A place where you can go, order pizza and beer, while watching ESPN or conversing with friends. Village Idiot does a great job at achieving this task. However, environment isn't everything. We are on Yelp and the most important part is the food. The pizza is exactly what you expect. I have never had a complaint about it and have always enjoyed it. I usually go with a double pepperoni pizza and leave satisfied. Does it blow your mind, no, but it's hard to find pizza that does that that's not deep dish. (Yeah, I'm from Chicago.) So getting 4 stars is certainly an achievement. As for the beverages, they have beer. That's all that matters. Don't be a beer snob at a pizza joint. Anywhere else, fine, but not at a pizza joint. Prices are fair and if you're able to get there on a Monday for BOGO night it's a steal. Enjoy.
(4)
Ted N.
A college bar that serves pizza. Cosmetically this place is a dump and probably a fire hazard. But the pizza is traditional NY style thin crust and you can order by the slice. In college we drank and ate there every Sunday without fail. The kickin' chicken is my favorite specialty pizza there. If you want the same style Pizza and dont care for the music or drinking then go to Pizza Man on Rosewood. There is now a satellite Village Idiot location on Forest Dr. It is not as good at the 5 points but pretty close. Lets be frank here "The Idiot" is a good place to go when you are drinking in 5 points and need to soak up the alcohol. Beer pitchers are dirt cheap as well.
(4)
Karen M.
I and my family have eaten at The Village Idoit many times and the pizza is great! It's my favorite NY style pizza place in the Sumter/Columbia areas. But they are mainly a small college bar hangout so it is best to go early evening on a week day though I have been there on a Friday evening and been able to get a table. I'd call ahead to see how busy they were. I can't give them five stars simply because they are not handicap accessible. You have to walk up a steep, winding stairwell to get to them. Also, the ladies room is so tiny I feel that I can bearly move in it and I only weigh 117 lbs. But, none the less, I will put up with both to get a taste of "HOME" as I am from New Jersey and miss a true NY style pizza! P.S. They also deliver to some areas of Columbia.
(4)
Pete J.
I know I'm only giving three stars here, but that's mainly due to the fact that the pizza is pretty bad. That small fact aside, the Village Idiot was one of the primary establishments of my social circle in college. The perfect place to meet & kick off the night with pitchers of cheap beer. So perfect, in fact, that sometimes we'd stay there all night & close the place down. I also had four friends who were in a band together & would play there often, so memories of nights at the Idiot are somewhat hazy but always ALWAYS good. Nostalgia aside, this is just your standard college town cheap beer/cheap pizza establishment. Take what you want from that.
(3)
Megan K.
been here a couple times for drinks. always with a buch of people. the food is great and prob one of the best pizzas i ever had! and im from philly. the service is friendly and attentive. comfortable place to grab a drink, watch a game or meet some locals.
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Specialities
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner, Late Night Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Very Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : Yes
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Warren R.
Enjoyed this wonderful treasure with myself and 15 of my friends. Service was ON POINT! Food: We had the Chicken Mediterranean pizza, AMAZING! Plus 20 wings in Hot, the bomb! We live in North Augusta and we come to Columbia 5-6 times a year. This is are new go-to restaurant!
(5)Taylor S.
I really liked this place! The pizza was New York style and was really good. The only thing that wasn't perfect was the crust, it was a little hard and I usually eat the crust but not in this case, but the rest of the pizza made up for it. I got a cheese piece and a green pepper piece, my boyfriend got a meatball slice, and a pepperoni and jalapeño slice. Both of us enjoyed them! We also got free cheesy garlic bread because I signed up for their rewards plan which was free to sign up for! They also offer pitchers of beer which are fair in price. Also, this place is in a perfect location to go down town once your done eating and drinking!
(4)Anna D.
i could have just been really drunk but the pizza was VERY good. I came here for their annual put put challenge and had a blast. The village idiot showed all of us in our party a good time. The service was prompt, the beer was good, and the prizes... ummm, i can't remember anymore but I did have a hole in one! From what we all remember, the pizza was perfect for our starving bellies so my overall rating is YES, i will definitely come back again!
(4)John P.
In the evening this place is hoping with college kids. It doesn't appear they are there for the food though, as many just stand around and talk. With that being said, it's not a place to go for dinner with the family. We went on a Thursday and experienced a loud crowded bar atmosphere. This was my first time here, and If you are looking for a store front you will not find it. All you will see is a little green door on the side of a building for an entrance. We were met with 3 men blocking the door upon our arrival. They were carding people going in. Once through the door, you need to climb the stairs to the restaurant. I did not see a handicap accessible elevator. There also appeared to be 2 more staff security/bouncers inside. For a Thursday, I think they had more bouncers than waiters/kitchen staff. We were seated and promptly waited on. They have specials on each day of the week, so we ordered the $10 pizza special. It came out in about 10 minutes and was very hot. Not to mention it was very good, possibly due to the extra cheese. There are plenty of TVs inside to watch your favorite sports team, don't expect to hear the play by play though. I would consider going back. However, for a family dinner I recommend their other location on Forest Drive. it would provide a quieter dining experience.
(5)Laurin M.
The Village Idiot is located in the heart of Five Points, and it's a big, upstairs joint tucked away on Devine Street that you might miss if you're not looking for it. Upon entry, you climb up fairly dark, winding stairs that open into a dimly lit, decent-sized restaurant. The place is full of character. Almost everything inside is built from finished (but worn) pine wood and has a summer camp feel to it. Village Idiot is primarily a college joint, and late nights can be chaotic when it transforms into a typical fratty bar scene. Village Idiot is best appreciated when it's a little slower -- Sunday night (if there's not a huge football game) or early in the evening on other nights. The place has cheap drink specials every night (listed on the website), and there are TVs all over the joint, which make it a popular venue to watch sporting events. Finally...the pizza. I think the pizza at Village Idiot is better than Pete's review suggests. It's probably not the best pizza you've ever tasted, but it's made to order, it's reasonably priced, and it's among the better pizza in Columbia. The ingredients are always fresh, but the cooks tend to be a bit skimpy on toppings, which is probably my only complaint (aside from how tiny the bathroom stalls are and the fact that they don't have locks). My favorite combination for Idiot pizza is pepperoni, extra cheese, and banana peppers. I recommend the Village Idiot enthusiastically. It's the only place in Columbia where you can find the college-town, rustic, sit-down beer and pizza joint.
(4)John C.
All the others are right the reason they get four stars is because they are cheap and pretty good. Great place to eat with your friend if your in college why haven't gone yet. A nothing reason they get a good reveiw is simply their not pops from down the street.
(4)Pete J.
I know I'm only giving three stars here, but that's mainly due to the fact that the pizza is pretty bad. That small fact aside, the Village Idiot was one of the primary establishments of my social circle in college. The perfect place to meet & kick off the night with pitchers of cheap beer. So perfect, in fact, that sometimes we'd stay there all night & close the place down. I also had four friends who were in a band together & would play there often, so memories of nights at the Idiot are somewhat hazy but always ALWAYS good. Nostalgia aside, this is just your standard college town cheap beer/cheap pizza establishment. Take what you want from that.
(3)Eric W.
I've lived in Columbia my whole life and The Village Idiot has been around a while. I will say that they are supposed to be known for their pizza, and I did not order pizza. I ordered the philly cheesesteak and it was just not good. The meat was very dry, barely had any cheese, and was overpriced. The restaurant itself is kind of dirty and dark. Probably a fun place to come if you're a college student, but otherwise it's not impressive. I'll admit I probably should have ordered pizza, but I can only review what I experienced, and it was very underwelming.
(2)Kimela Anne B.
Love their pizza. Everything else is just bland salad only has lettuce.. it's deffiantly a dice and a college student hang out but the pizza is worth it. And at great price.
(5)Darth J.
Great slices, good prices, a lot of beer options. Sports fans of all ages on game-night (any game, really). I like it - I'm picky about sports/pizza places. I'm from DC - I go to Columbia for the NAC (either you know - or don't know - what the NAC is - DOJ types should know) so it's become my regular spot when I'm down for a class. Two thumbs up. You could walk from the NAC (with a buddy, of course). 4-stars is just right.
(4)Kel B.
It's a college bar... that's really all there is to say about Village Idiot. It has Gamecock decor and sports on the tv. The pizza is just ok, nothing to write home about, and the place itself is just dull. Boring typical sports bar with college kids and plain Jane food. Yawwwwn.
(3)Who R.
If you like cheese on your pizza, get the hell outta this place. If you like sauce and bread, you'll love it. Thank God I had cheddar slices in my fridge. #wtf!? #worsepizzaever
(1)Brian B.
Great pizza, good price on beer too! Our friends took us there for the first time and we will def be back!
(4)Murray M.
I don't know why the reviews on this place are so bad. Don't expect it to be something it's not. Village Idiot is upstairs, it's wood everywhere, and it kind of feels like you're at summer camp. The beer specials are good, and trivia is really fun. The pizza is cheap, and personally, I like it. You can order by the slice if you prefer. The one thing I don't like is the bathroom - the stall doors don't completely close, and the doors are really short. If other people are also in the bathroom, you'll be staring right at them over the stall door - creepy. Other than that, I give Village Idiot four stars.
(4)Ted C.
So my friend has lived in Columbia for about two and a half years and still doesn't know much about this city. He really is no help when it comes to finding a good place to eat EXCEPT when it comes to The Village Idiot which he heartily recommended as a place for good pizza. You have to figure that if he knows nothing else but this place the pizza's got to be pretty good. Unfortunately, he didn't know much else about it but a quick smart phone search later and I was on the phone with the 5 points location and went with a large. Since, he only had the slice there he didn't know what was really good so on the suggestion of the order take went with the village special: pepperoni, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, olives and onions. I wouldn't say it was exactly New York style but it was solid pizza. Definitely better than your average chain store. We got it for pick up so it's not like I got to experience the rest of the place but the pizza was solid, the phone service was pretty helpful and I would come back again, probably for a slice.
(3)Kayla G.
I've been here several times, never been too impressed. Pizza is alright, extremely greasy but with a chewy thin crust. On my last visit, there were little flies in the parmesan shaker. Pretty off-putting. Ordered beers in the same visit and a draft of the same beer I'd had the night before at a different bar tasted totally different--in a bad way. Very watered down. Wonder if there's something wrong with their tap or it was just a bad keg. Pretty fratty as far as the crowd goes, although what do you expect from a place that serves $3 Rolling Rock pitchers? Fine for broke college kids, but i'll be passing from now on.
(2)Byron K.
Fuck this place. "We shouldn't have even taken this order" that's fine, give us our money back and fuck off. Food was not kept warm, except for the salad. 2 of us yacked up the Stromboli. Your food sucks and is over priced for what you get. Service is awful. At least your door guy was cool. Will never come back.
(1)Crystal C.
It's a neat place to eat, I loved the music playing the background. The tables show the years of being marked by the patrons of the past, but it adds to the nostalgia of the place. During an off day, this place is a great little family place for a good pizza. The ingredients on the pizza were fresh and tasty, the crust was yummy too, but there was something... kind of lacking in the flavor. Maybe not enough spice, maybe too much, not the right ones. I'm not sure. It was good, but not great. But will definitely return to check out some of their other offerings.
(3)Gavin W.
Went for brunch. Got there as the door opened at 11:30. Food was not very good. Beer was only coolish, not cold. Took forever to get our food, over an hour. I used to love this place as the pizza is great but after being mistreated and receiving zero apologies on how long it was taking, I will never return and will ensure that all of my friends will know why I do not go to the idiot.
(1)Maddy K.
We paid for pizza and the pizza man decided go close before they gave us the pizza we paid for. They yelled "we will call the cops if you don't get the fuck out." We obviously weren't leaving without the pizza we already signed for and they cussed at us to get out. Worst customer service and I have never seen someone so rude.
(1)John G.
When living in a college town you always need to have that go to pizza place. No college town is really complete without it. A place where you can go, order pizza and beer, while watching ESPN or conversing with friends. Village Idiot does a great job at achieving this task. However, environment isn't everything. We are on Yelp and the most important part is the food. The pizza is exactly what you expect. I have never had a complaint about it and have always enjoyed it. I usually go with a double pepperoni pizza and leave satisfied. Does it blow your mind, no, but it's hard to find pizza that does that that's not deep dish. (Yeah, I'm from Chicago.) So getting 4 stars is certainly an achievement. As for the beverages, they have beer. That's all that matters. Don't be a beer snob at a pizza joint. Anywhere else, fine, but not at a pizza joint. Prices are fair and if you're able to get there on a Monday for BOGO night it's a steal. Enjoy.
(4)Ted N.
A college bar that serves pizza. Cosmetically this place is a dump and probably a fire hazard. But the pizza is traditional NY style thin crust and you can order by the slice. In college we drank and ate there every Sunday without fail. The kickin' chicken is my favorite specialty pizza there. If you want the same style Pizza and dont care for the music or drinking then go to Pizza Man on Rosewood. There is now a satellite Village Idiot location on Forest Dr. It is not as good at the 5 points but pretty close. Lets be frank here "The Idiot" is a good place to go when you are drinking in 5 points and need to soak up the alcohol. Beer pitchers are dirt cheap as well.
(4)Karen M.
I and my family have eaten at The Village Idoit many times and the pizza is great! It's my favorite NY style pizza place in the Sumter/Columbia areas. But they are mainly a small college bar hangout so it is best to go early evening on a week day though I have been there on a Friday evening and been able to get a table. I'd call ahead to see how busy they were. I can't give them five stars simply because they are not handicap accessible. You have to walk up a steep, winding stairwell to get to them. Also, the ladies room is so tiny I feel that I can bearly move in it and I only weigh 117 lbs. But, none the less, I will put up with both to get a taste of "HOME" as I am from New Jersey and miss a true NY style pizza! P.S. They also deliver to some areas of Columbia.
(4)Katie R.
BIG fan of Village as all us students call it. The food is good for a bar, and there aren't many bars that serve food, so any food at all is a plus. I've ordered catering from the other Village on Forest Dr. and it was really good. It's an awesome place Fridays and Saturdays and anytime there's a big game on. It's the go-to place for Gamecocks who stayed in town during Gamedays that are away!
(5)Roy W.
Always reliable food and lot' of tv's. Just a big warning. Bought a discount on Restaurants.com App on my iphone ($4 for $10 worth of food). Manager would not accept the coupon unless it was printed. The app said just to show the mobile coupon to the waitress. Waitress showed it to manager, who refused it.
(3)Megan K.
been here a couple times for drinks. always with a buch of people. the food is great and prob one of the best pizzas i ever had! and im from philly. the service is friendly and attentive. comfortable place to grab a drink, watch a game or meet some locals.
(5)Katie R.
BIG fan of Village as all us students call it. The food is good for a bar, and there aren't many bars that serve food, so any food at all is a plus. I've ordered catering from the other Village on Forest Dr. and it was really good. It's an awesome place Fridays and Saturdays and anytime there's a big game on. It's the go-to place for Gamecocks who stayed in town during Gamedays that are away!
(5)Roy W.
Always reliable food and lot' of tv's. Just a big warning. Bought a discount on Restaurants.com App on my iphone ($4 for $10 worth of food). Manager would not accept the coupon unless it was printed. The app said just to show the mobile coupon to the waitress. Waitress showed it to manager, who refused it.
(3)Darth J.
Great slices, good prices, a lot of beer options. Sports fans of all ages on game-night (any game, really). I like it - I'm picky about sports/pizza places. I'm from DC - I go to Columbia for the NAC (either you know - or don't know - what the NAC is - DOJ types should know) so it's become my regular spot when I'm down for a class. Two thumbs up. You could walk from the NAC (with a buddy, of course). 4-stars is just right.
(4)Kel B.
It's a college bar... that's really all there is to say about Village Idiot. It has Gamecock decor and sports on the tv. The pizza is just ok, nothing to write home about, and the place itself is just dull. Boring typical sports bar with college kids and plain Jane food. Yawwwwn.
(3)Laurin M.
The Village Idiot is located in the heart of Five Points, and it's a big, upstairs joint tucked away on Devine Street that you might miss if you're not looking for it. Upon entry, you climb up fairly dark, winding stairs that open into a dimly lit, decent-sized restaurant. The place is full of character. Almost everything inside is built from finished (but worn) pine wood and has a summer camp feel to it. Village Idiot is primarily a college joint, and late nights can be chaotic when it transforms into a typical fratty bar scene. Village Idiot is best appreciated when it's a little slower -- Sunday night (if there's not a huge football game) or early in the evening on other nights. The place has cheap drink specials every night (listed on the website), and there are TVs all over the joint, which make it a popular venue to watch sporting events. Finally...the pizza. I think the pizza at Village Idiot is better than Pete's review suggests. It's probably not the best pizza you've ever tasted, but it's made to order, it's reasonably priced, and it's among the better pizza in Columbia. The ingredients are always fresh, but the cooks tend to be a bit skimpy on toppings, which is probably my only complaint (aside from how tiny the bathroom stalls are and the fact that they don't have locks). My favorite combination for Idiot pizza is pepperoni, extra cheese, and banana peppers. I recommend the Village Idiot enthusiastically. It's the only place in Columbia where you can find the college-town, rustic, sit-down beer and pizza joint.
(4)John C.
All the others are right the reason they get four stars is because they are cheap and pretty good. Great place to eat with your friend if your in college why haven't gone yet. A nothing reason they get a good reveiw is simply their not pops from down the street.
(4)Taylor S.
I really liked this place! The pizza was New York style and was really good. The only thing that wasn't perfect was the crust, it was a little hard and I usually eat the crust but not in this case, but the rest of the pizza made up for it. I got a cheese piece and a green pepper piece, my boyfriend got a meatball slice, and a pepperoni and jalapeño slice. Both of us enjoyed them! We also got free cheesy garlic bread because I signed up for their rewards plan which was free to sign up for! They also offer pitchers of beer which are fair in price. Also, this place is in a perfect location to go down town once your done eating and drinking!
(4)Anna D.
i could have just been really drunk but the pizza was VERY good. I came here for their annual put put challenge and had a blast. The village idiot showed all of us in our party a good time. The service was prompt, the beer was good, and the prizes... ummm, i can't remember anymore but I did have a hole in one! From what we all remember, the pizza was perfect for our starving bellies so my overall rating is YES, i will definitely come back again!
(4)Warren R.
Enjoyed this wonderful treasure with myself and 15 of my friends. Service was ON POINT! Food: We had the Chicken Mediterranean pizza, AMAZING! Plus 20 wings in Hot, the bomb! We live in North Augusta and we come to Columbia 5-6 times a year. This is are new go-to restaurant!
(5)John P.
In the evening this place is hoping with college kids. It doesn't appear they are there for the food though, as many just stand around and talk. With that being said, it's not a place to go for dinner with the family. We went on a Thursday and experienced a loud crowded bar atmosphere. This was my first time here, and If you are looking for a store front you will not find it. All you will see is a little green door on the side of a building for an entrance. We were met with 3 men blocking the door upon our arrival. They were carding people going in. Once through the door, you need to climb the stairs to the restaurant. I did not see a handicap accessible elevator. There also appeared to be 2 more staff security/bouncers inside. For a Thursday, I think they had more bouncers than waiters/kitchen staff. We were seated and promptly waited on. They have specials on each day of the week, so we ordered the $10 pizza special. It came out in about 10 minutes and was very hot. Not to mention it was very good, possibly due to the extra cheese. There are plenty of TVs inside to watch your favorite sports team, don't expect to hear the play by play though. I would consider going back. However, for a family dinner I recommend their other location on Forest Drive. it would provide a quieter dining experience.
(5)Eric W.
I've lived in Columbia my whole life and The Village Idiot has been around a while. I will say that they are supposed to be known for their pizza, and I did not order pizza. I ordered the philly cheesesteak and it was just not good. The meat was very dry, barely had any cheese, and was overpriced. The restaurant itself is kind of dirty and dark. Probably a fun place to come if you're a college student, but otherwise it's not impressive. I'll admit I probably should have ordered pizza, but I can only review what I experienced, and it was very underwelming.
(2)Kimela Anne B.
Love their pizza. Everything else is just bland salad only has lettuce.. it's deffiantly a dice and a college student hang out but the pizza is worth it. And at great price.
(5)Who R.
If you like cheese on your pizza, get the hell outta this place. If you like sauce and bread, you'll love it. Thank God I had cheddar slices in my fridge. #wtf!? #worsepizzaever
(1)Brian B.
Great pizza, good price on beer too! Our friends took us there for the first time and we will def be back!
(4)Murray M.
I don't know why the reviews on this place are so bad. Don't expect it to be something it's not. Village Idiot is upstairs, it's wood everywhere, and it kind of feels like you're at summer camp. The beer specials are good, and trivia is really fun. The pizza is cheap, and personally, I like it. You can order by the slice if you prefer. The one thing I don't like is the bathroom - the stall doors don't completely close, and the doors are really short. If other people are also in the bathroom, you'll be staring right at them over the stall door - creepy. Other than that, I give Village Idiot four stars.
(4)Ted C.
So my friend has lived in Columbia for about two and a half years and still doesn't know much about this city. He really is no help when it comes to finding a good place to eat EXCEPT when it comes to The Village Idiot which he heartily recommended as a place for good pizza. You have to figure that if he knows nothing else but this place the pizza's got to be pretty good. Unfortunately, he didn't know much else about it but a quick smart phone search later and I was on the phone with the 5 points location and went with a large. Since, he only had the slice there he didn't know what was really good so on the suggestion of the order take went with the village special: pepperoni, sausage, peppers, mushrooms, olives and onions. I wouldn't say it was exactly New York style but it was solid pizza. Definitely better than your average chain store. We got it for pick up so it's not like I got to experience the rest of the place but the pizza was solid, the phone service was pretty helpful and I would come back again, probably for a slice.
(3)Kayla G.
I've been here several times, never been too impressed. Pizza is alright, extremely greasy but with a chewy thin crust. On my last visit, there were little flies in the parmesan shaker. Pretty off-putting. Ordered beers in the same visit and a draft of the same beer I'd had the night before at a different bar tasted totally different--in a bad way. Very watered down. Wonder if there's something wrong with their tap or it was just a bad keg. Pretty fratty as far as the crowd goes, although what do you expect from a place that serves $3 Rolling Rock pitchers? Fine for broke college kids, but i'll be passing from now on.
(2)Byron K.
Fuck this place. "We shouldn't have even taken this order" that's fine, give us our money back and fuck off. Food was not kept warm, except for the salad. 2 of us yacked up the Stromboli. Your food sucks and is over priced for what you get. Service is awful. At least your door guy was cool. Will never come back.
(1)Crystal C.
It's a neat place to eat, I loved the music playing the background. The tables show the years of being marked by the patrons of the past, but it adds to the nostalgia of the place. During an off day, this place is a great little family place for a good pizza. The ingredients on the pizza were fresh and tasty, the crust was yummy too, but there was something... kind of lacking in the flavor. Maybe not enough spice, maybe too much, not the right ones. I'm not sure. It was good, but not great. But will definitely return to check out some of their other offerings.
(3)Gavin W.
Went for brunch. Got there as the door opened at 11:30. Food was not very good. Beer was only coolish, not cold. Took forever to get our food, over an hour. I used to love this place as the pizza is great but after being mistreated and receiving zero apologies on how long it was taking, I will never return and will ensure that all of my friends will know why I do not go to the idiot.
(1)Maddy K.
We paid for pizza and the pizza man decided go close before they gave us the pizza we paid for. They yelled "we will call the cops if you don't get the fuck out." We obviously weren't leaving without the pizza we already signed for and they cussed at us to get out. Worst customer service and I have never seen someone so rude.
(1)John G.
When living in a college town you always need to have that go to pizza place. No college town is really complete without it. A place where you can go, order pizza and beer, while watching ESPN or conversing with friends. Village Idiot does a great job at achieving this task. However, environment isn't everything. We are on Yelp and the most important part is the food. The pizza is exactly what you expect. I have never had a complaint about it and have always enjoyed it. I usually go with a double pepperoni pizza and leave satisfied. Does it blow your mind, no, but it's hard to find pizza that does that that's not deep dish. (Yeah, I'm from Chicago.) So getting 4 stars is certainly an achievement. As for the beverages, they have beer. That's all that matters. Don't be a beer snob at a pizza joint. Anywhere else, fine, but not at a pizza joint. Prices are fair and if you're able to get there on a Monday for BOGO night it's a steal. Enjoy.
(4)Ted N.
A college bar that serves pizza. Cosmetically this place is a dump and probably a fire hazard. But the pizza is traditional NY style thin crust and you can order by the slice. In college we drank and ate there every Sunday without fail. The kickin' chicken is my favorite specialty pizza there. If you want the same style Pizza and dont care for the music or drinking then go to Pizza Man on Rosewood. There is now a satellite Village Idiot location on Forest Dr. It is not as good at the 5 points but pretty close. Lets be frank here "The Idiot" is a good place to go when you are drinking in 5 points and need to soak up the alcohol. Beer pitchers are dirt cheap as well.
(4)Karen M.
I and my family have eaten at The Village Idoit many times and the pizza is great! It's my favorite NY style pizza place in the Sumter/Columbia areas. But they are mainly a small college bar hangout so it is best to go early evening on a week day though I have been there on a Friday evening and been able to get a table. I'd call ahead to see how busy they were. I can't give them five stars simply because they are not handicap accessible. You have to walk up a steep, winding stairwell to get to them. Also, the ladies room is so tiny I feel that I can bearly move in it and I only weigh 117 lbs. But, none the less, I will put up with both to get a taste of "HOME" as I am from New Jersey and miss a true NY style pizza! P.S. They also deliver to some areas of Columbia.
(4)Pete J.
I know I'm only giving three stars here, but that's mainly due to the fact that the pizza is pretty bad. That small fact aside, the Village Idiot was one of the primary establishments of my social circle in college. The perfect place to meet & kick off the night with pitchers of cheap beer. So perfect, in fact, that sometimes we'd stay there all night & close the place down. I also had four friends who were in a band together & would play there often, so memories of nights at the Idiot are somewhat hazy but always ALWAYS good. Nostalgia aside, this is just your standard college town cheap beer/cheap pizza establishment. Take what you want from that.
(3)Megan K.
been here a couple times for drinks. always with a buch of people. the food is great and prob one of the best pizzas i ever had! and im from philly. the service is friendly and attentive. comfortable place to grab a drink, watch a game or meet some locals.
(5)