Columbia is loaded with great restaurants, whether you want a traditional Southern meat-and-three or an outdoor dining experience. Here are a few local and regional favorites nearby.
For a complete list of Columbia restaurants, visit ExperienceColumbiaSC.com.
Inspired by local and regional Southern food traditions, 1801 Grille honors the university's rich history and hospitality. Sitting down the street from the CMCC and across the street from Colonial Life Arena, this restaurant is meant for game days, convention attendees, and concert goers. Grab a drink and the Crawfish Deviled Eggs and you'll fit right in.
700 Lincoln Street Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-219-1119
Indulge in Korean favorites at this trendy spot in The Vista. 929 Kitchen & Bar is known for their upscale environment, perfect for a lunch break or business dinners. If you go, start with the Kimchi Bulgogi Nacho, followed by Bimbimbap and you won't be disappointed.
929 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-764-3825
Head to Bourbon for happy hour, where you're as likely to find a group of young professionals as a group of legislators. Just steps away from the South Carolina State House, this whiskey-centric hang out specializes in craft cocktails and creole cuisine. Photo by Carl Heyward.
1214 Main Street Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 804-403-1404
While we love to support local restaurants, we know staples like Chipotle are important. Lucky for you, there's a location right around the corner from the CMCC. Stop by to get your favorite, burrito, bowl, or salad - just don't forget the guacamole.
619 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-223-7801
Known to locals simply as COA, this spot gained a quick reputation for its specialty margaritas and elevated Mexican food. Menu items range from your classic tacos to ahi tuna, braised pork and citrus marinated shrimp. Photo by Forrest Clonts.
823 A Lady St. Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-851-5965
Located in a restored 1930s RC Cola bottling plant, the restaurant's name refers to its history as well as the city's nickname. Cola's offers a casual fine dining experience, serving steak, seafood, and creative culinary dishes. When the weather permits, garage doors open up to views of the State House.
1215 Assembly Street Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-451-0051
Enjoy the low-key, vibrant atmosphere at Hunter-Gatherer Brewery. You'll find them located in the Rosewood neighborhood in a vintage airplane hangar. Or, head to their original location on the Carolina campus for fresh, upscale bar food.
1402 Jim Hamilton Blvd. Columbia, SC 29205
Phone: 803-764-1237