Food and Drink

Fresh, Local, and Custom Catering

When was the last time you asked for seconds at a Convention Center? At the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center in Columbia, SC, our in-house caterer, OVG Hospitality, brings a one-of-a-kind dining experience to your event. From bite-sized appetizers to full plated meals, menus are crafted using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and designed to fit your event’s style, size, and theme. 

Who's in the kitchen?

Meet the Chef: Chef Tommy Kasperski, a pilot turned culinary master, emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing in every menu. All kitchen waste is composted, and paper, cardboard, and cooking oil are recycled. While he specializes in Upscale Southern cuisine, Chef Tommy and his team can customize menus to match your event theme, brand, or dietary requirements. 

For a menu and private tasting, contact:

OVG Hospitality Food Services & Hospitality Sales Office
Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM
803-545-0281
Allison.Abercrombie@oakviewgroup.com

Important Policies

To ensure compliance with state regulations, venue rules, and consistent quality, all food and drink services at the CMCC are managed by OVG Hospitality. This includes alcohol service, concession stands, menu guarantees, and special dietary accommodations.

Please review the Food and Drink Policies page for full details, including:  

• Outside food and beverage restrictions  
• Alcohol and beverage regulations  
• Minimum guarantees for guest counts  
• Concession stand guidelines  
• Dietary and allergen accommodations  
• Billing, management charges, and cancellation policies  

Download the menu and catering policies here, and contact one of our sales managers to schedule your private tasting.

Food & Drink FAQs

Q. Why is OVG Hospitality the exclusive caterer at the CMCC?

A. OVG Hospitality is the exclusive caterer at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center to ensure consistent food quality, streamlined service, and seamless coordination with the facility. As the in-house provider, OVG Hospitality works closely with CMCC staff to deliver reliable execution across events of all sizes.

Q. What types of events does the CMCC provide catering for?

A. Catering is available for a wide range of events, including meetings, conferences, conventions, trade shows, banquets, galas, receptions, and public events. Food and beverage service can be customized based on the event format and schedule.

Q. Can food and beverage service scale for large conventions and expos?

A. Yes. The CMCC and OVG Hospitality are experienced in supporting large-scale conventions and expos, including multi-day events, high-attendance functions, and service across multiple rooms or exhibit spaces.

Q. What type of cuisine does the CMCC offer?

A. The CMCC offers a flexible culinary approach, with menus ranging from casual fare and bite-sized appetizers to elevated dining experiences. Cuisine styles vary by event and are tailored to client needs.

Q. Who is the Executive Chef at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center?

A. Chef Tommy Kasperski serves as the Executive Chef at the CMCC. He is known for his creative approach, commitment to sustainability, and use of locally sourced ingredients.

Q. Does the CMCC offer Southern or regional cuisine?

A. Yes. Upscale Southern and regional cuisine is a signature offering at the CMCC, often featuring locally inspired dishes and flavors that reflect the South Carolina region.

Q. Can menus be customized for my event or theme?

A. Yes. Menus can be fully customized to align with your event’s theme, brand, audience, and service style. CMCC staff works closely with OVG Hospitality and Chef Tommy to design menus that enhance the overall event experience.

Q. Are locally sourced and seasonal ingredients used?

A. Yes. Whenever possible, menus feature seasonal ingredients sourced from local and regional farmers and purveyors, supporting sustainability and fresh, high-quality dishes.

Q. Can you accommodate dietary restrictions and special requests?

A. Yes. The culinary team can accommodate dietary restrictions, allergies, and special meal requests when communicated in advance as part of the planning process.

Q. Are vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or specialty cuisines available?

A. Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available, and specialty or cultural cuisines may be requested. Availability and menu design should be discussed during event planning.

Q. Are concession stands or casual dining options available?

A. Yes. Concession stands are available for expos and public events in select locations, and The Café, located on the upper level, offers convenient food and beverage options during event hours.

Q. Can I bring in outside food or beverage?

A. Outside food and beverage is not permitted, as OVG Hospitality is the exclusive catering provider. Exceptions, if any, must be approved by the CMCC in advance. Full policies are outlined in the Food & Beverage section of the Facility Guide.

Q. Who should I contact for catering questions, menus, or tastings?

A. For catering questions, menu details, tastings, or custom quotes, contact OVG Hospitality directly. You can also download the menu and catering policies or submit a request through the booking contact form. For a custom quote, contact: Allison Abercrombie, OVG Hospitality Allison.Abercrombie@OakviewGroup.com 803.545.0281 For a menu and more information: bit.ly/3IFHHvU