The best restaurants in Columbia

“Red Sake focuses on clean, raw and pure Japanese flavors, building sushi and other bites from fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables for standout taste and presentation. If you’re craving a relaxed night with actually good fish, make this your move this week.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Craving an upgrade from your average patty? Grill Marks in the Vista turns out creative, gourmet burgers, crispy fries, and hand-spun milkshakes, plus a full bar with craft beers, classic cocktails, and wines. Treat yourself this week, then thank your future, fully satisfied self.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Easygoing Vietnamese kitchen serving pho, rice dishes & other traditional fare, plus bubble tea.”

“Il Giorgione is Columbia’s favorite neighborhood pizza and pasta bar since 2012, freshly reimagined as the new Gio’s. Slide in for craveable pies, twirlable pastas, and Chef’s Specials posted daily...”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Clean spot for classic Vietnamese eats like pho and banh mi.”

“When you want sushi without the fuss, Inakaya Japanese Restaurant keeps it simple with well-made rolls and hot Japanese fare in a calm, unpretentious setting. Grab a regular table or try the floor pillow seating, then make it an easy weeknight ritual that still feels special.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Local, fast-casual restaurant dishing up Mexican eats including burritos in a festive setting.”

“An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.”

“A menu of customizable Mexican food served in a modern restaurant, plus takeout & catering.”

“Sports bar with an extensive menu of Lowcountry pub food & a USC Gamecocks following.”

“Casual chain featuring BBQ & classic sides, plus memorabilia honoring soldiers & first responders.”

“Hit up Wings Co. this week for fresh, never frozen wings tossed in your favorite flavor, plus Nashville hot tenders with pickles or a Smoked BBQ Burger crowned with crispy onion rings. It’s comfort food without the fuss, perfect for game night, victory laps, or those chaotic Tuesdays.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Bar and restaurant featuring American small plates, fried rice and cocktails, plus a band.”

“Sophisticated restaurant (no tipping), offering tapas and other plates (including brunch and lunch) and beer and wine (from growers).”

“When you're in the mood for bright, fresh rolls and wok-fired comfort, M Vista delivers with sushi, specialty rolls, and classic noodle and rice dishes that hit the spot. Pro tip, pair it with a lychee martini and call it a weekday win.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Sushi & eclectic grilled fare join cocktails & sake amid buzzy, high-energy atmosphere.”

“Casual, southern-style choice specializing in biscuit creations alongside grits and waffles and mimosa cocktails.”

“Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.”

“Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Columbia SC keeps it simple with 100% American Wagyu patties, then flips the script with creative specials like the Greg Brady and Cobra Kai. Pair it with a cold beer and settle into the good vibes locals love.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Breakfast, brunch cafe featuring farm-fresh breads, pastries and baked goods, plus lunch dishes, including sandwiches.”

“El Vago Mexican Kitchen nails the classics like tacos and enchiladas, then keeps things interesting with daily specials and limited-time cocktails. Slide in for happy hour, order a couple plates to share, and let the rotating picks turn a regular Tuesday into a tiny fiesta.”

“Smoked pairs an upscale vibe with seafood and steak done right, plus cocktails, wine and beer that make weeknights feel like occasions. Keep it in your back pocket for date nights, private events or even weddings, and peek at their events calendar when you want something a little extra to do.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Peebles On Rosewood is that casual neighborhood spot for beer, fried comfort, and wings that stake a claim as the best in South Carolina, with the patio waiting when the weather cooperates. If your group debates flats vs drums, settle it here and thank us later.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Hopping all-you-can-eat lunch & dinner buffet with a variety of barbecued meats, sides & desserts.”

“Small, easygoing choice serving pho, rice dishes & other traditional Vietnamese fare.”

“Real Mexico Restaurant keeps it simple and tasty with well-seasoned tacos and burritos, chicken nachos loaded with flavorful shredded chicken, and a house margarita that locals swear by. Warm chips hit the table fast, portions satisfy, and the friendly crew makes it an easy weeknight staple.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Seasonal, creative Southern dishes served in lively, comfortable environs.”

“Spotted Salamander Cafe And Catering is the local go-to for inventive Southern cuisine with serious personality, built on local ingredients and a wildly tempting daily board. From its catering beginnings to Chef Jessica Shillato’s beloved café, this is your midweek reset when you need bold bites and happy taste buds.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 10, 2026

“Casual eatery serving burgers, hot dogs and fries and breakfast, plus pimento cheese and chili options.”

“Set inside the 1902 Union Station, California Dreaming is that dependable Columbia standby since 1984, with floor-to-ceiling train views and hearty, made-from-scratch plates. Go for the she crab soup, famous honey-butter croissants, or a ribeye and seafood nachos combo if you’re feeling celebratory… your call.”

“Old-school ice cream parlor & burger shop serving dipped cones & chicken dinners since 1949.”

“Sports-bar chain known for its waitresses, serving American comfort food in lodgelike surroundings.”

“Relaxed joint supplying basic BBQ chow & an all-you-can-eat buffet plus homemade sides & sauces.”

“Casual chain eatery serving fried chicken tenders and sliders in a range of customizable spice levels.”

“Born from a beloved food truck, Tacos Nayarit keeps it fast-casual and friendly with tacos that hit right, burritos that mean business, and that quesabirria with consomé situation you’ll find yourself thinking about later. A reliable weeknight fix when you want big flavor without overcomplicating dinner.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Late-night eatery serving burgers, wings, salmon and more amid a relaxed atmosphere.”

“Popular chain known for its chicken wings and sauces, plus salads and sandwiches, served up in a relaxed space.”

“Bustling tavern serving generous portions of smoked meat & Southern sides, plus frequent live music.”

“Lunch-only spot doing wings, fried catfish & barbecue, with a buffet option & basic table seating.”

“Casual, New Orleans-inspired outpost specializing in brunch staples, such as eggs Benedict, pancakes and beignets.”

“Industrial haunt in historic digs with Cajun & Creole bites, an ample whiskey menu & weekend brunch.”

“Popular steakhouse serving choice cuts of beef & locally sourced seafood in sophisticated surrounds.”

“Top Dawg Tavern - Columbia is built for locals craving burgers, wings, and wall-to-wall sports, with Tuesday trivia and live music during the week. A big family-friendly menu and tons of TVs mean your crew gets what they want, while you actually catch the game in peace.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Texas-style eatery known for its smoked meats like brisket, wings and ribs, plus Southern sides.”

“Columbia’s Il Focolare Pizzeria does 13-inch wood-fired pies that lean playful, plus solid salads, beer and wine. They’re proudly no gratuity with livable wage pricing, and after a July 4th weekend fire they’re regrouping... keep an eye on their Instagram for the reopening and your next pizza night.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 4, 2026

“When the group chat can't decide, Blaney's Wings & Grill covers it with bone-in or boneless wings, burgers, and fried rice. Toss in shrimp and grits or a Po Boy, and you've got an easy, delicious fix for this week's cravings.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Ferrara Real NY Pizza brings real-deal, foldable New York pies to our side of the river, with saucy, cheesy goodness that hits the spot after work or game night. Keep it simple with a classic, or go heavy on toppings and call it dinner for the crew.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Airy restaurant with a terrace offering classic burgers, steaks & salads, plus a store.”

“Inviting outpost of a local chain for Italian classics with a modern twist & an extensive wine menu.”

“Family-owned restaurant serving classic breakfast dishes and cocktails, plus waffles.”

“For a proper Five Points standby, Pawleys Front Porch turns out creative, juicy burgers alongside sandwiches, salads, and fish tacos, with cold beer and frequent specials that keep things interesting. They’re proudly voted Best Burger, and the food truck pops up around town when you need that fix on the fly.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Crazy Wings - Fort Jackson serves freshly prepared, flavorful fare with a focus on wings. Planning a game day or office thing? Their catering menu is bold and crafted to please, plus you can order online or book a table when the crew rallies.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Hopping no-frills sports bar with chicken wings & other pub fare, plus live music & pool tables.”

“Upscale tavern with eclectic American fare & wine amid the brick walls of a former bottling company.”

“Thirsty Fellow Pizzeria and Pub is Willie Durkin’s ode to perfect pies, honed after a pizza course at Johnson and Wales, paired with a full bar and pub favorites that actually have range. Order the Gorgonzola Chips, chase it with the pear salad, then pencil in Sunday brunch this week.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Midlands turns Southern staples into craveable plates with locally sourced ingredients, from fried green tomatoes and chicken and waffles to award-winning shrimp and grits. Swing by the downtown Rocks at Midlands' Lounge for a craft beer or cocktail and shareable bites that beat another night of takeout.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Family-owned pizzeria serving pizza, paninis, pasta and other classic Italian fare in a cozy setting.”

“Suishaya Asian Restaurant & Bar keeps Columbia rolling with fresh sushi, sashimi, and specialty rolls, plus standouts like Tuna Tataki, Yellowtail Jalapeno, and Naruto rolls. When that midweek craving hits, their bold-flavor platters and easy takeout make dinner feel like a small win you didn’t have to cook.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Smoked meats, sandwiches & sides are served at this modest counter serve with a relaxed atmosphere.”

“For straight-up Southern satisfaction, Big Bull's Bang'n BBQ and Southern Comfort Food dishes classic barbecue with signature sauces and hearty sides in a laid-back, down-home setting. Nab a seat outside, catch up with neighbors, and let the sauce speak for itself when the comfort-food craving hits.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Buzzy cafe & espresso bar known for their hangover hash browns serves all-day eats plus beer & wine.”

“Provisions from local farmers dictate the Southern-leaning menu at this bistro with skyline views.”

“Restaurant featuring wild game dishes, burgers, steaks and Great Lakes seafood, along with beer, wine and cocktails.”

“Manhattan Pie brings true NYC corner-shop vibes to the Vista with hand-tossed, thin, foldable slices under Chef Mossimo, plus slow-simmered marinara, hand-layered beef lasagna, golden garlic knots, and legit deli subs. Slide by this week when you need fast comfort that actually tastes like something.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Regional BBQ specialties served up on plates & in sandwiches in a roadhouselike setting.”

“Backstreets Grill keeps it cozy with a warm vibe and breezy outdoor seating, then ups the game with truffle parmesan fries and bison burgers that actually deliver. Perfect for a low-key date or catching up with friends when you want familiar flavors dressed up just enough.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Cafe preparing a menu of breakfast and lunch options in a comfortable setting with a patio.”

“Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items, plus brunch sandwiches.”

“Branch of a laid-back chain known for Southern food & all-day breakfast selections.”

“Pearlz Oyster Bar keeps it fun and unfussy with a raw bar stacked with Lowcountry and Gulf oysters, plenty of fresh seasonal shellfish, and local seafood classics. Grab a seat, order a cold beer or a quirky cocktail, and pretend you’re just here for “one” dozen.”

“Generous portions of pasta, pizza & other Italian favorites in a warm, brick-&-wood-paneled setting.”

“Cocky Rooster in Five Points brings fried or smoked wings, juicy tenders, and proper chicken sandwiches, all dunked in creative sauces and rubs. Fries are a sleeper hit, the portions satisfy, and it’s the sort of spot you text your group chat about.”

“Warm, contemporary option serving Mexican cuisine such as tacos, burritos, beers & tequila drinks.”

“Rustic-chic locale with a patio featuring seafood-focused Italian plates with housemade pasta.”

“The WingSpace is all about big flavor and quick bites, with a lineup that runs from classic buffalo to tangy twists and full-on fiery, perfect for a low-effort weeknight win. Swing by this week, sample a couple favorites, then let the sauces do the talking. Check it out.”

From the Columbia newsletter, August 24, 2026

“A Columbia favorite since 1989, Motor Supply Company Bistro keeps locals on their toes with a daily changing, chef-driven menu built on farm-to-table produce, sustainably farmed, house-butchered meats, and South Carolina seafood. Bonus points for the outdoor sculpture garden and a nod from the 2025 MICHELIN Guide.”

From the Columbia newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Friendly eatery featuring Southern-inspired breakfast fare, as well as burgers, sandwiches, pancakes and waffles.”

“Mexican meals such as tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and nachos are served at this casual counter-serve eatery.”