Il Focolare Pizzeria

Forthcoming Columbia Pizza Parlor Il Focolare Aims for ‘90s Nostalgia | Eater Carolinas

"Opening at 2150 Sumter Street by the end of September, this new spot aims to bring the pizza of the chefs' childhood to Columbia with a motto of “Every Day’s a Pizza Party.” The team is leaning into '80s/'90s pizza-parlor nostalgia in decor, branding, and service while keeping the menu modern; they describe it as an “anti-fancy pizza place” serving pies, salads, small plates, and simple desserts and sourcing locally when possible. They've tracked down a supplier for Prince Street–style pepperoni cups and developed their own version of a clam pizza inspired by Pasquale Jones, and they're using the opening to promote team members and hire graduates from the group's hospitality workforce-development pilot; the full menu is online and the staff is already in training with hopes to open by September 24." - Erin Perkins