Best Downtown Columbia SC Restaurants

Hey guys! Are you looking for the best restaurants in downtown Columbia, SC? You're in the right place! Columbia, South Carolina, boasts a vibrant culinary scene with a diverse range of dining options. Whether you're craving Southern comfort food, international flavors, or a modern gastropub experience, downtown Columbia has something to satisfy every palate. In this article, we'll explore some of the top restaurants that make downtown Columbia a must-visit destination for food lovers. So, get ready to dig in and discover your next favorite spot!

Southern Delights

When in South Carolina, indulging in some good ol' Southern cuisine is a must. Downtown Columbia offers several restaurants that serve up classic dishes with a modern twist. These establishments not only provide a taste of Southern hospitality but also elevate traditional recipes to new heights.

Motor Supply Company Bistro is a cornerstone of Columbia's dining scene. This restaurant is celebrated for its commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. The menu changes daily, reflecting the seasonal bounty available from nearby farms. Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly cooked shrimp and grits, flavored with locally sourced vegetables and creamy cheese. Or picture savoring a plate of slow-cooked barbecue ribs, falling off the bone and infused with smoky goodness. The ambiance is rustic and charming, housed in a historic building that adds to the overall dining experience. Motor Supply isn't just a meal; it's an experience that captures the essence of Southern culinary tradition with a modern, refined touch. The restaurant also offers an extensive wine list and craft cocktails, making it an ideal spot for a special occasion or a casual night out.

Hampton Street Vineyard offers a sophisticated take on Southern cuisine with a French influence. The atmosphere is elegant yet inviting, making it perfect for a romantic dinner or a business lunch. Their menu features dishes like pan-seared scallops with sweet potato puree and braised short ribs with creamy polenta. Each dish is carefully crafted to highlight the flavors of the ingredients, providing a memorable dining experience. Hampton Street Vineyard also boasts an impressive wine selection, with knowledgeable staff ready to recommend the perfect pairing for your meal. Their desserts are equally enticing, with options like chocolate lava cake and crème brûlée that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

The Oak Table is another gem in downtown Columbia, offering a modern approach to Southern comfort food. The restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients to create innovative dishes. Their menu features items like fried green tomatoes with pimento cheese, shrimp and grits with andouille sausage, and a variety of Southern-inspired sandwiches and salads. The Oak Table's rustic-chic decor and friendly service make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The restaurant also has a lively bar scene, with a creative cocktail menu and a selection of local beers on tap.

International Flavors

If you're in the mood for something beyond Southern cuisine, downtown Columbia has a plethora of international restaurants that will transport your taste buds around the globe. From authentic Italian trattorias to exotic Asian eateries, there's a world of flavors waiting to be explored.

Il Giorgione is a must-visit for Italian food lovers. This cozy trattoria serves up classic Italian dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. The pasta is made in-house daily, and the sauces are rich and flavorful. Be sure to try their lasagna, which is layered with homemade pasta, creamy béchamel, and a hearty meat sauce. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with its delicious food, makes it feel like you've stepped into a traditional Italian family kitchen. Il Giorgione also offers an excellent selection of Italian wines, perfect for pairing with your meal. Their tiramisu is the perfect way to end your Italian feast.

Thirsty Fellow is a popular spot known for its delicious pizzas and casual atmosphere. While it's not strictly international, their pizza menu features a variety of toppings inspired by global cuisines. From the classic Margherita to more adventurous combinations like Thai chicken or Mediterranean vegetable, there's a pizza for every palate. Thirsty Fellow also offers a wide selection of beers on tap, making it a great place to unwind with friends. The restaurant's outdoor patio is a favorite during the warmer months, offering a relaxed setting to enjoy your pizza and drinks.

Menkoi Ramen House offers authentic Japanese ramen in the heart of downtown Columbia. The restaurant's broth is rich and flavorful, simmered for hours to extract maximum umami. The noodles are perfectly cooked, and the toppings are fresh and delicious. Whether you prefer a classic tonkotsu ramen or a spicy miso ramen, Menkoi has something to satisfy your ramen cravings. The restaurant's minimalist decor and bustling atmosphere add to the authentic Japanese dining experience. They also offer a variety of Japanese appetizers and sides, such as gyoza and karaage, to complement your ramen.

Modern Gastropubs

For a more contemporary dining experience, downtown Columbia's gastropubs offer innovative menus, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere. These establishments blend the comfort of a traditional pub with the culinary creativity of a modern restaurant.

Publico Kitchen and Tap is a popular spot for its creative pub fare and extensive beer list. The menu features dishes like Korean BBQ tacos, spicy shrimp quesadillas, and gourmet burgers. The restaurant also has a wide selection of local and regional craft beers on tap, making it a great place to try something new. Publico's lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant also has a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a meal or drinks on a sunny day.

Liberty Taproom offers a more upscale gastropub experience, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and innovative dishes. The menu features items like seared duck breast, grilled salmon, and a variety of gourmet sandwiches and salads. Liberty Taproom also has an extensive wine list and a creative cocktail menu, making it a great place for a special occasion or a sophisticated night out. The restaurant's elegant decor and attentive service create a refined dining experience. They also offer a Sunday brunch menu with dishes like crab cake benedict and shrimp and grits.

Twisted Spur Brewing is a unique gastropub that combines a brewery with a full-service restaurant. The restaurant brews its own beer on-site, offering a variety of styles to complement the menu. The food menu features creative pub fare with a Southern twist, such as pimento cheese burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, and fried chicken tacos. Twisted Spur's lively atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for beer lovers and foodies alike. The restaurant also has a spacious outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a pint and a meal on a warm evening.

Cafes and Quick Bites

Sometimes you just need a quick and tasty meal without the fuss of a full-service restaurant. Downtown Columbia has plenty of cafes and quick-bite spots that offer delicious options for breakfast, lunch, or a snack on the go.

Drip Coffee is a local favorite for its artisanal coffee and delicious breakfast and lunch options. The cafe serves a variety of coffee drinks, from classic espresso to creative specialty lattes. The food menu features items like avocado toast, breakfast sandwiches, and a selection of salads and sandwiches. Drip's cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great place to start your day or grab a quick bite. They also offer a selection of pastries and baked goods, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

smallSUGAR is a charming bakery and cafe that specializes in pastries, cakes, and light lunch fare. The bakery's display case is filled with an array of beautiful and delicious treats, from croissants and muffins to macarons and cupcakes. The lunch menu features items like quiche, salads, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. smallSUGAR's whimsical decor and friendly service make it a delightful spot for a sweet treat or a light meal. They also offer custom cake orders for special occasions.

Good Life Cafe offers a healthy and delicious menu of vegetarian and vegan options. The cafe serves a variety of salads, wraps, smoothies, and juices, all made with fresh, organic ingredients. Good Life Cafe is a great place to grab a quick and nutritious meal or snack. The cafe's bright and airy atmosphere and friendly service make it a welcoming spot for health-conscious diners. They also offer a selection of vegan desserts and snacks.

Conclusion

Downtown Columbia, SC, is a food lover's paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food, international flavors, or a modern gastropub experience, you'll find it in downtown Columbia. So, the next time you're in the area, be sure to check out some of these amazing restaurants and discover your new favorite spot! From cozy cafes to upscale bistros, the culinary scene in downtown Columbia is sure to impress. Enjoy your culinary adventure!