When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The Pie Pizzeria - Underground
Why The Pie Pizzeria - Underground is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Pie Pizzeria - Underground is a distinctive family-owned pizzeria located in a cozy basement setting right off the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. Established as a neighborhood staple since 1980, this venue is beloved for its intimate atmosphere, featuring old brick walls and walls adorned with signatures and drawings, which give it a welcoming, lived-in charm. The restaurant is renowned for its hand-rolled, double-proofed dough and fresh, high-quality ingredients, emphasizing traditional pizza-making techniques without shortcuts—no frozen dough or pre-shredded cheese. The menu offers a rich variety of cheese-laden offerings including their signature pies and popular dough-based appetizers like the Cheese Pull A Parts (a stuffed cheese bread served with marinara and ranch) and the Cinnamon Pull A Parts dessert. Its underground location, while off the beaten path with only one hidden sign, contributes to its reputation as one of Salt Lake City's best-kept secrets. This spot is ideal for friends looking for a laid-back gathering place where they can enjoy classic, flavorful pizzas in a unique, cozy environment that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among students, locals, and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of The Pie Pizzeria - Underground
As of recent, The Pie Pizzeria - Underground holds a 4.6-star rating based on 4038 reviews.
Reviews from over 4,000 customers consistently praise The Pie Pizzeria - Underground for its exceptional quality and authentic pizza experience. Positive feedback highlights the fresh, hand-made dough and generous use of cheese that stands out as the pizza's trademark. Many reviewers appreciate the welcoming, cozy ambiance, the friendly service, and the nostalgic charm of its underground setting, making it a beloved spot for university students and longtime residents. The menu variety, including unique appetizers and desserts like the cinnamon dough pull-aparts, also receives strong praise. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention the wait time, which can be longer than expected due to the made-to-order process and the restaurant's old-school approach to quality preparation. Occasionally, patrons comment on limited seating due to the intimate basement space, which can make peak times busy. Overall, the reviews acknowledge that the wait and occasional crowding are minor trade-offs for the superior taste and atmosphere. In conclusion, The Pie Pizzeria - Underground maintains a solid reputation as a top-tier, locally loved pizza spot with a dedicated following appreciative of its consistency, quality, and family-owned values.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
David Fielding
This is one of the coolest pizza joints I've ever been to. Normally, I don't eat at any restaurant below street level, but this place rated well and they're ain't a whole lot of restaurants around here. The graffiti and tagging completely covering the walls invites you to add your own doodles. They have a great system for ordering and seating and the staff does a great job managing rush crowds from events at Rice-Eccles Stadium. The pizza was outstanding. Great thicker dough crust, generous cheese and toppings. Worth going out of the way for.
Megan Dietzenbach
What a great find! The pizza was fabulous and the staff was great. We mentioned that it was our first time and they totally helped us order and gave us a bunch of stickers. The walls were filled with great artifacts. Then we had a perfect pie!
Chris Smith
This ended up being a disappointment. It came well recommended & was in a cool location but the pizza wasn't good. I preferred the Thai but no one else liked it at all and the only person who liked the All Meat pizza was my SiL. To make matters worse, we drove half an hour to get to it and the parking was hellacious. I had to drop everyone off & then walk half a mile back to the restaurant. That is what it is but there was no pay-off with great pizza. The crust was kind of doughy and for my family, the crust is the most important part of the entire production. It has to be crispy, but chewy. It just tasted low-grade. The toppings were OK, but not great and the red sauce was really bad. It tasted very much like cheap sauce from a can. I guess the people of Salt Lake just don't understand what good pizza is based on the recommendations from locals and the Yelp reviews. I get it, I'm from Seattle originally and during my 40+ years living there, we had exactly 2 consistently good spots beyond one off, high end stuff from Tom Douglas that you had to go downtown for that was incredible but in no way standard pizza. I live in Las Vegas now and you can't throw a rock without hitting a great spot down here. We had like 4 of the top-100 pizza spots in the US a couple of years ago & apparently, the closer you get to NV, the better the pies get because there were spots in Cedar City & hurricane, UT that made the list as well. As for this spot, if it comes to smash or pass, it's pass for my family. There was so little meat on the chef salad, I had a hard time finding it so that was abfail as well
Spencer Terry
Sometimes a long wait while it’s busy-but always worth it! The photos speak for themself. The cheeseburger pizza with pickles is a gem of pizza flavors! We order often, and are never disappointed!
Ashton S
We really enjoyed the pizza here, we had the stromboli pizza. My sister did not like the flavor of the pizza but loved the buffalo Mac and cheese. I thought the Mac and cheese was incredible too, but it was rich. Not something to eat in one sitting but excellent to split. Creamy and rich, cheesy yet spicy. One to crave for sure. The garlic cheese sticks were so good. We underestimated the size of the order. It was the only thing I could take a picture of. We all gobbled up on that pizza and Mac and cheese. As I said, pizza was good, but it was not of the normal so it is hard to judge. I liked it. Would we go back? Yes, for sure. It is pay to park on the street. The cashier said there was a parking lot behind the building. I have no idea were, I did not see one but for one at a gas station around the corner. Felt it was dark inside, but was cozy and had atmosphere. The salads looked huge and good, not sure what kind they were. Some city workers ordered them and I had to do a double take. They were in wooden bowls and heaping.
How to reach The Pie Pizzeria - Underground
None
Website: None
Why The Pie Pizzeria - Underground may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Pie Pizzeria - Underground with your friends? Because it offers an unforgettable, uniquely vibrant atmosphere combined with some of the best pizza in Utah, making it the ideal destination for gatherings. Nestled underground near Salt Lake City’s University Pharmacy, this spot offers a cozy, inviting environment that immediately sets the tone for a relaxed and fun meetup. The ambiance, with its autographed walls, eclectic artwork, and lively vibe, creates a sense of shared experience and camaraderie that’s perfect when catching up with friends or celebrating a special occasion. The combination of delicious food, friendly service, and an atmosphere that encourages conversation and laughter makes The Pie Pizzeria - Underground stand out from typical pizza joints. Whether it’s a casual night out, a birthday celebration, or just a spontaneous meetup, friends can easily rally around the warm, cheesy goodness and the welcoming underground space that fuels both appetite and connection.
What activities are available at The Pie Pizzeria - Underground and why is it perfect for group meetups? This venue is not just about pizza; it’s about the overall experience that caters brilliantly to groups. First, there is the shared culinary adventure of exploring an extensive menu that offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone’s tastes and dietary preferences are accommodated. The “pull apart” cheese sticks and specialty pizzas spark joyful moments of communal eating, which naturally draws groups closer. Secondly, the restaurant’s layout supports social interaction with ample communal seating, providing a comfortable environment for lively conversations. Free Wi-Fi and televisions add to the recreational options for groups wanting to watch live sports or catch up digitally while enjoying their meal. Additionally, The Pie Underground offers both dine-in and take-out options, so groups can plan spontaneous hangouts or extended meals without hassle. The welcoming setting, complemented by free off-street parking and an alcohol menu including wine and beer, enhances convenience and enjoyment. Overall, it’s a hub for quality food and engaging atmosphere, a top choice for gathering your friends or family.
Why is the atmosphere at The Pie Pizzeria - Underground so welcoming for groups? The underground location offers an intimate and quirky ambiance that immediately places guests into a special social setting. Walls covered with autographs and vibrant artwork provide plenty of conversation starters, making it easier for groups to bond even if they’ve just met. The cozy, underground vibe avoids the noise and bustle of street-level pizzerias, creating a semi-private space that encourages lingering and relaxed social interaction. Live music or occasional events add a dynamic element, amplifying the energy and making get-togethers more memorable. With its non-smoking policy, free Wi-Fi, and a friendly staff committed to providing excellent service, the environment feels safe and accommodating for groups of all sizes and ages. This balances a lively yet comfortable vibe perfect for catching up, celebrating, or just sharing a great pizza night with those you care about.
What kinds of food and drinks make The Pie Pizzeria - Underground stand out? The Pie’s menu reputation for offering some of Utah’s best pizza is well-earned. Their artisan pizzas come with rich, flavorful toppings and fresh ingredients served on perfectly baked crusts. The menu diversity ensures that all guests can find something appealing: vegetarian and vegan pizzas allow plant-based diners to enjoy a hearty meal, and gluten-free options guarantee inclusivity for those with dietary restrictions. Beyond pizza, the pull-apart cheese sticks are a fan favorite and create fun, interactive dining moments. The kitchen also emphasizes quality in every dish, from appetizers to desserts, maintaining a high standard that reflects on the total dining experience. For beverages, the restaurant offers an impressive wine and beer selection, which pairs wonderfully with the pizzas and complements social occasions. The option to serve alcohol, including beer and wine, enhances the relaxation and enjoyment for adult groups seeking a full night out with friends.
How accessible and convenient is The Pie Pizzeria - Underground for hosting a group event? Accessibility is a key strength of The Pie Underground location. It is situated just below the University Pharmacy in Salt Lake City, easily reachable by car or public transit. Free off-street parking and street parking options make arriving as effortless as possible, even when arriving with a large group. The convenient operating hours — open daily until 11 PM on weekdays and weekends — offer flexibility to plan meetups at almost any time, whether for lunch, dinner, or late-night gatherings. Furthermore, the option for take-out or delivery adds value for groups wanting to take the party elsewhere without sacrificing The Pie’s quality. The staff is experienced in handling larger groups and ensures timely, attentive service tailored to the needs of communal dining. Free Wi-Fi means that group members can stay connected or enhance entertainment options during their meetups without worry. Overall, it’s a full-package venue that makes organizing and enjoying group events simple and hassle-free.
Why do reviewers love The Pie Pizzeria - Underground and recommend it for group gatherings? The impressive 4.6-star rating from over 4,000 reviews speaks volumes about this location's popularity and quality. Customers consistently mention the welcoming vibe that encourages long, comfortable visits with friends. Reviewers highlight the unique underground setting as a standout feature, noting the memorable décor and ambiance that makes meetups feel special. The quality of the pizza and the variety of menu options frequently receives praise for being consistently delicious and satisfying. Many reviewers also note the excellent customer service and friendly atmosphere, which make guests feel valued and eager to return. For groups looking for a place that feels both familiar and distinctive, with good food and a lively yet intimate setting, The Pie Pizzeria - Underground is a top recommendation in Salt Lake City. Its blend of atmosphere, food, and service creates a winning formula for any occasion involving friends or family.
What makes a pizza party at The Pie Pizzeria - Underground extra special? The act of sharing delicious pizza in a warm environment is naturally conducive to creating memorable moments, and The Pie Underground specializes in elevating that experience. Their pizzas are not only hand-crafted but come in shareable sizes perfect for groups, encouraging people to try a variety of flavors and discuss their favorites. The "pull-apart" cheese sticks add a playful twist that brings out smiles and interactive fun during the meal. With seating arranged to accommodate groups comfortably, you get the essence of a party atmosphere without the distraction or noise of typical crowded venues. The availability of wine and beer means that adults can toast to special occasions or just enjoy a casual meal with beverages that pair perfectly with their pizza choices. Whether it’s a birthday celebration, a casual group hangout, or even a small corporate gathering, the environment fosters connection and enjoyment. The distinctive underground location also gives your event an exclusivity and coolness factor hard to find elsewhere, making your pizza party truly memorable.
How does The Pie Pizzeria - Underground accommodate dietary needs for groups? Inclusivity in dining is important when gathering with friends or family, and The Pie Pizzeria - Underground is mindful of this. Their menu features diverse options to cater to vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities. This means that groups with varied dietary preferences can dine together without hassle or compromise on flavor and satisfaction. The pizzeria clearly marks suitable dishes and offers customization where possible, such as choosing gluten-free crusts or vegan cheese alternatives. This attention to dietary inclusiveness reflects their commitment to making everyone feel welcome and cared for. When hosting a group event where diverse food needs arise, this flexibility makes The Pie Underground a smart choice, ensuring no one feels left out and that the meal is enjoyable for all attendees.
Why is The Pie Pizzeria - Underground a smart choice for casual and special events? The versatility of this venue makes it apt for a wide range of gatherings, from casual friend meetups to more structured celebrations. Its unique underground charm adds a layer of excitement and exclusivity that casual spots often lack, helping groups feel like they’re part of something distinctive. The broad menu and drink selections cater to many tastes, and the warm, sociable atmosphere supports long, relaxed dining sessions and friendly conversations. The accommodating staff and convenient location reduce stress around planning and logistics, allowing hosts to focus on enjoying the moment. Whether it’s a casual pizza night or an event with a celebratory tone, The Pie Pizzeria - Underground offers the right blend of ambiance, food quality, and service to make any gathering a success and memorable for all involved.