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Cool Down With These Great Frozen Cocktails in Columbia, SC

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Have you been searching for where to get frozen cocktails in Columbia, SC? Although summer is coming to a close, the famously hot heat doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down anytime soon. Lucky for us, Columbia is home to several restaurants that offer delicious frozen cocktails. From boozy Sorbet Floats to Blueberry Frose and everything in between, we’re here to let you know about these “cool spots” all around Cola. 

Frozen cocktails, Columbia, SC

Hendrix 

Hendrix is a fantastic place to go for all of your frozen cocktail needs! They’ve got classic frozen drinks as well as an incredible Sorbet Float. This restaurant has a 2nd story dining room and better yet, a 3rd story rooftop bar that overlooks Main Street!

Hours:
Sunday & Monday Closed 
Tuesday – Saturday from 5 pm – until 

Hendrix

Home Team BBQ 

Right in the heart of Five Points, you’ll find Home Team BBQ! Along with delicious food they have two frozen cocktails on their menu: Frozen Game Changer and Frozen Irish Coffee. The Game Changer mix can even be purchased in half-gallon and gallon sizes – all you’d have to do is take it home and add in the rum.

Hours:
Open daily from 11 am – midnight 

Home Team BBQ 

River Rat Brewery 

Serving more than just beer, River Rat Brewery’s frozen cocktails are a great way to cool down in the famously hot Carolina sun. Here you will find their famous Prosecco Pops, incredible Blueberry Frose, and delicious Peach Bellini’s.

Let me be the first to tell you, the Prosecco Pops are DELICIOUS! They are super light and refreshing, making them perfect to sip on in the heat. I loved that I was able to select my flavor of popsicle, out of a good selection of choices, and that they all pair really well with a glass of chilled Prosecco.

Hours:
Monday & Tuesday Closed
Wednesday from 4 pm – 9 pm
Thursday from 4 pm – 10 pm
Friday from 11:45 am – 9 pm
Saturday from 12 pm – 10 pm
Sunday from 12 pm – 6 pm

River Rat Brewery 

Market on Main 

Market on Main features SEVERAL signature cocktails along with holiday and seasonal specials including a frozen “Fireside Shake”. Located right in the heart of Main Street in downtown Columbia with an awesome outdoor patio and green space, Market on Main offers a fun, upbeat atmosphere. 

Hours:
Closed – Monday
Tuesday – Wednesday from 11:30 am – 10 pm
Thursday – Friday from 11:30 am – 12 am 
Saturday from 10 am – 12 am 
Sunday from 10 am – 9 pm 

Market on Main

Booze Pops Cola 

Booze Pops is an alcoholic and non-alcoholic popsicle bar on wheels. The truck can usually be found at the Soda City Market on Main Street every Saturday morning. They often make their rounds throughout the city during the week to different neighborhoods, smaller farmers’ markets, and various events.

On a recent trip to Soda City Market, I gave the Classic Mojito popsicle a try and it did not disappoint. Not only was it perfect for helping stay cool while strolling around the market, but it was also super delicious and tasted exactly like what I had imagined.

To keep up with their travels be sure to follow along with them, who knows, they could be in your neighborhood next! 

Booze Pops Cola 

Where is your favorite place to go for frozen cocktails?


Unique date night ideas: Columbia, SC

Here are some more unique date night ideas!


Columbia, SC Restaurants: where to eat out

Find more great places to go out for a bite to eat or a drink in our Columbia, SC Restaurant Guide.

Eat Local! Best Farmers Markets: Columbia, SC

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Have you visited any farmers’ markets in Columbia, SC? Are you looking for opportunities to support local farmers, artists, crafters, and musicians? Whether you’re in need of great places to purchase fresh, locally-grown produce, unique artwork, baked goods, or even fresh flowers, we’ve got several places for you! Below, we’ve got a list of the best farmers’ markets in and around Columbia! 

Farmers' Market in Columbia, SC: Farmer's Markets to visit

Be sure to also check out our restaurant guide for ideas on where to enjoy fresh produce, kid-friendly meals, and more!

This article includes:
Soda City Market
West Columbia Meeting Street Artisan Market
Clemson Sandhill Market
Blythewood Farmers Market
Lake Carolina Farmers Market
South Carolina State Farmers Market

Why Try a Columbia SC Farmers Market? 

Farmers’ markets are not only a fantastic way to support local farmers and other small businesses, but also a great way to pick out flavorful food that is oftentimes a lot better for our health! Get fresh veggies and fruit at peak season. Several vendors at the farmers’ markets listed below provide organic local produce, allergy-free products such as sauces, spices, and baked goods, as well as cage and chemical-free eggs and meat.

Aside from delicious foods, these local markets also have one-of-a-kind hand-crafted items and focus on all forms of art – painting, photography, sewing, music, woodwork, etc. The atmosphere at farmers’ markets is always so laid-back, making for a wonderful social event with your family and friends!  

Soda City Market in Columbia, SC, people walking at the farmers' market, Columbia, SC

Our Favorite Farmers Markets: Columbia SC

You can find a local farmers’ market happening almost every day of the week. Most of these run from spring – late fall, however, there are a few markets that continue year-round! Pro tip: before heading out, be sure to grab a decent-sized bag to carry around and hold all of your fresh produce, specialty items, and unique finds – we promise you’ll need it!

Soda City Market

Address: 1300 Main St., Columbia, SC 29201
When: Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, year-round

Looking for a fantastic way to start your Saturday morning? The Soda City Market in downtown Columbia will not disappoint. Seriously, you haven’t been to a farmers market until you’ve been to Soda City! Several blocks of Main Street are closed off for this event, allowing people to walk in the road and on the sidewalks. The best part is, you can shop year-round!

Each weekend you can expect to find around 150 vendors. Soda City is a producer-only market which means that everything you find will be handmade or grown by the vendors. Some things you can expect to find here are small, local farmers selling delicious fruits and veggies, flowers, food vendors, coffee trucks, clothing, homemade bread, paintings, musicians, sweet treats, and SO MUCH more. 

All walkways are wide enough for strollers and wagons, however, they can be a bit tricky to maneuver through the crowds during peak times. This is one of the many reasons why we suggest getting there as early as possible, especially if you’ve got smaller kiddos!  Furry friends are welcome to join you at the market as well. 

If you decide to check out Soda City, there are several options for parking. Keep in mind that metered spots are free on Saturdays. But, if you can’t find a metered space, there are three nearby parking garages to try on Lady St., Taylor St., and Washington St. My family and I usually head straight to the garage on Taylor St. as it is only half a block away from the action! 

Soda City Market

Soda City Market flowers in Columbia, SC

West Columbia Farmers’ Market

Address: WeCo Interactive Art Park – 425 Meeting St., West Columbia, SC 
When: Saturdays from 11 am to 3 pm AND the second Thursday of each month from 4 pm to 8 pm

Under the pavilion at the WeCo Interactive Art Park you will find this awesome farmers market! The Artisan Market has several vendors such as local artists, baked goods, seasonal produce, and crafts. After finishing up your shopping, take a stroll through the Art Park or try out a new restaurant as there are several to choose from within just a few blocks of the market. 

West Columbia Meeting Street Artisan Market

Clemson Sandhill Farmers Market

Address: 900 Clemson Road, Columbia, SC 29229
When: Tuesdays from 2 pm to 6 pm beginning in May and ending in November 

At the Clemson Sandhill Farmers Market you will find farmers from all around the region selling fresh and seasonal produce, local honey, baked goods, flowers, eggs, farm-raised meat, and a whole lot more! There are also various crafters and artists that sell their work – paintings, jewelry, and unique clothing items, just to name a few. The Clemson Sandhill Farmers’ Market will being the 2023 season on May 2nd!

Clemson Sandhill Farmers Market

Blythewood Farmers Market

Address: Doko Meadows Park – 171 Langford Rd., Blythewood, SC 29016
When: Wednesdays from 4 pm to 7 pm beginning in spring and ending in fall 

The Blythewood Farmers Market is set up in the large field all around the amphitheater at Doko Meadows Park. Here, you will find over 30 vendors ranging from fresh produce to a table for the local library and everything in between.

By visiting their website you can see a detailed list of vendors each week and where they will be set up around the park. The 10th season of the Blythewood Farmers’ Market begins April 17, 2023!

There is so much for kids to do at the Blythewood Farmers Market. Most weeks, you can find the “Amazing Train Ride” setup. This is a 4-minute long “train ride” that your kiddos will love!

Also, with the Doko playground and walking trails close by, you can allow them to get some energy out before heading back home and cooking up your fresh veggies! 

We have lots more on what you’ll find at Doko Meadows Park in our review!

Blythewood Farmers Market

Lake Carolina Farmers Market

Address: 300 Long Pointe Ln., Columbia, SC 29229
When: Thursdays from 3 pm to 7 pm beginning in April and ending in October

The Lake Carolina Farmers Market is a smaller-scale market found within the popular Lake Carolina neighborhood in northeast Columbia. Although it is located within a neighborhood, the farmers market is open to the public. 

This can be a great place to go for a quick stop if you’re in need of fresh vegetables, fruits, sweets, or handcrafted items such as wreaths, soaps, jewelry and more! Along with the vendors, each week you will also be able to listen to live music.

There are almost always fun activities for children to engage in as well – sprinklers to run in, dressed-up characters, a petting zoo, animal balloon makers, etc. 

Lake Carolina Farmers Market

South Carolina State Farmers Market

Address: 3483 Charleston Highway, West Columbia, SC 29172
When: Open 7 days a week, but vendor hours will vary 

The SC State Farmers Market is massive and has several different buildings and amenities within it. There are specific areas for wholesale vendors, agricultural goods, and a farmer’s shed for farmers to rent spaces in order to sell their goods. Also found at the market is a retail building with a restaurant, bakery, and general store within. 

You can find just about anything at the state farmers market. They’ve got fresh seafood at the “Seafood Cottage”, beautiful flowers and plants, local produce, and even artists and crafters. The recommended time to go in order to get the best produce is between April and October. 

A well-known and popular event held here is the “Midlands Plant and Flower Festival”. This is usually a weekend-long event where you can find HUNDREDS of different flowers and plants for the coming season.

Even if you don’t have an interest in taking any plants home, it is still a neat event to go to!

South Carolina State Farmers Market

What is your favorite thing about our local farmers’ markets?

Romantic & Fun: Lula Drake Wine Parlour in Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for a wine bar in Columbia, SC? Lula Drake Wine Parlour is one of our favorites! Whether you’re looking for a romantic place to take your significant other or maybe you’re on the hunt for a cool place to hang out with friends, Lula Drake should be at the top of your list to try. Filled with so much history, a quaint and inviting atmosphere, and knowledgeable staff, we can’t wait to share more about our recent experience with you! 

Lula Drake Wine Parlour in Columbia, SC

A Glimpse Into the 1920’s 

More than just a stunning, old building along Main Street in downtown Columbia, the Lula Drake Wine Parlour holds so much neat history! The name of this wine bar came to be when the owners found an old trunk in the basement that dated back to the 1920’s. Inside they found the belongings of a woman named “Lula Drake” who they came to learn was a business owner.

Lula Drake owned her own hat shop, a business that was predominately run by men, and is said to have been a trailblazer for women-owned businesses all throughout the Midlands. 

What to Expect at Lula Drake Wine Parlour 

The building, now owned by Certified Sommelier, Tim Gardner, is lavishly decorated in dark, warm colors with a very vintage and welcoming atmosphere. Along with bar seating there are also small tables with comfortable seats spread throughout the restaurant.

One thing my husband and I love about Lula Drake is how quaint it is. There isn’t tons of seating which makes it feel very cozy and romantic. Perfect for having a relaxing evening full of great conversation and even better wine! 

Lula Drake Wine Bar, Columbia, SC

One of the Best Wine Bars in Columbia, SC 

At Lula Drake Wine Parlour you will find a rotating list of wines that can be purchased by the glass or bottle. In addition to wine, they also have more than 40 bottled beer options.

Along with adult beverages, they also serve a variety of small plates such as pasta, homemade desserts, charcuterie boards, non-alcoholic drinks, and more. The food menu changes frequently to match the available wine lists to give you the best pairings and flavors! 

Lula Drake Wine Parlour Review 

My husband and I recently had a date night with no real destination in mind other than heading downtown kid-free! After a quick dinner, we ventured into Lula Drake and spent the rest of our night hanging out there.

The staff was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. With so many wine options to choose from, we couldn’t decide and ended up asking the bartender for some suggestions. After telling her a bit about the tastes we usually enjoy the most, she recommended a red wine that was EXACTLY what we were both looking for. 

We never felt rushed and were given plenty of time and space to enjoy our evening together. Along with a date night with your significant other, this would also be the perfect place to meet up with some friends for a girls’ night, hang out with other couples, or even treat yourself to a quiet, peaceful evening. We know you’ll love it just as much as we did! 

Lula Drake Wine Parlour
1635 Main Street
Open Tuesday & Wednesday from 5 pm – 10 pm and Thursday – Saturday from 5 pm – 12 am 

Unique date night ideas: Columbia, SC

Looking for more things to do for date night?

Be sure to check out our list of unique date ideas!

What Does Columbia Love About Cafe Strudel?

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Have you ever been to Cafe Strudel? Cafe Strudel is a locally-owned restaurant that is well-known to many throughout the Midlands! They have two locations in both West Columbia and Lexington, making it easy to give them a try. Most known for their outstanding breakfast and brunch menu, we promise this kid-friendly, welcoming restaurant won’t let you down.

Cafe Strudel in West Columbia, SC

Quick Growth and Popularity throughout the Midlands

Cafe Strudel began in 1997 as a tiny, 10-table restaurant in West Columbia that quickly outgrew its space and had to move to bigger locations…more than once. After continued growth and support from the community, the owners of Cafe Strudel were able to open a second location in Lexington in 2018. Both restaurants continue to be staple cafes in Columbia. They have several popular, award-winning dishes that we can’t wait to tell you more about! 

Cafe Strudel Has an Inviting, Local Feel 

Cafe Strudel offers a family-friendly, cozy, laid-back feel. The kind of local place you can wander into on a Sunday morning in your “comfy clothes” and feel right at home. The West Columbia location includes indoor seating as well as a covered outdoor patio.

They also have an awesome self-serve coffee bar with a variety of coffee flavors, creamers, and the cutest coffee mugs. While I can’t speak from experience on the Lexington location, word around town is that it’s just as inviting!

As we’ve mentioned, Cafe Strudel is a super popular place to be. Keep in mind that there might be a wait, especially on weekend mornings. They don’t offer reservations, however, you can call ahead to have your name added to the waitlist!

Coffee bar at Cafe Strudel in West Columbia

So Many Delicious Options at Cafe Strudel 

Cafe Strudel has been one of my absolute favorite brunch restaurants for several years. You seriously cannot go wrong with anything you decide on, but the “Hangover Hashbrowns” and “Breakfast Bowl” are crowd favorites. My husband is more of an omelet guy and has never been disappointed with either of their omelets – Smoked Salmon or Smokehouse.

At our most recent visit, I strayed a bit from my normal order and gave the “Sunrise Burrito” a try, and WOW! It might just be my new go-to! My kids shared the Cinnamon Pancakes and, as always, gave them two thumbs up! 

The lunch/dinner menu at Cafe Strudel will also not leave you disappointed. They offer soup, salad, tacos, burgers, wraps, sandwiches and more! Lunch and dinner options are available every day except Sunday! 

Brunch at Cafe Strudel

Support Local Artists at Cafe Strudel 

As if you needed any more reasons to give this cafe a try, let me leave you with another fun tidbit! Cafe Strudel displays modern artwork, mostly done by artists throughout the Midlands. All artwork displayed along the walls is available for purchase. Even if you aren’t interested in taking any pieces home, they are fun to look at and change quite often! What another GREAT way to support local businesses!

Cafe Strudel
West Columbia: 300 State Street
Lexington: 309 South Lake Drive

What is your favorite thing to order at Cafe Strudel?

Enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC

Want more brunch choices?
We have you covered!

Here’s where to get a great brunch in Columbia, SC.

Columbia, SC Restaurants: where to eat out

Searching for more restaurants to try?

Be sure to check out our Columbia Restaurant Guide for ideas on kid-friendly restaurants, date night places, the best ice cream shops, and more!

Groucho’s Deli: Kids Eat Free Saturdays & What to Order

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Columbia has several great, local places to eat that have been around a long time, including Groucho’s Deli, where kids eat free on Saturdays!

The kids eat free offer is for dine-in on Saturdays after 4:00 pm (until 8:30 pm), one kids’ meal for every adult meal purchased.

Grouchos Deli in Columbia, SC

Maybe that love of kids and family time is because its owner, who founded the deli in Columbia in 1941, was an orphan. Continuing in generosity, Groucho’s offers community giveback programs and loyal customer rewards as well.

That free kids’ meal comes with a sandwich, drink, and a side. Kids’ meal options include PB&J, grilled cheese, or all-beef hotdogs, so if you have a picky eater, this place is great. For a healthier option, you can go with pretzels over chips and drinks include 100% juice, milk, and water options as well.

Kids Eat Free in Columbia, SC

If you’re looking for more places to grab a free kids meal, check out our huge list of Kids Eat Free and Cheap Deals in Columbia, SC!

So, why Groucho’s?

Groucho’s flavor is quality deli. They do not use frozen or precut meats. No restructured meat products, soy byproducts, or fillers. This is fresh food, and you can tell.

What are they most well-known for?

  • STP Dipper
  • Giant Salads like “My Wife’s Salad Bowl”
  • House sauces, dressings, and dips such as Formula 45, my favorite (available by pints as well)
  • Their soups, especially potato
  • Signature pasta salad

They also have veggie options, heart-healthy options, and smaller portion options. Just check out their massive menu with great photos. You can order online for pick up or delivery. Also, they offer catering.

Groucho’s Deli Columbia, SC Locations

They have locations in:

  • Five Points (the original)
  • Sparkleberry (northeast Cola near Spring Valley)
  • West Columbia
  • Irmo
  • Lexington
  • Forest Acres (currently closed, re-opening soon).

There are other locations in Chapin, Blythewood, Camden and even more now reaching throughout the state and into North Carolina and Georgia as people discover this tasty family business.

Sparkleberry has the roomiest seating, in our experience.

So, it’s a great place to have a family dinner on the weekend, where kids eat free and parents can order whatever they want.

Columbia, SC Restaurants: where to eat out

Don’t miss any of Columbia’s delicious restaurants. Here’s our Columbia, SC Restaurant Guide.

25+ Family Meal Deals: Columbia, SC, For an Effortless Dinner Tonight

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Do you need some ideas on where to get family meal deals? Some days, we know, are busier than others and it can feel impossible to fit everything in before bedtime. Unfortunately, meal prep and cooking may be pushed to the back burner…no pun intended.

So, if you’re wondering “Where are the family meals near me?” or you’ve ever felt like you’re left scrambling for meal ideas, here is a great list of places that offer family meal deals that are quick, convenient, and budget-friendly! 

Restaurants with family meals to go in Columbia, SC
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Discover the Best Ice Cream in Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for a delicious place to enjoy ice cream around Columbia, SC? Calling all ice cream enthusiasts, this one’s for you! We’ve found the best places in town to enjoy not only great ice cream, but milkshakes, frozen yogurt, snow cones, Italian ice, and more! 

I Scream, You Scream, Let’s Go Get Ice Cream! 

There are so many places in the Columbia area to enjoy a cold sweet treat on a hot summer day…or really, any day! We know it can be fun to load up the kiddos for a special treat, maybe after a long week or as a back-to-school, end-of-summer celebration. So, if you’re looking for somewhere to see those faces light up and get those hands a little sticky, we’ve got you covered! Enjoy! 

Interested in finding out about other delicious restaurants? Be sure to check out our HUGE list of favorites. From pizza parlors to mouthwatering BBQ, we’ve got it all!

This article includes:
Best Ice Cream near Columbia, SC
Best Shaved Ice and Snow Cones near Columbia, SC
Where to Get Italian Ice in Columbia, SC
Gelato in Columbia, SC
Best Frozen Yogurt in Columbia, SC

Ice cream and frozen desserts in Columbia, SC
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Try These Outdoor Restaurants: Columbia, SC Family Dining

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What better way to spend some time outdoors than by making a meal of it? One of my family’s favorite ways to enjoy dinner is al fresco at outdoor restaurants. Columbia, SC has some really great venues to accommodate. These restaurants not only offer an environment suitable for children, but they also have some fantastic menu options. Whether you want a place for your kids to run free, or make all the noises without disrupting a quiet dining room, if you’re wondering “where are the outdoor restaurants near me” we have just the list for you!

Restaurants with outdoor dining in Columbia, SC

Fresh Air and Quality Menus

It can be difficult to find a place that suits the whole family for a meal. Add in outdoor seating and the options become even more narrow. We wanted to give you some ideas to help navigate the already crazy lunch or dinner time scramble.

There are a few places to highlight that can give you and your family a great meal with a good view.

Columbia Restaurants with Outdoor Dining Space

Pawleys Front Porch

Pawley’s is a longtime favorite of locals. Located in the heart of the Five Points neighborhood, you’ll feel the history of the place as soon as you enter. This restaurant makes the top of the list because not only does it have a cozy porch to enjoy but it’s got a great kids menu that will satisfy most picky eaters!

The price point is family-friendly as well, and we couldn’t rave enough about their burgers if we tried! The porch is shaded and comfortable and even has fans for those extra steamy days.

827 Harden Steet, Columbia

Publico (Five Points)

Another Five Points favorite, this restaurant is a little more unique, and maybe for the above toddler-age children. While they do have an awesome, contained back seating area, they don’t have a child-specific menu. The great thing they have to offer though is TACOS! All different kinds, priced individually, so you don’t have to worry about ordering meals to split or adult entrees that may go to waste if ordered for a kid.

During the winter months, Publico puts up igloos outside to keep you warm and sheltered. These are so fun for kids and adults, and even have lights at night! We felt like we were in a private little winter wonderland! The igloos do require reservation and fill up quickly so check them out ahead of time if you’re planning a visit. During the warmer months the seating is picnic-style. They also do specials during the week so check out their website for details!

There is now a second location in the Bullstreet district that also includes outdoor dining. Their patio has fake grass on the ground, so go ahead and let the kids play under the table! Sometimes they offer live music, as well. Plus, there is also a park nearby as well as Segra Stadium for a little after-dinner play time or entertainment.

Publico Kitchen Tap: 2013 Greene Street, Columbia
Publico at Bull Street: 2180 Boyce Street, Columbia

Home Team BBQ

This one-of-a-kind BBQ joint started in Charleston, SC and we are so lucky to get added to the location list here in Columbia! Home Team has some of the best wings, BBQ, and southern sides you’ll find in the downtown area.

Although it’s not the largest patio area, they do have picnic-style dining outside, shaded and surrounded by fans. With a kid’s menu that is sure to satisfy, your whole family can dine here with no problem.

When in doubt, get the macaroni and cheese. There are also daily specials and from our experience, they’re always worth trying!

700 Harden Street, Columbia

Breweries With Outdoor Seating: Family-friendly

Although a brewery might not be your GO-TO when looking for family dining, Columbia has some really awesome family-friendly breweries that happen to have outstanding menus! While they may not include a kid-specific menu, what they do have to offer might be a good compromise. Space to run free!

Each of the breweries listed below offers some truly delicious menu options and ample open space for the little ones to burn off some energy. Every time my family visits one of these there are so many other families there as well, so if you’ve got a little social butterfly this is a great place to relax and watch them make some friends.

Check out the list and peak their menus on their websites :
Steel Hands:  2350 Foreman Street, Cayce
Savage Craft: 430 Center Street, West Columbia
River Rat: 1231 Shop Road, Columbia
Hunter-Gatherer Brewery: 1402 Jim Hamilton Boulevard, Columbia & 900 Main Street, Columbia

Date Night Outdoor Retaurants: Columbia, C

I feel like I wouldn’t be doing our city justice if I didn’t mention some of these other amazing restaurants! While they are not necessarily kid friendly they are some of the true highlights of our downtown and should definitely be added to a date night list for parents. So if you’re looking for a Kid FREE night in the town check out this list of amazing outdoor options :

25+ Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free (or Cheap): Columbia, SC

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Are you on the hunt for restaurants where kids eat free in Columbia, SC? Look no further! Whether you’re looking for freebies, general deals, or sweet discounts, we’ve got a comprehensive list of restaurants to cover it all. 



Kids Eat Free in Columbia, SC

We know taking your family out to eat can get quite pricey, not to mention chaotic. So, we made this easy and called each of the listed restaurants below to get their promotions confirmed. However, please keep in mind that these promotions can change rapidly so it’s always a good idea to triple-check before you go. 

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Time for Brunch? Columbia, SC’s Premier Brunch Destinations

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Are you looking for a great brunch spot in Columbia, SC? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Columbia has a variety of options to satisfy your brunch cravings. From classic breakfast fare to unique twists on traditional dishes, this guide is organized by location, making it easy for you to find the perfect brunch spot in your area.

Explore the brunch offerings in Downtown Columbia, Five Points, and West Columbia, and discover new favorites along the way.

Enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC

Brunch in Downtown Columbia & The Vista

Market on Main

A sophisticated brunch destination featuring truffle frites, alongside an array of salads, gourmet burgers, and breakfast-style sandwiches

Market on Main
1320 Main Street #150
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.722.4222 

My family loves going to Market on Main for brunch! It’s so fun to sit outside and listen to music while we dine. Some of my favorite dishes are their Truffle Frites, Griddled Banana Bread, Brunch Bowl and the Wagyu Burger! And I never leave without having one of their famous Bloody Mary’s! 

Kelly J.

The Toasty Hot Spot

A family-owned brunch spot offering a variety of sandwiches and breakfast-style items.

The Toasty Hot Spot
1305 Lady Street
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.401.5501

smallSUGAR

A delightful brunch restaurant, offering a diverse menu including granola and yogurt bowls, tartines, bowls, and sandwiches.

smallSUGAR
709 Gervais Street 
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.722.7506

Crepes & Croissants

A French-style brunch restaurant with a selection of sweet and savory crepes, along with croissant sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.

Crepes & Croissants
1465 Sumter Street
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.462.4779

Motor Supply Company Bistro

Motor Supply Company Bistro offers a sustainable farm-to-table dining experience with house-butchered meats, locally sourced produce, and South Carolina seafood. Reservations are recommended.

Motor Supply Company Bistro
920 Gervais Street
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.256.6687

Sandwich Depot

Sandwich Depot lives up to their name, serving a variety of sandwiches with their breakfast and lunch, which are served all-day

Sandwich Depot
1211 Taylor Street
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.931.3997

Spotted Salamander Cafe and Catering

This restaurant offers Southern dishes featuring a rotating menu of seasonal and unique produce and meats, along with daily freshly baked treats.

Spotted Salamander Cafe and Catering
1531 Richland Street
Columbia, SC, 29201
803.556.2197

DiPrato’s

This Italian-style deli would fit right in up in NYC. They offer signature sandwiches, and a special brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm. It includes all the traditional brunch favorites like pancakes and French Toast, plus eggs and dishes with a unique flare like the Monte Cristo French Toast Sandwich.

DiPrato’s
342 Pickens Street
Columbia, SC 29205
803.779.0606

 I like Di Prato’s because of all the classic southern staples they have on the menu. My favorite thing to order is the pimento cheese!

Patrick S.

Brunch in Five Points & Shandon

The Gourmet Shop

A classic Columbia brunch spot with outdoor seating and a variety of sandwiches, bakery items, lunch, and breakfast options.

The Gourmet Shop
724 Saluda Avenue
Columbia SC, 29205
803.799.3705

The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli

A charming spot with a wide variety of breakfast and lunch menu items, including an assortment of unique cinnamon roll flavors.

The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
2617 Devine Street
Columbia, SC, 29223
803.465.4947

Rosewood Market

A food market with a deli featuring a diverse menu featuring daily specials, and a variety of brunch items, catering to all appetites and dietary preferences, 

Rosewood Market Deli
2803 Rosewood Drive
Columbia, SC, 29205
803.256.6410

Publico

A dog-friendly restaurant in Five Points offering fresh and local food made from scratch.

Publico
2013 Greene Street
Columbia, SC, 29205
803.661.9043

Henry’s Restaurant

Homey restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with brunch options. They also have a location in West Columbia!

Henry’s Restaurant
111 Sparkleberry Crossing, Suite 1
Columbia, SC, 29229
803.563.5674

Brunch in Irmo & West Columbia

Cafe Strudel

A popular spot for brunch with a creative menu featuring dishes like shrimp & grits and crab cakes.

Here’s our Kidding Around Review of Cafe Strudel.

Cafe Strudel
300 State Street
West Columbia, SC, 29169
803.794.6634

I love going to Cafe Strudel for brunch! I almost always order the “Hangover Hashbrowns”. And you can’t beat the self-service coffee bar or freshly squeezed orange juice! Along with the delicious menu, I also love the location. After brunch my family and I like to head over to the WeCo Riverwalk or to some of the antique shops and boutiques just around the corner.

Kayla S.
Brunch at Cafe Strudel

The Hideout in WeCo

A local café offering counter service, indoor, and outdoor seating serving cafe-style breakfast and lunch options

The Hideout in WeCo
118 State Street
West Columbia, SC, 29169
803.881.1044

The Original Brunches

A restaurant featuring traditional brunch-style foods, such as omelets, biscuits, and sandwiches.

The Original Brunches
2245 Leaphart Road
West Columbia, SC, 29169
803.791.7477

Compton’s Kitchen

A restaurant in West Columbia with special kid-friendly options, and all-day breakfast offerings.

Compton’s Kitchen
1118 B Avenue
West Columbia, SC, 29169
803.791.0750

The Bistreaux by Fleur de Licious

A Cajun & Creole-style restaurant offering classic New Orleans-style breakfast and lunch options, with special events throughout the year.

Fleur de Licious
2700 Broad River Road
Columbia, SC, 29210
803.205.1785

Chayz Lounge

An upscale “Jazz Bistro” with classic brunch selections, salads, and signature menu options.

Chayz Lounge
607 Meeting Street
West Columbia, SC, 29169
803.563.8375

When it comes to satisfying your brunch cravings in Columbia, you’ll have an abundance of choices to indulge in. But don’t just take our word for it! Check out each restaurant’s website for menus and hours, and then embark on your own culinary exploration.

Tell us! Have you tried any of these fantastic brunch spots? We’d love to hear about your experiences! Share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below.

Columbia, SC Restaurants: where to eat out

The best restaurants in Columbia are right here.

The Premier Guide to Restaurants in Columbia, SC