You’re driving down Bermuda Run, probably thinking about whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a long sit-down. If you see the psychedelic colors and the weirdly inviting mushroom statues, you’ve hit the spot. Mellow Mushroom Statesboro GA isn't just a pizza place; it’s a vibe that feels very "Statesboro" while still holding onto that 1974 Atlanta hippie soul.
But let’s be real. It’s a college town. Things get loud. The service can be... relaxed.
If you’re looking for a 10-minute "in and out" lunch, you might want to reconsider. But if you want a crust that actually tastes like something and a beer list that isn't just three different shades of light lager, this is the corner of Bulloch County you need to be in.
The 2024 Face-Lift: What’s Actually Different?
Honestly, for a long time, the interior was starting to look a little "well-loved," which is a nice way of saying the booths were seen better days. That changed recently. In March 2024, the Statesboro location shut down for a lightning-fast two-week renovation. General Manager Chandler Brannen and the crew didn't just slap on a coat of paint. They gutted the floors and reupholstered every single booth.
They added these massive community tables in the bar area, which honestly makes way more sense for the Georgia Southern crowd. The color palette shifted too—expect a lot of blues, greens, and a surprising amount of purple. It feels cleaner, sure, but it didn't lose that "trippy" DNA that makes a Mellow a Mellow.
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One of the smartest moves they made during the Reno was the "hot box" addition for to-go orders. If you've ever picked up a pizza that was lukewarm by the time you got it back to the dorm or your house near Fair Road, you’ll appreciate this. They also expanded the cold storage for salads, because apparently, people actually eat greens here.
The Crust is the Secret (and the Salt)
You can’t talk about Mellow Mushroom Statesboro GA without talking about the dough. It’s made with Appalachian spring water. Sounds like marketing fluff, right? Maybe. But the result is a molasses-based crust that’s chewy, sweet, and usually dusted in enough Parmesan and garlic butter to make your doctor nervous.
What to Order if You’re Bored of Pepperoni
- The Holy Shiitake: This is the one. Olive oil and garlic base, shiitake, button, and portobello mushrooms. It’s drizzled with black truffle oil. It’s earthy and rich, and honestly, if you don't like mushrooms, why are you even here?
- The Funky Q Chicken: BBQ chicken, bacon, and caramelized onions. It’s the safe bet for someone who wants "fancy" but isn't ready for truffles.
- Pretzel Bites: Do not skip these. They’re made from the same dough as the pizza, tossed in butter and salt, and served with a Pabst Blue Ribbon beer cheese. It’s a calorie bomb, and it’s worth it.
The Local Statesboro Experience
Every Mellow is a "unicorn," as the corporate folks like to say. This means the art is unique to the 30458 zip code. You’ll see local nods in the murals and a general atmosphere that feels more "Eagle Nation" than "Chain Restaurant."
The outdoor seating is a big draw. Statesboro weather is unpredictable—sweltering one minute, pouring the next—but when it's that perfect 75-degree South Georgia evening, the patio is the best seat in the house. Just keep an eye out for the new statue they added during the recent remodel; it’s a great spot for a photo if you’re into that.
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A Note on the Wait Times
Let’s have a heart-to-heart. This is stone-baked pizza. It takes time. A large pie can take 15 to 20 minutes just to cook, not counting the time it takes for the "Shroom Crew" to prep it. If the restaurant is slammed on a Friday night before a GSU home game, you are going to wait. Most regulars know this. They grab a local craft beer from the 20+ taps and settle in.
If you’re in a rush, use their online ordering. It’s gotten way better since the rebranding, and those new hot boxes actually keep the crust from getting soggy while you’re stuck in traffic on Northside Drive.
Dealing with Dietary Restrictions
Surprisingly, for a place that prides itself on "trippy" indulgence, they’re pretty great with dietary needs. The gluten-free crust is a 10-inch signature base that actually holds its weight. It doesn't taste like cardboard, which is a rare feat in the pizza world.
They also have "Follow Your Heart" dairy-free cheese. If you’re vegan, you can get a "Vegan Veg-Out" that feels like a real meal rather than an afterthought. It’s a solid option in a town that is otherwise very meat-and-three heavy.
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How to Save a Few Bucks
Statesboro isn't the cheapest place to grab a slice, but there are ways to hack the menu.
- Monday Kids Special: Drink, small cheese pizza, and a cookie for under ten bucks.
- Thursday Take-Out: Usually, you can snag a large one-topping for about $12. This is the ultimate "I don't want to cook" move.
- Happy Hour: This is where the magic happens. Look for the "Featured Munchie" specials on Saturdays.
Mellow Mushroom Statesboro GA sits at 1098 Bermuda Run. It’s right in the heart of the Market District. Whether you’re a student, a local, or just passing through on your way to Savannah, it’s a reliable spot for food that actually has some personality.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
- Check the Tap List: The draft beer selection changes constantly. Ask your server what’s local from Georgia before you settle for a domestic.
- Join the Shroom Room: If you sign up for their loyalty program online before you go, you can usually snag a free order of Pretzel Bites.
- Plan for the Crowd: If there’s an event at Georgia Southern, arrive at least 45 minutes earlier than you think you need to.