Columbia, South Carolina, September 3, 2025
News Summary
Blaze Pizza has shut down both of its Columbia, South Carolina locations after nearly a decade of operation. The closures, effective September 1, were announced via signage and social media. Customers reminisce about the fast-fired, customizable pizzas created in approximately 180 seconds. This decision reflects broader trends in the fast-casual dining landscape, with local eateries now stepping up to fill the gap left by Blaze Pizza’s exit.
Columbia
Blaze Pizza has officially closed both of its locations in Columbia, South Carolina, marking the end of its nine-year presence in the area. The closures, which took effect on September 1, 2025, were communicated through signs displayed on the restaurant doors and a post on social media platforms. This decision affects the two Columbia locations: one at 275 Park Terrace Drive off Harbison Boulevard, which opened its doors in January 2016, and the other at 471-1 Towne Center Place in the Village of Sandhill, which opened later that same year.
The signs at the restaurant locations thanked loyal customers for their support and patronage throughout the years. Blaze Pizza was widely recognized for its unique offering of customizable, fast-fired pizza that could be prepared and served in approximately 180 seconds.
Background and Impact
Founded in 2016 by Elise and Rick Wetzel of Wetzel’s Pretzels, Blaze Pizza has established a widespread presence across the United States, operating over 300 locations nationwide. Despite Columbia being home to two of its locations for nearly a decade, the chain made the decision to close both sites as part of its operational adjustments. The only remaining Blaze Pizza location in South Carolina recently opened in Boiling Springs last month, leaving many loyal customers in Columbia without a nearby option.
Columbia’s Harbison area is recognized as one of the busiest retail districts in the Midlands, while the Village at Sandhill is regarded as a key shopping hub in northeast Columbia. The closures take place against the backdrop of changing consumer preferences and growing competition in the fast-casual dining sector.
What’s Next for Columbia’s Dining Scene
As the community adjusts to the absence of Blaze Pizza, several local restaurant options continue to thrive in both the Harbison and Village at Sandhill areas. As food and dining preferences evolve, local eateries are leveraging unique offerings to capture the attention of Columbia residents. The ripple effect of these closures will be observed as new dining opportunities arise in these bustling retail areas.
About Blaze Pizza
Blaze Pizza is known for its innovative approach to fast-casual dining. The chain’s menu allows customers to create their own pizzas with a variety of toppings and sauces, ensuring a customized dining experience. The signature fast-firing method not only sets Blaze apart but also emphasizes speed without compromising quality.
Conclusion
The closures of Blaze Pizza in Columbia reflect broader trends in the fast-casual restaurant sector while also shedding light on the area’s dynamic dining landscape. With the recent opening in Boiling Springs, the brand maintains a presence in South Carolina even as it exits Columbia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Blaze Pizza close its locations in Columbia?
Blaze Pizza closed its Columbia locations as part of operational adjustments despite their nine-year tenure in the area.
When did the closures occur?
The closures took effect on September 1, 2025.
Where were the Columbia locations located?
The two locations were at 275 Park Terrace Drive (opened January 2016) and 471-1 Towne Center Place in the Village of Sandhill (opened later in 2016).
What will happen to Blaze Pizza’s presence in South Carolina?
The only remaining Blaze Pizza location in South Carolina opened recently in Boiling Springs, maintaining a presence in the state.
What is Blaze Pizza known for?
Blaze Pizza is known for its customizable fast-fired pizzas served in about 180 seconds.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Closure of Blaze Pizza Locations in Columbia, South Carolina
Cayce Residents on Alert After Nail Salon Fire
Additional Resources
- The State
- Google Search: Blaze Pizza
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: fast-casual restaurants
- Kidding Around Greenville
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
