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16 Romantic Date Night Restaurants and Dessert Bars in Columbia, SC

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Thinking about planning a nice date night dinner for you and your significant other in Columbia, SC? Date nights are an important part of every relationship, but sometimes feel like they don’t happen nearly enough. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant that offers full entrees or maybe just a cozy place to order some drinks, small plates, or tasty desserts, we’ve found the perfect romantic date night restaurant for you!

We’ve got options for romantic restaurants in downtown Columbia, West Columbia, and even Northeast Columbia – so maybe try someplace new, travel a little further than you normally would, and enjoy some special one-on-one time. Cheers!

Date night restaurants in Columbia, SC

Which Restaurant Should I Go To For Date Night in Columbia, SC?

In Columbia, SC you will find many great restaurants with romantic, laid-back atmospheres, delicious food, and excellent service that are sure to make your date night extra special. Each of these restaurants offers something unique to make your time spent with your significant other well worth it. These are just a few date night-friendly restaurants that our city has to offer. 

*It is always a great idea to make reservations well in advance, especially on weekends or when celebrating a holiday. With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, these restaurants will undoubtedly fill up fast! 

The Best Restaurants in Columbia, SC for Date Night 

1. Gervais & Vine

This modern Mediterranean restaurant is a great date night option! Gervais & Vine is a tapas bar that offers a cozy atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor dining. They have a large cocktail and wine list as well as tapas such as seared scallops, baked brie, charcuterie, and more.

Address: 620 Gervais Street, Columbia 
Gervais & Vine

2. Lula Drake Wine Parlour

Lula Drake is a very unique restaurant that showcases so much history and vintage-inspired decor. Their menu is made up of several small plate options that pair very well with the wine and beer lists. Depending on how hungry you are, this might be a fantastic place to go to start off, or even finish, your date night.

Address: 1635 Main Street, Columbia 
Lula Drake Wine Parlour 

3. SakiTumi 

Found in the popular Vista area of Columbia, SakiTumi is a Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of sushi and sashimi options. It has a very romantic, yet high-energy atmosphere. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday they offer great specials:

  • Tuesdays from 5 pm to 10 pm
    • Nemo-Vino Night – $34 for 1 premium bottle of wine, 1 specialty sushi roll, and 1 classic sushi roll
  • Wednesdays from 5 pm to 10 pm
    • S&M Night – ½ priced sushi and martinis 
  • Saturdays from 5 pm to 10 pm
    • ½ priced saki

Address: 807 Gervais Street, Suite 103, Columbia 
SakiTumi 

4. The Gourmet Shop 

Found in Five Points, this charming, quaint bistro offers a variety of sandwiches, soups, and salads that are mouthwatering good! They are only open for brunch and lunch dining options. Along with serving delicious foods, The Gourmet Shop also features a store with things such as wine, beer, fine cheeses, glassware, cutlery, chocolates, and so much more!

Address: 724 Saluda Avenue, Columbia  
The Gourmet Shop

5. Hunter Gatherer Alehouse 

Hunter Gatherer is well-known to locals as a place to go for delicious food and drinks. This restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere perfect for hanging out with your significant other or meeting up with friends. They’ve got several beers on tap, sandwiches, salads, and plenty of entrees to choose from. When you’re there be sure to try out the sausage balls!

Address: 900 Main Street, Columbia 
Hunter-Gatherer Alehouse 

6. Motor Supply Co. Bistro

This bistro is located in an awesome historic building in the heart of Columbia’s Vista district. The ever-changing menu features contemporary American cuisine with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. They also have a wide selection of craft beers and wines. My husband and I recently went here for a birthday celebration and really enjoyed everything we had to eat. The meat and cheese board was a great choice as an appetizer! Added Bonus: They even have complimentary valet parking, which as you know is a HUGE benefit for any downtown restaurant!

Address: 920 Gervais Street, Columbia 
Motor Supply Co. Bistro

7. Bourbon

This modern-style restaurant is centrally located on Main Street in downtown Columbia. The menu features a variety of different meat styles, an extensive bourbon, whiskey, and cocktail selection, and cajun-creole cuisines – making it THE perfect spot for a special date night! Bourbon does not accept reservations so it is best to get there early. Keep in mind that after 5 pm, parking is FREE in the back parking lot!

Address: 1214 Main Street, Columbia 
Bourbon

8. Smoked 

Smoked in one of Columbia’s newer restaurants, but lacks none of the greatness! They have several large menus for brunch, lunch, and dinner serving a variety of oyster bar options, steak flights, ravioli, salad, and so much more! Smoked also offers great cocktails, a large wine list, and a beautiful outdoor patio area.

Address: 1643 Main Street, Columbia 
Smoked

9. Cola’s

A local favorite and Columbia staple, Cola’s is a must! The 1930’s building was once used as a Cola bottling plant and still contains all of the brick, vintage charm. This restaurant specializes in steak & seafood with raw bar options and an extensive wine list. When the weather is nice, 2 large garage doors will be opened to allow tables to enjoy views of the SC Statehouse and the surrounding city.

Address: 1215 Assembly Street, Columbia 
Cola’s 

10. Villa Tronco 

Villa Tronco is the oldest restaurant in the whole state, so they must be doing something right! On their menu you will find seafood, pasta, pizza, delicious desserts, and more. Over 80 years later, they continue to use family recipes from the original owners.

Address: 1213 Blanding Street, Columbia 
Villa Tronco

Our Favorite Date Night Romantic Restaurants in West Columbia, SC 

11. Terra

This farm-to-table restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a frequently changing menu.  They have a lovely shaded patio, making it the perfect place to go and enjoy some fresh air and great company when the weather is nice! Terra has a very intimate atmosphere that would be perfect for a couple looking for a quiet, romantic night out.

Address: 100 State Street, West Columbia 
Terra

12. Black Rooster 

Black Rooster is a French-inspired restaurant that sits right near the foot of the Gervais Street bridge. Here you will find delicious cuisines from escargots to a Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich and everything in between. One other great thing to note about Black Rooster is the amazing rooftop bar! Here, you will have great views of not only West Columbia, but also downtown, and parts of the river.

Address: 201 Meeting Street, West Columbia 
Black Rooster 

Northeast Columbia Date Night Restaurant Ideas

13. Travinia’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Travinia’s offers a great atmosphere and delicious Italian-style cuisine. They have delicious italian classics, flatbreads, soups, and more. Travinia’s also offers a large gluten-free menu!

Address: 101 Sparkleberry Crossing Road, Columbia
Travinia’s Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Best Dessert Restaurants in Columbia, SC 

What better way to end a nice date night than a dessert bar? No matter what type of dessert you’re in the mood for, Columbia has a spot that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re looking for a classic dessert, a unique twist on a favorite, or something new to try, these restaurants are sure to have something that will satisfy all of your cravings! 

14. Kiminsky’s Dessert Cafe

Kiminsky’s has SO MANY sweet treats to choose from! They’ve got cake by the slice, gourmet cheesecake, pies, brownies, and more. This dessert bar is also well-known for its dessert martinis and signature cocktails. From “spiked” coffee and adult milkshakes to cookies and cake, Kaminsky’s is sure to have something to cure your after-dinner sweet tooth!

Address: 930 Gervais Street, Columbia 
Kiminsky’s Dessert Cafe

15. Sweet Cream Company

This ice cream shop offers handcrafted, small-batch ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. They have a rotating selection of flavors, but the salted caramel and honey lavender are a few local favorites! Along with ice cream they also serve coffee, artisan sodas, and gourmet hot chocolate.

Address: 1627 Main Street, Columbia
Sweet Cream Company

16. The Robinson Room 

This awesome dessert restaurant can be found on the lower level of The Grand, a boutique bowling alley and restaurant. The Robinson Room is a swanky dessert and cocktail bar and features some really unique creations! The atmosphere is quaint and romantic, making it a great spot to continue on your night out with your loved one.

Address: 1621 Main Street, Columbia, SC 
The Robinson Room

What is your go-to date night restaurant?

Unique date night ideas in Columbia, SC

Need more date ideas?

Unique Date Ideas in Columbia, SC

The Grand on Main: Columbia’s Boutique Bowling & Restaurant Experience

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Are you wondering about the bowling, dining, and desserts at The Grand on Main in Columbia, SC? If you have any bowling enthusiasts in your family and you’re looking for a new place to score some strikes, or you’re looking for that unique boutique dining spot for a date night or to meet friends, you’ve come to the right place. The Grand on Main houses a large, full-service restaurant, quaint bowling alley, and a top-secret dessert lounge, The Robinson Room, – don’t worry we’ll share ALL the details! 

Bring your kids, or bring your date, either way, The Grand on Main in Columbia, SC is the boutique-style bowling alley, restaurant, and dessert bar that you’ve got to try!

The Grand on Main in Columbia, SC
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10 of the Best BBQ Restaurants in Columbia, SC

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Are you in search of delicious, mouth-watering barbecue in Columbia, SC? You’re in luck! This city is home to a number of excellent BBQ joints that are sure to satisfy all of your cravings. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to check out one of the fantastic restaurants we have below! 

Find the best BBQ in Columbia, SC

BBQ – A Southern Classic 

BBQ is a great southern meal that pairs suspiciously well with a large glass of sweet tea and great southern hospitality! One of my personal favorite things about BBQ is all the sides – mac and cheese, fried okra, mashed potatoes, you name it! Don’t forget the banana pudding. Feeling hungry yet? 

So whether you’re a fan of classic bbq sauce, or a mustard-based sauce, on chicken, brisket, or pulled pork, may your barbecue platter always be filled with delicious barbecue sandwiches, your favorite sides, and maybe a little tomato pie.

Where Can I Find Good BBQ in Columbia, SC? 

Keep in mind that these are just a few of the many excellent barbecue restaurants throughout the Midlands:

1. The War Mouth 

The War Mouth is a local favorite where you can get not only great barbecue but also unique drinks and cocktails! They are most famous for their whole-hog barbecue – be sure to give it a try while you’re there. Word around town is that they’ve also got some of the best old-fashioned hash and deviled eggs! 
Address: 1209 Franklin Street, Columbia

2. Little Pigs Barbecue 

Little Pigs Barbecue has been in Columbia since the 1980’s! This BBQ buffet is known for its pulled pork, brisket, and ribs, all of which are slow-cooked over hickory wood giving an authentic flavor. Their sides, especially the mac and cheese, are also top-notch! 
Address: 4927 Alpine Road, Columbia

3. Doc’s BBQ & Southern Buffet 

Conveniently located just a few blocks away from the State Fairground and near the interstate, Doc’s BBQ is a must-try! Doc’s serves traditional BBQ, seasonal sides, desserts, and even has the choice of a delicious southern buffet with all the fixins’. 
Address: 1601 Shop Road, Columbia

4. Palmetto Pig

The Palmetto Pig is another great option for BBQ in Columbia. They smoke all their meats over hickory and oak and are most popular for their pulled pork and BBQ chicken. The sauces here are also delicious! 
Address: 530 Devine Street, Columbia

5. Railwood BBQ 

Railwood BBQ is a local, neighborhood restaurant with some of the best BBQ in Columbia! They’ve got a variety of BBQ sandwiches, large plates, and of course, plenty of mouthwatering sides. One awesome thing to note about Railwood is that they have vegan options on their menu!  
Address: 2001 Hampton Street, Columbia

6. Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ

Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ is a Columbia, SC-based chain restaurant that has been in business for more than 60 years. They’re known for their mustard-based sauce and a huge variety of sides. While you’re there, be sure to give their famous hash and rice a try!
Address: Several locations throughout Columbia

7. Home Team BBQ 

Home Team BBQ can be found in Five Points, the heart of downtown Columbia. At this restaurant, you will find tacos, combo platters, sandwiches, and all the classic BBQ meats. My family frequently visits here and one of my favorite things on the menu are the smoked chicken wings!  
Address: 700 Harden Street, Columbia

8. Hite’s Bar-B-Que

Cooked over a pit of both oak and hickory wood, the BBQ at Hite’s is all that it’s cracked up to be! This restaurant has been locally owned and operated since the late 1950’s. They serve all the BBQ classics and are also open for take-out. 
Address: 240 Dreher Road, West Columbia

9. Midwood Smokehouse 

You won’t want to miss out on Midwood Smokehouse! Here you will find classic BBQ plates, combo platters, tex mex tacos, and more! They’ve even got a gluten-friendly menu! 
Address: 702 Cross Hill Road, Columbia

BBQ From Farther Away, But SO Worth It 

10. Scott’s Bar-B-Que 

Feeling adventurous? Take a trip to the WORLD FAMOUS Scott’s Bar-B-Que in Hemingway, SC! Scott’s Bar-B-Que has been serving up some of the best-pulled pork and ribs in the state. They smoke all their meats over hickory wood, resulting in a smoky, juicy flavor that will leave you wanting more. Be sure to try their famous hash and rice!
Address: 2734 Hemingway Highway #5420, Hemingway

Where is your family’s favorite place to enjoy BBQ?

Dining Out in Columbia, SC

We Know Where You Want to Eat

Columbia’s Restuarant Guide

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

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Do you need some ideas on where to get family meal deals? Now that school is back in session, schedules seem to fill up quickly and days become a bit busier. 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 ever feel 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! 

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

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Are you on the hunt for kids eat free deals in or around the Columbia, SC area? 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. 

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. 

This article includes:
Daily Kids Eat Free or Cheap Deals in Columbia, SC
Monday Kids Deals in Columbia
Tuesday Kids Meal Deals in Columbia, SC
Wednesday Kids Eat Free and Cheap in Columbia, SC
Thursday Kids Meal Deals in Columbia, SC
Saturday Kids Eat Free and Cheap in Columbia, SC
Sunday Kids Meal Deals near Columbia, SC
Special Kids Eat Free & Kids Meal Deals Event
More Kids Meal Deals near Columbia, SC

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Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Columbia, SC

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Are you looking for a restaurant in the Columbia, SC area that is kid-friendly? Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly place to grab breakfast or even enjoy a sit-down dinner, we’ve got you covered! With family restaurants that include built-in ice cream or dessert shops, arcade games, and endless kid-friendly meals, this list will have the perfect spot for you! 

Discover some of the best family restaurants in Columbia, SC.

Messy Hands, Hungry Bellies, Let’s Eat! 

Taking the whole family out to eat can sometimes be a bit stressful. Will there be high chairs? Outside areas to sit or walk antsy legs? Or how about every parent with young children’s worst nightmare…white tablecloths? Have no fear! We’ve got a great list of family and kid-friendly restaurants all around Columbia. And good news for you, no, there won’t be any white tablecloths! 

Where to Eat Out With Kids in Columbia, SC

Great Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Columbia, SC:
Burgers, Wings, and Sandwiches
Pizza
Breakfast
Mexican Food
BBQ
Family Friendly Breweries

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