Top 14 Restaurants In Columbia SC

Columbia is famous for its amazing culture and delicious cuisines. With a diversified culinary scene that promises mouthwatering treats at every turn, this beautiful city is tucked away in the heart of South Carolina, makes for the perfect weekend getaway. Here is a list of top 12 restaurants in Columbia to bless your taste buds!

Terra Restaurant:

Terra has been a fixture in Columbia since 2006 and has daily specials made with ingredients that are locally sourced. Enjoy your meals on their covered patio, and during happy hour, they serve Korean short rib lettuce wraps and shiso gin and tonic drinks. The excellent service and staff are ready to suggest dishes and wines to go along, and don’t forget to try the Chef Mike Davis's seasonal specials, which include his eggplant parmesan.

Address: 100 State St, West Columbia, SC 29169

Black Rooster:

Global cuisines are blended into Black Rooster menu, although it is French-inspired menu, you must try their Moroccan beef "tacos" with beef tallow crepes. Starters such as octopus or mussels go well with suggested wines. At the rooftop bar, which serves seasonal drinks and locally brewed beer and wine, take in views of the downtown area.

Address: 201 Meeting St, West Columbia, SC 29169

The War Mouth:

Founded in 2015 and situated in the cherished suburb of Cottontown, Columbia, War Mouth brings the tradition of whole-hog barbecue to the community. Co-founders Porter Barron and Rhett Elliott have crafted a welcoming space for both dining and drinking. The menu showcases creative twists on classic Midlands and Pee Dee dishes. The outdoor seating area near the smoker enhances the overall ambiance of the establishment.

Address: 1209 Franklin St, Columbia, SC 29201

929 Kitchen and Bar:

Enjoy traditional Korean cuisine with a dash of surprise at this little restaurant in the Vista. It has a great drink menu and a fully stocked bar as well. Two of the restaurant's best dishes are the shrimp bibimbap served in a hot stone bowl and the samgyupsal, which is grilled pork belly, and it is served in a lettuce wrapping and 929's unique sauces for dipping. Sunday nights are especially fun at 929, but it's a pleasure any day of the week.

Address: 929 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

DiPrato’s:

DiPrato's in Columbia is renowned for its exceptional pimiento cheese, best enjoyed with crispy fried pita chips. Their extensive lunch and brunch menu offers delicious sandwiches, including a Panini featuring marinated peppers, mozzarella, and basil pesto mayo. Make sure not to overlook the Tuesday specialty – the bacon and pimiento cheeseburger.

Address: 342 Pickens St, Columbia, SC 29205

River Rat Brewery:

With a kid-and pet-friendly outdoor space and a smoke-free rooftop lounge, River Rat boasts a laid-back vibe. Wines and frozen cocktails like frosé are served with their collection of artisan beers. Brew-friendly selections on the menu include tacos, burgers, BBQ sliders, pimiento cheese, and smoked wings.

Address: 1231 Shop Rd, Columbia, SC 29201

Small Sugar:

Operating throughout the day, The Small Sugar is a café that features delectable pastries, wholesome breakfast and lunch options, and exceptional coffee. Be sure to check out City Grit Wine Bar and Market, along with Il Focolare, a delightful pizzeria offering creatively unique choices—both establishments owned by Simmons and Hoskins.

Address: 709 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201

Lula Drake Wine Parlor:

Tim Gardner, connoisseur of wines, developed Lula Drake to show his love for wine, which serves specialty brews and a wide range of wines. Delicious homemade pasta made by Chef Rachael Harrison can be enjoyed here, who frequently works with chef Pierce Bowers of Dorsia. Customer favorites include specialties like sherry shrimp and signature meals like cacio e pepe.

Address: 1635 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

Hampton Street Vineyard:

Situated just a stone's throw from Main Street, this American brasserie boasts an acclaimed wine list and a menu featuring French classics with a creative twist. Indulge in dishes like duck confit ragout with cavatelli and Chinese five spice. The intimate bar provides an excellent setting for catching up over a few glasses of wine, while the cozy wine room is ideal for hosting private dinners. Outdoor tables add a lively touch to happy hour, where shared plates like crawfish deviled eggs or croquettes du jour are a must. For a more substantial evening experience, savor classics such as steak au poivre or bouillabaisse.

Address: 1207 Hampton St, Columbia, SC 29201

Baan Swan Thai Bistro:

Run by brothers Sam and Alex and their parents, Baan Sawan is a popular Thai eatery with a devoted clientele. On Friday and Saturday nights, they serve a changing menu. Approximately 20 seats are available, so early comers get to have specialties like the five greens pad Thai. Many people indulge in both appetizers and entrees because the menu is updated every week. The café also has a quaint secondhand bookshop that you may peruse while you wait for your food.

Address: 2135 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205

Applebee’s Grill and Bar:

Delicious American favorites can be found on the menu at Applebee's Columbia SC, which has a lively and laid-back eating scene. There is something for everyone to enjoy, from traditional foods to locally brewed draft beers. Applebee's is the ideal place for a laid-back dinner with friends and family because of its warm atmosphere and delicious food.

Address: 4505 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205

Chick Fil A:

Experience an array of chicken sandwiches, along with crisp salads, paired with signature waffle potato fries and freshly squeezed lemonade Chick-fil-A Columbia SC, a renowned food chain!

Address: 901 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205

Firehouse Subs:

Not your typical fast-food restaurant, Firehouse Subs Columbia SC has an interesting and distinctive history. They were founded by firemen, and their goal goes beyond just providing delectable sandwiches to aid first responders. Their famous subs convey a tale of commitment and camaraderie with every mouthful. They offer the best sandwiches around, and if you haven't had them yet, you're really losing out on an unforgettable meal experience.

Address: 633 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

Boca Grande Burritos:

Buka Grande Burritos attracts consumers with its savory burritos and snacks like Frito pie, being one of the best Columbia SC restaurants. It serves really fresh and delicious meals. Owner and Chef David Grillo places a high value on utilizing regional products and offers vegetarian and vegan alternatives to accommodate a wide range of dietary requirements. Every meal radiates with rich taste and texture, impressing and satisfying guests despite the kitchen's simplicity.

Address: 4525 Forest Dr Ste. 2-A, Columbia, SC 29206