Finding a truly great pizza in the high desert of Nevada isn't always easy. Most people driving through Elko or Spring Creek are looking for a quick chain fix or maybe a steakhouse, but they’re usually missing the best thing going. Ruby Mountain Pizza Co has basically become a local institution, and honestly, it’s because they aren't trying to be a fancy artisan bistro. They just make really good food.
It's tucked away. If you aren't looking for it in Spring Creek, you might just drive right past. But the smell? That’ll stop you.
When you think about "mountain pizza," you probably imagine something heavy, doughy, and maybe a little greasy. This place definitely leans into that hearty vibe, but there’s a level of consistency here that most small-town shops struggle to maintain. It isn’t just about the cheese or the sauce; it’s about the fact that they’ve become the "third place" for the community—that spot that isn’t home and isn’t work, but where everyone ends up anyway.
What Actually Sets Ruby Mountain Pizza Co Apart?
Most pizza places buy their dough frozen or use pre-shredded cheese coated in cellulose to keep it from clumping. You can taste that "fake" flavor from a mile away. Ruby Mountain Pizza Co feels different because the crust has that specific chew that only comes from fresh prep.
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The menu is surprisingly massive.
You’ve got your standards, obviously. Pepperoni. Cheese. Sausage. But then they get into the specialty stuff that really defines the Ruby Mountain brand. We’re talking about pizzas loaded with toppings to the point where the structural integrity of the slice is barely holding on. It’s glorious.
One thing people always mention is the "Ruby Mountain" special. It’s essentially a meat-lover's dream but with enough veggies to make you feel slightly less guilty about the caloric intake. The sauce has a bit of a tang to it—not too sweet, which is a common mistake in the West.
It’s Not Just About the Pies
If you go there and only get pizza, you’re kinda doing it wrong. Their wings are a huge draw. In a world where wings are getting smaller and more expensive, they managed to keep them meaty.
- The Sandwiches: They do these toasted subs that are basically a meal and a half. The Italian is usually the go-to.
- Salads: Surprisingly fresh. Usually, pizza shop salads are an afterthought with wilted iceberg lettuce, but they actually put effort into the greens here.
- Calzones: These things are massive. Think of a pizza folded in half, but then reinforced with even more cheese.
The vibe inside is very "Nevada." It’s casual. You’ll see miners coming off a shift, families after a soccer game, and travelers who stumbled in by accident. It’s loud, it’s friendly, and it feels like a slice of the community.
Why Location Matters in the High Desert
Spring Creek isn't exactly a metropolitan hub. It’s a sprawling residential area at the base of the Ruby Mountains (hence the name). Because the town is so spread out, having a reliable hub like Ruby Mountain Pizza Co is vital.
They’ve nailed the delivery and takeout game, too.
When you’re living in a place where the weather can turn from sunny to a blizzard in twenty minutes, knowing a place will actually get a hot pizza to your door is a big deal. They’ve built a lot of trust with locals that way. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the reliability of the service when the wind is howling off the peaks.
The Reality of Running a Small Town Pizza Shop
Let’s be real for a second. Running a restaurant in a rural area is a nightmare. Supply chains are a mess, and finding staff who care is even harder. Yet, this place stays consistent.
A lot of that comes down to the ownership and the local roots. They understand their audience. They aren't trying to sell $30 thin-crust pizzas with truffle oil and arugula to people who just spent ten hours working outdoors. They sell "fuel." High-protein, high-carb, delicious fuel.
There’s a common misconception that small-town pizza is always "worse" than what you get in New York or Chicago. That’s a narrow way of looking at it. Ruby Mountain Pizza Co isn't trying to be a New York slice. It’s Nevada-style. It’s thick, it’s heavy on the toppings, and it’s meant to be shared with a large group of people while looking at the mountains.
Pricing and Value
In 2026, everything is expensive. We all know it.
Eating out has become a luxury for a lot of families. Ruby Mountain Pizza Co manages to stay in that "attainable" bracket. You get a lot of food for your dollar. When you order a large, it’s actually a large. You aren't getting a medium masquerading as a premium pie.
- Check the Specials: They usually have weekday deals that make it way more affordable for families.
- Order Ahead: On Friday nights, the wait times can get crazy. This isn't a secret; everyone in town knows it's the place to be.
- Try the Crust Flavors: If they offer garlic butter or parmesan on the crust, just do it. Don't overthink it.
Community Impact and Why It Matters
You see their name on the back of little league jerseys. You see them donating to local fundraisers. That stuff matters in a place like Spring Creek.
When you buy a pizza here, you aren't just sending money to a corporate headquarters in another state. You’re keeping a local business alive that actually gives back. That’s a huge part of why the loyalty to Ruby Mountain Pizza Co is so fierce. People aren't just fans of the pepperoni; they’re fans of the people behind the counter.
Addressing the Critics
Is it perfect? Nothing is.
If you’re a "pizza snob" who only eats wood-fired Neapolitan pies with a 48-hour fermented sourdough crust, you might find this a bit heavy. It’s a "more is more" philosophy. Occasionally, when they’re slammed on a Saturday night, a crust might be a little softer than usual because they’re pumping out hundreds of orders.
But honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s authentic. It’s a working-class pizza shop doing its best in a demanding environment.
Making the Most of Your Visit
If you’re passing through, don't just grab a box and leave. If you have time, sit down. Soak in the atmosphere. Look at the photos on the walls. It gives you a real sense of what life in this part of Nevada is actually like.
Specific Recommendations:
- The BBQ Chicken Pizza: They don't skimp on the sauce, and the red onions actually have some bite.
- Garlic Knots: They are dangerous. You think you’ll just have one, and then the basket is empty.
- The Meatball Sub: It’s messy, it’s hot, and it’s exactly what you want on a cold afternoon.
How to Get There and Logistics
Ruby Mountain Pizza Co is located in the heart of Spring Creek. If you’re coming from Elko, it’s a short drive down the Lamoille Highway.
- Address: 257 Spring Creek Pkwy, Spring Creek, NV 89815.
- Hours: Usually open for lunch and dinner, but check their social media or call ahead because mountain hours can be a little flexible depending on the season.
- Parking: Plenty of space, so don't worry about bringing the truck.
The Verdict on Ruby Mountain Pizza Co
It’s rare to find a place that manages to satisfy the "I’m starving" hunger while also delivering on actual flavor. Ruby Mountain Pizza Co does it. They’ve mastered the art of the hearty, high-altitude pizza.
Next time you’re in the area, skip the fast food on the main drag in Elko. Take the ten-minute drive out to Spring Creek. It’s worth the extra miles just to see why the parking lot is always full.
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Actionable Steps for Your Visit:
- Call early: If you want delivery on a weekend, call at least 45 minutes before you’re actually hungry.
- Join the locals: Don’t be afraid to ask the staff what the "special of the day" is—they often have off-menu combinations or limited-time toppings that are worth trying.
- Explore the Rubies: Grab your pizza to go and head further up the road toward Lamoille Canyon for a world-class picnic view.
- Support Local: Check their board for local events; it’s the best way to find out what’s happening in the community while you wait for your pie.