Evel Pie: Las Vegas’ Daredevil Pizza Haven
If you’re strolling down Fremont Street in Downtown Las Vegas, you might stumble upon a slice of retro heaven that’s as bold as it is delicious. Evel Pie, a pizzeria that’s equal parts tribute and taste bud thrill ride, is a must-visit for anyone craving New York-style pizza with a side of 1970s swagger. Let’s dive into the history, inspiration, happy hour deals, and the free, all-ages music events that make this spot a Vegas legend.
A Slice of History
Evel Pie opened its doors on November 9, 2016, taking over the former home of Radio City Pizza and F. Pigalle on Fremont Street. Conceived by Branden Powers in collaboration with High Horse Entertainment and Kelly Knievel—son of the legendary daredevil Evel Knievel—this pizzeria was built to honor the fearless spirit of the iconic stuntman. The restaurant channels the vibe of a 1979 pizza joint, complete with vintage touches like pinball machines, Schwinn Stingray bicycles, Dogtown skateboards, and a bronze statue of Evel himself. It’s a nostalgic nod to the era of bell-bottoms and bold stunts, with memorabilia from the Knievel family collection adorning the walls. From a Stunt Cycle arcade game to photographs capturing Evel’s gravity-defying leaps, the decor is a love letter to the daredevil’s legacy.
Since its debut, Evel Pie has racked up accolades, earning “Best Pizza in Las Vegas” from various publications and even making international headlines in 2019 with its quirky “Canyon Hopper” pizza, topped with chapulines (grasshoppers) during a Vegas grasshopper invasion. This bold move cemented Evel Pie’s reputation for pushing boundaries, much like its namesake.
The Inspiration: Live Hard, Ride Fast, Eat Pizza
The motto “Live Hard, Ride Fast, Eat Pizza” sums up Evel Pie’s vibe perfectly. Inspired by Evel Knievel’s larger-than-life persona, the restaurant captures the rebellious, high-octane spirit of the 1970s. The design blends retro cool with modern flair, featuring garage door-style windows for late-night to-go service and a soundtrack of ’70s rock, New Wave, and early hip-hop and punk—think Black Sabbath, Blondie, The Ramones, and Beastie Boys. It’s a place where you can feel the adrenaline of a Snake River Canyon jump while munching on a slice of “Hog Heaven” (loaded with barbecue sauce, pulled pork, bacon, and more). The Knievel family’s involvement ensures authenticity, with Kelly Knievel’s input making Evel Pie a true tribute to his father’s legacy.
The menu itself is a daredevil’s dream, offering classic cheese and pepperoni pizzas alongside wild creations like “Balls to the Wall” (meatballs and gravy), “Rattlesnake” (with jalapeño sausage), and the aforementioned “Canyon Hopper.” Vegan and gluten-free options, including a stellar gluten-free deep dish, ensure everyone can join the party. The crust is crispy, the slices are massive, and the vibe is unapologetically fun.
Happy Hour: A Deal That Packs a Punch
Evel Pie’s happy hour is a Fremont Street steal, perfect for fueling up without breaking the bank. While the exact times and offerings can vary, the classic deal includes a slice and a beer (often a PBR) for around $8, though some sources suggest checking directly as specials may change. In the past, a pitcher-and-pie combo was a fan favorite, though recent reports indicate it may no longer be offered, with a large pie alone costing over $30. Pro tip: Happy hour is your chance to enjoy Evel Pie’s big, flavorful slices and a cold drink at a price that leaves room for another round of pinball. The dive bar vibe, friendly staff, and open windows make it a prime spot for people-watching while you savor your meal.
Free All-Ages Music Events: A Monthly Party
Evel Pie isn’t just about pizza—it’s a community hub that brings the Fremont East scene to life with free, all-ages music events. While the restaurant hosts live bands on occasion, especially during special events, it has become famous for its anniversary bashes and pop-up performances. For example, their third anniversary in December 2019 featured punk legends The Dickies, with nearly 300 free pizza slices and over 200 beers given out to RSVP’d guests. These events embody the “live hard” ethos, drawing locals, tourists, and Knievel fans of all ages for a night of music, pizza, and retro vibes.
While monthly music events aren’t explicitly detailed on Evel Pie’s site, the restaurant’s reputation for hosting bands—especially on weekends—keeps the energy high. Past events have included appearances by Robbie Knievel and Travis Pastrana, adding star power to the mix. The all-ages aspect makes Evel Pie a rare gem in Vegas, welcoming families during the day while transforming into a lively bar scene after 10 p.m. If you’re planning a visit, check their website or social media for upcoming performances, as lines can wrap around the block when bands are in town.
Why Evel Pie Rocks
Evel Pie is more than a pizzeria—it’s a time machine, a tribute to a cultural icon, and a damn good place to eat. Whether the Evel Knievel nostalgia draws you, the affordable happy hour, or the chance to catch free live music, this spot delivers an experience as bold as a rocket-powered motorcycle jump. Next time you’re on Fremont Street, swing by 508 Fremont St., grab a slice, and soak in the vibes. Just don’t try jumping any canyons afterward—leave that to Evel.
For more information or to stay up-to-date on the latest event updates, visit evelpie.com. Open Sunday–Thursday 11 a.m.–2 a.m., and Friday–Saturday 11 a.m.–4:20 a.m.
