Columbia is a bustling college town, but its best food isn’t found in flashy new restaurants.
The city’s culinary soul lives in the decades-old institutions that have become rites of passage for students and locals alike.
These are the places where the recipes never change because they were perfect to begin with.
To eat the best food in Columbia, you have to visit the legends.
Here are five no-frills restaurants in Columbia that serve the best food you’ll ever taste.
1. Booche’s
Booche’s is not just a restaurant; it’s a historic institution.
This downtown pool hall has been serving its famous burgers on wax paper since 1884.
The menu is simple, the burgers are small, and the flavor is legendary.
Ordering a couple of burgers at the bar is a quintessential Columbia experience.
2. Shakespeare’s Pizza
Shakespeare’s is arguably the most famous restaurant in Columbia.
This quirky, irreverent pizza joint has been a local icon for decades.
The pizzas are loaded with toppings, and the atmosphere is always buzzing.
It’s a place that is deeply woven into the fabric of the city.
3. Broadway Diner
The Broadway Diner is a tiny, classic American diner that has been serving Columbia since the 1950s.
It’s famous for “The Stretch,” a massive breakfast hash brown creation.
Seating is limited, and there’s often a line out the door for a reason.
It’s a perfect, greasy-spoon experience that never disappoints.
4. Murry’s
Murry’s is a beloved local secret tucked away from the main downtown drag.
It’s known for its live jazz music and a menu of consistently delicious American classics.
The Gene’s Special sandwich and the green pepper rings are local legends.
It feels like a private club that welcomes everyone.
5. Ernie’s Cafe & Steak House
Ernie’s is a time capsule of a restaurant that has been serving breakfast and lunch to Columbians for generations.
This cash-only spot feels like stepping back into the 1950s.
The breakfast is simple, hearty, and cooked with care on a well-seasoned flattop.
It’s a true local’s spot that prioritizes good food over everything else.
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