Pizza is an essential part of a college student’s diet. It’s economical, convenient, and it feels good in your stomach.

Luckily for us, Columbia is loaded with pizza places that are either a short walk downtown or right on campus. Here are four popular joints, and why they’re good (or not so good):

**Flat Branch Pub & Brewing**

Typically known for its signature brews, Flat Branch also has a killer brick oven pizza that comes in many varieties. From the Garlic Five Cheese to the Italian Sausage (my personal fave), there are affordable pies for all palates.

And what’s more, Flat Branch offers a diverse menu outside of its pizza section, so you won’t feel guilty about dragging along your friends who don’t like pizza.

Unfortunately, in a town with pizza powerhouses, Flat Branch tends to be overlooked. But the restaurant serves up a valiant effort. With a delectable combo of homemade marinara and zesty mozzarella, it’s worth the trip every now and then.

_MOVE gives Flat Branch 3.5 out of 5 stars._

**Gumby’s Pizza**

Since opening its doors 10 years ago, Gumby’s has prided itself as being “a late night tradition,” according to [the pizza place’s website](http://gumbyscolumbia.com/), for college kids looking for a greasy bite to eat. This gem certainly delivers the goods (no pun intended).

Its mouth-watering crust, a product of dough made fresh every day, goes hand-in-hand with just about any of the available toppings. The restaurant’s staple, however, is “The Stoner Pie,” a behemoth pizza that includes pepperoni, bacon, mozzarella sticks, French fries, and cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.

Rarely does one piece of any old pie fill me up, but this gift from the pizza gods had me hesitating for seconds. Not only is Gumby’s the best pizza in Columbia, it’s one of the best you’ll find, period.

_MOVE gives Gumby’s 4.5 out of 5 stars._

**Rollins Late Night**

Like a friend from grade school whom you just don’t care for anymore but still insists on being generous, Rollins Late Night is always there for you. It’s not your first choice, or even your second, and you kind of feel guilty after eating it, but on nights for sulking and studying, your options are limited.

Look on the bright side; it’s better than the rectangular slices of “pizza” from your elementary school days, and instead of paying money you shouldn’t be spending, you can use your meal plan. See, it’s not that bad!

_MOVE gives Rollins Late Night 2 out of 5 stars._

**Shakespeare’s Pizza**

Winner of the “Best Bites Challenge: College Edition” on “Good Morning America,” Shakespeare’s is Columbia’s quintessential pizza joint. It’s part of the culture here at MU, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best choice in town.

If you go during lunch or dinner hours, expect a long wait and a crowded place — a blessing and a curse, as it makes for a great atmosphere yet postpones your feast.

More often than not, however, it’s worth the delay. Just knowing a slice full of the pizza joint’s unrivaled provolone and meaty pepperoni is on its way to your table is enough to calm even the most impatient of people (like me).

_MOVE gives Shakespeare’s 4 out of 5 stars._