Bites & Sights Fall 2014 by Free Times

Dining, Attractions, Nightlife and Accommodations

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

| freetimes

best some of the

steak

columbia moments happen over .

Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Seven Days a Week Private Party & Meeting Facilities for 10 to 225 Guests

Columbia | 803.212.6666 | 924 Senate Street â&#x20AC;˘ ruthschris.net At the Hilton Columbia Center in the Historic Vista District

Get fresh with us. Columbia’s most progressive restaurant invites you to step out of normal and step into SakiTumi. Flavorful grill and incredible sushi with fresh fish delivered DAILY. Creative cocktails from our full service bar and great service in a casual atmosphere bursting with energy and great music. You’ll have to remind yourself you’re still in Columbia. Get fresh with us for dinner and drinks anytime.

803.931.0700 • SakiFresh.com SakiTumi Grill & Sushi • 807 Gervais St, Vista • Open Every Day @ 5pm

contents Restaurants

Published by Resorts Media LLC 1534 Main St., Columbia, SC 29201 (803) 765.0707 (803) 765.0727 fax

Dining, Attractions, Nightlife and Accommodations

6 American-Southern 10 Asian 10 Bagel-Bakery 10 Bar-Pub Food 12 Bistro-New American 14 BBQ-Wings-Ribs 15 Breweries & Brewpubs 16 Café-Coffee House 16 Cajun 17 Caribbean-Latin 17 Chinese 18 Deli 18 Dessert 21 Ethiopian 21 Food Trucks 21 French 21 German 21 Greek-Mediterranean 22 Indian 22 Italian 23 Japanese-Sushi

FALL 2014 free-times.com

COLUMBIA’S PREMIER VISITORS GUIDE

ON THE COVER

True BBQ’s ribs and sides. (see listing on p. 15)

Photo by Jonathan Sharpe

Did we list a restaurant that has closed? Did we overlook your favorite place? Let us know what you think: Email food@free-times.com.

25 Korean 25 Mexican 26 Middle Eastern 26 Pizza 27 Seafood 28 Steakhouse 28 Tapas 28 Thai 29 Vegetarian 29 Vietnamese

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Play & Stay 31 Calendar of Events 32 Attractions 40 Nightlife 44 Accommodations

Index 30 Restaurants by Neighborhood

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Charlie Nutt ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Kerry Powers EDITOR: Dan Cook FOOD EDITOR: Eva Moore LISTINGS EDITOR: Jordan Lawrence PHOTOGRAPHER: Jonathan Sharpe PRODUCTION MANAGER: Lisa Willis DESIGNERS: Joey Ayer, Matt Bradley SALES MANAGER: Cale Johnson ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Hyatt Drake, Ginny Kuhn, Jessica Rowland, Jerry Viles, Brian Wingard AD ASSISTANT: Kayla Cahill CIRCULATION MANAGER: Davey Mathias DOCK MANAGER: Travis Bland, Tripp Bolius, William Clark, Bob Folts, Jerod Hunter, Dan Lucas, Charles McCarty, Chess Moorer, David Shealy, Dave Shuler, Don Turner, James Williams VICE PRESIDENT-OPERATIONS: Jen Coody Advertisers in Free Times Bites & Sights assume responsibility for the entire content and subject matter of all advertisements. In case of error or omissions in advertisement, the publisher’s sole liability shall be to publish the advertisement at a later date. Notice of error must be made within ten days of first insertion. Views expressed in Free Times Bites & Sights reflect the opinion of the individual writer or artist and are not necessarily those of Free Times. Unsolicited submissions are welcome, but may not be returned. © 2014 Resorts Media LLC. All rights reserved.

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NOW SERVING BRUNCH: SAT 10AM-2PM SUN 10-NOON 799.0196 | yesterdayssc.com

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chicken filet sandwiches, cheeseburgers and other very affordable eats, Drake’s Duck In offers some of the best, fastest fast-foodthat’s-not-fast-food you’ll find anywhere in town. ¢.

2108 State

IRMO/HARBISON/DUTCH FORK:

2108statebarandgrill.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 2108 State St., 200-2108

Mon-Thu, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Bar open until midnight, Mon-Sat.

A hip neighborhood bar and grill in the heart of Cayce, 2108 State serves up brunch, lunch and dinner in a casual way. Dorito-Crusted Five-Alarm Cheese Sticks: check. Korean short-rib tacos: check. Nice bar: check. Large mural of the Lizard Man: Uh, check. ¢-$.

American Roadside Burgers

americanroadside.com SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 702 Cross Hill Rd., 790-9960 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Burgers! Burgers? Burgers. Hand-scooped milkshakes, salads, sandwiches and a kids’ menu, too. Oh, and wine and beer. So it’s basically the best place on earth. $.

Anthony’s Past Time Café

Carolina Ale House carolinaalehouse.com

277 Columbiana Dr., 407-6996 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

VISTA: 708 Lady St., 227-7150

Mon-Sun 11-2 a.m.

North Carolina-based franchise offers extensive appetizers, signature sandwiches and all manner of chicken, steaks, barbecue and ribs and seafood entrees to complement pizzas and salads. Features more than 30 beers on tap and 40 or so bottle selections. Downtown Vista location features Columbia’s most popular rooftop bar and 99-cent kids meals. ¢-$.

Casserole 2 Go

casserole2go.com DOWNTOWN: 1208 Laurel St., 764-1673 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (lunch hours 11 a.m.-4 p.m.)

Mmm .. casseroles. Order a fresh or frozen casserole to take home, or stop during lunch hours to grab a sandwich, nibble a dessert or try the featured ‘role. $.

DOWNTOWN: 1425 Sumter St., 255-6200

Chickadees Diner

Burgers galore, but also fried chicken gizzards and livers, gyros, chicken wings, hot dogs and more, depending on your mood. Try a shake or float. ¢.

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

chickadeesdiner.com HARBISON/IRMO: 7949 Broad River Rd., 542-7762

thebackyardcafe.com

Breakfast is served all day at this classic diner, with french toast, waffles and fancy omelets aplenty. Lunch and dinner feature American favorites from burgers to quesadillas. ¢-$.

940 Old Barnwell Rd., 951-0405

Compton’s Kitchen

Backyard Café

WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE:

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

From the ribeye steak sandwich topped with sauteed onions peppers mushrooms and gooey provolone cheese, to the salmon caesar salad, the Backyard Café has food to suit a range of tastes and appetite sizes. Chicken wings, fried flounder and nachos, too. ¢-$.

Bert’s Southern Cooking NORTHEAST:

100 Pontiac Business Center Dr., 788-0022 Mon-Fri 11 a.m-8 p.m.; Sat 3-8 p.m.

Great Southern meat-and-three, serving everything from fried chicken to meatloaf. $.

Burger Tavern 77

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2631 Devine St., 667-9608 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Hey, budding math geniuses: With 77 different toppings available, how many different custom burger combinations are possible? A lot. Not to mention that 26 beers on tap + 77 burger toppings = 1 full belly. ¢-$.

California Dreaming

californiadreaming.co DOWNTOWN: 401 S. Main St., 254-6767

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Located in a historic railroad station, California Dreaming opened in 1984 and ever since has been a popular destination. Serves large salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta, chicken and steaks. Truly outstanding

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comptonskitchen.com LEXINGTON: 5343-L Sunset Blvd., 399-1272 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat 6:30 a.m.-noon, Sun 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

1118 B Ave. 791-0750

Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-noon. Closed Sunday.

Compton’s Kitchen is Southern cooking at its finest — you’ll leave with a bellyful of home cooking. With most everything made from scratch, you can’t go wrong with the meat-and-veggies combos. A special menu highlights meals under 400 calories. Regular lunch entrees include fried chicken, stewed beef and rice, salmon patties, livers and gizzards, country-style steak and the expected sides: fried okra, buttered spinach, squash casserole, June peas, etc. ¢.

Down Home Café

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

1446 Ste. A Poplar St., 764-0621 Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

In addition to offering established southern dishes like gizzards, livers and wings, Elise Partin, the town’s mayor, tweeted that they served her the best fried pork chop she’d ever eaten. And she wouldn’t have any interest in getting more people to visit the town that she’s mayor of right? Right?.

Drake’s Duck-In

DOWNTOWN: 1544 Main St., 799-9290

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Ah, Drake’s. Known for its fried chicken,

101A Ministry Dr., 781-6878

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Authentic, enormous Philly cheesesteaks — a foot long and piled high with all the classic Philly options, including Cheez Whiz. $.

3609 River Dr., 252-6696

JackSon’s Southern Kitchen

Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

mixed drinks, and the honey croissants always are a hit. ¢-$.

HARBISON/IRMO:

Edna’s Drive In NORTH COLUMBIA:

AmericanSouthern

Interstate Hoagies and Steaks

A modest kiosk that’s been dishing out some of the city’s best hamburgers and hot dogs to generations of Columbians. A genuine local institution. ¢.

Eggs Up Grill

jacksonssouthernkitchen.com FOREST ACRES/DENTSVILLE: 3400 Forest Dr., Ste 1088,

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4-8 p.m; Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Southern-style comfort food, buffet style. Staples like fried chicken, mac & cheese, and candied yams are available for lunch and dinner every day of the week. ¢.

eggsupgrill.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2930 Devine St., 661-9174 Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

A South Carolina chain devoted to breakfast foods, from waffles to omelets to loaded home-fry platters, plus lunch foods like burgers, sandwiches and wraps. All hail breakfast! ¢.

Fancy That Bistro and Catering

fancythatbistroandcatering.webs.com DOWNTOWN: 1212 Hampton St., 779-6110 Mon-Sun 7 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Home-cooked favorites, from eggs for breakfast to chicken pot pies and bacon cheeseburgers for lunch. $.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries fiveguys.com

FOREST ACRES: 4751 Forest Dr., 787-3178

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

285 Columbiana Dr., Suite N, 407-6443 NORTHEAST: 460-2 Town Center Pl., 788-6200 LEXINGTON: Hwy. 378 (Target Ctr.), 356-1007 VISTA: 931 Senate St.; 799-0441 Made with fresh-ground beef, offered with a dozen different toppings and with the perfect amount of grease moistening the bun, these are what burgers in heaven must taste like. The fresh-cut fries are great, too. Grab a handful of napkins and enjoy. ¢.

Flight Deck

shoppesatflightdeck.com LEXINGTON: 109-A Old Chapin Rd., 957-5990

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Family-owned restaurant with an extensive collection of World War II-themed memorabilia and photographs. Menu ranges from burgers and sandwiches to ribs, pizza and Greek specialties. Everyday blue-plate special includes one meat, two veggies, dessert and a drink. ¢.

Fuddruckers

Jillian’s

jillianscolumbia.com VISTA: 800 Gervais St., 779-7789 Sun-Thu 11:30 a.m. to midnight; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m.

Jillian’s is designed for eating, drinking and mingling, with plenty of visual stimulus from tons of big-screen TVs. The menu includes appetizers (mmm .. mozzarella sticks), burgers, sandwiches, flatbread pizzas, soups, salads and desserts. ¢-$.

Judy’s at the Market

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 3483 Charleston Hwy, 509-5641

Sun-Mon 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

Located at the South Carolina State Farmers Market, Judy’s serves up classic breakfast items — homemade biscuits, big omelets — as well as such Southern favorites as pimento cheese burgers, country fried steak and fried chicken. ¢-$.

Just Us Café

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 1208 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-5162

Tue-Sun 6 a.m.-3 p.m.

Just your basic, old-fashioned breakfast and brunch, including the best corned beef hash this side of the Congaree River. ¢.

Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles

kikischickenandwaffles.com NORTHEAST: 110 Columbia Northeast Dr., 834-7948

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 9:30 a.m.-midnight; Sun. 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

Chicken and waffles! And not just any old iteration of this soul food classic — Kiki’s offers a red velvet waffle if you’re feeling fancy. Also try the shrimp and grits. ¢.

Kingsman Restaurant

thekingsmanrestaurant.net WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 936 Axtell Dr. (Parkland Shopping Center), 796-8622 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

fuddruckers.com

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Specializes in hamburgers cooked to order with fresh ingredients. Beef is ground daily and hamburger buns are baked daily. ¢.

This longtime Cayce favorite offers an extensive menu featuring everything from fried appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, pizza and wings to salads, lasagna and even liver and onions. Known for its grilled rib eye, which is one of the city’s best. Serves liquor. Busy lunch, lots of atmosphere. ¢.

Harper’s Restaurant

Le Peep

1801 Bush River Rd., 798-3775

Sun-Wed 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Thu-Sat 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

harpersrestaurants.com FIVE POINTS: 700 Harden St., 252-2222

Mon-Thu 11:15 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:15 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Part of a small Charlotte-based chain, Harper’s exceeds chain standards both in the quality of the ingredients and the level of attention paid your dinner by the kitchen. While the menu has burgers, sandwiches and nicely smoked meats (dig the firewood pile out back), Harper’s also offers fresh seafood, creative salads and more. Sunday brunch runs 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and features signature omelets and more. $.

lepeep.com VISTA: 701 Gervais St., Ste. 110, 254-1200 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2 p.m. Sat 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.

Are you in the mood for something other than IHOP? This chain serves breakfast and lunch around the country with everything from tacos to breakfast banana splits. $.

Liberty on the Lake

libertytaproom.com HARBISON/IRMO: 1602 Marina Rd., 667-9715

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

With sweeping, scenic views of Lake Murray

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

FINE MEDITERRANEAN • MIDDLE EASTERN CUISINE • PIZZA

Best Mediterranean Restaurant for 14 years

: TRY OUR FAVORITES : • Kabobs • Gyros • Wraps & Burgers • Salads • Pizzas • Hummus

629 MAIN ST. 803.771.0515 free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

New Location! Private Room Available. Open on Sundays.

1734 MAIN ST. 803.401.5882

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from its multiple decks, Liberty on the Lake is a gorgeous place to knock back a few beers and some tasty, fresh-caught fish or a burger. Some of the same great salads, sandwiches and apps you’ll find at the Liberty in the heart of Columbia. $.

Liberty Tap Room & Grill libertytaproom.com VISTA: 828 Gervais St., 461-4677

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (Brunch until 2 p.m.); bar open until 2 a.m. all week.

Liberty begins with sturdy American fare (mmm .. burgers!) but doesn’t end there. Though it’s known for its delicious salads, you’ll also find an array of appetizers, succulent soups and colorful entrees. You can’t go wrong with the Freedom Burger, which has everything including a fried egg on it; or try any of the fresh seafood, pizzas, chicken and pastas. $.

Lizard’s Thicket

lizardsthicket.com DOWNTOWN: 818 Elmwood Ave., 779-6407 BLYTHEWOOD: 711-1 University Village Dr., 451-8400 FOREST ACRES: 3147 Forest Dr., 787-8781 GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 7938 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-0095

Michael’s Café and Catering

michaelscafecatering.com DOWNTOWN: 1620 Main St., 726-2233

Mon-Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m, buffet 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Located in a renovated Main Street building, Michael’s serves up excellent versions of deli favorites and downhome classics: pimento cheese, chicken pot pie, salads, sandwiches and more. $.

Midlands’ Food Arts

Ms. B’s Southern Kitchen WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

1213 Sunset Blvd., 509-5945

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-2:30p.m.; Thu-Fri 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

501 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-0314 WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

2234 Sunset Blvd., 794-0923 Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Meat loaf, fried chicken, mac and cheese, fried okra. Good lord, what more could you want? A true local institution that thrives on the meat-and-veggies formula. This is what Southern cooking is all about. ¢.

Lucky’s Burger Shack HARBISON/IRMO:

7811 Broad River Rd., 749-0048 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Hand-pattied burgers aren’t the only thing Lucky’s serves up: Daily specials run the American-Southern gamut, from pork chops with rice and gravy to big fried seafood platters. ¢-$.

Mack’s

DOWNTOWN: 1809 Laurel St., 779-9681

Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-3:45 p.m.

The clientele at this little wood-paneled downtown lunch spot is equal parts blue collar and white collar, but they’re all in it for the same thing: affordable, thin, griddled burgers and the tastiest slaw dogs around. The chili cheeseburger is especially good. ¢.

Mathias Sandwich Shop mathiassandwich.com HARBISON/IRMO: 7235 St. Andrews Rd, 781-4002

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

Founded in 1946, this sandwich shop is one of the early homes of the pimento burger. Serves breakfast and lunch. ¢.

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201 Columbia Ave., 359-8858 NORTHEAST: 10016 Two Notch Rd., 699-1376 NORTHEAST: 2500 Decker Blvd., 736-0101 ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

originalpancakehousencsc.com FOREST ACRES: 4840 Forest Dr. (Trenholm Plaza), 782-6742

Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat-Sun 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Pancakes as you like them. Offering a full menu including cinnamon-glazed apple pancakes, freshly squeezed juices, homemade fruit syrups and more. And if you’re not in the mood for pancakes, try the meat-lovers omelet. The lines are long for a reason; get there before church lets out and you’ll be in good shape. ¢.

Pawleys Front Porch

pawleysfrontporch.com FIVE POINTS: 827 Harden St., 771-8001

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-until; Fri-Sun 11 a.m.-until

Ever since its burgers were featured in February 2010 on the Food Network show Diners Drive-Ins and Dives, the lines outside Pawleys Front Porch have grown much longer. There’s more to the menu than burgers and shoestring fries — for example, fried oysters, fish tacos and a gourmet BLT — but make no mistake: it’s the all-beef behemoths and atypical toppers that keep people lining up at this Five Points bar and grill. Fancy a fried egg, apple-cured ham, pineapple, melted brie, guacamole, portobellos or a pair of onion rings stuffed between the half-pound patty and the ciabatta bun? $.

Rockaway Athletic Club ROSEWOOD/OLYMPIA:

2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m. (Kitchen closes at 11 p.m. Sun-Tue; midnight Wed-Sat)

This local institution was a stop for President George W. Bush during a visit to Columbia, and for good reason. For years, locals have been flocking to Rockaway’s for its unbeatable pimento cheeseburgers and excellent bar food. ¢-$.

Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs

sandyshotdogs.com DOWNTOWN: 825 S. Main St., 254-6914

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m. LEXINGTON: 5175 Sunset Blvd. 356-9956

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m. ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

1935 Broad River Rd., 772-1020

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m. ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.

Savalis Restaurant & Lounge savalisrestaurantandlounge.com DOWNTOWN: 1710 Main St., 791-4139

Mon-Sat 6 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Main Street club mixes Southern cuisine, drinks and live entertainment. Honey baked chicken, smothered pork chops and BBQ ribs are on offer; check them out while listening to local musicians and comics. ¢.

Sizzle Bacon Eatery and Pub

sizzlesc.com FIVE POINTS: 819 Harden St., 661-9390 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Yes, this restaurant is entirely devoted to bacon, with a variety of American and Southern favorites incorporating everyone’s favorite cured meat, from burgers to a baconjam-topped steak. Desserts feature bacon, too. Nice full bar. $.

Smashburger

smashburger.com HARBISON/IRMO: 937-C Lake Murray Blvd., 724-3630

LEXINGTON: 309 Oak Dr., 356-0200

Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 5-9p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun 10:45 a.m.-3 p.m.

If you’re in the mood for some Southernstyle comfort food, this is the place for you. From the exterior, it looks as though you’re visiting a very quaint home, and luckily, the owners would love to have you over for dinner. $.

Vella’s Restaurant & Tavern vellasonline.com

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

829 Knox Abbott Dr., 796-4629

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Family friendly neighborhood restaurant in the classic tradition — simple, great food and a cheerful staff that treats customers as, well, family. Menu focuses on steaks and ribs, wings, sandwiches and house specials. ¢-$.

Very’s

verysrestaurant.com NORTHEAST: 6729 Two Notch Rd., 788-6254 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m

Delicious Philly cheesesteaks, plus oldschool Northeastern cuisine from Italian subs and lasagnas to pizzas. ¢-$.

Waffle House

FIVE POINTS: 916 Harden St., 799-0313

Open 24 hours

Dude, it’s Waffle House. It has hash browns, waffles, eggs, steaks — everything you need, whether you’re planning to do some lumberjackin’ or you just have a brutal hangover. For other Midlands locations, visit wafflehouse.com. ¢.

What-A-Burger

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

804 Meeting St., 794-1929

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Serving Columbia “good ol’ fashioned” burgers since 1953. Continuing a 50-year tradition, all food is cooked to order. Other selections include fried chicken, barbecue, chicken tenders, corn dogs and a variety of salads and milkshakes. ¢.

Wild Hare Sports Café

wildharesportscafe.com HARBISON/IRMO: 5122 Old Bush River Rd., 213-1000

Mon-Fri 3 p.m.-2 a.m. Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m. VISTA: 902 Gervais St., 929-0374

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

4601 Devine St., 224-9443 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

You could just get an All American burger, sure, but you could also add a fried egg, garlic mushrooms, guacamole or avocado — so why wouldn’t you? If you’re so inclined, you can also top it off with a Häagen Dazs shake. ¢.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

One of the more out-of-the-way restaurants in town, this bar is located beneath an office building in Middleburg Park. Perhaps its location is why it’s frequented by local celebrities such as former Gamecock football players — but the real draw is its tasty food. Downhome lunch and dinner specials, and huge portions. ¢.

Vegetable Medley & Chavis BBQ

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

These folks probably didn’t invent the slaw dog, but they might as well have, at least in these parts. Proving that chili and coleslaw and onions and mustard can elevate the simple grilled wiener to something approaching haute cuisine, this local chain has been many a Columbian’s introduction to the sublime world of a well-prepared dog. Sandy’s also sells ice cream, though if you still have room after the main event, you’re doing something wrong. ¢.

Original Pancake House

1824 Broad River Rd., 798-6427

283 Harbison Blvd., 781-1277

LEXINGTON:

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

HARBISON/IRMO:

612 St. Andrews Rd., 772-8617

1840 Hampton St., 254-0484

2240 Airport Blvd., 796-7820

7620 Two Notch Rd., 788-3088

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-midnight

DOWNTOWN:

Delivering breakfast and lunch to downtown businesses since 1991. Features breakfast menu that includes the traditional items but also adds such items as corned beef hash, liver pudding and fried flounder. Lunch menu heavy on sandwiches and salads though a meat-and-three option is available. ¢.

NORTHEAST:

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 7-9 p.m.; bar open 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

This restaurant’s nice, casual feel is something you might come to expect during your time at the Marriott Hotel. Features New Southern classics like shrimp and grits. Stop by for breakfast, lunch or dinner after a long day (or night) in downtown Columbia. $.

Nathan’s Restaurant

10170 Two Notch Rd., 419-5662

2711 Middleburg Dr., 799-2120

7450 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-5201

2332 Sunset Blvd., 796-2396 A locally owned chain serving better fast food than you’ll find anywhere else for the price. Great burger baskets, hot dogs, shakes, etc. Why give your money to conglomerates when there are locals ready to beat their prices, quality and service? rushs.net. ¢.

Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 6:30 a.m.-noon and 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

HARBISON/IRMO: NORTHEAST:

FOREST ACRES:

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

2640 Broad River Rd., 772-2393

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

7569 St. Andrews Rd., 732-1225 LEXINGTON: 621 W Main St., 951-3555

The Mousetrap

rushs.net

marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/ restaurant/caemh-columbia-marriott/ DOWNTOWN: 1200 Hampton St., 771-7000

You want a country buffet? Here’s a country buffet. All the meat-and-three-style favorites you could ever want, plus a salad bar and dessert bar. A la carte available, too. ¢-$.

402 Beltline Blvd., 738-0006

Rush’s

$$ avg. entrée > $15

Mouth-watering lunch specials accent a menu that is complemented by gut-busting appetizers such as the potato cakes and chili cheese fries. Come hungry, because the portions are aplenty. If you’re looking for something lighter, the Firecracker Shrimp Salad is a signature dish. ¢.

Yesterdays Restaurant and Tavern

yesterdayssc.com FIVE POINTS: 2030 Devine St., 799-0196 Sun-Thu 11:15 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m. (Bar open until 2 a.m.)

A Columbia landmark since 1978. People flock here not just for a glimpse of a guy in a bathtub but also to throw back some

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

WEST COLUMBIA Foodlion Shopping Ctr. 2250 Sunset Blvd. West Columbia, SC 29204

DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA on the corner of Sumter & Pendleton 945 Sumter St. Columbia, SC 29201

Celebrating 17 years!

CarolinaCafeAndCatering.com

New 2nd Location Now Open!

Downtown 803.799.6676 • West Columbia 803.794.9799

OPEN

7 DAYS A WEEK! We Make Fresh Baked Bagels Every Morning Breakfast & Lunch All Day

COFFEES • SPECIALTY DRINKS BREAKFAST SANDWICHES • SOUPS • CHILI • SALADS • WRAPS MELTS • PANINIS • CATERING AND BOXED LUNCHES (West Columbia Only)

carolina cafe classics • Our Signature Sandwiches

served with fresh fruit wedge, chips and a pickle.

The Columbia ....................................................... 6.50

The Hilton Head .................................................. 6.50

Turkey breast, whole cranberry sauce & leaf lettuce. A Capitol Sandwich! The Lexington ...................................................... 6.50 Corned beef, melted Swiss, sauerkraut & Thousand Island dressing. A.K.A. The Reuben!

All breast of chicken salad perfectly blended with reduced fatmayo. Our Heritage Classic! The Charlotte........................................................ 5.95 Crisp bacon, freshly sliced ripe tomatoes, mayo & leaf lettuce.A.K.A. the BLT!

The Charleston .................................................... 6.50 Dophin-safe tuna splashed with fresh lemon, a wave of celery, mayo & leaf lettuce. Sail away! The Myrtle Beach ............................................... 6.50 Thin & trim sliced ham, cheddar cheese, dijon mustard & leaf lettuce. Bikini Ready! The Spartanburg................................................. 6.50 Roasted beef, creamy horseradish, Swiss cheese & leaf lettuce. For the hardy! The Winston-Salem........................................... 6.50 Turkey breast, cheddar cheese, our own sweet & spicy mustard & leaf lettuce. You’ll inhale this one. The Greenville ..................................................... 5.95 Swiss & cheddar with tomato, onion and leafy lettuce. Your choice of sweet & spicy mustard or mayo. Vegetarians delight!

The Lake Murray ................................................ 7.50 Freshly smoked salmon with whipped cream cheese, red onion &capers. What a catch! The Newberry ...................................................... 6.25 Our own special Egg salad recipe. Reduced fat and fabulous! The Georgetown ................................................. 6.50 Turkey, ham or roast beef with bacon, Swiss, lettuce, tomatoes & mayo. A.K.A. the Club! The Edisto .............................................................. 6.25 Our own homemade pimento cheese. Already famous!

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

| freetimes

suds while filling up on the heartiest fare in town, including meatloaf, broiled salmon or Lowcountry shrimp and grits and, of course, Confederate fried steak. Just about everything comes with veggies, too, unless you’re ordering late-night, when the sides scale back to slaw and fries and cold draught beer. ¢.

Asian Antai Asian Dining

antaiasiandining.com LEXINGTON: 5084 Sunset Blvd. (McCauley Square), 356-0062

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Boasting a “comfortable atmosphere, gourmet dishes and the highest standards of service,” Antai specializes in both Chinese and Japanese fare. Sushi is on the menu as well as traditional Asian soups and appetizers, chicken, meat and seafood dishes. Strong vegetarian menu and house favorites that include Black Bean Scallops, Beijing Duck and Honey Walnut Shrimp. $.

Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet

flaminggrillbuffetsc.com HARBISON/IRMO: 115 Afton Ct., 781-2226 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Very large restaurant near Columbiana Mall that offers several different styles of food including Chinese, American and Italian, among others. Customers can also have fresh meat cooked in front of them by a hibachi chef. Vegetarians can enjoy the sizable salad and dessert bars. ¢.

M Cafe

miyos.com

DOWNTOWN: 1417 Sumter St., 779-5788

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sat. 5-10 p.m.

This Asian grill is one of downtown’s hotspots, and for good reason. Choose from standard Chinese stir fry dishes, including vegetarian options, or reasonably priced grilled items like salmon or flank steak, which come with a healthful salad plus a choice of white rice, brown rice or steamed noodles. From the owners of Miyo’s. Also features a sushi bar. ¢-$$.

M Fresh

miyos.com

DOWNTOWN:

1237 Washington St., 779-1688 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

This downtown eatery, part of the Miyo’s restaurant group, features big healthy salads and sandwiches, plus some delectable extras — tree mushroom salad, boiled edamame and other little appetizers brought to your table. Huge selection of juices, smoothies and healthy teas made to order. $.

M Grille

gomgrille.com VISTA: 531 Lady St., 708-8881

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10:30 p.m.; Sat 5-10:30 p.m. Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

High-end Asian dining in the Vista. Creative dishes span seafood, salads and more, from Thai-style tenderloin salad to honey-brined Southern chicken. Full bar with happy hour. $-$$.

M Vista

miyos.com VISTA: 701-C Lady St., 255-8884

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.11 p.m.; Sat 4:30-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Just like the other Miyo’s and M Café locations, M Vista features upscale Chinese cuisine and sushi with a twist: M Vista focuses on healthy ingredients and portions and cooks with organic ingredients. Besides stir-fries, noodle soups and special sushi rolls, there’s a well-stocked bar. Yum! ¢-$.

10 freetimes |

Miyo’s

miyos.com

NORTHEAST: 715 Fashion Dr., Ste. 1,

Village at Sandhill, 788-8878

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

1220 E-2 Bower Pkwy., 781-7788 Sun-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.- 10:30 p.m. FOREST ACRES:

3250 Forest Dr. Ste. B, 743-9996

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.10:30 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Winner of many Best of Columbia awards for its Shanghai and Szechwan cuisine. Features both traditional and innovative dishes served in a comfortable, elegant atmosphere. Also features a sushi bar. ¢-$$.

Red Bowl Asian Bistro

redbowlcolumbia.com NORTHEAST: 481-11 Town Center Pl., 462-9991

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

LEXINGTON: 5166 Sunset Blvd., 996-1333

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine. House specialties include spicy orange peel chicken, seafood double pan and spicy Thai green curry chicken. Full sushi bar and gluten-free menu available on request. $.

Tsubaki

NORTHEAST: 224 O’Neill Ct., 736-7474

Tue-Sun 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Lively location features Columbia’s most authentic Japanese karaoke bar as well as several yummy entrees to put you in the singing spirit, drawing on French and Japanese favorites along with traditional bar food. Also serves sushi from Inakaya Restaurant, housed next door. ¢.

Bagel-Bakery Ally & Eloise Bakeshop allyandeloise.com FOREST ACRES: 5209-B Forest Dr., 708-2982

Tue-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Eloise is a French bulldog. And Ally is a heck of a baker, turning out fancy cookies, cupcakes, muffins and scones, not to mention fancy layer cakes and bundt cakes galore. ¢.

Atlanta Bread Company

petit fours, cheesecakes, specialty chocolate cakes and more. Its signature item is the Chocolate Nirvana cake, a unique flourless cake with Calbaut (Belgian) chocolate, butter, eggs and sugar. Whole cakes are by order only; stop by the bakery for a cup of coffee and a cupcake or slice of cake. ¢-$$.

Crust Bakehouse crustbakehouse.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2701-B Rosewood Dr.

Tue-Fri 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

In the mornings, Crust offers cookies, scones and other sweet pastries; a little later in the day, the delectable breads start coming out of the oven: focaccias, ciabattas, sourdough, levains and more. And yes, they have no telephone. ¢.

Heather’s Artisan Bakery heathersartisanbakery.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 1524 Lafayette Ave., 807-1428 Fri 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

Artisanal bakery offers homemade breads for serious bread fans. From wheat to sourdough to ciabatta, you can’t go wrong ordering breads baked with care. ¢.

Lillian’s Eatery & Bakery

FOREST ACRES: 4711 Forest Dr., 790-0733

Mon 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Tue-Fri 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (kitchen closes at 2:30 p.m.); Sat 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Begun as a bakery, Lillian’s also offers a lunch menu. The bakery is rather inventive, creating cakes that look like gift packages, traditional croquembouches (French wedding cakes), trees with custard-filled cream puffs and meringues. Lillian’s dobosh torte is seven layers ofwhite cake with a chocolate butterberry cream in between and a fan of caramelized sugar on top. ¢-$$.

Panaderia Odalys

Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery tiffanysofcolumbia.com NORTHEAST: 8502 Two Notch Rd., 736-2253

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (Grill closes at 2:30 p.m.; kitchen at 3 p.m.)

Bread, cakes, pastries, quiches, soups, salads and chicken, all made fresh daily. One house specialty is the Spring Valley chicken salad, with white raisins, pecans and honey mustard dressing. ¢.

Bar-Pub Food Bar None

FIVE POINTS: 620 Harden St., 254-3354

Mon-Fri 3 p.m.-6 a.m.; Sat-Sun 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Late-night bar serving food into the wee hours of the morning — including, on certain special nights, the finest smoked chicken wings you’ve ever tasted. Large selection of beers on tap. ¢.

Beef O’Brady’s

beefobradys.com HARBISON/IRMO: 2742 N. Lake Dr., 781-5656

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m-11 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-10 p.m. NORTHEAST:

4561 Hard Scrabble Rd., 699-9687

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

From the Philly cheesesteak to the roast beef garlic melt to the corned beef reuben and a full line of deluxe burgers, you won’t be hurting for red meat options here. There are wings too, and wraps featuring shrimp and chicken, but “beef” is in the name for a reason. Served in a family friendly setting peppered with sports memorabilia and TVs. ¢.

Bentley’s Beach House LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY:

WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE:

1605 N. Lake Dr., 808-7263

103 N. 12th St., 794-3323 Mon-Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Mexican bakery offering a delightful array of pastries (pasteleria) and lightly sweetened breads (pan dulce) baked in-house daily. ¢.

Panera Bread

panerabread.com

Sun-Wed 4 p.m. to midnight; Thu-Sat 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

In the former Dam Bar and Grill spot on Lake Murray, you’ll find this bar, which serves up cheap, classic bar food and nice cold beers. ¢.

Blazing Copper

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

blazingcopper.com FIVE POINTS: 812 Harden St., 779-4445

6080 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-9722 panerabread.com

Tue-Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Serves standard bar food — chicken tenders, wings, tater tots — with different daily specials. ¢.

HARBISON/IRMO:

1007 Bower Pkwy., 407-5773 Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Blue Coyote

atlantabread.com DOWNTOWN: 1307 Main St., 779-0101

NORTHEAST:

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

LEXINGTON: 5416 Sunset Blvd., 359-3652

Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Panera’s cornerstone is freshly made, all-natural artisan breads. Serves a variety of sandwiches and soups offerings in a comfortable, high-tech atmosphere. ¢.

Wings, steaks and comfort food. ¢-$.

Silver Spoon Bake Shop

1220 E10 Bowers Pkwy., 227-8918

631 Promenade Pl., 865-8460

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

108 Sunset Ct., 791-1150

Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

Atlanta Bread Company is a bakery café offering fresh, high quality ingredients and a menu ranging from cinnamon rolls and hot breakfast sandwiches to grilled paninis. ¢.

Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery brueggers.com FOREST ACRES: 4699 Forest Dr, 738-8112

Mon-Fri 5:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

Fresh-baked bagels, wraps, signature sandwiches, boxed lunches and salads to go. What’s not to like? Now serving grilled paninis as well. ¢.

HARBISON/IRMO:

silverspoonbakeshop.com SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 2507 Devine St., 673-6374

Tue-Fri 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Housemade pastries, cakes, pies and delicious cookies, plus a coffee bar. Custom cakes and pies for special events, too.

Nonnah’s

nonnahs.com VISTA: 928 Gervais St., 779-9599

Chocolate Nirvana Bakery and Cafe

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-11 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m. and 5-12:30 p.m.; Sat 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

This bakeshop, an offshoot of long-beloved dessert joint Nonnah’s, serves freshly baked bread, scones, brownies, pastries and more. ¢.

chocolatenirvanabakery.com GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 4405 Ft. Jackson Blvd., 799-9982 This bakery offers a sinful array of layer cakes,

10708 Broad River Rd., 781-4606

Mon-Thu 4 p.m.-midnight; Fri 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat 12 p.m.-2 a.m.

British Bulldog Pub

thebritishbulldogpub.com

IRMO/HARBISON/DUTCH FORK:

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-2 a.m. (late night menu Wed-Thu 10-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 p.m.-12 a.m.) Sun buffet 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

A British pub with a real British pub menu: everything from roast beef and Yorkshire pudding to meat pies to Scotch eggs to crispy samosas, plus plenty of burgers and salads for the anglophobes. Breakfast served all day. Extensive soccer and rugby viewing schedule, too. $.

Cock N Bull Pub

facebook.com/cocknbull.pub ROSEWOOD/OLYMPIA: 326 S. Edisto Ave., 251-4474

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m; Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (bar open later)

The Cock N’ Bull is an English-style pub with

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Kingsman Serving You Since ’72

Daily Specials � Meat & 3

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

SALISBURY STEAK PORK CHOPS / FRIED CHICKEN LIVERS POT ROAST BBQ / RIBS / LASAGNA PORK CHOPS / FRIED CHICKEN LIVERS

Catering Available • Monday -Saturday 11am-10pm PARKLAND PLAZA � CAYCE 803.796.8622 free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

| freetimes

soccer (football) matches a-plenty on the tube. Pub food and daily specials include shepherd’s pie, fish-n-chips, pot roast and more, plus the always amazing shrimp burger. ¢-$.

Corner Pocket

IRMO/HARBISON/DUTCH FORK:

489 Piney Grove Rd., 731-0403 Mon-Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Burgers, wings, steaks, sandwiches and more. Weds are Service Industry Night with Kickin’ Karaoke, who also appears on Sundays. Local bands Thu, Fri and Sat with acoustic tunes on Mon. ¢-$.

Kelly’s Deli & Pub

sandwiches, salads, soups, wings and appetizers. ¢.

Mon-Fri and Sun 3 p.m.-until; Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

The Kraken

VISTA: 1001 Washington St., 254-4464

Offers pizza, jerk wings and a variety of baskets. Full bar features beer buckets, drink specials and Long Island Iced Tea specials. Lively regular crowd and outgoing staff makes Kelly’s a cut above. Catering available and private parties welcome. ¢.

Lucky’s

facebook.com/luckysin5points FIVE POINTS: 2100-B Devine St., 929-1118 Mon-Sun 6 p.m.-until; Tues-Sat 4 p.m.-until

Delaney’s

Lucky’s offers the style and sensibility of The Vista in the heart of Five Points. Offers daily drink specials, wine by the glass plus burgers, fries, appetizers and more. ¢.

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Polliwog’s

delaneysspeakeasy.com FIVE POINTS: 741 Saluda Ave., 779-2345 Irish pub with 27 beers on tap and variety of food, including Irish and American favorites. Live acoustic and Celtic music Tuesday through Sat and trivia on Sundays. delaneyspub.com. ¢.

Flying Saucer

beerknurd.com VISTA: 931 Senate St., 933-9997

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. Sun noon-midnight

The Saucer operates according to the more is- better principle — unless, of course, you’re talking about the waitresses, who deliver the highend pints and mammoth soft pretzels in knee socks and fig leaves. Seriously: The palate may focus on the endless beer list, the enormous sandwiches, even the pizza by the slice, but the eyes — a lot of them, anyway — leer elsewhere. ¢.

Hemingway’s

hemingwaysmusicpub.com HARBISON/IRMO: 7467 St. Andrews Rd., 749-6020

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 12 p.m.-2 a.m.

Serves 25 different sandwiches, as well as buffalo wings. Casual atmosphere befriends the t-shirt and suits alike. Daily lunch specials. ¢.

Henry’s Grill and Bar henrysgrillandbar.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2865 Devine St., 708-4705 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m. NORTHEAST:

111 Sparkleberry Crossing, 563-5674 A comfortable, classy neighborhood bar with delicious burgers, fried pickles and tons of drink specials. Try the Big T burger: a huge, juicy double cheeseburger between two grilled cheese sandwiches. The Sunday brunch rocks. ¢-$.

Jake’s

jakesofcolumbia.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2112 Devine St., 708-4788

Tue-Fri 4 p.m.-until; Sat 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 5 p.m.-until

A college bar that serves sustainable local food? Yep. Serves bar-snack standards like nachos, wings and mozzarella sticks, plus pizzas and calzones — all with plenty of ingredients from local farms. $.

Karl’s Korner Pool Room & Tavern

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

1800 Memorial Dr., 791-1772

Mon-Sat. 4 p.m.-2 a.m. Sun 2 p.m.-midnight

As you can guess from the name, Karl’s Korner is all about the pool, with leagues and tournaments happening all the time. Of course, when you’re hungry after scratching the eight-ball, they can settle your stomach right down with your basic bar food specials. Burger, anyone? ¢.

12 freetimes |

polliwogsc.com

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

10005 Two Notch Rd., 736-5775

Mon 3:30 p.m.-2 a.m. Tues-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

You’ll find familiar choices at this stateof-the-art sports bar, including burgers and sandwiches, chicken fingers, wraps, appetizers, salads and wings — all presented with a green, local focus. ¢-$.

vibe and live music several days a week. Menu heavy on salads and sandwiches plus appetizing daily specials. ¢.

Wet Willie’s

facebook/com/thekrakengastropub ROSEWOOD/OLYMPIA: 2910 Rosewood Dr., 955-7408

VISTA: 800 Gervais St., 779-5650 wetwillies.com

Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-midnight (kitchen open 5-10 p.m. Mon-Thu, 5-11 p.m. Fri-Sat) Sunday brunch 10:30 am-2:30 pm

What’s a gastropub? Well, that just means the food is as good as the excellent selection of beer, with offerings like boiled peanut hummus, a lamb shank and a cheese plate. Regular specials keep things interesting. $.

The Whig thewhig.org

DOWNTOWN: 1200 Main St., 931-8852

Mon-Fri 4 p.m.-until; Sat-Sun 5 p.m.-until

Hip underground bar across from the State House serves pizzas, sweet potato fries, burgers and a mean grilled cheese sandwich. Also home of the infamous Taco Tuesdays, when beef or bean tacos are 75 cents apiece and the crowds are massive. $1 slices Mondays. ¢.

The Woody

Rusty Anchor

facebook.com/TheWoodyInTheVista VISTA: 808 Lady St., 779-9663

Thu 5-9 p.m. Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

A nostalgic, throwback dance club owned and manned by Woody Windham, a Columbia DJ since 1960. Drink specials abound. ¢.

rustyanchorrestaurant.com HARBISON/IRMO: 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555

Wed-Thu 6 p.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Lakeside destination features great views and excellent casual dining, with seafood favorites like she crab soup and fresh grouper tempura, plus steaks and pork chops for the landlubbers. We’re excited about the watermelon-smoked bacon salad. Quarterdeck features fish tacos, burgers and live music during the warmer months. $-$$.

Thirsty Fellow

Salty Nut Café

saltynut.com FIVE POINTS: 2000 Greene St., 256-4611 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-until

Even a firebombing couldn’t keep The Nut down: The beloved bar and burger joint reopened in mid-2012, and its porch is as awesome as ever. Here’s to peanut shells on the floor and those giant, tasty burgers. ¢-$.

Skores Restaurant and Sports Bar ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

2700 Broad River Rd., 731-2500

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

thirstyfellow.com VISTA: 621 Gadsden St., 799-1311

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun 10 a.m.-midnight (Brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m.)

Pub food and fresh specials include wings, fish ‘n chips, sandwiches, soups, appetizers and an array of stone-fired pizzas. Try the banana pepper stuffed with sausage and served with a hearty marinara and cheese sauce. ¢.

Lots of sauces distinguish this barbecue joint, which offers a small but tasty selection of barbecued meat sandwiches. Convenient to Williams-Brice Stadium. ¢-$.

116state.com

WEST COLUMBIA/VISTA WEST:

116 State St., 791-5663

Tue-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri -Sat 5-11 p.m; Brunch Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-3 p.m. (last seating at 2:30 p.m.)

Combine a chill coffee-shop atmosphere with great wine and food, and you have @116. Daily specials range from soups to seafood to steaks to specialty pizzas, many with Mediterranean and Southern influences. Lots of fabulous Spanish wines, and a famed White Russian menu. Brunch usually runs the gamut from omelets to pancakes to stuffed French toast — with splendid Bloody Marys. $.

Bistro on the Boulevard

bistroontheblvd.com HARBISON/IRMO: 1085-D Lake Murray Blvd., 369-1332

Mon-Thu 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noon-2 a.m.

cellarongreene.com FIVE POINTS: 2001D Greene St., 343-3303

Cellar on Greene

In its quest to be a “bar that doesn’t serve bar food,” the Tin Roof lays out an impressive spread: spicy corn quesadillas, Cuban sandwiches, Greek salads and more — plus enough wings, cheese fries and jalapeño poppers to satisfy the barfood-craving masses. $.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m. (Shop open Mon-Fri 11 a.m.; bar opens at 5 p.m.)

103 Beaufort St., 932-4470 thetipsytoad.com

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

@116 Espresso & Wine Bar

tinroofbars.com VISTA: 1022 Senate St., 771-1558

The Southern Belly 1332 Rosewood Dr., 667-9533

Bistro-New American

Tin Roof

Tipsy Toad Tavern

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

Of course you know that Wet Willie’s is all about the daiquiris. But this self-described classic rock venue also is serious about the food, from oven-baked seafood to appetizers, sandwiches and pizza. Also check out the rotating specials such as sausagestuffed mushrooms and a half-pound pulledpork sandwich. ¢.

Upscale Southern classics like Lowcountry crab dip and shrimp and grits meet bistro offerings like fancy stuffed pork chops and an Asian salmon burger. $.

It’s a sports bar — what more do you need to know? Lots of burgers, wings and salads, and lots of TVs. $.

southernbellybbq.com

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noon-midnight

thetipsytoad.com

LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY:

Part wine shop, part tapas bar, the Cellar on Greene is the place to go for wines by the half-and full-glass or bottle and an ever-changing menu of Continental, Mediterranean, and bistro-style dishes: seafood and steaks, salads, hummus, pizzas, pastas and more. The truffle parmesan raw fries are exceptional. $-$$.

Cola’s American Cooking

Mon-Fri 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

DOWNTOWN: 1215 Assembly St., 451-0051

A godsend to the culturally deprived lake area, the Tipsy Toad features a good beer selection and Vista-style atmosphere. ¢-$.

TLC Sports Bar and Grill ROSEWOOD/OLYMPIA:

Mon-Thu 5:30-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m.

American bistro with diverse influences includes menu items like bacon-wrapped polenta fries, grilled grouper and braised short ribs. $$.

936 S. Stadium Rd., 251-3087 facebook.com/theloosecockaboose

Copper River Grill

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Mon-Tue 3 p.m.-midnight; Wed-Fri 3 p.m.-4 a.m.; Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Mon-Sun 6-10:30 a.m. 4:30-11 p.m.

Formerly called The Loose Cockaboose, this Gamecock bar is within a stone’s throw of Williams-Brice Stadium. Offers burgers, wings and other good grub for hungry fans. Great tailgating location before and after the game. ¢.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.

Sporting News Bar and Grill 110 McSwain Dr., 391-4002

Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner inside the Holiday Inn and Suites, this bar and restaurant has plenty of TVs and plenty of American menu classics. ¢-$.

Tap’s Pub

NORTHEAST:

104-B Columbia NE Dr., 699-4657 Mon-Fri 3 p.m.-until; Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

This patriotically themed pub offers entrees like Italian chicken giambotta or Appian Way porkchops in addition to pasta dishes,

Utopia Food & Spirits

IRMO/HARBISON/DUTCH FORK:

1230 Bower Prkwy., 749-4647 copperrivergrill.com

Specializes in a little bit of everything — grilled seafood, chicken and steak dishes, sandwiches and burgers and oven-baked pizzas. Try the sashimi tuna appetizer and, if you’re man (or lady) enough, the 32-oz. Big Sky Porterhouse. $.

Courtyard Café by Marriott at USC

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

4330 Jackson Blvd., 782-8522 Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-midnight; kitchen open 7-10 p.m.

COLUMBIA: 630 Assembly St., 799-7800

Eclectic bar and eatery with a neighborhood

Breakfast only: Mon-Sun 6:30-10 a.m.

Eggs, sausage, bacon, pastries, cereal. $.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Hampton Street Vineyard

Rue 77/Spice Bar and Grill

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 6-10 p.m.; Sat 6-10 p.m. (Bar opens at 5 p.m.)

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10 p.m. (bar open later) Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

DOWNTOWN: 1201 Hampton St., 252-0850 hamptonstreetvineyard.com.

facebook.com/rueseventyseven DOWNTOWN: 1301 Assembly St., 708-4785

Innovative American cuisine with seasonal menu changes, featuring fresh seafood, handcut steaks, lamb, duck, veal, accommodating and professional service all taking place in an urban cool space below the sidewalk in the historic Sylvan Building. ¢-$$.

Billing itself as an American bistro, Rue 77 offers up fast breakfast; lunch favorites like gyros, soups and salads; and at night, it serves steak, salmon and the like. Many dishes have an Indian twist. Great happy hour. $.

Julep’s Bistro

saludas.com

julepsbistro.com NORTHEAST: 120 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 419-7200 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Swanky but chill bar and bistro, with a diverse menu featuring seafood, pizzas, small plates and steaks. $.

Melting Pot

meltingpot.com

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Saluda’s

FIVE POINTS: 751 Saluda Ave., 799-9500

Mon-Sun 5:30 p.m.-until

This casual fine-dining establishment offers cutting-edge culinary styles that blend Italian, French and Lowcountry influences. Serves seafood, beef, chicken and vegetarian entrees. Also hosts wine dinners. $$.

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar solsticekitchen.com

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA: 841-4

Sparkleberry Lane, 788-6966

1410 Colonial Life Blvd., 731-8500

Mon-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri 5-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sun 1-10 p.m.

Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: Mon-Thu 5:30-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 5:30-10 p.m.; Bar: Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-until

High-quality fondue with a variety of sauces and dipping items. Signature dipping entrees include teriyaki sirloin, filet mignon, lobster tail and chicken breast. Dessert fondues like Bailey’s Irish Cream Dream, Chocolate S’mores or Cookies ‘n’ Cream Marshmallow Dream are particularly decadent. $$.

From the people who bring you Mr. Friendly’s and Cellar on Greene, Solstice presents an upscale dining experience with such dishes as seared diver scallops, beef tartare, in-house brined pork chops, South Carolina seafood and hand-cut steaks. Extensive wine list and elegant, yet cozy, atmosphere. $-$$.

Motor Supply Co.

Stonefire American Grill

Tue-Th 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sa 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.,5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5:30-9 p.m.

Mon-Sun 4-10 p.m.

motorsupplycobistro.com VISTA: 920 Gervais St., 256-6687

An early pioneer of dining in the Vista more than 20 years ago, Motor Supply’s eclectic menu reflects a classic bistro mentality and changes every day and every night. Upbeat, cosmopolitan atmosphere and excellent food with a focus on fresh, local produce and artisanal techniques. Especially popular for Sunday brunch. $-$$.

Mr. Friendly’s

mrfriendlys.com FIVE POINTS: 2001-A Greene St., 254-7828 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m.

The award-winning bistro Mr. Friendly’s is tucked into the side of Claussen’s Inn. This popular little bistro serves “good, old fashioned, New Southern Cuisine” at very reasonable prices. In additionto its daily menu, Mr. Friendly’s offers innovative nightly specials. $-$$.

The Oak Table

theoaktablesc.com DOWNTOWN: 1221 Main St., 563-5066

Mon-Th 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 5-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. & 5-11 p.m.; Sat 5-11 p.m.; Sun brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

A fantastic view of the State House, not to mention excellent high-end fine dining fare, from deep-fried whole lobster to refined steaks, crispy-roasted mushrooms and much more. Sundays feature a great brunch. $-$$.

P.O.S.H.

DOWNTOWN: 1400 Main St., 988-1400

Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30 a.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sat 6:3011:30 a.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sun 6:30 -11:30 a.m.

Located inside the downtown Sheraton lobby, P.O.S.H. serves up breakfast seven days a week. $.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

pink The POWER of

Pink Cupcakes Available All October!

stonefireamericangrill.com NORTHEAST: 566 Spears Creek Church Rd., 419-2332 Upscale American classics — steakhouse-style burgers, prime rib, roasted chicken, grilled salmon and even a classic New England lobster roll — are joined by Southern favorites like fried green tomatoes and Lowcountry crab cakes. $-$$.

Tazza Kitchen

tazzakitchen.com FOREST ACRES: 4840 Forest Dr. 20, 782-0760

Tue 4:30-10 p.m.; Wed-Sat: 4:30-11 p.m.; Sun: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Modern but comfortable bistro features wood-fired pizzas, salads and entrees and apps borrowing from a variety of cuisines. Ditto for brunch, where you can choose everything from huevos rancheros to a fivespice chicken sandwich. $.

Terra

terrasc.com

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

100 State St., 791-3443 Tue-Sat 5 p.m.-until

Chef Mike Davis brings together top-quality Southern ingredients and classic European techniques to make creative, original fare — truly one of the region’s best restaurants. Fantastic view of downtown Columbia from the upscale Vista West location. Looking for something a little simpler? Sit at the cozy bar and sample a brick-oven pizza. $$.

from every Pink Cake Personalize goes to your Susa n G.cupcake Komen with one of

our flags!

Tombo Grille

tombogrille.com FOREST ACRES: 4517 Forest Dr., 782-9665 Mon-Thu 5:30-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m. (Bar opens at 4:30 p.m.)

Whether you’re looking for a carefully crafted small bite or seafood dish using local ingredients with a fine wine to match, or just a great burger and a beer, Tombo is a solid choice. Live music several nights a week. $.

$$ avg. entrée > $15

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

| freetimes

You’ll like it a latte.

BBQ-Wings-Ribs 2 Fat 2 Fly Stuffed Chicken Wings MOBILE: 622-6063

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

1601 Shop Rd., 799-1532

Big-T Bar-B-Que

920 Axtell Dr. (Parkland Plaza), 791-4486

Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

7535 Garners Ferry Rd., 776-7132

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

First-rate barbecue buffet with stellar fried chicken. Also features delicious catfish bites. Order off the menu for tailgating or simply to take home some quality BBQ. ¢.

D’s Wings

dswings.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Serves ribs, burgers, sandwiches and chicken fingers. Dinner options include marinated ribeye, fried shrimp and more. Also offers tailgating specials featuring wings, ribs, sandwiches, fruit and cheese. ¢.

NORTHEAST:

Hooters

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m

HARBISON/IRMO:

hooters.com

1061 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-4295 Big T’s turns out some of the best barbecue in town. Pit-cooked pulled pork is the standout, served with hot or mild, slightly sweet mustard-based sauce. The sides are first-rate. Friendly people, generous portions. Top it all off with some homemade chocolate cake. ¢.

@fccafecola

docsbarbeque.com

2fat2flywings.com @2fat2flywings Creamy macaroni and cheese stuffed inside a chicken wing?! It’s true. Or jambalaya? Or an inside-out chicken parmigiana? All these delicacies and more can be yours: For locations and hours, follow the truck on Twitter at @2fat2flywings, check the calendar at 2fat2flywings.com or call the truck. ¢. bigtbbq.com GADSDEN: 2520 Congaree Rd., 353-0488

1210 Main Street Near Main and Gervais (803) 931-1200 M-F 7am–5pm | Sat 8am–Noon FirstCitizensCafe.com

Doc’s Barbeque and Southern Buffet

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels

MOBILE: 728-7512 artisanbbqtruck.com @artisanbbqtruck Smoked meats on homemade focaccia; cilantro-lime coleslaw; grilled pimento cheese sandwiches on jalapeño cornbread — this is barbecue done fancy and right. For locations and hours, follow the truck on Twitter (@artisanbbqtruck).

Buffalo Wild Wings

5195 Fernandina Rd., 407-9464

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. NORTHEAST:

7711 Two Notch Rd., 419-3456 Home of the Hooters Girls .. you didn’t really think “Hooters” was referring to owls, did you? Beyond the buxom servers, Hooters is mostly known for its wings; the menu also includes sandwiches, hamburgers and seafood. ¢-$.

Hudson’s Smokehouse and Saloon

hudsonssmokehouse.com LEXINGTON: 4952 Sunset Blvd., 356-1070

Tue-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

LEXINGTON: Hudson’s Smokehouse Express, 931 Old Two Notch Rd., 356-1070

Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (take-out only)

buffalowildwings.com

In a town full of barbecue joints, Hudson’s distinguishes itself with Cheerwine and a mean and lean tender brisket. Was spotlighted by Turner South as a Blue Ribbon Barbecue Joint. Offers mustard-based, ketchup-based and vinegar-and-pepper options. ¢.

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

4500 Devine St., 738-8090 HARBISON/IRMO: 1000 Bower Pkwy., 407-3431 LEXINGTON: 5570 Sunset Blvd., 957-2999 NORTHEAST: 10056 Two Notch Rd., 865-5222

John D. Hite’s

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-midnight

You’ve seen the commercials. You know what to do: Watch sports. Eat wings. Drink beer. ¢-$.

Carolina Wings & Rib House carolinawings.com BLYTHEWOOD: 240 Blythewood Rd., 714-0181

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

240 Dreher Rd., 794-4120

Fri 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Don’t let the plain cinder-block building deter you. No-frills tasty pulled pork barbecue, roasted chicken, ribs and ham. Meats and the usual fixins available to go by the pound or the pint. Takeout only. ¢.

Little Pigs

Sun.-Th. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

2000 Clemson Rd., 419-0022

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY:

105 Northpoint Dr., 365-6244

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

The restaurant delivers what its name promises — succulent baby back ribs and great wings, served with a wide variety of sauce options. Portions are generous and can be washed down with one of the many different beers offered. The Northeast location has a nice deck out back. ¢-$.

littlepigs.biz

NORTHEAST: 4927 Alpine Rd., 788-8238

Wed 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thu 11 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Amazing spread of lunch buffet offerings including yams, corn, baked beans, fried okra, onion rings, hush puppies, green beans and more. The three varieties of barbecue are nothing to sneeze at, either. Just stellar local barbecue beloved by regulars. ¢.

Cockpit Barbeque cockpitbarbeque.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

905A Bluff Rd., 269-4167

Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thu-Fri 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat 11a.m.-3 p.m.

Two brothers team up to meet their bold claim by bringing some old-fashioned barbecue (briskets, ribs, burgers, etc.) to the Columbia area. ¢.

14 freetimes |

Did we list a restaurant that has closed? Did we overlook your favorite place? Let us know what you think: Email food@free-times.com.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Maurice’s Piggie Park

piggiepark.com DOWNTOWN: 800 Elmwood Ave., 256-4377 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

1141 Lake Murray Blvd., 732-5555

Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m. LEXINGTON: 766 W. Main St., 359-8789

Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

LEXINGTON: 1010 S. Lake Drive, 356-1909

Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

This Midlands barbecue institution pit-cooks its juicy pork, ribs, beef and chicken over hickory coals, and its Carolina Gold mustardbased sauce is legendary. The controversial Maurice Bessinger no longer runs the chain — the younger generation has taken it over, eschewing controversy and Confederate flags alike. ¢.

Palmetto Pig

palmettopig.com DOWNTOWN: 530 Devine St., 733-2556 Tue-Wed 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

WG’s Chicken Wings wgschickenwings.com

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

736 St. Andrews Rd., 772-1489

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Several flavors of wings, including dry-seasoned flavors, along with salads, sandwiches and appetizers in a family atmosphere. Lounge area for 21 and older. ¢.

Wild Wing Café

VISTA: 729 Lady St., 252-9464 wildwingcafe.com

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

480 Town Center Pl., 865-3365

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Fri-Sat 11-2 a.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

1150 Bower Pkwy., 749-9464 Open daily 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

First opened in Hilton Head, Wild Wing has become a national chain on the strength of its 30-plus wing flavors like Jalapeño Cheddar and Old Yeller. The overwhelming menu also offers appetizers like its Hot Shots in addition to soups, salads, wraps, ribs, skewers, sandwiches and a variety of platters. ¢.

All-you-can-eat buffet featuring pulled pork barbecue, hash, green beans, slaw and crispy fried chicken. At the downtown location, be sure to arrive early or late to beat the rush. Discount available for USC students. $.

Wing Zone

Publick House

Wings are the reason they’re in business, and they specialize in delivering to hungry USC students late. More flavors than you can shake a stick at as well as chicken fingers, buffalo shrimp and sides. ¢.

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2307 Devine St., 256-2207

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-until; Sat-Sun 3 p.m.-until (Kitchen closes midnight Sun-Thu, 1 a.m. Fri-Sat)

This restaurant and bar is a Devine St. icon, and rightfully so. Hot wing lovers consider these hot wings among the city’s best; also offers several non-hot wing flavors, including three types of buffalo style and honey mustard, teriyaki, barbecue, pterodactyl, garlic butter and buttery barbecue. Salads, burgers and pasta round out the menu — and the excellent pub bread. Offers billiards and wide range of beers on tap. ¢.

Quaker Steak and Lube thelube.com

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

941 Spears Creek Ct., 563-5501 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

Twenty kinds of wings?! Yes, indeed. And if you’re not in the mood for poultry, the menu is packed with ribs, sandwiches, salads, soups, steaks and more. $.

Shealy’s Bar-B-Que House

wingzone.com DOWNTOWN: 132 Assembly St., 933-9464 Sun noon-1 a.m., Mon-Wed 11 a.m.- 1 a.m., Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Wings & Ale

wingsandalesc.com

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

125-C Outlet Pointe Blvd., 750-1700 Sun -Thu: 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat: 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

Family atmosphere, live entertainment and wings. Features jukebox, pool tables, sporting events on large-projection TV and many other big-screen TVs. Live entertainment steers toward the classic rock crowd. Never a cover charge. ¢.

Breweries and Brew Pubs Conquest Brewing Co. conquestbrewing.com

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

947 S. Stadium Rd., Bay 1,

LEESVILLE: 340 E. Columbia Ave., 532-8135

Wed-Thu 4-9 p.m.; Fri 4-10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 1-9 p.m.

Mon-Tue & Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m, carry-out 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat breakfast buffet 7-9:30 a.m.

Columbia’s first production brewery. The Sacred Heart IPA is a special favorite around Columbia.

shealysbbq.com

More than 40 amazing buffet items. The pork is lovingly pulled from slow-cooked whole hogs and served with a thick and tangy mustard sauce. Widely considered the best barbecue place in the entire state, maybe the country. Every bit worth the drive from town, or have them cater if you want your event to be remembered. ¢.

True BBQ

true-bbq.com/menu.html WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE: 1237 D Ave., 791-9950 Wed-Sat 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Serves pork ribs and classic chopped pork barbecue, smoked on site; hash and rice; barbecue chicken; barbecue sandwiches; and the usual slew of sides and desserts. Choose between Pretty Lady, Sexy Lady or vinegarbased sauce. ¢.

Hunter-Gatherer

huntergathererbrewery.com SOUTH MAIN/USC: 900 Main St., 748-0540 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.

Serving excellent hand-crafted ales since 1995, Hunter-Gatherer’s food is as good as its beer, with nightly gourmet specials to complement such local favorites as the Black Bean Dip. Specialty pizzas are popular, as are the burgers and sandwiches. A favorite spot for university types, hipsters and oldsters alike. Also offers half-gallon growlers so you can take the good stuff home. ¢-$.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

$$ avg. entrée > $15

| freetimes

Old Mill Brew Pub

danish to the turkey avocado wrap to the chicken pesto pizza. ¢-$.

LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY:

oldmillbrewpub.net

711 E. Main St., 785-2337

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight (kitchen); bar open until.

Craft beer? Made on site at a former cotton mill on a scenic pond? In downtown Lexington? Yes, Old Mill is doing all this and more — and also serving up some fine, creative bar fare. Hosts occasional live music, too. $.

River Rat Brewery riverratbrewery.com

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

1231 Shop Rd., 724-5712

Wed-Fri 4-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun 1-8 p.m.

River Rat produces excellent and original craft beers. Features a lovely outdoor deck, grassy area with cornhole, and swank taproom.

Immaculate Consumption

Café Strudel

healthy breakfast and brunch foods — bagels, fruit, grits and more — as well as fresh doughnuts made in-house daily. Yum. Lots of vegetarian-friendly options. ¢.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Cool Beans Coffee Company

Mon 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Tue-Sat 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; kitchen closes daily 3-5 p.m.

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-midnight; Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-midnight

In addition to several different coffees and beer, this coffee shop serves a wide range of sandwiches and fresh salads that folks rave about. ¢.

caféstrudel.com

coolbeanscoffeecompany.net DOWNTOWN: 1217 College St., 779-4277

300 State St., 794-6634

This Vista West café has as much fun naming its dishes (“Hangover Hashbrowns,” “Heart Attack Wrap”) as it does hand-crafting its desserts and breads. The casual, Bohemian style restaurant offers soups, salads, sandwiches, grill items and coffees, plus great daily specials. Also hosts a legendary Sunday brunch. ¢.

Cool near-campus coffee shop offers plenty of space for studying or socializing — but it’s not just for students. Great menu of sandwiches (the curry chicken salad is a longtime favorite), wraps, soups and salads, plus all the coffee drinks you’d expect — and a few you wouldn’t. (Vegan hot cocoa? Yes please.) ¢.

Carolina Café & Catering

Drip Coffee

carolinacaféandcatering.com DOWNTOWN: 945 Sumter St. (corner of Sumter & Pendleton), 799-6676

dripcolumbia.com DOWNTOWN: 1441 Main St., 799-0067

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

FIVE POINTS: 729 Saluda Ave., 661-9545

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

2250 Sunset Blvd., 794-9799

Wed-Thu 5-8 p.m.; Fri 5-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 1-6 p.m.

Primarily a sandwich and bagel shop that serves breakfast and lunch all day. Menu includes homemade chicken, tuna and egg salad sandwiches as well as such classics as reubens, clubs and melts alongside salads and hot and coldspecialty drinks. Catering available seven days a week including boxed lunches and catered trays. Free delivery to downtown and campus. ¢.

The Five Points shop specializes in the pour-over method of coffee-making, while the Main Street location favors the siphon. Either way, you’re going to get some fabulous coffee. Besides being a great place for a meeting or first date, both Drip locations also sell creative breakfast and lunch sandwiches and delectable pastries. Free Wi-Fi, too. ¢-$.

Swamp Cabbage Brewing Co. 921 Brookwood Dr.

Columbia’s third production brewery boasts a strong catalog of beers, starting with its extra-special bitter. Run by two brothers.

Café-Coffee House Café Chartier

LEXINGTON: 711 E. Main St., 951-8944

Mon-Tue 6:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; Wed-Sat 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Coffee, yes, but also breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert, from the sopaipilla cheesecake

WEST COLUMBIA/VISTA WEST:

Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

College Grounds Café

First Citizens Café

firstcitizenscafe.com DOWNTOWN: 1210 Main St., 931-1200 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

collegegroundscafe.com DOWNTOWN: 1217 College St., 708-9476 Mon-Thu 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

Think of it as the younger sister to established upstairs coffeehouse Cool Beans: College Grounds Café serves sandwiches and other

Yes, it’s a coffee shop run by a bank, located in a lovely renovated space (with an outdoor patio) in one of the oldest buildings on Main. Serves baked goods, sandwiches, salads — and, of course, lattes in many varieties. ¢.

DOWNTOWN: 933 Main St., 799-9053

Breakfast: Mon-Fri 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. (coffee until 6 p.m.)

The Gourmet Shop

thegourmetshop.net FIVE POINTS: 724 Saluda Ave., 799-3705

Cafe: Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-3:45 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m. Shop: Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

A Five Points icon because of its coveted sidewalk seating and signature dishes that include the chicken salad and the turkey pesto. The store offers coffees, wines, breads, kitchen gadgets and more. ¢-$.

Wired Goat Café

facebook.com/wiredgoatcafe HARBISON/IRMO: 246 Columbia Ave. (Chapin), 201-5348 Mon-Sat 6 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tasty coffee; cool atmosphere. Features some funky drinks like the Canadian Bacon Latte, flavored with maple syrup and bacon syrup. ¢.

Cajun Bourbon

bourboncolumbia.com DOWNTOWN: 1214 Main St., 403-1404 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sat 4:30 p.m.-until; Sunday 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Go for the bourbon, stay for the whiskey. Serves higher-end Cajun-Creole cuisine like squash jambalaya, bayou burgers, seared duck breast, steaks and more. Updates on lunch and dinner menus posted through Facebook. Tasty Sunday brunch. $$.

2014

1200 Lincoln St. • 799.3838 • bluemarlincolumbia.com • signaturecateringsc.com 16 freetimes |

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

J. Gumbo’s

plates or the standard jerk chicken. Also includes tofu stew or curry for vegetarian diners. ¢.

Chinese

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Mama J’s

NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

jgumbos.com DOWNTOWN: 1401 Sumter St., 748-8878 Serving up lunchtime Cajun fare downtown, this chain eatery boasts an array of classic Louisiana dishes: jambalaya, étouffée, bumblebee stew and red beans and rice, plus po’ boys, wraps and an array of sides. Gluten-free and vegetarian items are noted on the menu. ¢.

Caribbean-Latin Arkos Mojo Grill and Martini Bar arkosmojo.com LEXINGTON: 109K Old Chapin Rd., 785-5660 Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-until

A sort of Latin American bistro featuring ceviche, fancy salsas, paella, tacos and much more. Also has a swank bar menu that spans martinis, margaritas mojitos and caipirinhas. $.

Calypso Caribbean Grill eatcalypso.com

HARBISON/IRMO:

285 Columbiana Dr., 764-7402

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chen’s Chinese Restaurant

NORTHEAST:

2205-H Decker Blvd., 782-0169 Tucked inside the Oriental International Market on Decker Boulevard — a great place to buy all manner of ethnic groceries — is this tasty Jamaican take-out place featuring goat roti and other classic island dishes. $.

Montego Bay Caribbean Restaurant

9810 Two Notch Rd., 699-6080 chenschinese.webs.com

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 4-9 p.m. NORTHEAST COLUMBIA:

9003 Two Notch Rd., 788-2848 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

2427 Charleston Hwy., 563-5070

NORTHEAST: 7314 Parklane Rd, 708-8481

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-5 a.m.; Sat 12 p.m.-5 a.m; Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 a.m.

Sun-Mon 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY:

4360 Augusta Rd., 808-0228

Just look for the big sign that says “MoBay.” If you’re craving jerk chicken, this is the place for you — but there are plenty of other Jamaican favorites as well. $.

Skyaa’s Caribbean Restaurant, Bar and Grill

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun noon-10 p.m.

This is a Chinese restaurant that serves traditional combination platters and wing specials. Its vegetable menu includes tofu substitutes and comes with a large serving of white rice. ¢.

China Buffet Sushi and Bar

facebook.com/SkyaasCaribbean WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 901-B Holland Ave, 569-6551

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 1-10 p.m.

China Hut III

Island Grill

3123 N Beltline Blvd., 256-9050

103 N 12th St., 939-0770

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-until

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10 p.m.

Oxtail, curry goat, fried plantains — in short, Jamaican favorites galore. $.

Although it looks like your run-of-the-mill Chinese chain, this small restaurant is actually operated by a family from Thailand who, in addition to serving traditional Chinese dishes, have created an entire menu around

Self-described authentic Jamaican cuisine that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Choose from goat and oxtail combination

A longtime Columbia favorite, packed at the dinner hour with everyone from lawyers to construction workers, Egg Roll Chen makes fresh Chinese favorites to order: Spicy Taiwan Beef, Hot & Nutty Chicken, perfect lo mein and the famous Mamasan’s Beef Noodle Soup. eggrollchen.com. ¢.

Egg Roll Station

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

135 Sunset Blvd., 791-4060 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Beloved by generations of Columbians, Egg Roll Station prepares inexpensive, fresh Chinese-American standards to order while you watch. Go Cocks; go E’Rolls. ¢.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Taste of Jamaica Cafe & Lounge

Mon-Sat 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chinese buffet with more than 100 items daily, including sushi and sashimi. Features crab legs on Fris and Sats. ¢.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Fresh, fast-casual Caribbean food, including roti (wraps), jerk chicken, salads and more. ¢. DOWNTOWN: 1601 Harden St., 544-9898

eggrollchen.com SHANDON: Shandon: 715 Crowson Rd., 787-6820

Jin’s Hibachi & Chinese

This sweet little eatery tucked away in Cayce offers authentic Caribbean dishes, from the beloved jerk chicken to more adventurous fare like oxtail, curried goat and red snapper. $. FOREST ACRES:

Egg Roll Chen

4464 Devine St., Ste. E (Bi-Lo Shopping Center), 787-8898

NORTHEAST: 4760 Hard Scrabble Rd., 865-4111

Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Thai recipes including Pad Thai chicken, Thai noodle salad and Tom Kha Gai (coconut chicken) soup. ¢.

WEST COLUMBIA/VISTA WEST:

jinshibachi.com NORTHEAST: 4435 Hard Scrabble Rd., 788-3339 Serving hibachi lunch and dinners, Jin’s also features a full Chinese menu with everything you’d expect, including specialties and combinations. ¢-$.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

$$ avg. entrée > $15

“When I ﬂy home, I check the fares at Columbia Metropolitan Airport ﬁrst and Fly with ease at CAE.” -Marcus Lattimore, South Carolina Native

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Main Moon ROSEWOOD:

2800 Rosewood Dr., Ste. D, 251-8990 Sun-Mon 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Cheap, speedy, delicious Chinese takeout. Popular with the college set, especially on game days, what with the stadium so close. The mu shu pancakes are a good bet. ¢.

Sun Ming

sunmingchinese.com HARBISON/IRMO: 7509 St. Andrews Rd., 732-4488 Sun-Thus 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Black Bean Company

blackbeanco.com VISTA: 701 Gervais St., Ste. 140, 399-9797 Mon-Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Billing itself as a “energy food restaurant,” this Charleston-based chain serves up healthy wraps and gyros, salads and other power fare, with plenty of gluten-free, veggie and vegan options. Don’t miss breakfast, either! $.

Cali’s Café

DOWNTOWN: 1124 Taylor St., 629-7471

Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

No-frills downtown deli serves up fantastic healthy sandwiches and one heck of a kale salad. Vegetarian-friendly. ¢.

Groucho’s

grouchos.com BLYTHEWOOD: 730 University Village Dr., 754-4509 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

FIVE POINTS: 611 Harden St., 799-5708

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

FOREST ACRES: 4717 Forest Dr., 790-0801

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

800 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4515

Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sammi’s Deli

FIVE POINTS: 2009 Greene St., 256-7763

sammisdelionline.com

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

506 Beltline Blvd., 782-4662

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Sammi’s has been a family tradition since 1925 and has been a staple of USC undergradates for decades thanks to its original Philly cheesesteaks, gyros, salads and cold subs. Vegetarian gyros and falafels available. Eat in, carry out or delivery. ¢.

Open since 1941, Groucho’s uses only the highest quality ingredients and is the premiere lunchtime meeting place of students and business people of Columbia. The Apollo and the STP Dippers are locally famous for good reason. ¢.

Steve’s 1 Sub Contractor

Hampton Place Cafe

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Tea Pot Chinese Restaurant

Located on the mezzanine level of the Capitol Center, this cafe serves up lovely breakfasts and lunches featuring homemade baked goods. ¢.

829 Knox Abbott Dr., 796-7136

Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop

Try the spinach and mushroom or crab quiche, go for a hearty soup or brave the crabwich, a crab salad sandwich with bacon, lettuce, tomato and cheddar cheese. You won’t go wrong with anything off the menu, and the sandwiches all are among the biggest around, meaning you’ll never leave hungry. ¢.

For the most authentic Chinese dining in the Midlands, order off the traditional Chiense menu, which features such dishes as chicken feet with black mushrooms or spicy chicken ding. On the other hand, also offers plenty of orange chicken and beef-and-broccoli to satisfy all your Chinese-American desires. $. WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10:30 p.m.

Capitol Cafe and Bakery

DOWNTOWN: 1201 Main St., 255-6292

Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

LEXINGTON:

108-D S. Church St., 808-6004

hamptonplacecafe.com DOWNTOWN: 1230 Hampton St., 254-5847 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Everything you could want in a Chinese restaurant excluding a buffet. Try the Hunanstyle Crispy Scallops, the Fisherman’s Catch or any one of a bevy of combination and special dinners. Dine in, takeout and delivery available. ¢.

Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Top China Buffet

The Deli

VISTA: 823 Gervais St., 540-1973

Corner of Broad River and St. Andrews Roads, 750-2299

LEXINGTON: 821-F East Main St., 957-3120

Billing itself as a healthy lunch chain, Jason’s Deli offers the standard assortment of sandwiches, wraps and salads, but with plenty of gluten-free options and extensive nutritional information available. $.

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Offers all your favorite Chinese staples, from egg rolls, spring rolls and fried or steamed dumplings to Sesame Shrimp, General Tso’s Chicken and Pepper Steak. And you can top it all off with those addictive little Chinese donuts. ¢.

Yummy Yummy Chinese Restaurant NORTHEAST:

3902 Two Notch Rd., 714-9922 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

FOREST ACRES: 4600 Forest Dr., 790-9979

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Szechwan and Cantonese offerings with a special section for dieters. ¢.

Deli Andy’s Deli

FIVE POINTS: 2005 Greene St., 799-2639

Mon-Sat 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Serving a range of hot and cold deli sandwiches plus salads, this Five Points mainstay enjoys a well-deserved reputation for prompt service and consistent quality. No matter how long the lunch line appears, the food never fails to arrive promptly and satisfy completely. Andy’s Special, which features roast beef, turkey and bacon bits on a hoagie roll, and which comes with that tantalizingly tangy dip, ought to qualify as the official sandwich of the Midlands. Thank you my friend, indeed. ¢.

Beezer’s

DOWNTOWN: 919-B Sumter St., 771-7771

Touting sandwiches and food like grandma used to make, here you’ll find an assortment of reasonably priced sandwich baskets and salads, homemade soups and breakfast entrées. ¢.

lexdeli.com

Mon 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Established in 1985, The Deli offers subs like the Hungry Man (pepper steak) and the Big Cheese alongside deli sandwiches like pastrami or corned beef on rye. ¢.

DiPrato’s Delicatessen

dipratos.com FIVE POINTS: 342 Pickens St., 779-0606 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-4 p.m. (Brunch Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-2 p.m.)

A stone’s throw from Maxcy Gregg park, DiPrato’s brings a New York attitude to its gourmet deli selections. Choose from its signature sandwiches, build your own or explore the paninis and salads. A fabulous and well-loved brunch spot, too. ¢-$. .

DL McLaughlin’s HARBISON/IRMO:

10400 Broad River Rd., 732- 4109

Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Fri 10:30 a.m-9:30 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

The sign by the highway at this stop-off to or from the lake boasts about the Philly cheesesteaks — and rightfully so. Brought to you by the former owners of the popular Sub Cabin, its Philly sandwiches are second to none. Also serves subs, wings, pizza and French fries cooked in peanut oil. ¢-$.

Fifth Avenue Deli 5thavenuedeli.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2910 Rosewood Dr., 988-0063 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Gourmet deli offers soups, sandwiches, salads and ice cream. Highlights include the The Big Rosewood, the Shandon Club, a Tomato Melt with Boursin and Swiss cheeses and a Pesto Turkey sandwich. ¢.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-3 a.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-4 a.m.; Sunday 12 noon-3 a.m.

Garden Bistro

Sandwiches like the T-Bird, the Godfather and the Rebel Rouser are mainstays for any self-respecting college student or budgetconscious diner. ¢.

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

gardenbistrovista.com VISTA: 1303 Assembly St., 933-9085 Healthy downtown lunch option with an eclectic assortment of soup, salads, wraps and specialty sandwiches. ¢.

1471 Platt Springs Rd., 791-9222

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 10 a.m.-8 p.m. WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

748 Main St. (S. Congaree), 755-7470

Great local sub place — why go corporate when you can get local that’s even better? Serving Columbians since 1980. ¢.

Sub Station II

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

503 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-8693

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun noon-8 p.m.

Jason’s Deli

Subs and salads prepared fresh before your eyes. Atkins-friendly. Twelve Midlands locations from which to choose. substationii. com. ¢.

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Swanson’s Deli

DOWNTOWN: 1332 Main St., 343-3253

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Lunch Box

Deli catering to downtown lunch crowd. Located inside the historic Arcade building, the art-filled space offers an array of specialty sandwiches, including Swanson’s signature Main St. Club, as well as specials like chili. ¢.

Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Tropical Smoothie Café

DOWNTOWN: 1305 Lady St., 799-3318

Hole-in-the-wall sandwich joint, beloved of many a downtown lawyer. Great place to grab an egg sandwich for breakfast. ¢.

No Name Deli

DOWNTOWN: 2042 Marion St., 252-0480

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-3:45 p.m.

This popular downtown lunch spot is anything but anonymous. Grab a tray and line up for sandwiches (hot or cold), salads and homemade soup. Pay at the register when you get your food, though be sure to bring cash or a check-no cards. Separate counter for to-go order pickup helps long lines disappear quickly. ¢.

HARBISON/IRMO:

150-B Harbison Blvd., 217-3112

Mon-Thu 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

An array of freshly made smoothies, from the low-fat to the vitamin-packed to the decadent, as well as wraps, flatbreads and sandwiches. Also serves breakfast. ¢.

Zoe’s Kitchen

FOREST ACRES: 4855 Forest Dr., 782-1212

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

DOWNTOWN: 1320 Main St., 771-0122

Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Pita Pit

Specializes in garden fresh, healthy sandwiches, salads, hot plates and soups. Also offers catering and delivery service. zoeskitchen.com. ¢.

Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m.- 2:30 a.m.; Thu-Sat 10:30 a.m.-3 a.m.; Sun noon-1 a.m.

Dessert

pitapitusa.com FIVE POINTS: 2002 A Greene St., 799-4557 Pita Pit serves low fat, cholesterol-free bread packed with vegetables and meat or vegetarian toppings. Offers delivery and stays open extremely late for those late night munchies. ¢.

Roly Poly Sandwiches

rolypoly.com DOWNTOWN: 1202 Sumter St., 252-1081 Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

With an inventive menu of hot and cold handrolled sandwiches (wraps), including but not limited to Basil Cashew Chicken, Key West Cuban Mix, Thai Hot Tuna, Delhi Chicken and Philly Melt and Pepper Steak, Roly Poly is challenging the notion that hoagies are humdrum. ¢.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

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WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Blue Flour

HARBISON/IRMO:

7703 St. Andrews Rd., 407-3603

Tue-Fri 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Want a huge, delicious cookie? Of course you do. Blue Flour bakes up new versions each day. Also on the menu: quiches, muffins, cupcakes, coffeecakes, crumbles, plus fresh cold milk and fresh brewed coffee. ¢.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

NORTHEAST: 202 Grace’s Way, 419-8889 brusters.com

Sun-Thu noon-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat noon-10 p.m.

A popular Pennsylvania-based chain that makes all its ice cream locally in-store. Popular flavors include Chocolate Raspberry Truffle and Peanut Cookie Dough ice cream. Offers waffle cones, sundaes, cakes and pies, shakes, smoothies and more. ¢.

$$ avg. entrée > $15

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

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Bubble Tea Café

Cupcake

1260-A6 Bower Pkwy., 781-7508

freshcupcakes.com

DOWNTOWN:

HARBISON/IRMO:

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun noon- 8 p.m.

1226 Pendleton St., 445-1050

Mon-Wed 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Thu-Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

The “bubbles” in bubble tea are big gummy beads of sweet tapioca — and the selfdescribed bubble tea experts at this Harbison Café will fix you up with one of their many flavors of the stuff. ¢.

Cold Stone Creamery

LEXINGTON: 914-C N. Lake Dr., 951-2353

coldstonecreamery.com

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9:30 p.m.

VISTA: 1213 Lincoln St., 212-4949

Chocolate with Butterfinger. Servers mix ice cream with candy, nuts or other assorted toppings on a frozen marble slab. ¢.

Mon-Wed 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thu-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 12-5 p.m.

My Dessert Bar

This Charleston import does one thing and one thing only: cupcakes. Of course, they also do them supremely well. From red velvet to mandarin orange chocolate to salted caramel chocolate chip to about anything sweet you can think of, Cupcake has your sweet tooth covered and then some. ¢.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

Insomnia Cookies FIVE POINTS:

2013 Devine St., 877-632-6654 insomniacookies.com Mon-Sun noon-3 a.m.

“The Ultimate Ice Cream Experience.” When you boast that, you better have the product to back it up, and Cold Stone does. Premium ice cream, yogurt and Italian sorbet is made fresh every day on site with an extensive choice of mix-in combinations. ¢.

Now in a permanent Five Points location, Insomnia bakes fresh cookies and other goodies for the late-night partying crowd. What’s better after a night of drinking than a freshly made chocolate chip cookie? Try the Menage a Trois, a blend of three cookies all baked together. Delivery is available for a $6 minimum (plus tip, of course). ¢.

Cromer’s P-Nuts

Marble Slab Creamery

cromers.com

marbleslab.com

With the slogan “Guaranteed Worst in Town” Cromer’s has a long history in Columbia — 75 years and counting — and a good sense of humor about it. While fulfilling all your boiled peanut, cotton candy, caramel corn and various candy needs, Cromer’s also sells concession equipment and other party supplies. And it has a coffeeshop, too! ¢

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 6000

DOWNTOWN: 1700 Huger Street, 779-2290

Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

VISTA: 1001 Gervais St., 765-9100

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6243

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Bakery and dessert catering company with everything from cakes to cakepops; also offers brunch on weekends. ¢-$$.

The Pastry Shop at Nonnah’s nonnahs.com VISTA: 923 Gervais St., 779-9599

If you love boiled peanuts, you’ll know that The Peanut Man’s groundnuts are the real deal. Add to that an array of sweet treats — candy apples, chocolate-covered pretzels, popcorn — and you’ll see why this Sandhill sweet shop was successful enough for its owners to open a new Vista location. ¢.

Pelican’s SnoBalls

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Mon-Thu 5-11 p.m.; Fri 5 p.m.-12:30 a.m.; Sat 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Pastry shop, M-F, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Best known for its desserts, Nonnah’s is a good place to stop for coffee and drinks after dinner or a show. A frequent winner of Free Times’ Best of Columbia awards in the dessert category. ¢-$.

Paradise Ice

www.paradiseicesc.com DOWNTOWN: 1627 Main St., 251-3311

Mon noon-8 p.m., Wed-Sat noon-8 p.m., Sun1-5 p.m.

Fancy some Italian ice or handmade organic custard? Paradise Ice does it best, with an ever-rotating selection of handmade, creative frozen flavors. ¢.

pelicanssnoballs.com

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

1900 Rosewood Dr., 919-649-5543 Mon-Sat noon-10 p.m.; Sun 2-10 p.m.

North Carolina based establishment that sells New Orleans-style (awesome) snowballs. Flavors include Toothpaste, K-Slide, Gummy Bear, Wild Thang and many more. ¢.

Scoopy Doo

FIVE POINTS: 725 Saluda Ave., 765-6999

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Housemade gelato and sorbetto incorporating some excellent local ingredients, including coffee from Drip, which is right next door. Cool records for sale in the back. ¢.

Sweet Cake House

ST. ANDREWS-DUTCH SQUARE:

7001 St. Andrews Rd., 749-9668 sweetcakehouse.com.

NORTHEAST:

Ice cream is made on site daily, with flavors ranging from Vanilla Cinnamon to Dark

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VISTA: 1215 Lincoln St., 799-9988

134 State St., 728-1690

Sun-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

thepeanutman.com NORTHEAST: 471-11 Town Center Pl., 419-0705

Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-8 p.m.

mydessertbar.com

1230 Bower Pkwy., 749-4233

471-C Town Center Pl., 419-8300

Peanut Man

Did we list a restaurant that has closed? Did we overlook your favorite place? Let us know what you think: Email food@free-times.com.

Mon 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tue-Fri 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

If it’s dessert you seek, check out the cakes, pastries and other delectable goods, including birthday cake by the slice; you can order special occasion cakes here, too. But

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Sweet Cake House also serves sandwiches, deli salads and breakfast treats such as turnovers and strudels. ¢.

Ethiopian

to the window for great burgers, fish tacos, grilled chicken and more. ¢..

Sweet, A Cupcake Company

Salina Café

DOWNTOWN: 1621 Main St., 255-0001

The Wurst Wagen

sweetacupcakecompany.com NORTHEAST: 480-6 Town Center Pl., 728-0657

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun noon-8 p.m.

Cupcakes! Coffee! Seriously, why aren’t you already in the car on the way to this place? ¢.

Tutti Frutti

tfyogurt.com VISTA: 1205 Lincoln St., 260-1917

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m. LEXINGTON:

5454-A Sunset Blvd., 358-0355

Mon 9 a.m.-8 p.m.; Tue-Sun noon-10 p.m.

Flavors galore — from your basic chocolate to fun stuff like taro and pumpkin pie — rotate through this fro-yo emporium. ¢.

Yoghut

yoghut.com

DOWNTOWN: 601 Main St., 386-9786

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-11 p.m.

FOREST ACRES: 5424 Forest Dr. 120, 250-

2580

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. HARBISON: 278 Harbison Blvd., 993-9434

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Frozen yogurt with fresh toppings; coffee drinks, smoothies and parfaits. Rotating original flavors include maple bacon doughnut, thin mint cookies and pomegranate raspberry tart. ¢.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

$$ avg. entrée > $15

Food Trucks

MOBILE: 463-6637 thewurstwagen.com twitter.com/BestWurstWagen This mobile food truck boasts a Germantrained master butcher and a whole lot of delicious German sausages, not to mention occasional doner kebab. There are specials every now and then, so visit them often to get the best prices. Check out their Twitter page for location information.

2 Fat 2 Fly Stuffed Chicken Wings

French

Mon 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Tue-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

American food at lunch; Ethiopian and Eritrean food at dinner with no frills — just plates of delicious injera bread with various stewed things on top. Beer and wine available. ¢.

MOBILE: 622-6063

2fat2flywings.com Creamy macaroni and cheese stuffed inside a chicken wing?! It’s true. Or jambalaya? Or an inside-out chicken parmigiana? All these delicacies and more can be yours: For locations and hours, follow the truck on Twitter at @2fat2flywings, check the calendar at 2fat2flywings.com or call the truck. ¢.

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels MOBILE: 728-7512

Crepes and Croissants

crepesetcroissants.com DOWNTOWN: 1465 Sumter St., 462-4779 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

A real French creperie in the heart of downtown Columbia? Oui, c’est vrai. Choose from a variety of creative savory and sweet crepes, in addition to savory tarts, croissants, salads and a few French desserts. The Nutella-filled crepe is rather amazing, and the Paris crepe is a classic. ¢.

artisanbbqtruck.com Smoked meats on homemade focaccia; cilantro-lime coleslaw; grilled pimento cheese sandwiches on jalapeño cornbread — this is barbecue done fancy and right. For locations and hours, follow the truck on Twitter (@artisanbbqtruck). Food Trucks

German

Pawleys Front Porch Truck

Old-fashioned, homestyle German comfort cooking. From bratwurst to schnitzel, Julia’s has you covered. Bring a healthy appetite and love for all things Deutsch. ¢.

MOBILE: 729-5397

pawleysmobileeats.com Hire the truck for your next event — and when you see it parked somewhere, sidle up

Julia’s German Stammtisch julias.vpweb.com NORTHEAST: 4341 Fort Jackson Blvd., 738-0630

Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; 5-9 p.m.; Sat 5-9 p.m.

GreekMediterranean Ariana’s Greek Restaurant

arianasofwestcolumbia.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 1720 Sunset Blvd., 796-4430

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat noon-10 p.m.

A Greek restaurant with an international flair. Along with the gyros, souvlaki, pastichio and moussaka on the menu, you’ll also find Indian samosas and a lamb pilaf that’s considered the national dish of Afghanistan. $.

Devine Foods

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 2702 Devine St., 252-0356

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

Casual authentic Greek restaurant that’s been around since 1987. Offers takeout and delivery, Devine Foods is as good a genuine Greek-Mediterranean restaurant as you’ll find anywhere, and the prices are reasonable. Great spanakopita. ¢-$.

Grecian Gardens

greciangardenssc.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 2312 Sunset Blvd., 794-7552 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Greek restaurant boasting particularly fresh, well-made bread. Signature dish is the pasticchio, which the chef accentuates with such extra seasonings as cinnamon and bay leaf. Good place for large groups. ¢-$.

Greek Boys

greekboyssc.com DOWNTOWN: 1469 Sumter St., 771-7618 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

People crowd in for the burgers and the gyros, mostly — and crowd in they do, every

Tios Mexican café 921 Sumter St

Order Online

WWW.TIOSSC.COM

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weekdayaround noon. Try the beef souvlaki platter or blackened pork chops, which arrive super fast and are easy on the wallet. ¢.

Main Street Café

Delhi Palace

mainstreetcafelexington.com LEXINGTON/LAKE MURRAY: 131 E. Main St., 808-5886

delhipalacesc.net ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10:30 p.m. (bar open later all week)

Tucked into a storefront space in the middle of Main Street in downtown Lexington, this little Greek restaurant also offers live music several nights a week. ¢-$.

Mediterranean Café

LEXINGTON: 327 W. Main St., 356-6294

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Mon-Thu 5:30-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-9:30 p.m.

Opened by the brother of the Mediterranean Tea Room in Shandon, the Mediterranean Café brings the same authentic and reasonably priced cuisine to Lexington. Menu includes Greek salads, tabbouleh, hummus, baba ghannouj, falafel and the usual gyros, pita wraps and kabobs. Private dining room available. ¢-$.

Mediterranean Tea Room

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 2601 Devine St., 799-3118

Mon-Tue 11:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m. and 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Wed-Fri-11:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m.; Wed-Sat 5:30-9:20 p.m.

Shalimar Curry House

curryhousesc.com DOWNTOWN: 631 Main St, 960-3755 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Self described Indian fusion eatery is run by USC graduate Omar Ghazi and his brother Hassan Ghazi, a current USC student. Start by choosing the type of meal you want, whether roll, bowl or plate, and then move on to the type of meat, sauce and vegetables you’d like to add. $.

Spice Junction

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

2335 Augusta Rd., 708-9158

Mon-Sat- 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-8:30 p.m.

Italian

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café tazikiscafe.com

Alodia’s Cucina Italiana HARBISON/IRMO:

2736 North Lake Dr., 781-9814

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.

Classy Italian dining, from the favorites (fettucine alfredo, manicotti, veal piccata) to the fancy (seafood risotto, pork ribeye). $.

Al’s Upstairs

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 702 Cross Hill Rd., 386-0302

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Mediterranean standards like grilled chicken breasts, lamb gyro and feta-adorned salads you might expect, but also roasted pork loin, spicy pimento cheese and more. ¢-$.

Zorba’s Family Greek Restaurant greekband.com/zorbas.htm HARBISON/IRMO: 6169 St. Andrews Rd., 772-4617

Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

7320 Broad River Rd., 749-7000

Sun-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Longtime Columbia institution serving some of the city’s best Greek salads and pizzas (try the ‘Zorba’s Special’ version of each and you’ll be hooked for life). Generous portions, family friendly atmosphere. Live Greek music on Thursday. ¢.

Indian

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 304 Meeting St., 794-7404 alsupstairsitalian.com

Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-until

Italian fine dining since 1979. Executive chef employs an Old World style influenced by his grandmother’s cooking. Lobster bisque is served with a popular puff pastry dome that locks in flavors and aromas. Offers fresh fish, veal, pasta and steaks with impeccable service and a beautiful view of Columbia’s skyline. $$.

Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders

bellacinosgrinders.com HARBISON/IRMO: 1085 Lake Murray Blvd., 407-4884 LEXINGTON: 5339 Sunset Blvd., Hwy. 378, 957-6767

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Generous portions of hearty Italian pizza and grinders. Affordable prices, friendly staff and consistent quality keep this popular restaurant full. ¢.

Columbo’s Italian Eatery & Prime Steaks

Bombay Grill

bombaygrillsc.com

columbos.net

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

245 Bush River Rd., 772-5121

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This much-loved Indian restaurant offers a buffet as well as traditional menu items including rich curries, biryani and a range of Indian breads. Savvy enough to please afficionados and newcomers alike. ¢-$.

Olive Grill Mediterranean

Tidy little lunch spot featuring Mediterranean and Iranian dishes — your basic lunch-worthy pitas and salads, but also traditional Iranian stews like gormeh sabzi and the excellent lamb and limas. Also: good falafel downtown, at long last. ¢-$.

www.spicesoﬁndiasc.com

Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10:30 p.m.

Delicious and well-stocked Indian buffet has everything from tandoori to raita to naan, plus occasional Hyderabadi specials you won’t find at other Midlands Indian restaurants, like the goat haleem, a sort of goat-and-lentil porridge. If you like seriously spicy food, ask for some house-made hot sauce. $.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

772-1880

542 St. Andrews Rd., 750-7760

Menu includes a wide selection of traditional Middle Eastern food such as hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel and tabbouleh. Specialty dish is a kofta kebob, which is a combination of lamb and beef mixed with parsley, celery and spices. Entrees include chicken, lamb, beef, vegetarian dishes and a variety of nightly specials. ¢-$. DOWNTOWN: 1211 Taylor St., 799-9090

Spices of India & Middle Eastern Groceries

stop satisfies vegetarians and omnivores alike. The South Indian dosai (stuffed savory crepes) are not to be missed. No booze; serves Halal meats. $.

Mon and Wed-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.

Featuring a range of South and North Indian dishes, as well as a handful of Indian Chinese entrees, this Boozer Shopping Center one-

2100 Bush River Rd., 744-2200 (inside the Radisson Hotel) Mon-Sun 6 a.m.-midnight

Italian cuisine with a Tuscan flair and boasting “The Best Steak in Town.” Premium steaks are barrel-cut in house, and restaurant also

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

offers a do-it-yourself pasta bar as well as breakfast. $-$$.

Delucca’s

deluccas.com WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

2275 Sunset Blvd., 926-5255

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-9 p.m.; Sat 4-9 p.m.

Italian eatery featuring traditional favorites such as chicken and veal parmesan and primavera in addition to veal piccata and stuffed eggplant. Also includes pasta, ravioli, pizza, calzone and strombolis. $.

Garibaldi Café

Stephano’s

stephanosrestaurant.com LEXINGTON: 420 Columbia Ave., 359-5436 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Reliable Italian-American fare: chicken parmesan, spaghetti, raviolis, manicottis and pizzas, to name a few. Lunch menu includes personal midget pizzas and a variety of hot and cold subs. Salads and homemade pimento cheese also are available. ¢-$.

Tony’s Pizza and Italian Eatery DOWNTOWN:

1120 Washington St., 779-3000 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

garibaldicolumbia.com FIVE POINTS: 2013 Greene St., 771-8888

Below-ground downtown favorite offers pastas, subs, salads, lasagna, spaghetti and chicken.

Fine dining in an elegant atmosphere. Large Italian menu specializes in fresh seafood and typically boasts eight to nine specials a night. Mediterranean influence means plenty of herbs and olive oils. Terrific fried flounder. $$.

Travinia Italian Kitchen

Sun-Thu 5:30-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m.

Kovachi’s

kovachis.com LEXINGTON: 905 N. Lake Dr., 356-1366 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.10p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Family-friendly restaurant features signature Greek-and Italian-themed subs, sandwiches and salads alongside an array of specialty pizza offerings, calzones, strombolis and desserts. Try the chicken breast stuffed with spinach and feta or, if you dare, try Mike’s Giant Cake. ¢.

Moe’s Grapevine Italian Restaurant

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 4478

Rosewood Dr., 776-8463 moesgrapevine.com

Mon-Tue 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Wed-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.

City Councilman Moe Baddourah is a chef, too, and his restaurant specializes in Mediterranean cooking as well as daily specials and special pizza selections alongside an impressive array of soups, salads and desserts. $.

Pasta Fresca

pasta-fresca.net FOREST ACRES: 4722 Forest Dr., 787-1838

Sun-Thu 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 4:30-10:30 p.m.

Family-owned restaurant that features pasta dishes with fresh, made-from-scratch sauces and pastas. Innovative nightly seafood specials, a good selection of vegetarian dishes and welcoming atmosphere make this a local favorite. Now in a slick new location near the old one. ¢-$.

Ristorante Divino

NORTHEAST: 101-A Sparkleberry Crossing, 419-9313 traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. LEXINGTON: 5074 Sunset Dr., 957-2422

A fine dining Italian eatery with a bit of Southern spice to give the menu a unique flair. Crab cakes are big and fluffy, entrees are excellent across the board and soups are particularly good. $-$$.

Valentina’s Greek and Italian Cuisine BLYTHEWOOD:

135 Blythewood Rd., 754-0444

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Located next to the IGA in Blythewood, this family joint offers the usual subs, stromboli and pizza, but also serves up a wide variety of Italian and Greek fare, as well as prime rib and good burgers. Beer and wine are available. ¢-$.

The Villa

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

1704 Bush River Rd., 798-6360

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat 4:30-10:30 p.m.

This charming, low-priced Italian favorite boasts a low-key atmosphere and terrific pizzas. ¢-$.

Villa Tronco

villatronco.com DOWNTOWN: 1213 Blanding St., 256-7677 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.

A Columbia institution for more than 60 years, Villa Tronco serves consistently generous portions of traditional Italian fare such as veal parmagiana, chicken piccata and linguine with clams. Make sure to leave room for Carmella’s Famous Cheesecake. $.

ristorantedivino.com VISTA: 803 Gervais St., 799-4550

Japanese-Sushi

Some of the best fine dining in Columbia or anywhere else. Features classic northern Italian dishes, including the signature rack of lamb and the excellent gnocchi, but also more inventive fare, especially when it comes to seafood. Wine list consistently wins awards. $$.

camonsushi.wordpress.com DOWNTOWN: 1332 Assembly St., 254-5400

Mon-Sat 6 p.m.-10 p.m.

Rosso Trattoria Italia rossocolumbia.com

FOREST ACRES/DENTSVILLE:

4840 Forest Dr., 787-3949

Mon-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-11 p.m. (Bar opens at 4:30 p.m. every day)

Part sexy, part Old World rustic, this Forest Acres restaurant is a Columbia gem. Out-ofthis-world seafood highlights the excellent Italian-Mediterranean menu, but don’t miss out on the wood-fired traditional pizzas. A winner all the way around. $-$$.

Camon Japanese Restaurant

Tue-Sat 5-9:30 p.m.

The only sushi spot in Columbia’s downtown business district defiantly refuses to serve lunch and earns its keep by offering an exotic alternative to the more mainstream restaurant options available in the nearby Vista. Quiet and discreet, beloved by devoted regulars for the outstanding food, service and atmosphere. $.

Fujiya Japanese Restaurant

SHANDON: 4430 Rosewood Dr., 776-1600

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.; Sun 5-9 p.m.

Located just down from Midlands Technical College, Fujiya offers a sushi, hibachi and traditional Japanese menu. Hibachi lunch

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Building ‘Bites & Sites’ since 1976

specials are popular, though at Fujiya you don’t have to share a common table with strangers, which is nice. Friendly, attentive service. $.

Ganbei

miyabimyrtlebeach.com HARBISON/IRMO: 442 Columbiana Dr., 407-1264

Mon-Fri 5-10 p.m.; Sat 4-10 p.m.; Sun 3-9 p.m.

ganbeirestaurants.com LEXINGTON: 5580-F Sunset Blvd., 808-1618

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-11 p.m.

Swanky Japanese restaurant and bar features plenty of classics — hibachi items, potstickers, stir frys, fried rice, sushi, donburi, plus some curve balls like baked mussels and spring rolls. $.

Grilled Teriyaki

FIVE POINTS: 748 Harden St., 933-9950

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-4 a.m.; Sat 5 p.m.-3 a.m.

Grilled Teriyaki offers high quality teppanyaki dining while omitting the shenanigans. The owners have done a good job converting the small space into a cozy 12-table restaurant that also serves sushi and hibachi food. Open very late on weekends for hungry Five Points patrons. ¢.

Hibachi Grill

WEST COLUMBIA:

2343 Augusta Rd., 791-5333

Mon and Wed-Thus 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun 12 p.m.-10:30 p.m.

Affordable Japanese restaurant offers standard entrees — chicken, steak and seafood combos served teriyaki or hibachistyle with fried rice and vegetables — plus limited sushi, ramen, chicken wings and appetizers.

Hibachi House

hibachihouses.com DOWNTOWN: 937 Main St., 782-0616

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m; Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Greenville-based eatery serves Japanese favorites like teriyaki, sushi, yakisoba, gyoza and more — including bento boxes! ¢.

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant facebook.com/InakayaOneil NORTHEAST: 224 O’Neil Ct., 699-2626

Two restaurants in one — sit under the blue, vaulted ceiling in the top-notch sushi bar or make friends around a communal teppanyaki table on the steakhouse side. Either way, you won’t feel like you’re eating sushi at the mall. Sushi can be ordered from the steakhouse side but not vice versa. ¢-$$.

SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar sakifresh.com VISTA: 807 Gervais St., 931-0700

Mon-Wed 5-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 5 p.m.-until

Upscale Vista hotspot includes a popular bar area and a separate sushi bar. Extensive sake list complements beer and wine offerings, and SakiTumi also has weekly sushi and drink specials that are east on the wallet. Also check out their regular sushi-making classes. $.

Sakura Japanese Restaurant

FOREST ACRES: 4827 Forest Dr., 738-9330

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:30-9 p.m. Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:30-9:30 p.m.

Open since 1984, Sakura’s quality food and cozy atmosphere have given it a loyal following despite its elusive location for its sushi, sashimi, teriyaki and tempura. $.

Saky

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

4963 Jackson Blvd., 787-5307

Mon-Thu 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m.

Since 1974, the restaurant at this location went by the name of Saki. A change in management led to a name change, but Saky under any name serves fantastic sushi as well as soups, Asian noodles and more. $.

Sato Japanese

satosteak.com FOREST ACRES: 1999 Beltline Blvd., 782-1064

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10:30 p.m.; Sat 4:30-10:30 p.m.; Sun 4:30-9:30 p.m.

Elegant seating where outstanding sushi, sashimi and other Japanese cuisine take center stage. Popular with families and large groups for their spectacular Inakaya Boat Specials. Good variety and value. $.

Following the popular Hibachi grill model, entrees are prepared at your table and include all manner of fun and tasty sides. Try the Shogun Dinner, featuring filet mignon, jumbo shrimp and teriyaki chicken, or the Sato dinner that includes filet mignon, lobster and a choice of scallops or shrimp. Early bird specials and a sushi bar also are available. $-$$.

Inakaya Watanabe

Sumo

Mon 5-10 p.m.; Tue-Fri 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat 5-11 p.m.

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m., Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10:30 p.m; Sat 5-10:30 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.

Mon 5-10 p.m.; Tue-Fri 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-11 p.m. Sun 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-9 p.m.

facebook.com/InakayaWatanabe ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE: 655-C St. Andrews Rd., 731-2538

NORTHEAST: 151 Clemson Rd., 788-2300

Excellent sushi, sashimi and traditional Japanese dishes. $.

LEXINGTON:

Menkoi Ramen House

VISTA: 1004 Gervais St., 708-1569

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. and 5-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.-3 a.m.

Surprised to find legitimate Japanese ramen in the heart of the Vista? You shouldn’t be: The proprietor of beloved sushi joint Inakaya is now slinging noodles ‘til the wee hours, and those noodles are downright delicious. We’re told the beef and vegetable curry — a mild, brown-gravy concoction served over rice — is highly authentic as well, at least if you’re trying to recreate the late-night world of a Japanese businessman on a bender. ¢.

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Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar

205-B Columbia Ave., 356-5597 All the classic Japanese steakhouse trappings: big grills, chefs with big knives and a sense of showmanship, and a range of lunch and dinner stir-fry combinations that include steak, seafood and more. Kids’ menu, too. $$.

Sushi & Hibachi To Go

sushiandhibachitogo.com DOWNTOWN: 1100-B Elmwood Ave., 400-0988 Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.- 10 p.m.

Sushi, it turns out, doesn’t have to be upscale. Yes, this place shares a building with a fast food sandwich joint, but it makes tasty sushi and a few Thai favorites at rock-bottom prices. ¢-$.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Sushi Yoshi

Mexican

Mon-Wed 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

7 Mares

Offering Japanese specialty dishes, lunch specials, vegetarian dishes, teriyaki combos and, of course, sushi. ¢.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

FIVE POINTS: 2019 Devine St., 931-0555

Tsunami

tsunamicompany.com

IRMO/HARBISON/DUTCH FORK:

1290 Bower Pkwy., 407-3873

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 4-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

VISTA: 700-C Gervais St., 312-9911

Mon-Sat 4-11:45 p.m. Sun 4-10:45 p.m.

LEXINGTON: 4360 Augusta Rd., 520-0067

That’s mar-es, as in Spanish for oceans, not English for girl horses. And this Lexington seafood restaurant serves up the oceans’ bounty, featuring Mexican favorites like red snapper Veracruz-style, lobster soup, ceviche, spicy shrimp, octopus salad and much more. Also serves Mexican-American classics like fajitas and carnitas. $.

Cantina 76

cantina76.com

Trendy, chic sushi bar and restaurant with elegant, contemporary atmosphere and ample seating areas to complement extensive sake, wine and beer selection. $.

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 2901 Devine St., 708-6004

Korean

DOWNTOWN: 1301 Main St., 764-1769

Arirang

arirangcolumbia.com NORTHEAST: 1943 Decker Blvd., 790-5506 Tue-Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

You’ll feel right at home in this Korean restaurant, where the staff will take charge as if they were your own mom. Serves up such delights as pork belly grilled right at your table, plus Korean classics and banchan — and cold beer, of course.

Blue Cactus Café

bluecactuscafe.com FIVE POINTS: 2002 Greene St., 929-0782 Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Sat noon-9 p.m.

This unassuming little eatery boasts a serious culinary reputation, specializing in home style Korean food mixed with Mexican and other influences to create a sizzling menu that is especially vegetarian-friendly. Quality takes time, however, so don’t go if you’re in a hurry.¢.

Hero Korean Steak House and Sushi NORTHEAST:

6634 Two Notch Rd., 699-9922

Mon-Tue and Thu-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sun 5-9 p.m.

Yes, those are live, glowing coals in the middle of your table. Specializing in authentic Korean dishes such as gal bi (short ribs in a house sauce) and hwe dup bob (mixed raw fish and spicy sauce atop rice), Hero also serves traditional Japanese fare such as teriyaki entrees, sushi and tempura. ¢-$$.

Korea Garden

NORTHEAST: 2318 Decker Blvd., 760-3888

Mon and Wed-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Traditional Korean foods, from spicy stews to bi bim bap, from the owners of the former DJ House. Beer and wine available. $.

O Bok Korean Restaurant

NORTHEAST: 1616 Decker Blvd., 787-1100

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun 12:30-9 p.m.

Mon-Tue 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-9:30 p.m.; Wed-Fri 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Draws everyone from singles at the bar to couples and families, all of whom come for the Tex-Mex cuisine — and some of whom also go for the excellent margaritas, made in all shapes, flavors and sizes with top-shelf tequilas. $.

Casa Linda

casalindasc.com FOREST ACRES: 2009 Beltline Blvd., 738-0420 GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 7546 Garner’s Ferry Rd., 783-3990 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Full menu of Mexican combinations and specials ranging from salads and fajitas to burritos and chimichangas served in a family friendly environment. Offers a lunch menu and specials for the kids. ¢.

Cecilia’s

HARBISON/IRMO:

6169 St. Andrews Rd., 772-7154

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-8:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Discreetly located in Seven Oaks Shopping Center, Cecilia’s dishes up traditional Mexican favorites including burritos, enchiladas, tacos, etc. What sets the place apart is the atmosphere, which belies the strip mall setting with intimate seating and flowers galore. An old-school family favorite. $. LEXINGTON: 1792 S. Lake Dr., 957-0840 ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

7001 St. Andrews Rd., 749-7071

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri: 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Mexican-American and border region specialties, from fajitas to chilaquiles to fish tacos, plus the combination platters you’d expect. Lots of tortas (sandwiches) if you’ve got a big lunch appetite. $.

Chipotle Mexican Grill chipotle.com

FOREST ACRES: 4840 Forest Dr., 738-8272 HARBISON/IRMO:

276 Harbison Blvd., Unit 40, 781-1040 VISTA: 610 Gervais St., 223-7801 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Seoul Restaurant and Grocery

El Burrito serves healthy, super-fresh, authentic taqueria-style food. Beans and rice, chicken, beef, soup, salads and more. Attention to healthy food and local produce. Vegan- and vegetarian-friendly. Live bluegrass on Thus (seasonal). One of the best salads in town. ¢.

Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-8 p.m.

This charming restaurant and grocery offers authentic homestyle Korean fare in a casual setting. $.

goodlife

Our goal is to make delicious raw food, cold pressed juices, and smoothies that delight the palate and nurture the soul. Enjoy a great variety of gourmet vegan food and fresh juices in a contemporary atmosphere on Main Street in downtown Columbia. We also feature a full bar serving locally crafted beers and specializing in craft cocktails using our signature cold-pressed juices.

Chapala Mexican Restaurant

O Bok is popular with Korean folks for good reason — the authenticity of the food. For non-natives, the friendly staff is eager to explain the menu, and dishes include the traditional barbecued beef and stir-fries as well as more exotic offerings. Meals are served with a big assortment of banchan, or Korean-style small dishes. ¢. NORTHEAST: 1717 Decker Blvd., 790-0090

experience the

Even amid lots of competition, Chipotle does just fine, as its monster burritos, fresh tacos and delectable, chipotle-honey vinaigrette salads will be hard to pass up.

El Burrito

FIVE POINTS: 934 Harden St., 765-2188

Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

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El Mariachi

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 1078 Sunset Blvd, 794-3493

Mon-Sun 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Small authentic taqueria attached to a larger grocery store features, naturally, tacos, along with homemade salsas, smoked meats and more. El Salvadoran favorites like pupusas make an appearance, too. ¢.

El Poblano

CHAPIN: 2371 Dutch Fork Rd., 407-5784

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Affordable Mexican-American favorites – plus some great big margaritas – make El Poblano a social hub for the town of Chapin. $.

Eric’s San Jose

Moe’s Southwest Grill moes.com

DOWNTOWN:

625 South Main St., 256-9663 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. FOREST ACRES:

2130 N Beltline Blvd., 743-9663

Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

945 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-6638

Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. LEXINGTON: 914 N Lake Dr., 996-9200

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. NORTHEAST:

470-1 Town Center Pl., 788-6639

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

ericssanjose.com

2217 Augusta Rd., 477-5818

6118 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6650

With customizable menu options, eccentric style and unbeatable food, Moe’s adds some zest to the Tex-Mex cuisine. Cool menu names, fun atmosphere, kid-friendly. ¢.

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

One of many Combo-Mexicano eateries in town, San Jose offers an extensive menu of specialties and combination platters along with Mexican beers and margaritas. Everybody’s got their favorite Mexican place, and for many folks, this is it. ¢.

Hola Mexico

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Monterrey Mexican Restaurant eatmonterreys.com

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 199 Knox Abbott Dr., 794-3974

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Pizza

Takosushi

tako-sushi.com VISTA: 1115 Assembly St., 771-7131

Mon-Thus 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9:30 p.m.

Tacos! Sushi! Takosushi! A sushi joint and casual Mexican restaurant rolled into one, Takosushi offers burritos, enchiladas, tacos (“takos,” actually), sashimi, bento boxes and more.

Taqueria Jalisco

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

612 St. Andrews Rd., 731-5546

New York-style and gourmet pizzas sold by the pie or slice include the Spicy Buffalo Chicken, the Barbecue Chicken, the Meat Lovers and the Deluxe. Also offers a dinner menu with traditional Italian dishes like veal parmesan, manicotti and stuffed shells. Not a bad place to drink a beer and watch the game, either. ¢-$.

tiossc.com

DOWNTOWN: 921-A Sumter St., 252-7229

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-3 a.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Tio’s is a family owned Tex-Mex café distinguished by its extensive and eclectic salsa offerings. Shelves along the walls display the variety of hot sauces available, with names such as King of Fire and Spontaneous Combustion. Purveyors of perhaps the town’s best milkshake, perfect to quench your burning tongue. Also check out the award-winning No. 4 Salsa. ¢.

Middle Eastern

JP’s 4 Corners Signature Southwest

Pancho’s

FOREST ACRES: 5400 Forest Dr., 738-9511

facebook.com/Alamirofcolumbia DOWNTOWN: 629 Main St., 771-0515

jp4corners.com NORTHEAST: 150 Forum Dr., 865-1001

Mon 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Tue-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

A new restaurant in the space formerly occupied by Arizona in the Village at Sandhill. “4 Corners” refers to the spot where Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and Utah meet in the Southwest. The menu includes a wide variety of dishes with a hickory-grilled flavor. $.

La Estrella

WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE:

1921 Airport Blvd., 739-6520 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Assorted tacos with all the classic fixins: cilantro, lime, corn tortillas and more. Tortas, too. Other items include short ribs served with queso fresco, beans and rice. Also includes a butcher and a deli counter. ¢-$.

La Fiesta

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE:

1220 Charleston Hwy., 796-7004

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

A full menu of Mexican dishes. Daily specials, happy hour Mon-Thu from 4 to 7 p.m. Senior citizen discounts. ¢.

La Isla Bonita

facebook.com/laislabonitasc NORTHEAST COLUMBIA: 1701 Percival Rd., 596-6244 Wed-Sun 10 a.m.- 9 p.m.

Quaint restaurant that serves traditional Peurto-Rican cuisine. Dishes include Mofongo, cuban sandwiches, empanadas and a pastry of the day.

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sun 11 a.m.-1030 p.m.

Come for the $1.99 margaritas, stay for the classic Mexican cuisine. $.

Qdoba Mexican Grill qdoba.com

FIVE POINTS: 2006 Devine St., 799-1950

Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thu-Sat 10:30 a.m.-4 a.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Fast, casual and fresh Mexican dining in a friendly environment. Serving tacos, nachos, quesadillas, salads, burritos, etc. Also make their own salsas, chips and guacamole. Not just big burritos but big flavors as well. ¢.

Al-Amir

salsaritas.com VISTA: 916 Gervais St., 832-7586

Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat. 10:30 a.m. -10 p.m., Sun 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m. LEXINGTON: 5135-H Sunset Blvd., 957

7482 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.Quesadillas, tacos, burritos, taco salads and other Mexican-American favorites freshened up for a broader audience. ¢-$.

San Jose Mexican Restaurant sanjosemex.com HARBISON/IRMO: 1000 Marina Rd., 749-9484 Tue-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

498 Piney Grove Rd., 750-3611

Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Sun-Mon 11 a.m.-4 a.m.

Has over 60 variations to choose from including Diablo, dragon and cheesecake calzones. Delivery open until 4 a.m. which means you’ll have something to soak up the alcohol any day of the week. ¢.

Il Giorgione Pizzeria and Wine Bar ilgiorgione.com

2406 Devine St., 521-5063

Mon-Sat 7-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Tue- Fri 11:30 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Sat 5:30-11 p.m.

Al-Amir has a reputation for authentic and well-prepared Middle Eastern cuisine. Signature dishes include hummus, falafel, lamb kabob, mujadara and shawarma. Salads, subs and daily dessert specials round out the menu. The newest location, The Epicurean by Al-Amir (1734 Main St.), is in a spacious renovated building across from City Hall. ¢-$.

Authentic pizzas and pastas, plus nice touches like an Italian cheese plate and lovely arugula salads. Good selection of affordable Italian wines. $.

LaBrasca’s Pizza

Arabesque

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

All your Middle Eastern favorites, from shawarma to tabouli to falafel, not to mention pizzas and — for lunch, at least — wraps and burgers. Also serves alcohol. $.

Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina

FIVE POINTS: 817 Harden St., 764-3669

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD:

2421 Bush River Rd., 750-8990

Plenty of authentic Mexican and Southwestern restaurant foods, from tortas to carne asada to fajitas to chimichangas to fish tacos. Full bar with margarita specials.

Fast Eddie’s Calzones

DOWNTOWN : 1734 Main St., 401-5882

2930 Devine St., 779-6299

Mon-Thus 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10:30 p.m.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Real Mexico

ST. ANDREWS-DUTCH SQUARE:

danosdelivers.com

Tio’s Mexican Cafe

Classic Mexican-American restaurant serves lunch specials, combination platters and more, with vegetarian options available. ¢.

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Bobby’s attracts a loyal following with a more extensive menu than most neighborhood pizza joints, including pizzas with gourmet toppings and several Greek offerings. The bruschetta and garlic-and-oil glazed calzones are standouts. All menu items can be ordered for takeout. ¢-$.

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD: 3008 Rosewood Dr., 254-3266

Classic Mexican-American restaurant combination plates and favorites, from flautas to chilaquiles to enchiladas and more. $.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Think of Taqueria Jalisco as a slightly more gourmet Monterrey’s — one without the mad rush and where the food itself is well worth the extra time taken in preparation. ¢-$.

HARBISON/IRMO: 114 Afton Ct., 749-5928 LEXINGTON: 5570 Sunset Blvd., 356-8314

NORTHEAST: 2112 Clemson Rd., 699-3311

Dano’s Pizza

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

holamexico.mx NORTHEAST: 9009 Two Notch Rd., 834-3014

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Bobby’s House of Pizza & Subs

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST: 4365 Fort Jackson Blvd., 782-1098

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m.

With roots in a chain of Charleston pizzerias, LaBrasca’s has been serving great pies in Columbia since 1966. While its owners have changed over the years, this humble pizzeria continues in its tradition of offering extraordinary pizzas at prices that haven’t seemed to change much since the ‘60s. ¢.

Libby’s of Lexington

Elie’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

libbysoflexington.com LEXINGTON: 116 West Main St., 520-4689

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

Family-owned Lexington eatery features gourmet pizzas and calzones, plus an array of sandwiches, wraps and apps, all using local meat and seafood whenever possible. ¢.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

eliesonline.com

1058 St. Andrews Rd., 798-9664 Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Elie’s features fine Middle Eastern dining in a friendly atmosphere. Food on offer ranges from falafel and baba ghanoush to kibbeh balls, kabobs and shawarma. Also offers some excellent Lebanese wines. Now open for lunch only. ¢-$.

Pitas

DOWNTOWN: 1800 Taylor St., 343-3454

Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-8 p.m.

From the owner of the Mediterranean Tea Room comes this lunch locale featuring Mediterranean/Middle Eastern fare that also includes a Middle Eastern grocery store inside. Sure, pitas are on the menu, but so are some delicious salads, wraps and more. ¢.

Mellow Mushroom

mellowmushroomcolumbia.com VISTA: 1009 Gervais St., 933-9201

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun noon-9 p.m. LEXINGTON: 5364 Sunset Blvd., 359-0778

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun noon-10 p.m.

A popular lunch and dinner spot, Mellow Mushroom serves gourmet hand-tossed pies, along with huge calzones, hoagies and salads, all with fresh ingredients. Pizza toppings range from jerk chicken and pineapple to plain-old pepperoni. Large beer selection, with more taps upstairs at the Vista location. $.

Offers a vast array of combination and specialty platters. Happy Hour and lunch specials also available. ¢.

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Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Nick’s House of Pizza WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE:

1082A Sunset Blvd., 794-9240

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

In the classic Greek-food-and-pizza mold, Nick’s serves up baked pasta dishes, Greek sandwiches and subs, and assorted stormbolis and pizzas. Try the Greek pizza with feta, tomatoes, onions and gyro meat. $.

Nicky’s Pizzeria

nickyspizzaria.com FIVE POINTS: 2123 Greene St., 748-9661

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-3 a.m.

Choose between a traditional New York-style thin crust pizza and a Sicilian-style thick crust — or just pick one of the tasty calzones, subs or salads on offer. Bottled and draft beer, too.

Noah’s Antica Pizzeria noahspizzeria.com

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

7719 St. Andrews Rd., 445-1376

Sun-Fri 4-9 p.m.; Sat 12-9 p.m.

Fresh, authentic Neapolitan pizza — seriously. Takeout only. $.

Pizza Joint

thepizzajoint.net

FOREST ACRES/DENTSVILLE:

3246 Forest Dr., 454-1743

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.midnight; Sun 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

eggplant parmigiana. ¢-$.

Tony’s Pizzalicious

facebook.com/TonysPizzalicious WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 975 Knox Abbott Dr, 794-5469 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Opened in 1967 and formerly called simply Tony’s Pizza, this joint has served generations of Lexington County residents. Offers pastas, calzones, pizza, salads and sandwiches, plus Italian-American faves like eggplant parmigiana and baked spaghetti. ¢-$.

Uncle Maddio’s

unclemaddios.com DOWNTOWN: 601 Main St., 256-0033 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Fast, affordable pizza made with hormonefree meats and organic veggies — and situated right next to the university. Fresh salads, too, and toasted panini sandwiches. Offers gluten-free dough. ¢-$.

Vacchio’s Pizzeria

GASTON: 1120 Mack St., 796-7878

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-8 p.m. (closed 2-3 p.m.); Fri 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (closed 2-3 p.m.); Sat noon-8 p.m.

This popular Forest Acres spot has pizza, obviously, but it also serves up calzones, strombolis and sandwiches, along with a wide selection of beer with which to wash down that yummy Italian goodness.

Village Idiot

Pizza Man Pizzeria

FOREST ACRES: 4517 Forest Dr., 787-5005

villageidiotpizza.com FIVE POINTS: 2009 Devine St., 252-8646 Mon-Sun 11:30 a.m.-until Delivery: 11:30 a.m.-midnight

SHANDON: 341 S. Woodrow St., 252-6931

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Pizza Man is a comfortable, low-key restaurant offering good pizza at a steal. Serves a wide variety of toppings, as well as appetizers, subs, hamburgers, salads and chicken wings. ¢.

Offering NY style hand-tossed pizza by the pie or slice for lunch, dinner and delivery, the Village Idiot is a favored spot for USC students. Other featured menu items include sandwiches (Jersey Cheesesteak), wings, calzones and stromboles, pasta (baked ziti), salads and wings. ¢.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-midnight; Sat 7 a.m.-midnight; Sun 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

Pizza Palace

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

1314 Leesburg Rd., 695-9800 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

A classic menu of pizza, calzones and stromboli is peppered with club sandwiches, burgers and Greek fare. ¢-$.

Pizzeria Uno Chicago Grill unos.com

LEXINGTON: 5304 Sunset Blvd., 359-3888

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Based in Boston and patterned after the famous Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, the Uno Chicago Grill chain is famous for its deepdish pizzas. You also can get thin crust as well as seafood, chicken, steak and salad platters. $.

Ray’s Pizzeria and Ice Cream Shoppe

LEXINGTON: 5140-E Sunset Blvd., 951-0051

Mon-Thu 4:30-8 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Like the name says, Ray’s serves up pizza — both a Neapolitan thin-crust version and a Sicilian thick-crust version — and ice cream. It also serves up Italian favorites like eggplant parmigiana and cannoli. ¢-$.

Schiano’s schianos.us

zasbrickovenpizza.com SHANDON: 2930 Devine St., 771-7334

Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Locally owned and operated, Za’s open-faced kitchen and energetic staff delivers more than a dozen signature pizzas as well as soups, salads, sandwiches, pastas and nightly specials. Specialty pies include the Shrimp Pesto Za, Chicken Teriyaki Za, Zeus Za and Smoked Salmon Za. ¢-$.

Seafood Blue Fin Seafood Restaurant and Bar

NORTHEAST: 461-4 Town Center Pl., 865-7346 bluefinrestaurantandbar.com

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Brunch, lunch and dinner with a marine focus, from the lovely crab dip to the lobster ravioli and many fresh fish options. Steaks, chicken and the like will keep the nonseafood-loving happy. $.

Blue Marlin

VISTA: 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838 bluemarlincolumbia.com

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Specializing in creative seafood dishes with a decidedly Lowcountry flair, Blue Marlin also serves hand-cut steaks and prime rib. Shrimp and grits is a top seller, with the grits coming from right across the street at Adluh Flour. Don’t overlook other tasty options such as the Crispy Firecracker Flounder served with

Serving specialty pizzas for meat, veggie, pepperoni and sausage lovers and more. Calzones and stromboli round out the menu alongside sandwich selections and traditional Italian dishes like mussels marinara and

300 STATE STREET

803.794.6634 • www.cafestrudel.com Closed for dinner on Mondays

Za’s Brick Oven Pizza

NORTHEAST:

10120 Two Notch Rd., 788-7808

$2 DOMESTICS $3 DRAFTS $5 SPECIALTY DRAFTS

A pizzeria and much more. Serves Italian classics like manicotti; Greek classics like spanakopita (the Wed special) and baklava; and American classics like burgers. $.

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

2009

| freetimes

a jalapeno salsa. Private dining facilities now available. $.

Bonefish Grill

bonefishgrill.com FOREST ACRES: 4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200 Mon-Thu 4-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 4-11:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. HARBISON/IRMO:

1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599 Based out of St. Petersburg, Florida, Bonefish Grill specializes in offering the freshest seafood possible and boasts an oak-burning grill and a wide range of sauces. Pasta, chicken, pork and steak dishes round out the menu to suit varied tastes. ¢-$.

Catch 22

HARBISON/IRMO: 223 Columbia Ave.

(Chapin), 345-7778

Tues-Th 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri 11 a.m. -10 p.m., Sat 5-10 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Seafood of all sorts, from shrimp and grits to sushi. Burgers and other options for the landlubbers. $.

harborinnseafood.com NORTHEAST: 7375 Two Notch Rd., 462-3498 LEXINGTON: 411 W. Main St., 359-2979

Your favorite seafood platters come fried or broiled, with familiar sides like hush puppies and slaw. The Land and Sea special pairs crab legs with a ribeye, and the Specialty of the House mixes fried flounder, deviled crab, shrimp, oysters and stuffed clams. Lunch and express menus available. ¢.

Ocean View Seafood Restaurant ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

1904 Broad River Rd., 772-7811

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE: 1000 Knox Aboott Dr., 791-5700

Expansive menu features expansive portions of all manner of fried and broiled seafood. Daily specials, platters, steaks and sandwiches round out the menu with an emphasis on freshness. Hearty, affordable lunch specials on weekdays. $.

Oyster Bar

oysterbarcolumbia.com VISTA: 1123 Park St., 799-4484

Mon-Wed 4-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 4-11 p.m. (bar open later)

A true, old-fashioned oyster bar, and the Vista’s first. Sit at the bar and let your server shuck you some steamed or raw Gulf oysters. Also serves steamed shrimp and scallops, plus shrimp and grits, crab legs and side dishes. ¢-$.

Pearlz Oyster Bar Mon-Sun 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

Pearlz specializes in fresh oysters, regional seafood and Lowcountry recipes. But its hip, trendy ambience and signature martinis also make it a hotspot for Columbia’s young, urban professional crowd.

Steakhouse Carolina Strip Club

carolinastripclub.com VISTA: 902 Gervais St., 764-4017

Mon-Th. 11a.m.-10 p.m. Fri.-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Bar always open to 12 a.m.

PLANETARIUM • OBSERVATORY • 4D THEATER

SCMUSEUM.ORG

Steaks. Salads. Steak salads. Burgers, too, and seafood. Your straight-up American steakhouse. $-$$.

301 GERVAIS ST., COLUMBIA

RICHLAND COUNTY South Carolina

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It’s a simple proposition, really: You slap down some money, visit the enormous salad bar, and then partake in the neverending parade of sizzling grilled meats being carried around the dining room. With cuts as diverse as filet mignon, chicken wing, pork sausage, lamb shoulder and beef picanha — a special Brazilian cut — there’s something to please everyone among the 30 cuts available. $$.

Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse rioz.com

HARBISON/IRMO:

410 Columbiana Dr., 708-3151

Mon-Fri 5-10 p.m.; Sat.-Sun 4-10pm

Giant skewers stacked with meat and a massive salad bar — and you can have as much of it as you want. $$.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

What can you say, it’s Ruth’s freaking Chris. Among the best steaks on planet Earth, hands down, and you’ll be paying mightily for them. Their seafood rocks, too. $$.

Tapas Blue.

blueinthevista.org VISTA: 721-A Lady St., 251-4447 Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

A tapas bar and cocktail lounge that features the city’s only ice bar to go with breads and spreads and tapas items. Also serves salads, chips and dips and desserts. Enjoy sitting outside under the patio listening to the waterfall. And seriously, that ice bar is sweet. ¢-$.

Gervais & Vine

gervine.com VISTA: 620-A Gervais St., 799-8463 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-11 p.m.; Sat 4:30-11 p.m.

True Mediterranean wine and tapas bar with more than 40 wines by the glass and a wide selection of appetizers. Dishes prepared in open kitchen and are a fusion of Greek, Italian and Spanish cuisine with Southern influences. A Vista gem. ¢-$.

The Mamas and the Tapas themamasandthetapas.com VISTA: 931-A Senate St., 254-1060

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9:30 p.m.

Small plates, some Lowcountry-inspired and some with a Korean edge. $.

pearlzoysterbar.com VISTA: 936 Gervais St., 661-7741

• 15 robotic prehistoric creatures • Triceratops souvenir photo opportunity • Remote-controllable dinosaur • Hands-on activities

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 4-10 p.m.; Sun 4-9 p.m.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Sun and Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

HURRY! COME SEE US BEFORE WE'RE EXTINCT.

cowboybraziliansteakhouse.com DOWNTOWN: 1508 Main St., 728-0887

ruthschris.com DOWNTOWN: 924-A Senate St. (Hilton Hotel), 212-6666

Harbor Inn Seafood

A Bite Out of Time

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse

Thai Baan Sawan

baansawan.blogspot.com FIVE POINTS: 2135 Devine St., 252-8992 Tue-Sat 5:30-9 p.m.

Not your typical Thai restaurant, Baan Sawan serves expertly prepared Thai standards like pad thai and curries, but also offers dishes you won’t find elsewhere and inventive seafood creations. It’s pricey Thai food, but well worth it. Classy setting and staff, too. $-$$.

Price ¢ avg. entrée < $10 Key $ avg. entrée = $10-15

$$ avg. entrée > $15

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Bangkok Restaurant

Lamb’s Bread Vegan Café

7546 Garners Ferry Rd., Ste. 280B, 724-2255

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Bangkok was one of the first Thai restaurants in Columbia and remains worth the search — even in its new location across Garners Ferry from the old restaurant. The pad thai and kaou pad bai kapow remain favorites. Offers a wide range of Thai cuisine, as well as soups and Thai iced tea. Also serves Chinese. ¢-$.

Basil Thai Restaurant eatatbasil.com

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

700 Cross Hill Rd., 782-0716

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Fri. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-11 p.m; Sat 5-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

DOWNTOWN: 2338 Main St., 253-7889

One of Columbia’s only restaurants catering to vegans and vegetarians alike. Entire menu is vegan and uses locally grown and organic produce. Mock meats, sandwiches, vegetable dishes and fresh fruit juices available. Menu avoids genetically modified ingredients and tap water. ¢.

Rosewood Market & Deli

rosewoodmarket.com SHANDON: 2803 Rosewood Dr., 765-1083 Store hours: Mon-Sat 8 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Hot meals served Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m.; Sat breakfast: 9 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; Sunday brunch: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Mai Thai

A natural-foods grocery featuring fresh organic produce, herbs and spices, as well as natural beauty aids and popular supplements. The deli serves a diverse selection of hot gourmet meals, salads, breads, pastries and desserts. Eat in or take out. ¢.

WEST COLUMBIA-CAYCE:

Whole Foods Market

Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m, 5-9 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat 5-9:30 p.m.

GARNERS FERRY/SOUTHEAST:

Everything you’d expect from a good Thai place and more — spring rolls, fried calamari, stuffed chicken wing appetizers and a host of noodle and rice dishes and entrees such as rainbow duck, whole red snapper and a host of curries. Also offers reasonably priced lunch special entrees. $.

The granddaddy of natural foods stores boasts a stellar deli and buffet. ¢-$$.

Thailand Restaurant

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 1505 Charleston Hwy., 791-0206

Charleston’s favorite Thai restaurant comes to Columbia’s upscale Cross Hill Market, bringing Thai classics and approachable twists thereupon. Nice cocktail selection. $.

maithais.com

2249 Sunset Blvd., 939-4795

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE:

6024 St. Andrews Rd., 731-7715

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.

Authentic and delicious Thai food. Serves numerous entrées, soups and salads, with choices of mild, medium or hot. $.

Vegetarian Earth Fare

earthfare.com SHANDON: 3312-B Devine St., 799-0048 Store hours: Mon-Sat 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Earth Fare is a health-food supermarket with a full-service deli, café and scratch bakery. Options include a salad and hot bar, fresh deli sandwiches or wraps, sushi and other wholesome snacks. Deli serves no products with hydrogenated oil, cotton seed oil, bleached flour or artificial preservatives and sweeteners. ¢.

Good Life Café

goodlifecafe.net DOWNTOWN: 1614 Main St., 726-2310

Mon-Thu 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 7 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE: 3681-D Leaphart Rd, 454-3516

Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

A full-on vegan raw food restaurant with a tasty and ever-rotating array of mock foods: tacos, tostadas, wraps, sandwiches, tarts and more. Also has a large selection of fresh squeezed juices and herbal tonics, and some scrumptious desserts. A worthwhile trip even for those who maintain a cooked, meat-based diet. Main Street location has a full bar, too.

wholefoodsmarket.com

LEEKS

8ʏȇǥʬʚƖ̲̲ǇƖǱŨʬʚʲı²ưʚ ʲȇʬœʏıʚŽʬœƖʚŽĐ ɩ²ƖʏıĒʬ˶Ɩˀʬˀı äıʚʲʬǇȇą²Ǉ ƖǱŨʏıĒƖıǱʲʚɺ

OYSTERS

CAYENNE PEPPERS

702 Cross Hill Rd., 509-6700

Mon-Sun 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

Vietnamese

DUROC HOG

GARLIC

Golden Chopstix goldenchopstix.us

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-8:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat noon-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.

Serves Thai and Vietnamese dishes. This quiet, tucked away restaurant is a pleasant surprise; the décor is tasteful and simple, and the service is excellent. Dishes are prepared fresh when they are ordered — even the curry. Also serves sushi. ¢.

Pho Viet

pho-viet.com NORTHEAST: 2300 Decker Blvd., 699-5959 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

FIVE POINTS: 2011 Devine St., 779-4077

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Though it specializes in pho — the fragrant Vietnamese beef soup served with assorted beef cuts, fresh herbs, bean sprouts and other accompaniments — Pho Viet also serves spring rolls, chicken and seafood soups, rice bowls and noodle bowls topped with such Vietnamese favorites as grilled pork and shrimp. Jelly pearl drinks, soft drinks, tea and Vietnamese coffee comprise the beverage menu. ¢.

Did we list a restaurant that has closed? Did we overlook your favorite place? Let us know what you think: Email food@free-times.com.

803.791.3443 | terrasc.com 100 State Street | West Columbia, South Carolina

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Download it today! Visit VISTACOLUMBIA.COM for more info about all there is to see and do in the Vista.

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free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

| freetimes

Index restaurants by region BLYTHEWOOD

Carolina Wings.........................................14 Groucho’s..................................................18 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Valentina’s Greek and Italian .................23

CHAPIN

Catch 22....................................................28 El Poblano.................................................26 Wired Goat Café.......................................16

DOWNTOWN

Al-Amir......................................................26 Anthony’s Past Time Café ........................6 Atlanta Bread Company..........................10 Beezer’s....................................................18 Bourbon.....................................................16 Bubble Tea Café.......................................20 Cali’s Café.................................................18 California Dreaming...................................6 Camon Japanese Restaurant.................23 Cantina 76.................................................25 Capitol Café & Bakery.............................18 Carolina Café & Catering........................16 Casserole 2 Go...........................................6 Chocolate Nirvana...................................10 Cola’s American Cooking........................12 College Grounds Café.............................16 Cool Beans Coffee Co.............................16 Courtyard Café.........................................12 Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse................28 Crepes & Croissants................................21 Cromer’s P-Nuts.......................................20 Drake’s Duck In..........................................6 Drip Coffee................................................16 Fancy That..................................................6 First Citizens Café....................................16 Good Life Café.........................................29 Greek Boys...............................................21 Hampton Place Café................................18 Hampton Street Vineyard........................13 Hibachi House..........................................24 Hunter-Gatherer.......................................15 Immaculate Consumption ......................16 Island Grill.................................................17 J. Gumbo’s................................................17 Lamb’s Bread Vegan Café......................29 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Lunch Box.................................................18 M Café.......................................................10 M Fresh.....................................................10 Mack’s.........................................................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park..............................15 Michael’s Café and Catering.....................8 Midlands’ Food Arts...................................8 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Nathan’s Restaurant..................................8 No Name Deli...........................................18 Oak Table..................................................13 Olive Grill...................................................22 Paradise Ice..............................................20 Pitas...........................................................26 Pita Pit.......................................................18 P.O.S.H. ....................................................13 Roly Poly Sandwiches.............................18 Ruth’s Chris...............................................28 Salina Café...............................................21 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs.......................8 Shalimar Curry House.............................22 Rue 77.......................................................13 Savalis Restaurant & Lounge...................8 Sushi & Hibachi To Go.............................24 Swanson’s Deli.........................................18 Tio’s Mexican Café...................................26 Tony’s Pizza and Italian Eatery...............23 Uncle Maddio’s.........................................27 Villa Tronco...............................................23 The Whig...................................................12 Wing Zone.................................................15 Yoghut.......................................................20 Zoe’s Kitchen............................................18

FIVE POINTS

Andy’s Deli................................................18 Baan Sawan..............................................28 Bar None...................................................10 Blazing Copper.........................................10 Blue Cactus Café.....................................25 Cellar on Greene......................................12 Delaney’s..................................................10 DiPrato’s Delicatessen............................18 Drip Coffee................................................16 El Burrito....................................................25 Fast Eddie’s Calzones.............................26

30 freetimes |

3aldi’s Café...............................................22 Gourmet Shop..........................................16 Grilled Teriyaki..........................................24 Groucho’s..................................................18 Harper’s Restaurant...................................6 Insomnia Cookies....................................20 Jake’s.........................................................12 Lucky’s......................................................12 Mr. Friendly’s.............................................13 Nicky’s Pizzeria........................................27 Pawleys Front Porch..................................8 Pho Viet.....................................................29 Qdoba........................................................26 Salty Nut Café...........................................12 Saluda’s.....................................................13 Sammi’s Deli.............................................18 Scoopy Doo..............................................20 Sizzle Bacon Eatery...................................8 Sushi Yoshi...............................................25 Village Idiot...............................................27 Waffle House..............................................8 Yesterdays Restaurant & Tavern .............8

FOOD TRUCKS

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue......................14 2 Fat 2 Fly..................................................14 Pawleys Front Porch Truck.....................21 Wurst Wagen............................................21 Forest Acres Ally and Eloise Bakeshop........................10 Bonefish Grill............................................28 Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery........................10 Casa Linda................................................25 Chipotle.....................................................25 Five Guys Burgers & Fries........................6 Groucho’s..................................................18 JackSon’s Southern Kitchen.....................6 Lillian’s Eatery & Bakery..........................10 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Miyo’s.........................................................10 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Mousetrap...................................................8 Original Pancake House............................8 Pancho’s....................................................26 Pasta Fresca.............................................23 Pizza Joint.................................................27 Rosso........................................................23 Sakura Japanese Restaurant.................24 Sato Japanese Steak & Seafood............24 Taste of Jamaica......................................17 Tazza Kitchen...........................................13 Tombo Grille.............................................13 Village Idiot...............................................27 Yoghut.......................................................20 Yummy Yummy Chinese.........................18 Zoe’s Kitchen............................................18

GADSDEN

Big-T Bar-B-Que .....................................14

GARNERS FERRY/ SOUTHEAST

Bangkok Restaurant................................28 Basil Thai Restaurant..............................29 Big-T Bar-B-Que......................................14 Buffalo Wild Wings...................................14 Casa Linda................................................25 China Buffet Sushi & Bar.........................17 Cockpit Barbeque....................................14 Conquest Brewing Co..............................15 Doc’s Barbeque & Southern Buffet........14 Eric’s San Jose.........................................26 Julia’s German Stammtisch....................21 LaBrasca’s Pizza......................................26 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Marble Slab Creamery............................20 Moe’s Grapevine Italian...........................23 Panera Bread............................................10 Pizza Palace...............................................2 River Rat Brewery....................................16 Rush’s..........................................................8 Saky...........................................................24 Swamp Cabbage Brewing Co................16 Taziki’s Mediterranean Café...................22 Whole Foods.............................................29

Buffalo Wild Wings...................................14 Calypso Caribbean Grill..........................17 Carolina Ale House....................................6 Cecilia’s.....................................................25 Chickadee’s Diner......................................6 Copper River Grill.....................................12 DL McLaughlin’s.......................................18 Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet..................10 Five Guys Burgers & Fries........................6 Groucho’s..................................................18 Hemingway’s............................................12 Hooters......................................................14 Interstate Hoagies and Steaks..................6 Liberty on the Lake.....................................6 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Lucky’s Burger Shack................................8 Marble Slab Creamery............................20 Mathias Sandwich Shop............................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park..............................15 Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse.................24 Miyo’s.........................................................10 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..............26 Panera Bread............................................10 Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse......................28 Rush’s..........................................................8 Rusty Anchor............................................12 San Jose Mexican Restaurant................26 Smashburger..............................................8 Sun Ming...................................................18 Tropical Smoothie Café...........................18 Tsunami.....................................................25 Wild Hare Sports Café...............................8 Wild Wing Café.........................................15 Yoghut.......................................................20 Zorba’s Family Greek Restaurant...........22

LEESVILLE

Shealy’s Bar-B-Que House....................15

LEXINGTON

7 Mares......................................................25 Antai Asian Dining....................................10 Arkos Mojo Grill........................................17 Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders...................22 Bentley’s Beach House...........................10 Buffalo Wild Wings...................................14 Café Chartier............................................16 Carolina Wings.........................................14 Chapala Mexican Restaurant.................25 Chen’s........................................................17 Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop............18 Cold Stone Creamery..............................20 Compton’s Kitchen.....................................6 The Deli.....................................................18 Five Guys Burgers & Fries........................6 Flight Deck..................................................6 Ganbei.......................................................24 Harbor Inn Seafood..................................28 Hudson’s Smokehouse............................14 Kovachi’s...................................................23 Libby’s of Lexington..................................26 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Main Street Café Bar & Grill....................22 Maurice’s Piggie Park..............................15 Mediterranean Café.................................22 Mellow Mushroom....................................26 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..............26 Old Mill Brewpub......................................16 Panera Bread............................................10 Pizzeria Uno Chicago Grill......................27 Ray’s Pizzeria & Ice Cream Shoppe......27 Red Bowl...................................................10 Rush’s..........................................................8 Salsarita’s..................................................26 San Jose Mexican Restaurant................26 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs.......................8 Stephano’s................................................23 Sumo.........................................................24 Tipsy Toad Tavern....................................12 Travinia Italian Kitchen............................23 Tutti Frutti..................................................20 Vegetable Medley & Chavis Café.............8 Wild Hare Sports Café...............................8

GASTON

NORTH COLUMBIA

HARBISON/IRMO

NORTHEAST

Vacchio’s...................................................27 Alodia’s Cucina Italia................................22 Beef O’Brady’s..........................................10 Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders...................22 Bistro on the Boulevard...........................12 Blue Coyote..............................................10 Blue Flour..................................................18 Bonefish Grill............................................28 British Bulldog Pub...................................10 Bubble Tea Café.......................................20

Edna’s Drive In............................................6 Arirang.......................................................25 Beef O’Brady’s..........................................10 Bert’s Southern Cooking...........................6 Big-T Bar-B-Que......................................14 Blue Fin.....................................................27 Bobby’s House of Pizza...........................26 Bruster’s Real Ice Cream........................18 Buffalo Wild Wings...................................14 Calypso Caribbean Grill..........................17 Carolina Wings.........................................14

Chen’s........................................................17 Five Guys Burgers & Fries .......................6 Harbor Inn.................................................28 Henry’s......................................................12 Hero Korean Steak House & Sushi........25 Hola Mexico..............................................26 Hooters......................................................14 Inakaya Japanese Restaurant................24 Jin’s Hibachi & Chinese...........................17 JP’s Four Corners....................................26 Julep’s Bistro.............................................13 Korea Garden...........................................25 Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles........................6 La Isla Bonita............................................26 Little Pigs...................................................14 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Mama J’s...................................................17 Marble Slab Creamery............................20 Maurice’s Piggie Park..............................15 Miyo’s.........................................................10 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Montego Bay Caribbean..........................17 O Bok Korean Restaurant.......................25 Panera Bread............................................10 Peanut Man...............................................20 Pho Viet.....................................................29 Polliwog’s..................................................12 Quaker Steak and Lube...........................15 Red Bowl Asian Bistro.............................10 Rush’s..........................................................8 San Jose Mexican Restaurant................26 Schiano’s...................................................27 Seoul Restaurant & Grocery...................25 Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar...................13 Stonefire American Grill .........................13 Sumo.........................................................24 Sweet, A Cupcake Company..................20 Tap’s Pub...................................................12 Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery........................10 Travinia Italian Kitchen............................23 Tsubaki......................................................10 Very’s...........................................................8 Wild Wing Café.........................................15 Yummy Yummy Chinese.........................18

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD

American Roadside Burgers.....................6 Arabesque.................................................26 Burger Tavern 77........................................6 Cantina 76.................................................25 Cock N’ Bull..............................................10 Crust Bakehouse......................................10 Dano’s Pizza.............................................26 Devine Foods............................................21 Earth Fare.................................................29 Egg Roll Chen...........................................17 Eggs Up Grill...............................................6 Fifth Avenue Deli......................................18 Fujiya.........................................................23 Il Giorgione................................................26 Henry’s......................................................12 Kraken Gastropub....................................12 Main Moon................................................16 Mediterranean Tea Room.......................22 Pelican’s SnoBalls....................................20 Pizza Man.................................................27 Publick House...........................................15 Rockaway Athletic Club.............................8 Rosewood Market & Deli.........................29 Sammi’s Deli.............................................18 Silver Spoon Bake Shop..........................10 Smashburger..............................................8 Southern Belly..........................................12 TLC Sports Bar and Grill.........................12 Utopia........................................................12 Za’s Brick Oven Pizza..............................27

ST. ANDREWS/DUTCH SQUARE

Bombay Grill.............................................22 Chapala Mexican Restaurant ................25 Columbo’s.................................................22 Corner Pocket...........................................12 Delhi Palace..............................................22 Elie’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine.........26 Fuddruckers................................................6 Inakaya Watanabe...................................24 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park..............................15 Melting Pot................................................13 Noah’s Antica Pizzeria.............................27 Ocean View Seafood Restaurant...........28 Real Mexico..............................................26 Rush’s..........................................................8 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs.......................8 Skores.......................................................12 Sweet Cake House..................................20 Taqueria Jalisco.......................................26 Thailand Restaurant................................29 Top China Buffet.......................................18

The Villa....................................................23 WG’s Chicken Wings...............................15 Wings & Ale..............................................15

THE VISTA

Black Bean Company..............................18 blue. ..........................................................28 Blue Marlin................................................27 Carolina Ale House....................................6 Carolina Strip Club...................................28 Chipotle.....................................................25 Cupcake....................................................20 Five Guys Burgers & Fries........................6 Flying Saucer............................................12 Garden Bistro...........................................18 Gervais & Vine..........................................28 Jason’s Deli...............................................18 Jillian’s.........................................................6 Kelly’s........................................................12 Liberty Tap Room.......................................8 The Mamas and the Tapas......................28 Marble Slab Creamery............................20 M Grille......................................................10 M Vista.......................................................10 Mellow Mushroom....................................26 Menkoi Ramen House.............................24 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..............26 Motor Supply Co.......................................13 Nonnah’s...................................................20 Oyster Bar.................................................28 Palmetto Pig..............................................15 Pastry Shop at Nonnah’s.........................10 Peanut Man...............................................20 Pearlz Oyster Bar.....................................28 Le Peep.......................................................6 Ristorante Divino......................................23 SakiTumi...................................................24 Salsarita’s..................................................26 TakoSushi.................................................26 Thirsty Fellow............................................12 Tin Roof.....................................................12 Tsunami.....................................................25 Tutti Frutti..................................................20 Wet Willie’s................................................12 The Woody................................................12 Wild Hare Sports Café...............................8 Wild Wing Café.........................................15

WEST COLUMBIA/ CAYCE

@116 Espresso & Wine Bar....................12 2108 State...................................................6 Al’s Upstairs..............................................22 Ariana’s Greek Restaurant......................21 Atlanta Bread Company .........................10 Backyard Café............................................6 Café Strudel..............................................16 Carolina Café............................................16 Chen’s........................................................17 China Hut III..............................................17 Compton’s Kitchen.....................................6 D’s Wings..................................................14 Delucca’s...................................................23 Down Home Café.......................................6 Egg Roll Station........................................17 La Estrella.................................................26 La Fiesta....................................................26 Golden Chopstix.......................................29 Good Life Café.........................................29 Grecian Gardens......................................21 Heather’s Artisan Bakery........................10 Hibachi Grill...............................................24 John D. Hite’s............................................14 Judy’s at the Market...................................6 Just Us Café...............................................6 Karl’s Korner.............................................12 Kingsman Restaurant................................6 Lizard’s Thicket...........................................8 Mai Thai.....................................................29 El Mariachi................................................26 Moe’s Southwest Grill..............................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..............26 Ms. B’s Southern Kitchen..........................8 My Dessert Bar.........................................20 Nick’s House of Pizza..............................27 Ocean View Seafood...............................28 Panaderia Odalys.....................................10 Rush’s..........................................................8 Skyaa’s......................................................17 Spice Junction..........................................22 Steve’s 1 Sub Contractor.........................18 Sub Station II............................................18 Sporting News Bar and Grill ...................12 Tea Pot Chinese Restaurant...................18 Terra..........................................................13 Tony’s Pizzalicious...................................27 True BBQ..................................................15 Vella’s Restaurant and Tavern..................8 What-A-Burger...........................................8

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

K, you’re in town, now where’s the action? For comprehensive events coverage on a week-to-week basis, pick up a copy of Free Times at one of hundreds of locations throughout the city. But to get you started, we’ve compiled some of the major concerts, exhibitions and other cultural highlights of what’s happening between now and June, when the next Bites & Sights hits the streets. Dates are subject to change. For more information, please contact the specific venue or organization. For more things to do, go to free-times.com/events.

Museum Exhibitions

Bar Stool Classic

Dinosaurs: Land of Fire and Ice

South Carolina State Fairgrounds scstatefair.org

EdVenture Children’s Museum edventure.org Through Oct. 19. Visitors encounter unfamiliar landscapes, touchable dinosaurs and opportunities to investigate clues about what these mysterious creatures left behind.

Dinosaurs: A Bite Out of Time South Carolina State Museum scmuseum.org Through Jan. 4. Journey back in time when monsters walked the earth, swam in the seas and soared through the skies. The blockbuster exhibit features robotic dinosaurs and strange creatures from prehistoric times.

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera Columbia Museum of Art columbiamuseum.org Through Oct. 17-Jan. 18. It is little known that Rockwell staged photographs to make his popular covers of the Saturday Evening Post. This landmark exhibition includes 50 photographs that show the careful process Rockwell used to make his art.

Traditions, Change and Celebration: Native Artists of the Southeast McKissick Museum artsandsciences.sc.edu/ mckissickmuseum Through July 25. Features Native American artists who continue the traditions of their ancestors in a contemporary context.

October Carolina Down Home Blues Festival Downtown Camden fineartscenter.org Oct. 2-4. Blues music from all over the world in bars all over downtown Camden.

USMC Ultimate Challenge Mud Run The Leatherneck usmcmudrun.org Oct. 4. Didn’t get enough at the first Mud Run? Do it again!

Oct 3. 10 hole putt-putt bar crawl. All proceeds go to the Babcock Center Foundation.

South Carolina State Fair Oct. 8-19. Some people skip the fair because they think they’re too cool. Some head to the fair out of a sense of ironic hipness — you know, getting in touch with the PBR-drinking working class and all that. Others just go because of the deep-fried goodness. And then there are those who have figured out that the Fair actually books some damn fine entertainment; this year, Shovels & Rope, The Marshall Tucker Band and Lee Brice all perform.

Jam Room Music Festival Main and Hampton streets jamroommusicfestival.com Oct. 11. Free outdoor music festival put together by the city’s most famous recording studio returns for year three with some serious indie rock firepower; Superchunk, The Love Language and Southern Culture on the Skids all play.

Oktoberfest Columbia Incarnation Lutheran Church oktoberfestcolumbia.com Oct. 10-12. Celebrate German heritage with German food, German beer and German music. Proceeds benefit Harvest Hope Food Bank, the Midlands Foundation for Foster Children and the Incarnation Lutheran Church Foundation.

Boo at the Zoo Riverbanks Zoo riverbanks.org Oct. 17-30. Lions and tigers … and ghosts! And candy!

Rooftop Rhythms

November Historic Camden Revolutionary War Field Days Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site historic-camden.net Nov. 1-2. Marching, muskets, and shots fired! But as opposed to that first Revolutionary War, no one gets hurt.

Chili Cook-Off in Five Points Group Therapy fivepointscolumbia.com Nov. 8. Immensely popular Five Points food event. Recipes include vegetarian, traditional, wild things, exotic and hot stuff. Good eatin’.

Governor’s Cup State House carolinamarathon.org Nov. 8. Popular road-race event that features 8K and half-marathon events. Be sure to stretch.

Colonial Cup Springdale Race Course carolina-cup.org Nov. 15. If you’re itchin’ to hobnob with high society — or if you’ve got a penchant for putting money on the ponies — toss on your tweed jacket and head out to Camden for the annual Colonial Cup horse races. We’re kidding about the gambling, but not about the tweed — there’s a dress code mandating tweed slacks at the very least.

Vista Lights The Vista vistalightssc.com Nov. 20. Carriage rides, Christmas tree lighting, holiday music and more create the atmosphere for this annual open house for Vista businesses and galleries.

Richland Mall farooftop.com

Riverbanks Zoo Lights Before Christmas

Oct. 23. Free outdoor concert series hosted four times a year.

Riverbanks Zoo riverbanks.org

Korean Fall Festival

Nov. 21-Dec. 30. With nearly 1 million twinkling lights assembled into an array of dazzling images, Lights Before Christmas is a longstanding hallmark of Columbia’s Christmas season.

1412 Richland St. koreanfallfestival.com Oct. 25. Bulgogi! Dukbogi! Kimchi! Hosted by the Korean Community Presbyterian Church, this festival highlights Korean food (yum!), as well as dance and other cultural aspects.

Trick-or-Treat in Five Points Oct. 31. Merchants will be keeping their doors open late and giving out more treats than tricks to people as they come down in their costumes.

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

Holiday Lights on the River

you might dig watching the governor light the State House Christmas tree. Typically the Monday after Thanksgiving.

Main Street Ice Boyd Plaza, downtown Columbia TBA. Outdoor iceskating on a smallish rink with all of your friends. Who says Columbia can’t enjoy winter?

South Carolina Oyster Festival Robert Mills House TBA. Mmm ... oysters! Columbia’s largest outdoor oyster roast — featuring more than 10,000 pounds of fresh steamed and fried bivalve mollusks — also features music, kids’ activities, arts and crafts vendors, historic house tours and more. Sponsored by Historic Columbia.

December Carolina Carillon Holiday Parade Gervais Street, downtown Columbia carolinacarillon.com Dec. 6. Columbia’s annual and official holiday parade.

Columbia Christmas Pageant First Baptist Church firstbaptistcolumbia.org Dec. 12-14. This annual Christmas pageant is a huge deal: It’s televised statewide.

Crafty Feast Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center craftyfeast.com Dec. 14. Avoid the mall! Buy handmade goodies from local and regional artisans for all your friends and family this year! That’s an order!

Famously Hot New Year Main Street, downtown Columbia Dec. 31. Thus far a mixed bag — George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic (Yay!); Kool & the Gang (Yay?) The Wallflowers (WTF?) — this annual block party rocks in the New Year with occasionally fun music selections and beer you can drink in the middle of the street. Not bad for a free shindig.

Junior League of Columbia Holiday Market South Carolina State Fairgrounds jlcolumbia.org Dec. 4-7. How do you piss off a Junior Leaguer? By not shopping at this holiday market, which raises support for the Junior League of Columbia’s signature project: Smart Matters, an initiative for elementary schools in Richland District One to help meet basic needs of students, promote literacy, and improve parental involvement.

Devine Night Out Devine Street devinestreetcolumbiasc.com TBA. More than 40 stores on Devine Street will welcome guests, encouraging them to be merry and spend heartily.

A Starry Night

Saluda Shoals Park icrc.net

Five Points fivepointscolumbia.com

Nov. 26-Dec. 31. A dazzling, twinkling, massive drive-through light display along the Saluda River.

TBA. Santa! Hot chocolate! Christmas-y music and fun! Joy to Five Points!

Governor’s Carolighting

mainstreetcrit.com

South Carolina State House TBA. If you celebrate the season and can put away partisan politics for one night,

Main Street Crit Dec. 31. In need of some nocturnal exercise? Try this nighttime road race with varying degrees of difficulty.

freetimes

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WHAT TO DO:

STAY ATTRACTIONS

A lorikeet admires his reflection at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. File photo

olumbia is full of history — and historical attractions. Even the Publix in the Vista carries a whiff of Civil War history, occupying a building that once printed Confederate currency. But it’s not just war sites that you need to see: Statewide, South Carolina has 1,300 sites on the National Register of Historic Places. Our attractions aren’t all ancient, either. See, for example, the monument to Hootie & the Blowfish in Five Points — or, more importantly, the recently unveiled civil rights markers along Main Street. Columbia has an oftenoverlooked civil rights history that includes three major Supreme Court rulings. The signs commemorate key local events and people, among them Sarah Mae Flemming, a black domestic worker who was accused in 1954

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by a bus driver of sitting in the whites-only area; the incident preceded the famous Rosa Parks case and led to a significant court ruling after the NAACP filed a lawsuit on Flemming’s behalf. Columbia’s biggest attraction of all is the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, which draws approximately 1 million visitors per year. Opened in 1974, the zoo occupies 170 acres along the Lower Saluda River and houses some 2,000 animals in natural habitat exhibits; 70 of those acres are devoted to Riverbanks Botanical Garden, which features woodlands, gardens, historic ruins, plant collections and a visitor facility. Other top destinations in the city include the South Carolina State Museum, EdVenture Children’s Museum, Congaree National Park, the Columbia Museum of Art, Three Rivers Greenway, Colonial Life

Arena, the Township Auditorium, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, the Robert Mills House and more. Upcoming events at the Colonial Life Arena include Legends of Hip Hop (Oct. 25), Cirque du Soleil’s Varekai (Nov. 5-9) and the TransSiberian Orchestra (Nov. 21). The Township’s lineup includes EDM star Skrillex (Oct. 27), country singer Scotty McCreery (Nov. 21) and blues-rock guitarist Joe Bonamassa (Dec. 5). The Columbia Museum of Art presents littleknown photographs by Norman Rockwell in the exhibition Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera (Oct. 17-Jan. 18). The S.C. State Museum recently opened its Windows to New Worlds expansion space, which includes a planetarium, observatory and 4D theater. For more events, see the calendar on page 31 or visit free-times.com/events. Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

PLAY&STAY Downtown USC South Main

olumbia’s Main Street used to be overlooked as an entertainment district, but things are booming these days. The Hub at Columbia has brought a major influx of young residents to the area. New restaurants such as the Good Life Café, Michael’s, Cantina 76 and The Epicurean by Al-Amir have given Main Street a big daytime boost. The Soda City farmers market is bustling on Saturday mornings. Columbia’s home of independent film, the Nickelodeon Theatre, is on the 1600 block of Main Street. Drip Coffee services downtown dwellers’ caffeine addictions and provides a much-needed meeting spot. The Whig is one of the hippest bars in town. And the Columbia Museum of Art, long the area’s cultural anchor, provides a steady stream of exhibitions and events. Bottom line: Things are happening downtown. Just south of the State House is a string of establishments catering largely to university types and state employees. Among the options within a few-block radius: Indian food; coffee; sandwiches; frozen yogurt; hot dogs; ice cream; bagels and locally brewed beers at HunterGatherer.

African-American History Monument

State House grounds The backstory of this monument goes back to 1994, when state Sen. John Courson put forward a grand bargain that would link removing the Confederate Flag from the State House dome (but keeping it on State House grounds) with creating an African-American history monument. That initial proposal didn’t

WHAT TO DO: pass, but eventually a compromise came together and the monument was dedicated in 2001. A citizens’ committee reviewed proposals from more than 40 artists and selected Colorado artist Ed Dwight from among them. The result is a 12-panel sculpture representing key aspects of the African-American experience.

Busted Plug Plaza

1400 Block of Taylor St. It’s still on Taylor Street now, but it won’t be for long. Artist Blue Sky’s giant metallic fire hydrant needs a new home, as its former host, AgFirst, has moved to Main Street.

Columbia Museum of Art

Main and Hampton streets 799-2810, columbiamuseum.org Exhibitions! Concerts! Beer! The museum’s traveling exhibitions span the full range of art history, while its permanent collection emphasizes European fine and decorative arts. Of course, the art is always a key draw when you’re talking about an art museum, but there are also a ton of other events happening here: the 20-something-oriented Arts & Draughts series, the acclaimed Chamber on Main series, plus lots of lectures, films and more.

Elmwood Cemetery

501 Elmwood Ave. OK, so maybe hanging out in a cemetery isn’t your idea of fun. But this cemetery is full of history — and Civil War history in particular. Established in 1854, Elmwood Cemetery covers 168 acres and includes an area dedicated to Confederate soldiers. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

Finlay Park

930 Laurel St., 545-3100 Truth be told, Finlay Park (opened in 1991) has seen better days. Nonetheless, it can still be a good place for a walk amid the hustle of downtown, and kids love its two play areas. It could also get a boost with the move of the Busted Plug sculpture and an accompanying splash pad. Also hosts occasional concerts and festivals. Located behind the Assembly Street post office.

Governor’s Mansion

800 Richland St., 737-1710 scgovernorsmansion.org Built in 1855 as a residence for officers of the Arsenal Military Academy, Gen. Sherman’s troops spared the building at the end of the Civil War and it became the official Governor’s Mansion in 1868.

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

ATTRACTIONS

Hampton-Preston Mansion

1615 Blanding St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org Built in 1818, the Hampton-Preston Mansion opened for tours in 1970; its rooms reflect the Federal period to the early postbellum years.

Koger Center

1051 Greene St., 777-7500 koger.sc.edu The Koger Center is operated by USC and has served as Columbia’s primary facility for the performing arts since 1989. Seats just over 2,000.

Mann-Simons Cottage

1403 Richland St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org One of only a few houses in South Carolina owned by free blacks in antebellum days and preserved as a historic house museum. Celia Mann and her descendants owned the house from the mid-19th century until 1970. The house serves as the focal point for the annual Jubilee Festival.

McMaster Gallery

1615 Senate St., 777-7480 www.cas.sc.edu/art A small, unassuming gallery tucked away inside USC’s Department of Art, McMaster is nonetheless a gem of the city’s visual arts scene. Features student and faculty exhibitions along with contemporary traveling shows.

McKissick Museum

USC Horseshoe, 777-7251 www.cas.sc.edu/mcks Offers exhibits relating to the cultural, political and natural history of South Carolina and the southeastern United States.

Modjeska Monteith Simkins House

2025 Marion St. Built between 1890 and 1895, this one-story cottage was the home of Modjeska Simkins, a leader in South Carolina’s civil rights movement and the first woman to serve as state secretary of the state NAACP. At a time when blacks could not stay at city hotels, Simkins’ home offering a gathering space and lodging for many civil rights figures, including Thurgood Marshall.

Nickelodeon Theatre

1607 Main St., 254-8234 nickelodeon.org Specializing in foreign and independent films, the Nickelodeon moved into the spot of the former Fox Theatre on Main Street in 2012. Also presents the popular annual Indie Grits Film Festival.

Palmetto Trail

palmettoconservation.org Conceived in 1994 as a statewide series of linked trails, the Palmetto Trail features 350 miles of completed paths thus far. In the Midlands, the Capital City Passage is an urban section of the trail going from Riverfront Park to Fort Jackson.

Ponder Art Gallery (Benedict College)

1600 Harden St., 705-4605 benedict.edu Features works by black artists.

Randolph Cemetery

Elmwood Ave. at I-26 historicrandolphcemetery.org Founded on land purchased from Elmwood Cemetery in 1872, Randolph Cemetery is the first cemetery established specifically for Columbia’s black community. Prior to the cemetery’s founding, blacks were buried along with poor whites near the river in a potter’s field. But in 1871, 19 local black leaders came together to establish a respectable place for burial for blacks; it is named in honor of Senator Benjamin Franklin Randolph.

Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Garden

I-126 at Greystone Blvd., 779-8717 riverbanks.org From reptiles to birds and everything in between, Riverbanks Zoo is by far Columbia’s biggest tourism draw. Home to more than 2,000 animals and a 70-acre botanical garden, Riverbanks also sports a 3-D theater, a ropes course and hosts popular annual events such as Boo at the Zoo, Brew at the Zoo and Lights Before Christmas.

Robert Mills House and Garden

1616 Blanding St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org The Robert Mills House is best known for its namesake, who also designed the Washington Monument. Open for tours, it is one of only five National Historic Landmarks in the city.

South Carolina State House

Main Street at Gervais Street scstatehouse.net More than 50 years after its original inception in 1851, architect Charles C. Wilson finally completed the building, calling it “one of the most notable buildings of the world.” Others disagreed, with one legislative observer calling the dome “nothing short of a miserable fraud.” Call 7342430 or visit scstatehouse.net for tour information.

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PLAY&STAY Seibels House

1601 Richland St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org Built in the late 18th century, the Seibels House now serves as the Historic Columbia Foundation office and is a popular spot for weddings. Historic Columbia was chartered in 1961 to prevent the loss of the Robert Mills House and now is involved in many aspects of historic preservation in Columbia.

Soda City Market

1500 Block of Main Street sodacitysc.com Held every Saturday morning, the Soda City market offers sustainably produced meat and produce, as well as fresh bakery items, crafts and other locally produced goods.

Sylvan Building

1500 Main St. Where’s the Sylvan Building? Just look for that old clock at the corner of Main and Hampton streets. Built between 1868 and 1870, The Sylvan Building was the first large building constructed in Columbia after Union soldiers burned the city on Feb. 17, 1865. Now listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

Tapp’s Arts Center

644 Main St., 988-0013 tappsartscenter.com Tapp’s Arts Center officially opened in 2011 and has become a focal point for Main Street’s move toward cultural relevance. Presents visual arts exhibitions and offers artist studios. Also hosts a range of artsrelated events and is available for rentals.

Town Theatre

1012 Sumter St., 799-2510 towntheatre.com Built in 1924, Town Theatre is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is the oldest continuously operating community theater building in the country; presents family-friendly musicals and other productions.

Three Rivers Greenway

riveralliance.org, 765-2200 Designated in 2013 as a National Recreation Trail, the Three Rivers Greenway provides approximately 10 miles of linked river access in Columbia, Cayce and West Columbia. The completed Cayce and West Columbia portions of the Greenway are already popular for walking and running, and the West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheatre hosts outdoor concerts and more.

WHAT TO DO:

ATTRACTIONS

Township Auditorium

1703 Taylor St., thetownship.org First opened in 1930, the 3,000-plus-seat Township Auditorium has hosted such artists as Elvis Presley, Duke Ellington, Pink Floyd, The Clash and Bob Dylan. Reopened in 2010 after a $12 million facelift, the Township brings everything from R&B, country, rock and EDM acts to wrestling, comedy and dance.

Trinity Episcopal Cathedral & Cemetery

1100 Sumter St. Originally dedicated in 1814, Trinity Episcopal grew into a new building in 1847, one designed by Edward Brickell White and modeled after York Cathedral in England. Today, it’s one of the nation’s 20 largest Episcopal churches in the country and recently completed a major renovation. Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice James F. Byrnes and six governors are buried in its cemetery.

Tunnelvision

Taylor and Marion streets Artist Blue Sky’s Busted Plug is moving from this location because its host, AgFirst, is moving its offices. But the Tunnelvision mural will remain as the building is converted into apartments. A 1975 wall mural of a road running through a tunnel, Tunnelvision is an iconic piece of local public art. Don’t drive by this thing when you’re stoned unless you feel like totaling your car.

USC Horseshoe

900 Block of Sumter St., 777-8161 Little do most of the frolicking young college students on the gorgeous USC Horseshoe know — or care, probably — that Robert Mills, the nation’s first federal architect, designed several buildings there, as well as the Maxcy Monument, named for the first president of the college, Jonathan Maxcy.

Woodrow Wilson Family Home

1705 Hampton St., 252-7742 woodrowwilsonhome.com The Wilson family moved to Columbia in 1870, moved into the home in 1872 and left two years later following a dispute over mandatory chapel service between Wilson’s father and the Presbyterian Theological Seminary where he taught. After years of renovations, the home re-opened in February of 2014.

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home for USC men’s and women’s basketball.

Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West

Columbia Marionette Theater

his converted warehouse district is largely known for its many dining options and art galleries, but it also sports some key attractions such as the Colonial Life Arena, EdVenture Children’s Museum and the South Carolina State Museum, as well as nightclubs, a theater and a grocery store (converted from a former Confederate printing plant). Home to such popular annual events as Vista Lights (a holiday season kick-off party), Artista Vista (a three-day gallery crawl in the spring) and Art Bar Agora, the Vista also has an increasing number of residential options. Every month, the area also holds a Third Thursday art crawl. Just across the Gervais Street bridge sits an eclectic mix of nightspots, galleries, gift shops and restaurants. With its cheap rent, West Columbia has many of the amenities of its sister city across the river, with fewer hassles.

The Big Apple

1000 Hampton St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org A debate still rages as to whether the phrase “The Big Apple” came to New York City from jazz or from horse racing (a 1930s N.Y.C. sports column was called “Around the Big Apple”). For Columbia’s sake, let’s go with the jazz theory: Once a local synagogue, The Big Apple later was turned into a juke joint where, in 1936, blacks invented a new dance, the Big Apple. Now popular for events and receptions.

Colonial Life Arena

801 Lincoln St. Charge by phone: 1-877-489-2849 General Info: 576-9200 coloniallifearena.com The 18,000-seat Colonial Center is the largest arena in South Carolina, hosting major concert and entertainment acts and serving as the

401 Laurel St., 252-7366 cmtpuppet.org Located near Riverfront Park, the Columbia Marionette Theater was founded in 1988 and presents children’s productions ranging from traditional fairy tales to educational shows. In 2009, founder Allie Scollon received a top national puppetry award.

EdVenture Children’s Museum

211 Gervais St., 779-3100 edventure.org The South’s largest children’s museum, with more than 70,000 square feet of cool stuff to keep the kids occupied.

Riverfront Park

Laurel at Huger Street, 545-3100 columbiasc.net Separating the Historic Columbia Canal and the Congaree River, Riverfront Park is a popular jogging and walking trail encompassing 167 acres just west of Huger Street.

South Carolina State Confederate Relic Room & Museum

301 Gervais St., 737-8095 www.crr.sc.gov The Confederate Relic Room actually has much more than Civil War memorabilia, with artifacts dating from the Revolutionary War to World War II. Located in the former mill that also houses the South Carolina State Museum.

South Carolina State Museum

301 Gervais St., 898-4921 southcarolinastatemuseum.org The State Museum is the talk of the town, having recently opened a major expansion space featuring an observatory, planetarium and 4D theater. Housed in the historic Columbia Mill building (built in 1893), the South Carolina State Museum has permanent and rotating exhibitions covering South Carolina’s cultural history, natural history, science, technology and art. The museum also brings in non-South Carolina-related blockbuster exhibitions.

Three Rivers Greenway

riveralliance.org, 765-2200 The Three Rivers Greenway will eventually provide 12 miles of linked river access to citizens of Columbia, Cayce and West Columbia. The completed portions of the Greenway are already popular for

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Norman Rockwell

Reference photo for Norman Rockwell’s After the Prom, 1957 (Detail). From the permanent collection of the Norman Rockwell Museum.

Behind the Camera

Organized by the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts

October 17, 2014 – January 18, 2015 1515 Main Street in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC | 803-799-2810 | columbiamuseum.org Gold Sponsors

Supported by AND C O U

Hannah and Ron Rogers | freetimes SO

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Presented by

CARO

PLAY&STAY walking and running, and the West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheatre hosts outdoor concerts and more.

Trustus Theatre

520 Lady St., 254-9732 trustus.org Columbia’s only professional theater company is also its leading progressive one, offering contemporary works alongside popular and established plays.

Five Points Rosewood Olympia Southeast

ive Points is a college student’s playground, but it’s also much more. Home to the annual St. Pat’s festival — which draws thousands of music fans and partiers every year — Five Points offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and bars where you’ll find everything from coffee, hip clothes, books and records to deli sandwiches, burritos, gelato and more. And with the coveted tree-lined bungalows of Shandon just up the street, Five Points and Devine Street also have options for the post-college crowd, including numerous locally owned clothing stores and other retail spots, as well as several dining options. Not far away in Rosewood, you’ll find a burgeoning residential and retail area anchored by Publix and sprinkled with eclectic spots to grab a drink such as the Kraken, Cock ‘N’ Bull Pub and Rockaway Athletic Club. Rosewood has its own signature events, too, among them the Rosewood Crawfish Festival, the Tasty Tomato festival and an annual Mardi Gras festival. Over in the historic mill village of Olympia, you’ll find a dynamic community space at

WHAT TO DO: 701 Whaley — which houses the 701 Center for Contemporary Art and hosts numerous local events — and Carolina Stadium, home of the Gamecock baseball team.

701 Center for Contemporary Art

701 Whaley St., 779-4571 701cca.org Opened in the fall of 2008, the 701 Center for Contemporary Art is an integral part of the local arts scene, hosting cutting-edge visual arts exhibitions, artist talks and more.

Carolina Stadium

431 Williams St. University spokespeople will tell you that USC’s new baseball stadium (which opened in 2009) is located in the Innovista district, but locals know the area as Olympia. Regardless of where you place it, the 9,000-seat baseball stadium is a bang-up place to watch USC’s always-strong team. Has served as a regional NCAA tournament host for five years in a row.

Congaree National Park

nps.gov/cong, 776-4396 No, Congaree National Park is not in Rosewood, but if you head out Rosewood Drive to Bluff Road and keep going for 18 miles, you’re there. This 22,000-acre park boasts the largest old-growth, floodplain forest on the continent. It’s also an International Biosphere Reserve, a Globally Important Bird Area and a National Natural Landmark. Activities include hiking, boating, camping, canoeing, fishing, kayaking, nature walks and more. Located in Hopkins, 18 miles southeast of Columbia (S.C. 48 from Bluff Rd. or exit 5 off I-77).

Five Points Fountain

Harden Street and Saluda Avenue The Five Points Fountain is a nice place to hang out with your coffee or lunch; it’s also ground zero for numerous events, including the Five Points After Five concert series, which presents local and regional bands on an outdoor stage.

Five Points Retail Five Points is for strolling, dining and shopping. Retail options are wide, encompassing everything from unique gifts at Portfolio Art Gallery or Finleaf Gallery to hip clothing at Sid and Nancy and skateboards at BlueTile. When night falls, there are plenty of places to get your groove on, too (see Nightlife).

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ATTRACTIONS

Hootie Monument Remember that band with the song “Hold My Hand” that came out in the mid-’90s and sold an ungodly number of records? Those guys were from Columbia. Head to Santee Avenue, look at the big metal sculpture and read all about the many musical exploits of Hootie & The Blowfish.

Shops on Devine Just up the hill from Five Points on Devine Street are a string of highquality, locally owned boutiques. From eco-friendly children’s clothes at K.D.’s Treehouse to ultracool furniture at Bohemian Home and high-end fashion at Pout and VanJean, Devine Street merchants specialize in some of the most unique and eclectic offerings in the city.

South Carolina Military Museum

1225 Bluff Road, 806-4440 scmilitarymuseum.com Dedicated to honoring South Carolina’s National Guard and its citizen soldiers throughout history, from the late 17th century to the wars of the 21st century.

Visanska-Starks House

2214 Hampton St. Featured on HGTV’s If Walls Could Talk in 2008, this historic home was built around 1900 and is located on Hampton Street in Historic Waverly. Barrett Visanska (1849-1932) — a Polish jeweler and founder of the Tree of Life Congregation — bought the house in 1913. John J. Starks, president of Benedict College, bought the house in 1938.

Williams-Brice Stadium

1125 George Rogers Blvd., 777-4271 uscsports.cstv.com Situated close to both Rosewood and Olympia, Williams-Brice Stadium is party central during football season, with fans spilling into both Five Points and the Vista after games. Since being built in 1934, Williams-Brice has served as the site of lots of drunken football revelry, as well as hosting Pope John Paul II, the Rolling Stones, U2, Kenny Chesney and then-U.S. Sen. Barack Obama during his 2008 presidential campaign.

Northeast Forest Acres Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden

ome to the wonderful Sesquicentennial State Park, the Northeast also sports the 600-acre Sandhill Research and Education Center, the annual Sparkleberry Country Fair, the enormous Village at Sandhill retail complex, the expansive Lake Carolina residential development, several golf courses and farmers markets, and top-notch schools that keep residents coming.

Cobblestone Park Golf Club

280 University Club Parkway (Blythewood), 714-2620 cobblestoneparkgolfclub.com A 27-hole golf course formerly known as the University Club. Features panoramic views with rolling hills and beautiful oaks and pines.

Columbia Children’s Theatre

3400 Forest Drive, 691-4548 columbiachildrenstheatre.com A nonprofit, professional theater offering educational and entertainment opportunities to children and families.

Fine Arts Center of Kershaw County

810 Lyttleton St., Camden, 803-425-7676 fineartscenter.org Presents community-oriented theater, music, dance and exhibitions, as well as the annual Carolina Downhome Blues Festival.

Fort Jackson Museum

4442 Jackson Blvd., 751-7419 jackson.armylive.dodlive.mil/post/ museum/ Acquires and exhibits Fort Jackson-related artifacts dating to the fort’s founding in 1917.

Golf Club at Crickentree

1084 Langford Rd. (Blythewood), 754-8600, golfclubsc.com Operated by the Golf Club of South Carolina, Crickentree is a meticulously maintained course along Lake Carolina. Has hosted the U.S.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

WHAT TO DO:

ATTRACTIONS

Golden Hills Golf & Country Club

100 Scotland Dr., 957-3355 goldenhillsgolf.com Located in the Town of Lexington, Golden Hills is an 18-hole championship course designed by golf architect Ron Garl. Considered challenging yet playable for all levels, the course is among the highest-rated in the Midlands.

Harbison State Forest

state.sc.us/forest/refharb.htm 896-8890 If you didn’t know it was there, you’d never expect to find 2,177 acres of forest along the sprawling mess that is Broad River Road. But there it is — one of the largest public green spaces inside the city limits of a metropolitan area in the eastern United States. Features more than 16 miles of roads and trails (popular for biking) and a canoe landing.

Harbison Theatre

7300 College St., Irmo Info: 407-5003, Tickets: 407-5011 harbisontheatre.org The 400-seat Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College presents a high-quality and eclectic array of performing arts events that diversify Midlands Tech’s offerings and strengthen its relationship with the local community. Also serves as a rental facility for local arts organizations.

Lake Murray

lakemurraycountry.com, lakemurray.com Located a few miles northwest of downtown Columbia, Lake Murray is a 50,000-acre lake offering boating, camping and other recreational activities. Lakemurraycountry.com lists public access points, as well as marinas and landing spots. Good striped bass fishing during the season.

Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra

lmso.org Think there’s no culture when you get outside downtown? Think again. Led by artistic director Einar Anderson, the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra was conceived in 2001 and held its first concert in 2004.

Lexington County Museum

U.S. Highway 378 and Fox St. Lexington, 359-8369 facebook. comlexingtoncountymuseum Founded in 1970, the museum complex encompasses seven acres and features 36 historic structures focusing on the early history of Lexington County, from 1770 until the Civil War.

/scphilharmonic

Peachtree Rock Nature Preserve

scgreatoutdoors.com/ park-peachtree.html, 254-9046 Sadly, the geological wonder known as Peachtree Rock — a triangularshaped top-heavy sandstone formation that had stood on its pointed base for millions of years — fell in December of 2013, likely due to rain and years of vandalism. The good news? You can see the formation lying on its side, as well as Little Peachtree Rock and the rest of this beautiful 460-acre preserve, which has the only waterfall in the coastal plain. Located off S.C. 6 in southern Lexington County near Swansea.

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Riverbanks Zoo & Botanical Garden

riverbanks.org If you live downtown, you’ll likely enter the zoo from its Greystone Blvd. entrance off I-26. But if you live west of the Congaree River, you can enter from Sunset Boulevard (Highway 378) in West Columbia. This entrance will take you right to the zoo’s beautiful, 70acre botanical garden.

Saluda Shoals Park

icrc.net, 731-5208, 213-2050 (weekend) Situated on 270 acres downstream from the Lake Murray Dam, Saluda Shoals features a popular water park, an environmental education center, canoe trips, nature hikes, biking trails, fishing spots, picnic shelters, art exhibits, summer camps, health and wellness programs, meeting facilities and more. Good trout fishing if you like to wade.

Seven Oaks Park

200 Leisure Lane, 772-3336 icrc.net Built in 1973 and located in the St. Andrews area, Seven Oaks Park is a full-service recreation complex offering fitness, athletics and cultural arts programs. Features a dance studio, art gallery, picnic areas, tennis courts, walking trails and more.

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make sure you get dinner and a show. 2014/2015 Masterworks Series All concerts 7:30 p.m. at the Koger Center for the Arts. Beethoven and Blue Jeans:

Marina Plays Tchaikovsky

october 11, 2014

november 15, 2014

e Oktob rfest!

The

Going for Baroque

Planets

january 10, 2015

february 7, 2015

From the New World

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State Farmers Market

Exit 115 off I-26 scstatefarmersmarket.com Relocated to Lexington County from Richland in 2010, the South Carolina State Farmers Market has a lot more space than it used to — space for vendors, shoppers and parking. Open Mon-Sat 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sun noon to 6 p.m.

Village Square Theatre

105 Caughman Rd., Lexington, 359-1436, villagesquaretheatre.com Community theater from the Lexington County Arts Association.

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

March 14, 2015

april 18, 2015

tickets: 803.251.2222 • kogercenterforthearts.com

scphilharmonic.com 803.254.PHIL (7445) PLAY&STAY | freetimes 37

PLAY&STAY Open qualifying round, the USGA Junior Tournament, Columbia’s City Amateur tournament and numerous tour events.

Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site

historic-camden.net We’ll spare you the suspense: The Americans got their asses handed to them at the 1780 Battle of Camden. Some 233 years later, though, we’re over it. Hosts a Battle of Camden Remembrance Day each August, Revolutionary War Field Days each November and other events throughout the year.

Sandhills Farmers Market

900 Clemson Road, 788-5700 sandhillsfarmersmarket.com Open each Tuesday from 2 to 7 p.m. from May 6 through Nov. 25. Farmers from around the region bring fresh local produce, meat, fish, eggs, butter, milk, cheese, honey, plants, flowers, shrubs and baked goods. Across from the Village at Sandhill.

Sandhill Research and Education Center

900 Clemson Road, 788-5700 Agricultural research facility and nature preserve on 600 acres. Wildlife is abundant; guests are advised to stay on designated trails.

S.C. Archives and History Center

8301 Parklane Rd., 896-6100 scdah.sc.gov Popular for researching family history. With a wealth of local, state and federal documents, the center encourages the general public as well as scholars, students, lawyers and others to make use of its resources, and staffers are on hand to help speed your search. The center also presents exhibitions and public programs, and has a gift shop.

Sesquicentennial State Park

9564 Two Notch Rd., 788-2706 southcarolinaparks.com This 1,419-acre park features a 30-acre lake surrounded by trails, picnic areas and campsites. Also offers boating, fishing, swimming, meeting facilities and trails. Trails include a 6.1-mile mountain bike trail, a 1.9-mile nature trail, and a 3.5-mile walking and jogging trail. Located 13 miles northeast of Columbia on Two Notch Road.

South Carolina Railroad Museum

110 Industrial Park Rd. (Winnsboro), 803-712-4135 scrm.org Everybody loves trains, right? Take an hour-long ride, stroll through

WHAT TO DO: historic train cars and check out the hats, whistles and other train paraphernalia in the gift shop.

U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum

4442 Jackson Blvd., 751-7419 jackson.armylive.dodlive.mil/post/ museum Commemorates Fort Jackson’s prominent role in training American soldiers by acquiring and exhibiting artifacts dating to the fort’s founding in 1917.

Village at Sandhill

481 Town Center Place, 419-0235 villageatsandhill.com Located off I-20 (Exit 80, Clemson Road), the Village at Sandhill is a testament to the growth of Columbia’s Northeast region. Primarily a massive retail development, the Village at Sandhill also boasts a movie theater, numerous dining options and community events, including outdoor concerts.

The Windermere Club

1101 Longtown Road East, 786-7888, windermereclubsc.com Designed by Pete Dye, the Windermere course prides itself on having as many truly unique, memorable holes as possible. On this course, that’s 13 out of 18 — and no two holes are remotely alike. A driving range and practice green offer opportunities to sharpen your game before you hit the course.

Lake Murray Lexington Harbison Irmo

or visitors to the area, the key draw in this part of town is Lake Murray, where you’ll find more than 500 miles of shoreline along South Carolina’s largest manmade lake. Lake Murray offers a wide range of seasonal recreation options — including sailing, fishing (especially striped bass), camping and hiking — and a huge Fourth of July fireworks display (held the Saturday before the holiday). Public access is limited to the few parks and marinas scattered around the lake, so keep that in mind as you make your plans.

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ATTRACTIONS

A popular restaurant addition is Liberty on the Lake. There’s more to the area than the lake, however. Among your options: Saluda Shoals Park, which features a wetlands preserve; Harbison State Forest, a great place to bike; and Seven Oaks Park, with a full-service recreation complex. If you’re looking for cultural offerings, among your options are the Lake Murray Symphony Orchestra and the Chapin Theatre Company, which has been serving the area for more than 25 years. For Columbians from all areas of town, the sprawling Columbiana Centre Mall and its surrounding big-name retailers make it a necessary stop. Good schools and neighborhoods round out the package for residents.

The Caddy Shak

381 Pilgrim Church Rd., 356-2239 mycaddyshak.com Driving range and a par-three course at the StoneBridge Golf Club. On 381 Pilgrim Church Road, off Highway 6 near Lake Murray.

Cayce Tennis and Fitness Center

1120 Fort Congaree Trail, 227-3030 cayce.lexingtoncountytennis.com A massive and well-kept modern tennis complex hosting tournaments and offering year-round lessons. Also has a gym.

Chapin Theatre Company

PO Box 360, Chapin, 240-8544 chapintheatre.org What originated informally in the late ‘70s as a few friends staging no-frills plays has become a staple of Lexington County’s cultural life. Shows at Harbison Theatre.

The Club at Rawls Creek

2121 Lake Murray Blvd., 781-0114 golfrawlscreek.com Built in the 1970s and renovated in 2006 with an ultra-dwarf Bermuda grass called MiniVerde, which makes the greens fast. In addition to the course, there’s the Creekside Bar and Grille and facilities for weddings, parties and events.

Congaree Riverwalk

riveralliance.org, 765-2200 We’re still waiting for Columbia to finish its portion of the Three Rivers Greenway, but most of the Lexington County sections are already done. The completed Cayce and West Columbia portions of the Greenway are popular for walking and running, and the West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheatre hosts outdoor concerts and more.

Crooked Creek Park

1098 Old Lexington Highway (Chapin), 345-6181, icrc.net “Crooked Creek” makes this park sound like it’s a dirt path next to a trickle of water. Actually, it’s got a 53,000-square-foot community center with a full gym and racquetball courts, along with tennis courts, athletics fields, picnic areas and walking trails.

Dreher Island State Recreation Area

3677 State Park Rd., Exit 91 off I-26, 803-364-4152 southcarolinaparks.com Located 30 miles northwest of Columbia in Prosperity, the Dreher Island recreation area consists of three islands encompassing 12 miles of shoreline on Lake Murray. Especially popular for fishing and boating (Lake Murray is a top destination for striped and largemouth bass), Dreher Island also offers lakefront camping, cabin and villa rentals, water skiing and picnicking.

First Responders Wall of Remembrance

lexingtonsc.org/attractions Dedicated in 2008, this memorial to 9/11 was made from steel from Ground Zero in New York City.

Frankie’s Fun Park

140 Parkridge Dr., 781-2342 frankiesfunpark.com Kids’ stuff? Hardly. This Harbison-area entertainment center packs three go-kart tracks, three 18-hole mini-golf courses, batting cages, bumper boats, an arcade, a 5,000-square foot multi-tiered laser tag arena and an super-tall drop zone that says “In your face, gravity!” into 14 acres filled with fun for all ages. What, do you hate fun or something?

Gibson Pond

241 Gibson Rd., 359-1027 scgreatoutdoors.com These 15 acres in the Town of Lexington offer walking trails, kayaking, picnic tables and a scenic overlook.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

PLAY&

WHERE TO DRINK:

NIGHTLIFE

STAY S

o you’ve worked your way through all the daytime attractions and restaurants that you can handle — what now? Drinking, of course. And Columbia’s got you covered in pretty much every regard. Whether it be a laid-back spot to catch the game, a swank watering hole where the bartenders mix up invigorating cocktails, a hip place to dance, or an upscale pub that centers its menu entirely around bacon, this famously hot town counters its climate with a bevy of options to quench your thirst. And even if you think you know the local scene, keep in mind that things are always changing — clubs open, close, change formats or managers, etc. So it’s a good idea to take a fresh look around every now and then — or just pick up your weekly issue of Free Times — and make sure you haven’t missed out on a new place you might love.

Downtown/Main Street/South Main/ USC/North Main Le Cafe Jazz

930 Laurel St., 400-1879 You want jazz? Stop by this jazz club in Finlay Park.

Cantina 76

1301 Main St., 764-1769 This downtown joint is abuzz with hot young lawyers and college students who come for the fancy tacos and stay for the excellent margaritas, made in all shapes, flavors and sizes with top-shelf tequilas. Family-friendly, too.

Columbia Soundstage

1800 Blanding St., 397-3895 thecolumbiasoundstage.com Warehouse-type space near the Township hosts large hip-hop concerts and dance parties.

Hunter-Gatherer

900 Main St., 748-0540 huntergathererbrewery.com More than the token local microbrew joint, H-G boasts awesome bartenders, scrumptious entrées and an excellent liquor selection.

The Oak Table

1221 Main St., 563-5066 theoaktablesc.com Come for the modern American cuisine, or just come for the deep bar and fantastic cocktails, includ-

ing the rye-based Mac-hattan and the gin-based French Shogun.

The Palace II

6920 N. Main St., 834-4673 An upscale R&B club for the “prestigious and elite.”

Wine Down on Main

1520 Main St. Suite 1B, 673-4810 This small, cozy wine bar is charming and unassuming, offering select beers and complimentary hors d’oeuvres in addition to a large selection of traditional and offbeat wines.

The Vista Art Bar

1211 Park St., 929-0198 artbarsc.com Art Bar’s been around for more than 21 years now, but it still hasn’t grown up: It’s still the same eclectic non-corporate nightspot it’s always been. Cool but never pretentious. Looking for that hot derby girl? She’s probably here.

Blue.

721A Lady St., 251-4447 blueinthevista.org Blue, a tapas bar and cocktail lounge, features Columbia’s only ice bar and draws in big crowds for its popular ’80s night on Wednesdays. Cozy late-night spot as well.

Carolina Ale House

1400 Main St., 988-1400 Not for the acrophobic, the Sheraton’s hip Rooftop Lounge boasts a classy clientele, fine libations and desserts, plus a beautiful view of the Capital City.

708 Lady St., 227-7150 carolinaalehouse.com Southeastern grille-and-grog chain offers good eats, a good beer selection and plenty of televised sports. Features the Vista’s hottest rooftop bar and plenty of fun drink specials.

Sheraton Vault Martini Bar

Flying Saucer

Sheraton Rooftop Lounge

1400 Main St., 988-1400 Nestled within the bank’s original safe, the Vault Martini Bar is a popular hotspot for those who insist upon their martinis stirred, not shaken, and with a twist of sophistication.

The Vino Garage

2327 Main St., 834-3392 This Earlewood wine and beer shop also hosts a lot of tastings of hard-to-come-by wines and beers.

The Whig

1200 Main St., 931-8852 thewhig.org The Whig used to be Columbia’s cool-kids-only bar, but its dollarslice Mondays and cheap-taco Tuesdays have broadened its clientele to Greeks and Main Street urban professionals. Still has that rad jukebox.

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931 Senate St., 933-9997 beerknurd.com If you love beer, you’ve been to Flying Saucer. (You’re probably already a Beer Knurd, too.) If you love beer but haven’t been to Flying Saucer, you’re missing out on a hundredsdeep beer list stocked with beers you’ve never heard of, and beers you’ve only heard about in legend.

Gervais & Vine

620A Gervais St., 799-8463 gervine.com Gervais & Vine offers a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere for its exquisite Southern fusion tapas. Its extensive wine selection separates it from most of Columbia’s metropolitan haunts, and the diversity and daring of the menu make it hard to dislike.

Jillian’s

800 Gervais St., 779-7789 jillianscolumbia.com Games! TVs! Food! Beer! Housed in the historic Train Depot Building built in 1860, Jillian’s has been serving up entertainment in the heart of the Vista since 1997. Offers an arcade, billiard tables, a ping-pong table, and walls of huge flat-screen televisions, as well as an extensive list of imports, domestics, cocktails and libations. Also presents live music and entertainment.

Kelly’s

1001 Washington St., 254-4464 If this converted fire station reminds you of Five Points, it’s probably because its owners cut their teeth working for places like Group Therapy and Jungle Jim’s. These Gamecock fans host regular acoustic performances in addition to karaoke and open mic contests.

Liberty Tap Room

828 Gervais St., 461-4677 libertytaproom.com Whether you’re after a nice meal or just a tasty drink, you’ll find much to enjoy here consider the muchacclaimed menu and massive beer list, which offers 75 tap and bottle varieties to choose from.

Lucky 13

920 Lady St., 764-4317 Feeling lucky? Try this Vista nightclub, which boasts regional DJs, laser lights and weekend drink specials. VIP and bottle service, too, if you’re a real baller.

Music Farm

1022A Senate St., 471-2779 Charleston’s famed music venue has opened a sister venue in Columbia, bringing the city a sorely needed large-scale rock club, a potential home for a diverse array of trendy touring acts.

Nonnah’s

930 Gervais St., 779-9599 nonnahs.com Best known for its desserts, Nonnah’s is a good place to stop for coffee and drinks after dinner or a show.

The Oyster Bar

1123 Park St., 799-4484 oysterbarcolumbia.com Serves up Gulf oysters, steamed and raw. The dressed-down atmosphere, excellent service and better-than-average beer selection

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| freetimes

PLAY&STAY will keep you coming back. Best of all? They shuck, you eat.

Pearlz

936 Gervais St., 661-7741 pearlzoysterbar.com As an oyster bar, Pearlz specializes in all things bivalve mollusk. But its hip, trendy ambience and signature martinis make it a hotspot for Columbia’s young, urban professional crowd.

Pearlz Upstairs

WHERE TO DRINK: Tsunami’s elegant, contemporary atmosphere and ample seating area complements its extensive sake, wine and beer selection.

Uncle Fester’s

522 Devine St., 748-9897 While most of the Soda City’s bars are closing up shop on Sunday morning, this watering hole between Palmetto Pig and Todd & Moore keeps the party going. Always packed with a diverse clientele.

936 Gervais St., 661-7741 pearlzoysterbar.com Pearlz’ new upstairs lounge is a hotbed for hot local jazz, and, like its downstairs big brother, a hotspot for Columbia’s young, urban professional crowd.

Uncle Louie’s

PT’s 1109

Wet Willie’s

1109 Assembly St., 253-8900 You could live your whole life in Columbia and not know this gay bar exists, and, frankly, its regulars probably wouldn’t mind all that much. Conversely, this haunt is a treasure to the folks who frequent it.

SakiTumi

807 Gervais St., 931-0700 sakifresh.com Sushi, sake and salacious servers ... what else could you want out of an über-hip Vista sushi bar?

Social

918 Gervais St., 603-4313 socialcolumbiasc.com A hot new Vista night spot, Social gets weird on the weekends, hosting paint parties, ice parties, inflatable wonderland parties, foam parties and all manner of events at which to get turnt — soundtracking it with some nationally respected EDM talents.

Thirsty Fellow

621 Gadsden St., 799-1311 thirstyfellow.com Launched by Willie Durkin — formerly of Shannon’s, Sneakers and Durkin’s — Thirsty Fellow serves up eclectic, delicious pizzas and offers a full bar.

Tin Roof

1022 Senate St., 771-1558 tinroof.com Named Best Bar by Free Times readers in the 2014 Best of Columbia poll. Its calling cards: live music, good food and a laid-back atmosphere. Open for lunch, happy hour, dinner and into the night.

Tsunami

700-C Gervais St., 312-9911 tsunamicompany.com Two chic sushi bars within two blocks of each other in the Vista? Be still our beating hearts!

1125 Park St., 933-9833 Its no-frills, no-nonsense attitude has endeared this unassuming watering hole to a loyal legion of regulars, but there’s always room for more. 800 Gervais St., 779-5650 wetwillies.com How can you not love a bar that specializes in grain alcohol slushies? Er, excuse us, daiquiris.

The Wild Hare

902-B Gervais St., 929-0374 wildharesc.com Three-time winner of the Best Sports Bar in the Best of Columbia poll. Serves up hefty portions of some hefty selections (try the potato cakes!), and earns points for televisions and attractive wait staff. Down-to-earth crowd.

Wild Wing Café

729 Lady St., 252-9464 wildwingcafe.com Sure, Wild Wing Café has sandwiches, salads and soup, but the obvious draw is their 33 flavors of wings. If you can’t decide on one, get the sampler platter. Also boasts a ton of TVs, a party atmosphere and a steady stream of regional rock bands.

The Woody

808 Lady St., 779-9663 Named after popular Columbia oldies disc jockey Woody Windham, The Woody is a popular Vista spot for shag and salsa dancing, as well as a welcoming spot for partiers who aren’t in their 20s. You have to duck through an alley, but don’t let that ward you off. Offers nightly drink specials.

World of Beer

902F Gervais St., 509-6020 worldofbeer.com Lagers and porters and stouts (and pales and ales and bocks), oh my! World of Beer offers more than 500 beers, stocking something for aficionados and neophytes alike. Wine and cigars, too, plus live music on the weekends. The suds bring the masses in, but the

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living-room atmosphere keeps ‘em coming back.

Five Points/Devine Street/Rosewood/ Olympia Bar None

620 Harden St., 254-3354 Open from happy hour until sunrise, Bar None is the last refuge of the late-night lush and the service industry worker. Try the smoked wings, when they’re available.

The Bird Dog

715 Harden St., 799-0611 It’s called The Bird Dog, ostensibly, because hanging on its walls, right next to mounted deer heads, are soft-hued paintings of hunting dogs staring pensively — tentatively, even, waiting for their prey to emerge — into wooded lakes. If that sounds like the setup for a Southern bar, well, it is: Drinks, often cheap and big, are served in Mason jars.

Blazing Copper

812-814 Harden St., 251-4447 blazingcopper.com Lots of cheap drink specials and occasional live music make this a good bet for the college set.

Breakers

801 Harden St., 771-6360 breakersbarandgrill.com One of the biggest draws to Dr. Rocco’s was its outdoor patio, which offered an ideal Five Points people-watching spot. Breakers, now in the old Dr. Rocco’s space, keeps the patio, but the inside bar got an upscale makeover.

Cantina 76

2901 Devine St., 708-6004 cantina76.com This Devine Street joint is abuzz with young women in cocktail dresses, couples on dates who come for the fancy tacos and stay for the excellent margaritas, made in all shapes, flavors and sizes with top-shelf tequilas. Family-friendly, too.

Capital Club

1002 Gervais St., 256-6464 The oldest gay bar in the state is a private club that’s also welcoming to people of other stripes.

Carolina Pour House

800 Harden St., 932-3033 Next to the always overflowing Group Therapy, The Pour House has a good drink selection at prices that won’t send you to the poor house.

NIGHTLIFE

CJ’s

749 Saluda Ave., 748-8694 Its retractable exterior wall opens to reveal the Five Points fountain plaza, thus making CJ’s a great spot for taking in this colorful corner of Columbia.

Cock N Bull Pub

326 S. Edisto Ave., 251-4474 As British as you’ll get in Rosewood. Popular and laid-back, this neighborhood favorite has a small but stellar beer menu, and lots of soccer on TV.

Cover 3

711 Harden St., 533-7030 The Cover 3 is a defensive scheme in football with three deep coverage zones covered by two cornerbacks and one safety. It’s also a bar in Five Points in the old Bey’s spot.

Craft and Draft

2706 Devine St., 764-2575 craftanddraftbeer.com Craft beer is booming, and Craft and Draft is on it. Grab a six-pack, pick up a growler or take a seat at the bar.

Delaney’s

741 Saluda Ave., 779-2345 Delaney’s is as Irish as it comes here in the Bible Belt. Of course it has Guinness, but it also has quite an assortment of classy imports and plenty of good ol’ Irish grub. Wicked friendly staff, live music and a vibrant atmosphere round out the package — but get there early, as it fills up fast, especially on pint nights.

Foxfield Bar & Grille

406 Howard St., 728-0420 Even the spirits are organic at this local green bar; offers organic wines, beers, sake and liquors. Creative cocktails, too. Sometimes hosts punk shows.

Group Therapy

2107 Greene St., 256-1203 grouptherapybar.com Columbia’s quintessential college bar, with cheap drinks, loud music and an outdoor oasis to escape the crowd. Group wrote the book on college partying in Columbia.

Henry’s

2865 Devine St., 708-4705 henrysgrillandbar.com Henry’s champions the traditional neighborhood bar — and, equally importantly, brings terrific bar food. Comfortable and classy.

The Hookah Spot

617 Harden St., 661-8337 Grab a couch, sidle up to a hookah and get your smoke on.

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

PLAY&STAY Jake’s

2112 Devine St., 252-5253 jakesofcolumbia.com The renewed Five Points institution is as friendly as ever, and offers the same variety of televised sports and multiple bar stations. Even better: Jake’s is bringing rock ‘n’ roll back to its hallowed hall.

The Kraken Gastropub

2910 Rosewood Dr., 955-7408 Rosewood’s hip new bar, The Kraken has a great draft beer selection and signature beer-based cocktails along with a swanky menu and cozy-cool vibe.

Lucky’s

2100 Devine St., 929-1118 For the Vista experience in Five Points, Lucky’s is your place — good wine and beer selection and an outdoor patio.

Moosehead Saloon

2020 Devine St., 708-4984 A rock ‘n’ roll country bar. Kind of like Coyote Ugly. A little. Kind of.

Nicky’s Pizza

2123 Greene St., 748-9661 Need a slice to fuel another late night in Five Points? Drop by Nicky’s. Grab a beer while you’re there, too.

Nightcaps

2722 Devine St., 771-6575 An out-of-the-way place with respect to Five Points, Nightcaps has a pool table, a big-screen television, comfy lounge chairs and a good late-night atmosphere. A popular haven for those not ready to let the night end.

Pavlov’s

2000B Greene St. Tucked behind the Salty Nut, Pavlov’s is a long-time stomping ground of college revelers and serves as hallowed ground for many in the fraternity and sorority circles.

Pawleys Front Porch

827 Harden St., 771-8001 Featured on the Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Pawley’s is primarily known for its behemoth and fantastic specialty burgers, but it also caters to a late-night crowd on weekends. Especially good for game days, as it shows football games on its huge screen on its even huger deck.

Pinch

640 Harden St., 708-6838 Like Lucky’s next door, Pinch offers Vista atmosphere at Five Points prices. On-tap beers are rotated frequently, and frequently feature high-class offerings.

WHERE TO DRINK: Publick House

2307 Devine St., 256-2207 Exceptional beer selection, challenging trivia, hip music selection, über-friendly staff, good burgers and the best raw fries around.

Rockaway Athletic Club

2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075 Exquisite burgers, low-key atmosphere and a nice, amply stocked bar. Plus, lots of sports on TV and a corner nook with arcade games.

Salty Nut Cafe

2000 Greene St., 256-4611 Hooray! The Salty Nut, closed for about a year after an arsonist torched it, has re-opened, and reclaimed its rightful place as a favorite Five Points watering hole. Yes, you can still throw peanut shells on the floor.

Sizzle

819 Harden St., 661-9390 Bacon is the name of the game at this new eatery and pub. Menu items include the Bloomin’ Bacon Garlic Bread and the All B and No LT (“1/4 lb. of delicious smoked bacon on Texas toast”). The grill stops sizzling at 10 p.m., but the drinks keep flowing until 2 a.m.

The Southern Belly

1332 Rosewood Dr., 667-9533 southernbellybbq.com Still-pretty-new Rosewood hangout offers live music and a stocked bar to go with its laid-back feel and slow-cooked ‘cue.

Speakeasy

711 Saluda Ave., 255-0869 delaneysspeakeasy.com Home to live jazz several nights of the week, Delaney’s classy, hip younger sibling also boasts a fine liquor selection, great beers and a top-notch staff, as well as fine cigars and comfy leather couches. Also hosts the Science Café series

The Thirsty Parrot

734 Harden St., 708-4768 Like Jimmy Buffett? You’ll most likely dig this place, which offers fine burgers and spirits in an easygoing atmosphere.

TLC Sports Bar and Grill

936 S. Stadium Rd., 251-3087 Built to withstand even the toughest of game days, this ultimate Gamecock bar, located within a stone’s throw of Williams-Brice, offers enough food, drink and fun to satisfy even the most orangeblooded Clemson fan.

Utopia

4330 Fort Jackson Blvd., 782-8522 Neighborhood bar offers an offthe-beaten-path spot for catching up with friends and taking in

free-times.com/restaurants | Fall 2014

some tunes from its frequent guest singer-songwriters.

Village Idiot

2009 Devine St., 252-8646 villageidiotpizza.com Columbia’s quintessential college-town pizza joint in a pub atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy delicious fare, cold beer, wallet-friendly weekly specials and a heaping helping of revelry. Serving New York-style pizza since 1990. Dine in, pick up or delivery, and menu also features salads, sandwiches and wings.

Yesterdays Restaurant and Tavern

2030 Devine St., 799-0196 yesterdayssc.com A great place for an undergrad to take his or her squeeze out for dinner without maxing out the credit card. Good food, above-average beer and liquor selection. Bar in the back has its own entrance on Devine Street. A veritable Columbia landmark since 1978.

State Street/ Vista West/ West Columbia/Cayce @116 Espresso & Wine Bar

116 State St., 791-5663 116state.com A coffee shop that serves gourmet food and booze? Be still our beating hearts! Dig those specialty cocktails; also serves an extensive assortment of wines. Small, but cozy. A good date spot.

Bogart’s

530 12th St., 791-4617 A friendly Triangle City neighborhood bar. Free pool on Saturdays.

NIGHTLIFE

Platinum West

1995 Old Dunbar Rd. theplatinumplus.com Exactly like Platinum Plus, but in West Columbia (i.e., the ladies have no shirts on.)

Red Door Tavern

134 1/2 State St., 708-6066 Housed in the renovated space formerly occupied by the Red Tub, Red Door is a deli and late-night spot on State Street, offering cheap drinks and pub food. Hosts local art, local acoustic musicians and frequent comedy nights. Plus: Pinball!

Rooster’s Den

1215 Augusta Rd., 794-8200 A members-only bar in Triangle City.

The Skyline Club

100 Lee St., 822-8608 skylinefunclub.com Where do you go in Columbia if you want to do the Boot-Scootin’ Boogie? This line-dancing bar near the airport, that’s where.

State Street Pub

136 State St., 796-2006 An across-the-bridge institution, State Street Pub wins its crowd with pool, cheap beer, sports and plenty of charm. Loads of beers on tap. You’ll need to be a member, but you should be.

Northeast/Forest Acres/Fort Jackson Blythewood/Camden Ale House Lounge

12 Tommy Circle, 771-0161 An off-the-beaten-path hole-inthe-wall not without its charms.

Comedy House

Calloway’s Bar & Grill

2410 Augusta Rd., 926-1199 callowaysbarandgrill.com Pool tables, big-screen TVs and food: What more do you want from a sports bar?

2768 Decker Blvd., 798-9898 comedyhouse.us Regional and national comedy acts stopping by regularly. Offers a full menu with steak, shrimp, chicken, burgers, sandwiches and appetizers.

Conundrum Music Hall

Hooters

626 Meeting St., 250-1295 conundrum.us A hub for avant-garde music, offering weird, wild and wonderful avant-jazz, contemporary classical and out-there prog ensembles. Stocks beer and wine, but no liquor.

New Brookland Tavern

122 State St., 791-4413 newbrooklandtavern.com New Brookland Tavern is Columbia’s most storied rock club, but it’s a damn fine bar, too, offering a fine array of specials and a bar stocked with much more than Pabst Blue Ribbon served up by friendly staff.

7711 Two Notch Rd., 419-3456 hooters.com The same people who justify buying Playboy for the articles probably justify going to Hooters for its food. A guy’s hangout if there ever was one, Hooters is famous for its wings and women — both of which can get pretty hot.

Kwagga

108 Columbia Northeast Dr., 865-2859 A South African sports bar. No. Really.

The Mouse Trap

2711 Middleburg Dr., 799-2120 One of this town’s hidden gems, the bar is located beneath an of-

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PLAY&STAY fice building in Middleburg Park. Perhaps its location is why it’s frequented by local celebrities such as former Gamecock football players, but the real draw is its incredible comfort food.

Off the Rail

10327 Two Notch Rd., 708-4817 Nightly shot specials.

The Pizza Joint

WHERE TO DRINK: Wild Wing Café

480 Town Center Place, Ste. 2; 865-3365, wildwingcafe.com Sure, Wild Wing Café has sandwiches, salads and soup, but the obvious draw is its 33 flavors of wings. If you can’t decide on one, get the sampler platter. Also boasts a ton of TVs, a party atmosphere and a steady stream of regional rock bands.

3246 Forest Drive, 454-1743 thepizzajoint.net Come for the pizza, stay for the surprisingly highfalutin beer selection. Hey, your bar options are limited in Forest Acres.

Harbison/Irmo Lake Murray/ Lexington/ St. Andrews

Polliwog’s

1605 N. Lake Dr., 808-7263 A popular stop for Lexington locals located near the Lake Murray Dam. Family-friendly; cheap eats, cheaper drinks.

10005 Two Notch Rd., 736-5775 polliwogsc.com This state-of-the-art sports bar offers an attractive selection of viewing and dining possibilities. And if you hate sports, there’s always karaoke.

Salsa Cabana

2005 N. Beltline Blvd., 787-1052 This weekend spot is one of the few places in town where you can go to find authentic salsa music, dancing and flair.

Salud!

1101 Broad St., 425-4850 Taqueria and tequila lounge is the place to catch live jazz in Camden.

Serenity

301 Rice Meadow Way, 736-8228 Serenity now! A country-ish restaurant by day and lounge by night.

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar

841-4 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-6966 solsticekitchen.com Named Best Neighborhood Bar in northeast Columbia by readers in the 2013 Best of Columbia poll, and for good reason: It’s a great place to relax with a fancy cocktail.

Taps Pub & Restaurant

104-B Columbia NE Dr., 699-4657 Patriotically themed pub.

Tsubaki

224 10 O’Neil Ct., 736-7474 Love karaoke? You’ll love Tsubaki, where the karaoke is as authentically Japanese as next-door Inakaya’s sushi.

Venue on Broad

1020 Broad St., 713-8333 This laid-back venue is the place to catch live music in Kershaw County, offering everything from singer-songwriters to popular local and regional rock acts.

Bentley’s Beach House

British Bulldog Pub

1220 E10 Bowers Pkwy., 227-8918 thebritishbulldogpub.com A British pub in the middle of Irmo’s urban sprawl? Rad. A dinner menu of traditional U.K. cuisine is augmented with specials on Guinness and Irish whiskeys, but the Bulldog doesn’t forget us Yanks, offering basketball (and soccer, too) on big-screen televisions and multiple, cold domestics.

Carolina Ale House

277 Columbiana Dr., 407-6996 carolinaalehouse.com Southeastern chain grille-and-grog offers good eats, a good beer selection and plenty of televised sports.

Carolina Wings & Rib House

105 Northpoint Dr., 356-6244 carolinawings.com What can we say about this Columbia institution? They carry a good selection of bottled beers, and the assortment of buffalo wing flavors is enticing, too.

Copper River Grill

1230 B8 Bower Parkway, 749-4647 copperrivergrill.com Copper River Grill is a destination drinking spot for the entire Irmo/ St. Andrews area. A super-large bar area means you’ll always have someplace to sit, but it still gets crowded the later the night progresses.

Corner Pocket

489 Piney Grove Rd., 731-0403 Karaoke, cover bands and lots of pool. (Hence Corner Pocket. Get it?) Wannabe pool sharks are welcome — but be ready to meet your match.

Finz Seafood House

211 Chapin Rd., 941-7148 Nothing fishy about this cozy Chapin watering hole, which often

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books singer-songwriters and small cover bands.

NIGHTLIFE

Rusty Anchor

7608 U.S. 378., 951-4663 As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to hang out at a laidback bar in Lexington.

1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555 rustyanchorrestaurant.com Sliding glass doors opened most of the year offer a great view of Lake Murray. And live entertainment on The Quarterdeck outside jazzes up the summer months.

Hemingway’s

Schooners

Goodfellas Grill & Bar

7467 St. Andrews Rd., 749-6020 hemingwaysmusicpub.com A neighborhood institution in Irmo for years, Hemingway’s has been the watering hole of choice there for several reasons. Not content to do just one thing well, Hemingway’s is a sports bar, a great restaurant and a nice little music club all rolled into one. Papa would approve.

Hooters

5195 Fernandina Rd., 407-9464 hooters.com The same people who justify buying Playboy for the articles probably justify going to Hooters for its food. A guy’s hangout if there ever was one, Hooters is famous for its wings and women — both of which can get pretty hot.

Keg Cowboy

108 E. Main St., 520-0404 kegcowboy.com A retail store, yes, but one with its own craft beer tavern — with some seriously adventurous stuff — and its own outdoor garden. Lovely.

Liberty on the Lake

1602 Marina Rd., 667-9715 Yo dog, we heard you love Liberty Tap Room so we put a Liberty on the lake so you can Liberty at the Lake. Offers all the accoutrements of Liberty’s downtown drinkery with the added scenery of Lake Murray. Forty-eight beers on tap. Forty-eight!

Main Street Café

131 E. Main St., 808-5886 This little Greek restaurant is tucked into a storefront space on Main Street in downtown Lexington. With happy hour specials and live local music several nights a week, it’s a great way for Lexington residents to enjoy dinner and some entertainment without having to travel into Columbia.

McCary’s Sports Bar

851 Bush River Rd., 551-5680 Typically places high in the annual Best of Columbia poll, and for good reason: Good selection, good atmosphere.

Platinum Plus

362 Jacob Rd., 731-0555 Good (or bad): The girls at Platinum Plus take their clothes off. Better (or worse): Platinum Plus serves booze.

6226 Bush River Rd., 661-6138 schoonersbarandgrill.com On the eastern shores of Lake Murray by the confluence of Bush River Road, North Lake Drive and Lake Murray Boulevard, Schooners is a simple unassuming bar and grill, offering daily specials, cheap wings, televisions and live music.

Skores

2700 Broad River Rd., 751-2500 Restaurant in St. Andrews centered around sports on TV, yummy bar food and cold beers.

Tipsy Toad Tavern

103 Beaufort St., 932-4470 A godsend to the culturally deprived lake area, the Tipsy Toad features a good beer selection and Vista-style atmosphere.

Tsunami

1290 Bower Pkwy.,407-3873 tsunamicompany.com Like its sister Vista location, Tsunami’s elegant, contemporary atmosphere and ample seating area complement its extensive sake, wine and beer selection.

The Wild Hare

5122 Bush River Rd., 213-1300 wildharesc.com A sports bar with plenty of TVs, pool tables and dartboards, this location also offers an outdoor bar area with a sand volleyball court. Named Best Sports Bar in the Best of Columbia poll for three years running.

Wild Wing Café

1150 Bower Pkwy., 749-9464 wildwingcafe.com Sure, Wild Wing Café has sandwiches, salads and soup, but the obvious draw is its 33 flavors of wings. If you can’t decide on one, get the sampler platter. Also boasts a ton of TVs, a party atmosphere and a steady stream of regional rock bands.

Wings ‘n’ Ale

154 Ellis Ave., 359-4475 Specializing in wings, beer and pool, Wings ‘n’ Ale has an ample supply of all three. If you’re looking for a place where the odds of getting a table are better than making a masse shot, this is it. Classic and modern rock flows as freely as the brew. Not your khaki and buttondown crowd.

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facilities; parking garage; smokefree rooms; on-site dry cleaning services; library.

Marriott Columbia

1200 Hampton St., 771-7000 The 300-room Marriott is not only one of the largest but also one of the best rated in the Capital City. And with good reason — the 14-floor behemoth is located at the corner of Main and Hampton in the heart of downtown, providing easy access to just about everything, from local government offices to local art havens to fine dining. Offers a cultural concierge service assisting visitors with tickets to arts and cultural events. Amenities: Exercise room; room service; indoor restaurant, lounge and sports bar; indoor pool; free airport shuttle; valet covered parking; free Wi-Fi.

PLAY&

STAY

WHERE TO STAY:

Sheraton Columbia

ACCOMMODATIONS

Downtown USC South Main St. The 1425 Inn

1425 Richland St., 252-7225 Exquisite bed-and-breakfast near the heart of Columbia. Amenities: smoke-free; Southern-style porch; full breakfast.

Affordable Suites Deluxe

150 Stoneridge Dr., 779-7000 affordablesuites.com Comfortable environment for extended stays, just off I-126. Amenities: Business center; fitness room; free breakfast; free Wi-Fi; pets allowed; smoke-free; meeting facilities.

Chesnut Cottage

1718 Hampton St., 256-1718 chesnutcottage.com The wartime home of author Mary Boykin Chesnut; once visited by Jefferson Davis. Amenities: Complimentary breakfast; free Wi-Fi; pets allowed; smoke-free.

Clarion Hotel Downtown

1615 Gervais St., 771-8711 clarionhotel.com The 160-room Clarion is three blocks from the State House, a halfmile walk from Finlay Park and a quick taxi ride to the Vista. Built on the grounds that housed Sherman’s Columbia headquarters, the Clarion is also home to Carolina’s

Restaurant, which offers a delicious Southern-food lunch buffet and a delicious Sunday brunch. Amenities: Family rooms; room service; free Wi-Fi; outdoor pool; free ground-level parking; free airport shuttle; exercise room.

Country Hearth Inn

621 S. Assembly St., 252-2000 countryhearthcolumbiasc.com Good luck getting a room in October: This 45-room hotel is one block from the State Fairgrounds and a quarter-mile from WilliamsBrice Stadium. Equidistant from both Five Points and The Vista, though you’ll probably need to cab it to both. Amenities: Smoke-free rooms; free Wi-Fi; on-site parking; complimentary breakfast.

Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC

630 Assembly St., 321-2211 marriott.com Located at the tail end of Assembly Street, the 189-room Courtyard Columbia Downtown is a stone’s throw away from all sorts of action, equidistant from both the highclass Vista and fun-loving Five Points. It’s also close to WilliamsBrice Stadium and several arts venues (Colonial Life Arena, Koger Center, Columbia Museum of Art), restaurants (California Dreaming, Moe’s) and more. Amenities: Smoke-free rooms; room service; free Wi-Fi; mini-fridge; fitness center; outdoor swimming pool;

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restaurant; on-site parking; free airport shuttle.

Embassy Suites

Columbia Greystone 200 Stoneridge Dr., 252-8700 embassysuites.hilton.com/ columbia Just outside downtown Columbia, off I-126. Offers courtesy shuttle service to USC, the Vista, Five Points, Main Street. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; exercise room; meeting facilities; business center; smoke-free rooms; indoor pool.

Homewood Suites by Hilton

230 Greystone Blvd., 239-4663 homewoodsuites.com Just outside downtown, off I-126. Amenities: Business center; fitness room; complimentary breakfast; free Wi-Fi; indoor pool.

The Inn at USC

1619 Pendleton St., 779-7779 innatusc.com An elegant boutique hotel located on the campus of the University of South Carolina in the heart of downtown, The Inn at USC boasts 117 first-class guestrooms and suites, each outfitted with deluxe amenities (including wireless Internet and premium cable — score!). The Inn is conveniently surrounded by Columbia’s academic, government, business, cultural and historic districts. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; exercise room; free Wi-Fi; banquet

1400 Main St., 988-1400 starwoodhotels.com Housed in the historic Palmetto Building, built in 1913, the 135room Sheraton is chock full of Gothic revival-style details. That’ll please the locals, sure, but travelers will appreciate the ground-floor Starbucks kiosk and the bar on the roof, which offers a fantastic view of the city. The high-class hotel is near some high-class entertainment, too; it’s also just a block from the Columbia Museum of Art and within striking distance of the Vista, Five Points, USC and just about everything else. Amenities: Airport shuttle; lounge; exercise room; business center; valet parking; public Wi-Fi (not free).

The Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West Hampton Inn Historic District

822 Gervais St., 231-2000 hamptoninncolumbia.com The 122-room Hampton Inn is located right in the heart of the Vista, giving walking access to rock clubs (Music Farm Columbia, Art Bar), swanky bars and chic shops, not to mention walking distance to the Congaree River. Double points for its location near Liberty Tap Room. Rated as one the top three hotels in Columbia by Yahoo! Travel. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; exercise room; business center; free Wi-Fi; outdoor pool; non-smoking floors.

freetimes PLAY&STAY || freetimes

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PLAY&STAY Hilton Columbia Center

924 Senate St., 744-7800 hiltoncolumbia.com Located conveniently near the convention center, the 222-room Hilton Columbia Center is literally in the center of the Capital City — right in the Vista and just a brisk walk to campus and a quick taxi or bus ride to Five Points and Main Street. Also close by: Riverfront Park and the South Carolina State Museum. The Hilton building is also home to Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse. Amenities: Non-smoking rooms; business center; on-site notary public; lounge; exercise room; outdoor pool; parking garage with valet parking; full-service bar.

Holiday Inn Express

501 Taylor St., 744-4000 Just outside the Vista and down the street from Finlay Park, the Holiday Inn Express offers 86 all-suite rooms. It’s right on top of a bevy of entertainment options — from dance clubs to rock clubs to high-flown social clubs — and eateries, from low-brow (McDonald’s) to highfalutin (Blue Marlin) and everywhere in between. Also close to West Columbia and the trendy Vista West area. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; business center; exercise room; free Wi-Fi; outdoor pool; smoke-free rooms.

SpringHill Suites Columbia

511 Lady St., 978-2333 marriott.com/caesh Located near the corner of Pulaski and Lady, the brand-spankingnew, 132-room SpringHill Suites is within walking distance of everything the Vista has to offer, from fine dining (Gervais & Vine, Motor Supply) to chic nightlife (Art Bar, Social) to fine arts (Trustus Theatre, Koger Center) and ways to appease the crap out of your kids (EdVenture Children’s Museum). Amenities: Free continental breakfast; free Wi-Fi; indoor pool; fitness center; non-smoking rooms.

Staybridge Suites Columbia

1913 Huger St., 451-5900 staycolumbiasc.com The 93-room Staybridge Suites is close to everything — but a quick ride away from Riverbanks Zoo, The Vista, Five Points and the University area — while removed enough from the associated clamor. Located on Huger Street, it’s also close to Interstates 26 and 277, offering quick access to Columbia’s suburban shopping centers. Bonus: It’s a quick walk to scenic Riverfront Park. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; free wi-fi; business center; indoor convenience store; fitness center; swimming pool.

WHERE TO STAY:

Five Points Devine Street Rosewood Olympia The Inn at Claussen’s

2003 Greene St., 765-0440 theinnatclaussens.com You won’t find a swimming pool here, but you will find a charming brick hotel listed on the National Register of Historic Places with 28 rooms, many recently renovated and each individually decorated in contemporary or traditional design. Located in the heart of Five Points, Claussen’s is a brief walk to a host of fine restaurants, cool clothiers and other hip hangouts. Doubleplus points for the complimentary wine served in the lobby every evening. Amenities: Free continental breakfast; free guest parking; non-smoking rooms; free Wi-Fi; lounge.

Northeast Forest Acres Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden Bloomsbury Inn

1707 Lyttleton St. (Camden), 803-432-5858 bloomsburyinn.com You want to be pampered? This is the place. The focus is on elegance, history and uncompromising detail in this 1849 home where South Carolina author Mary Boykin Chesnut penned her famed Diary From Dixie. Gourmet breakfast, luxury accommodations. Three miles from I-20.

Camden House Bed & Breakfast

1502 Broad St., 803-713-1013 camdenhouse.us Completed in 1832, this four-room bed-and-breakfast is in the heart of downtown Camden. You’ll get classic comforts such as a Southern breakfast, afternoon tea, and a wine and cheese happy hour along with such modern amenities as wireless Internet and a swimming pool.

The Granary Hotel

1539 Horseshoe Drive, 736-0708 facebook.com/granarylodging Located eight miles north of downtown Columbia, The Granary Hotel Event and Convention Center is an independently operated boutique hotel. Features more than 160 sleeping rooms and suites, five

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ACCOMMODATIONS

meeting rooms, and an onsite fullservice bar and restaurant.

less speakerphone with voice mail; a hair dryer; microwave and more.

Hampton Inn Clemson Road

Hilton Garden Inn

1021 Clemson Frontage Rd., 788-4901 Located off I-20, this 80-room hotel offers a business center, fitness center, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool and complimentary breakfast.

Hilton Garden Inn - Northeast

8910 Farrow Rd., 807-9000 This 110-room hotel is just off I-77 at exit 19, near Northeast businesses and just 11 miles from downtown Columbia. Amenities: free Wi-Fi, 24-hour business center, meeting space, heated indoor pool with hot tub.

Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia North

8105 Two Notch Rd., 761-7498 Centrally located at the intersection of I-77 and Two Notch Rd, one mile from I-20 and 10 minutes from I-26. Business center, fitness room, free Wi-Fi, smoke-free.

Holiday Inn Express Suites Blythewood

120 Creech Rd., I-77 Ext. 27, 333-0315 hiexpress.com/blythewood Located off I-77, Blythewood Road Exit 27, the Holiday Inn Express is roughly equidistant from Lake Murray to the northwest and Fort Jackson to the southeast.

Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia - Northeast

2320 Legrand Rd., 788-8850 Located off I-77 near the intersection of Farrow and Rabon roads, the Residence Inn is just around the corner from Providence Hospital Northeast and minutes away from Fort Jackson. Spacious suites come fully equipped with refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker, as well as wireless Internet access.

Harbison/Irmo Lake Murray Lexington St. Andrews

434 Columbiana Dr. (Harbison), 407-6640 hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com Business-friendly rooms equipped wireless, high-speed Internet. Guestrooms have refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers and cable TV. Also offers fitness room, pool and laundry facilities.

Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia Airport

500 Chris Dr. (West Columbia), 391-4000 hicolumbiaairport.com Columbia’s first eco-friendly non-smoking hotel designed for LEED certification, the eco-friendly rooms boast flat-panel TVs and ample work space; the hotel also offers meeting spaces, business and fitness centers, and a highenergy sports bar on the ground level.

Hyatt Place Columbia Harbison

1130 Kinley Rd., (Harbison) 407-1560 columbiaharbison.place.hyatt.com Spacious and upscale, minutes from downtown, state offices, USC, Columbia Conference Center, Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, sporting venues, Lake Murray, Columbia Metropolitan Airport and some of the best dining and shopping in the Columbia area. Free continental breakfast, complimentary fitness center, free Wi-Fi.

Wingate By Wyndham Columbia

108 Saluda Pointe Ct., (Lexington), 957-5000 lexingtonwingate.com Situated at the intersection of I-20 and Highway 378. Offers free Continental breakfast; high-speed, wireless Internet access; highquality mattresses and pillows; in-room safe; 24-hour business center; fitness room; and whirlpool.

Comfort Suites Lexington

325 W. Main St. (Lexington), 996-2000 comfortsuiteslexington.com A 100 percent non-smoking hotel, Comfort Suites Lexington also offers 32-inch flat-screen TVs with premium channels and a DVD player; free wired and wireless high-speed Internet access; cord-

Fall 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

FRESH

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Located at 920 Gervais Street in the Vista since 1989. For menu & hours, visit motorsupplycobistro.com Please call 803.256.6687 for reservations. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter (@motorsupply).