The Dining Duo tried a new pizza place last weekend: Universal Pizza Company at 2226 Charles G. Seivers Blvd., Clinton, Tennessee.

Having just opened in May, server Rachel says the word is getting out and business is picking up, as a couple of regulars came in with us and several pickup orders were in the queue during this midafternoon meal.

The atmosphere is open and welcoming with open glass windows to the kitchen so patrons can watch the cooking process. Televisions are strategically located around the eating and bar area so diners can watch sports while dining. A bar is also available with seating.

The menu consists of the usual appetizers, salads, wings, sandwiches and pizza offerings, with an additional option to build a pizza or calzone. The food entries are cleverly titled in alignment with the Universe moniker: the supernova, the big bang, the jane jetson, the milky way, cosmic toppings, etc.

The Duo shared the super nova: 14-inch pizza with pepperoni, onions, mushrooms, green peppers, Italian sausage with added pineapple, plus two orders of naked wings with ranch dressing. Excellent choices that were tasty and enough for the next day’s lunch as well!

Universal Pizza Company is open every day 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

The Dining Duo is looking for the “hidden gem eateries “where the locals fill the breakfast and lunch hour; those local haunts tucked into the out of way or right on the way places missed in the hustle and bustle of the day. Email us your recommendations.