South Carolina’s capital radiates hospitality, and at its center—beyond the college energy and government hum—thrives a truly southern food scene: barbecue, seafood, old school soul food, new-South farm-to-table, and the flavors of a global city.
1. Motor Supply Co. Bistro
A pioneer of Columbia’s “Locavore Revolution,” Motor Supply turns out creative New American fare in a brick-walled former motor supply warehouse.
The chef’s menu changes daily: local pork belly, seared scallops, seasonal risotto, and farm-fresh veggies anchor the meal.
The bar teams mixes top-tier cocktails, often with South Carolina whiskey and housemade syrups. Servers know both farmers and foodies by name.
2. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
Iconic, charming, and utterly decadent, Devine’s cinnamon rolls are as big as your head (and Instagram-favored).
The menu delivers epic breakfast sandwiches, corned beef hash, and fluffy biscuits; lunch means creative deli fare.
Somedays the line snakes out the door, but no one leaves grumpy—not with house-roasted coffee and gooey cinnamon rolls in hand.
3. Terra
With an airy dining room overlooking The Vista, Terra is Southern-inspired fine dining with Italian flair: short rib pappardelle, duck confit, fried green tomatoes layered with goat cheese, and wood-grilled steaks.
The wine wall is impressive, with many local labels. Service is refined but welcoming—the rare “date night” spot that also thrives on Sunday brunch crowds.
4. Husk Columbia
Helmed by a James Beard chef, Husk puts Carolina’s culinary roots at center stage: cornbread, country ham, wood-fired fish, heirloom tomatoes, all sourced from small farms and local waters.
The reimagined Victorian house setting adds warmth and drama.
Every dish tells a story—about the Lowcountry, the land, or a grandmother’s garden.
5. Big T’s Bar-B-Que
True Southern barbecue can’t be rushed—Big T’s slow-smokes pork and beef, serves it up with mustard sauce and hush puppies, and expects you to take your sweet time.
Platters arrive with a smile; the sweet tea is strong.
Sundays fill the dining room with football cheers, and regulars don’t leave without homemade cobbler, either peach or apple.
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