Bites & Sights Spring 2014

COLUMBIA’S PREMIER VISITORS GUIDE SPRING 2014

Dining, Attractions,

freetimes Nightlife and Accommodations 1

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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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 • ruthschris.net 2

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At the Hilton Columbia Center in the Historic Vista District

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

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 COLUMBIA’S PREMIER VISITORS GUIDE SPRING 2014

Dining, Attractions, Nightlife and Accommodations

ON THE COVER

Saluda’s salad special (see listing on p. 14) 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.

Catering Coming Mid March

Restaurants 6 American-Southern 10 Asian 10 Bagel-Bakery 10 Bar-Pub Food 13 BBQ-Wings-Ribs 13 Bistro-New American 14 Breweries & Brewpubs 16 Café-Coffee House 17 Cajun 17 Caribbean-Latin 17 Chinese 18 Deli 20 Dessert 20 Ethiopian 20 French 20 German 20 Greek-Mediterranean 22 Indian 21 Italian

22 Japanese-Sushi 26 Korean 26 Mexican 27 Middle Eastern 27 Pizza 28 Seafood 28 Steakhouse 28 Tapas 29 Thai 29 Vegetarian 29 Vietnamese

Play & Stay

32 Attractions 39 Nightlife 44 Accommodations 46 Calendar of Events

Index 30 Restaurants by neighborhood

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

free-times.com PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER: Charlie Nutt EDITOR: Dan Cook FOOD EDITOR: Eva Moore LISTINGS EDITOR: Jordan Lawrence PHOTOGRAPHER: Jonathan Sharpe PRODUCTION MANAGER: Lisa Willis DESIGNERS: Joey Ayer, Matt Bradley ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Kerry Powers ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Ginny Kuhn, Jerry Viles, Brian Wingard ADVERTISING ASSISTANT: Rachel Kuhnle CLASSIFIEDS MANAGER: Cale Johnson CLASSIFIED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Robin Gilmore, Jessica Rowland CIRCULATION MANAGER: Davey Mathias DOCK MANAGER: David Alexander DISTRIBUTORS: 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.

The Only Indian Fusion In Downtown Columbia Endless Choices Including Your Authentic Indian Favorites at Affordable Prices.

DOWNTOWN/USC HOURS: 631 Main Street Mon-Sat: 11am-9pm Columbia SC, 29210 Sun: 12pm-9pm Phone: 803-960-3755 4

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10 Item Salad with Thai No-Peanut Dressing

GoodLifeCafe.net

experience the

goodlife We’re taking gourmet vegan food to the next level! Enjoy a great variety of vegan food and fresh juices in a contemporary atmosphere at our new downtown Columbia location. Now featuring a full bar serving locally brewed beer and specializing in craft cocktails using our signature cold-pressed juices.

NOW OPEN IN DOWNTOWN COLUMBIA!

Columbia (NEW LOCATION) (803) 726-2310 1614 Main Street, Suite A

West Columbia (803) 454-3516 3681 Leaphart Road, Suite D

Fresh Juice | Fresh Food free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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Truly outstanding mixed drinks, and the honey croissants always are a hit. californiadreaming.co. ¢-$.

Carolina Ale House

T

he problem with releasing Bites and Sights quarterly is that it’s hard to freeze Columbia’s restaurant scene at one point in time: Something great is always just about to open. And this spring, especially, there’s a wealth of imminent new restaurants. Here are some of the eateries planning to open within the next month: • Bourbon, a Main Street Cajun-Creole restaurant run by Kristian Niemi of Rosso Trattoria (and erstwhile of Gervais and Vine and Mr. Friendly’s) • Sizzle, a bacon-centric Five Points restaurant • A new Al-Amir location at the corner of Main and Laurel Streets, right across from City Hall • Savalis Restaurant and Lounge, a Southern restaurant in the former Mac’s on Main location Just in the past few months, Main Street welcomed a new location of the amazing raw vegan restaurant Good Life Café — and it features a full bar. Also, a chain restaurant called PDQ just decided to go ahead and perfect what everyone orders anyway: chicken tenders.

Don’t overlook Columbia’s longtime restaurants, either, whether it’s the meatloaf at Yesterdays or the chorizo tacos at La Estrella.

Looking for some fun springtime eating? Check out the Slow Food at Indie Grits celebration April 13. Part of the award-winning Indie Grits film festival, the event brings together local chefs and sustainable local ingredients — plus a potluck. Visit indiegrits.com for more information.

Irmo/Harbison/Dutch Fork: 277 Columbiana Dr., 407-6996 Vista: 708 Lady St., 227-7151 Mon-Sun 10-2 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. ¢-$.

Carolina’s Downtown: 1615 Gervais St., 771-8711 Mon-Fri 6:30-10 a.m.,11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat 6:30 a.m.-2 p.m. (a la carte after 11 a.m.); Sun 6:30-10 a.m.; 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Located in the Clarion Hotel, Carolina’s offers a popular Sunday brunch featuring hot breakfast, pork loin, salmon, cold salads, carving stations, boiled shrimp and an extensive selection of rich desserts. Daily breakfast and lunch buffets are above average; limited menu features reubens, burgers, chicken salads and club sandwiches.

Great Mother’s and Father’s Day buffets. ¢-$.

AmericanSouthern 2108 State West Columbia/Cayce: 2108 State St., 200-2108 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Bar open until midnight.

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.

2108statebarandgrill.com. ¢-$.

American Roadside Burgers Shandon/Rosewood: 702 Cross Hill Rd., 790-9960 Sun.-Wed: 11 A.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat, 11 a.m. to 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. americanroadside.com. $.

Anthony’s Past Time Cafe Downtown: 1425 Sumter St., 255-6200 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. ¢.

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West Columbia-Cayce: 940 Old Barnwell Rd., 951-0405 Mon-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 Cafe has food to suit a range of tastes and appetite sizes.

Chicken wings, fried flounder and nachos, too. ¢-$.

Downtown: 1200 Hampton St., 771-7000 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 6:30 a.m.-noon and 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

Hotel dining under the atrium at the bottom of the Marriott. Serves Southern standards like fried green tomatoes, crab cakes and shrimp and grits. The Lowcountry egg roll with collard greens, chicken and smoked cheddar cheese is deep fried and served with peach chutney. Good lunch buffet. $.

Compton’s Kitchen

Drake’s Duck-In

Downtown: 401 S. Main St., 254-6767 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10:15 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11:15 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.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries Forest Acres: 4751 Forest Dr., 787-3178 Harbison/Irmo: 285-N Columbiana Dr., 407-6443 Northeast: 460-2 Town Center Place, 788-6200 Lexington: Hwy. 378 (Target Ctr.), 356-1007 Vista: 931 Senate St.; 799-0441 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. fiveguys.com. ¢.

Flight Deck

Fuddruckers

Harbison/Irmo: 7949 Broad River Rd.,542-7762 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

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. chickadeesdiner.com. ¢-$.

California Dreaming

Burger Tavern 77

Downtown: 1212 Hampton St., 779-6110 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

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

Chickadees Diner

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. ¢-$.

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. $.

Fancy That Bistro and Catering

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. $.

Lexington: 5343-L Sunset Blvd., 399-1272 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat 6:30 a.m.-noon, Sun 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 1118 B Ave., 791-0750 Mon-Sun 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

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. comptonskitchen.com. ¢.

Bert’s Southern Cooking

North Columbia: 3609 River Dr., 252-6696 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.

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. ¢.

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. shoppesatflightdeck.com. ¢.

Casserole 2 Go

City Center Grill Backyard Cafe

Edna’s Drive 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, chicken filet sandwiches, cheeseburgers and other very affordable eats, Drake’s Duck In offers some of the best, fastest fast-food-that’snot-fast-food you’ll find anywhere in town. ¢.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 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.

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

Great American Grill at the Hilton Garden Inn Harbison/Irmo: 434 Columbiana Dr., 407-6640 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 7-11 a.m. and 5-10 p.m.

Bar open until 11 p.m.

Upscale appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, grilled specialties and more.

Highlights include a smoked salmon ciabatta sandwich, a porterhouse steak and a mustard sage pork loin. $.

Harper’s Restaurant 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. harpersrestaurants.com. $.

Interstate Hoagies and Steaks Harbison/Irmo: 101A Ministry Drive, 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. $.

Jillian’s Vista: 800 Gervais St., 779-7789 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight; Thu 11 a.m.-12 p.m.;Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-midnight.

Jillian’s is designed for eating, drinking and

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

West Columbia Mon - Fri: Breakfast 6 am - 11 am Lunch 11 am - 2:30 pm Sat: Breakfast only

Lunch

FRESH PREPARED HOME COOKING MENU CHANGES DAILY SEE WEEKLY MENU ON OUR WEBSITE

Burgers & Sandwiches

All burgers cooked to order w/ 1/3 lb fresh ground chuck, served on a fresh knotted roll & garnished with lettuce, tomato & onion. All sandwiches include choice of side.

ALL AMERICAN BURGERS (add cheese 0.35) ...................5.99 BACON CHEESEBURGER ............................................................... 7.99 Thick-sliced bacon & American cheese

Lexington Open 7 days a week Sun - Fri: Breakfast 6:30 am - 2:30 pm Lunch 11 am - 2:30 pm Sat: Breakfast only 6:30am - Noon

Breakfast

WAFFLE S’MORES ................................................. 5.29 Our large Belgian waffle topped with chocolate chip morsels, mini marshmallows & graham crackers crumbs & toasted ... the yummiest waffle you’ve ever had!

BUILD YOUR OWN OMELETE .................................................... 7.29 ANY 3 INGREDIENTS. ADDITIONAL ITEMS $1 Spice up your omelete or hashbrowns with: Jalapenos, cheese, mushrooms, pepper, onions, ham, Tomatoes, sausage or gravy

PIMENTO CHEESEBURGER .......................................................... 7.99 topped with our house-made pimento cheese

Breakfast Specials

MUSHROOM SWISS BURGER ................................................. 6.99 topped with sauteed mushroom & Swiss cheese

#1 SPECIAL • $4.49 : 2 eggs, thick-sliced bacon, grits, toast or biscuits

FISH SANDWICH .............................................................................5.99 Fresh flounder filet, breaded and fried, garnished with lettuce and tomato and ser ved on a fresh knotted roll

#2 SPECIAL • $5.49 : 2 eggs, 1 sausage patty, 2 thick-sliced bacon, grits or hash browns, toast or biscuits

6 OZ. RIBEYE SANDWICH ......................................................... 8.99 Served on a fresh knotted roll and garnished with lettuce, tomato & grilled onions CRISPY CHICKEN ............................................................................5.99 Crispy chicken breast on a fresh knotted roll and garnished with lettuce & tomato PREMIUM CHICKEN SALAD SANDWICH............................. 4.99 House-made all white chicken salad garnished with lettuce & tomato. Ser ved on your choice of white or wheat bread

EGGS BENEDICT • $6.29 : Toasted English muffins, open-faced w/ boiled ham, 2 poached eggs & creamy hollandaise sauce, ser ved w/ grits or hash browns SENIOR SPECIAL • $3.29 : 1 egg, 1 sausage or 2 bacon, grits, toast or biscuit HUNGRY MAN’S SPECIAL • $8.99 : 3 eggs, 2 sausage patties, 3 strips thick-sliced bacon, grits, hash browns & 3 pancakes

5343-L Sunset Blvd. (between Target & Lowe’s) • Lexington • 399.1272 1118 B Avenue • West Columbia • 791.0750 Catering Available • www.ComptonsKitchen.com

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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. jillianscolumbia.com. ¢-$.

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 Cafe 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 Northeast: 110 Columbia Northeast Drive, 834-7948 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Chicken and waffles! And not just any old iteration of this soul food classic — they’ve got a red velvet waffle if you’re feeling fancy.

Also try the shrimp and grits. ¢.

Kingsman Restaurant 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.

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. ¢.

Le Peep Vista: 701 Gervais St., Suite 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. lepeep. com/index.php. $.

Lizard’s Thicket

Ms. B’s Southern Kitchen

Sammiches & More

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 Garners Ferry/Southeast: 402 Beltline Blvd., 738-0006 Harbison/Irmo: 7569 St. Andrews Rd., 732-1225 Lexington: 621 W Main St., 951-3555 Northeast: 10170 Two Notch Rd., 419-5662 Northeast: 7620 Two Notch Rd., 788-3088 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1824 Broad River Rd., 798-6427 West Columbia/Cayce: 2240 Airport Blvd., 796-7820 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.

(Hours apply to all locations.)

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

West Columbia/Cayce: 1213 Sunset Blvd., 509-5945 Mon-Wed 11:00 a.m.-2:30p.m.; Th-Fri 11a.m.-8:30 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. ¢-$.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4405 Fort Jackson Blvd., 764-2230 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9p.m.

Sitting in the location previously occupied

by The Diner, this eatery serves much more than traditional ham and cheese sandwiches.

With specials including meatloaf, catfish and pot pie, Sammiches has a homey feel that appeals to wide ranging tastes. Also offers catering service. ¢.

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 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. ¢.

The Mousetrap

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 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. $.

Forest Acres: 2711 Middleburg Dr., 799-2120 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. Bar open 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. ¢.

Liberty Tap Room

Michael’s Cafe and Catering

Liberty on the Lake

The 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. tbonz.com. $.

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

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$$ avg. entrée > $15

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Downtown: 1620 Main St., 726-2233 Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sun 10:30 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. michaelscafecatering.com. $.

Midlands’ Food Arts Downtown: 1200 Hampton St., 771-7000 Mon-Sat 6:30-10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 6:30-10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 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 Downtown: 1840 Hampton St., 254-0484 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

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. ¢.

Original Pancake House Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr. (Trenholm Plaza), 782-6742 Sun-Mon 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. originalpancakehouse.com. ¢.

Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs

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: 612 St. Andrews Rd., 772-8617 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Sun noon-9 p.m.

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. ¢.

Serenity

Pawleys Front Porch 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? $.

PDQ Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4456 Devine St., 403-9135 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

PDQ bills itself as a chicken restaurant, and that’s what you’ll get at this fast-casual joint: famous chicken tenders, chicken sandwiches and salads and more, plus handspun milkshakes. ¢.

Rockaway Athletic Club Rosewood/Olympia: 2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075 Mon-Sun 11-2 a.m. (Kitchen closes at midnight) 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. ¢-$.

Rush’s Garners Ferry/Southeast: 7450 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-5201 Northeast: 2500 Decker Blvd., 736-0101 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 2640 Broad River Rd., 772-2393 West Columbia/Cayce: 2332 Sunset Blvd., 796-2396 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-midnight 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. ¢.

Northeast: 301 Rice Meadow Way, 736-8228 Mon-Thu 4 p.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11a.m.-2 a.m., Sun 11 a.m.- 12 midnight If you find yourself up north — like, north of Killian Road — check out Serenity, which serves robust meals and a daily meat-andthree-style special. ¢.

Smashburger Harbison/Irmo: 937-C Lake Murray Blvd., 724-3630 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily 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 Haagen Dazs shake. smashburger.com. ¢.

Tony’s Garners Ferry/Southeast: 3055 Bluff Rd., 776-3261 Mon-Fri 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fried pork chops, fried chicken, gizzards, okra, pot roast, apple cobbler. Hearty breakfasts, too. ¢.

Utopia Rosewood/Olympia: 3830-A Rosewood Dr., 782-8522 Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-midnight, kitchen open 6-9 p.m.

Eclectic neighborhood bar and eatery located in the Jim Casey’s complex. Menu heavy on salads and sandwiches plus appetizing daily specials. Live music Wednesdays through Saturdays. ¢.

Vegetable Medley & Chavis BBQ Lexington: 309 Oak Dr., 356-0200 Mon-Sun 10:45 a.m.-2:30p.m.; 5-9p.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.

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.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

| freetimes

9

Vella’s Restaurant & Tavern

Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet

Tsubaki

Panaderia Odalys

Harbison/Irmo: 912 Chapin Rd., 941-7113 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. ¢-$.

Harbison/Irmo: 115 Afton Ct., 781-2226 Sun-Thu 11a.m.-10p.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. flaminggrillbuffetsc.com. ¢.

Northeast: 224 O’Neill Court, 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 entrées 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. ¢.

West Columbia-Cayce: 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. ¢.

M Cafe

Bagel-Bakery

Very’s 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 Cafe Harbison/Irmo: 5122 Old Bush River Rd., 213-1000 Vista: 902 Gervais St., 929-0374 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

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. wildharesportscafe.com. ¢.

Yesterdays Restaurant and Tavern Five Points/Shandon: 2030 Devine St., 799-0196 Sun-Thu 11:15 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11:15 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 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 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. antaiasiandining.com. $.

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Downtown: 1417 Sumter St., 779-5788 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 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. miyos.com. ¢-$$.

M Fresh 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 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 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat 5:30-10:30 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. gomgrille.com. $-$$.

M Vista 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 p.m.- 11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Just like the other Miyo’s and M Cafe 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! miyos.com. ¢-$.

Miyo’s 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 Hours: 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 Hours: 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. miyos.com. ¢-$$.

Red Bowl Asian Bistro Lexington: 5166 Sunset Blvd., 996-1333 Hours: Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.11 p.m.

Northeast: 481-11 Town Center Place, 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 11:30-10 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. redbowlcolumbia.com $.

Ally & Eloise Bakeshop 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 Downtown: 1307 Main St., 779-0101 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sat and Sunday.

West Columbia/Cayce: 108 Sunset Ct., 791-1150 Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-9 p.m. Sun 8 a.m.-8 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 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. ¢.

Chocolate Nirvana Downtown: 1531 Richland St., 799-9982 Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

This bakery offers a sinful array of layer cakes, 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 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. ¢.

Panera Bread Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6080 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-9722 Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 1007 Bower Pkwy., 407-5773 Hours: Mon-Sat 6 am.-9 p.m., Sun 7 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. panerabread.com. ¢.

Silver Spoon Bake Shop Shandon/Rosewood: 2507 Devine St., 673-6374 Tue-Fri 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

The Pastry Shop at Nonnah’s Vista: 928 Gervais St., 779-9599 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery

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-Wed 4 p.m.-6 a.m.; Thu-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

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. ¢.

Harbison/Irmo: 2742 N. Lake Dr., 781-5656 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m-11 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-10 p.m.

Northeast: 4561 Hardscrabble 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. beefobradys.com. ¢.

Lillian’s Eatery & Bakery

Bentley’s Beach House

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. ¢-$$.

Lexington/Lake Murray: 1605 N. Lake Dr., 808-7263 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-12 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.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. ¢.

Heather’s Artisan Bakery

Blue Coyote Harbison/Irmo: 10708 Broad River Rd., 781-4606 Mon-Thu 4 p.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Wings, steaks and comfort food. ¢-$.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Corner of Main & Gervais 931-8852 | thewhig.org

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

| freetimes

11

British Bulldog Pub

Henry’s

Irmo/Harbison/Dutch Fork: 1220 E10 Bower Pkwy., 227-8918 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m., Sat-Sun 9-2 a.m. (late night menu 10:30 p.m.-12 a.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. $.

Five Points/Shandon : 2865 Devine St., 708-4705 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-until, with kitchen closed 2-5 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11-2 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. henrysgrillandbar.com. ¢-$.

Caprioska Northeast: 7001 Parklane Rd., 699-8300.

Wed-Sat. 6 p.m.-until Any sports bar named for the caprioska, a beloved Brazilian mixed drink, is going to have a good drinks selection. But it also has a creative menu, with everything from barstool classics — mozzarella sticks and club sandwiches — to Latin American specialties— plantain chips and skirt steaks.

Happy hour buffet, too. caprioska.com. ¢-$.

Jake’s

Cock N Bull Pub

Karl’s Korner Pool Room & Tavern

Rosewood/Olympia: 326 S. Edisto Ave., 251-4474 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m; Sunday Brunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. (bar open later) The Cock N’ Bull is an English-style pub with 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., Sun. 3 p.m.-12 a.m.

Burgers, wings, steaks, sandwiches and more. Wednesdays are Service Industry Night with Kickin’ Karaoke, who also appears on Sundays. Local bands Thursday, Friday and Saturday with acoustic tunes on Monday. ¢-$.

West Columbia/Cayce: 1800 Memorial Dr., 791-1772 Mon-Sat. 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

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? ¢..

Kelly’s Deli & Pub The Vista: 1001 Washington St., 254-4464 Mon-Fri 3 p.m.-until; Sat-Sun 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

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. ¢.

The Kraken

Delaney’s Five Points/Shandon: 741 Saluda Ave., 7 79-2345 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Irish pub with 27 beers on tap and variety of food, including Irish and American favorites.

Live acoustic and Celtic music Tuesday through Saturday and trivia on Sundays. delaneyspub.com. ¢.

Flying Saucer The Vista: 931 Senate St., 933-9997 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11a.m.-2 a.m. Sun noon-midnight The Saucer operates according to the moreis-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. beerknurd.com. ¢.

Group Therapy Five Points/Shandon: 2107 Greene St., 256-1203 Bar: Tue-Wed 7 p.m.-until; Th.-Sat. 5 p.m.-until This bar, a longtime Columbia favorite, serves some bar basics, like hot dogs. ¢.

Hemingway’s

2009

Five Points/Shandon: 2112 Devine St., 708-4788 Tue-Sat 4 p.m.-until; open at 5 p.m. on Sunday.

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. $.

Lexington/Lake Murray: 7467 St. Andrews Rd., 749-6020 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight (bar open later); Sun noon-midnight Serves 25 different sandwiches, as well as buffalo wings. Casual atmosphere befriends the t-shirt and suits alike. Daily lunch specials. hemingwaysmusicpub.com. ¢.

Rosewood/Olympia: 2910 Rosewood Dr., 955-7408 Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-midnight (Kitchen open Mon-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-11 p.m.)

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. $.

Lucky’s Five Points: 2100-B Devine St., 929-1118 Mon-Sun 6 p.m.-Until; Tues-Sat 4 p.m.-until 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. ¢.

Polliwog’s 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. polliwogsc.com. ¢-$.

The Pour House Five Points/Shandon: 800 Harden St., 4090004 Tue-Sat 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

A fun and relaxing place to hang out with friends and catch the game on any number of widescreen TVs. Drink specials, pub food and more. pourhousecolumbia.com. $.

Rusty Anchor Lexington/Lake Murray: 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555 Thu 5-9 p.m. Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m. Sun 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Lakeside destination features great views and excellent casual dining, with seafood

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Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

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. rustyanchorrestaurant.com. $-$$.

Salty Nut Café Five Points/Shandon: 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. saltynut.com. ¢-$.

Southern Belly Shandon/Rosewood: 1332 Rosewood Dr., 667-9533 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Lots of sauces distinguish this barbecue joint, which offers a small but tasty selection of barbecued meat sandwiches.

Convenient to Williams-Brice Stadium. southernbellybbq.com. ¢-$.

Sporting News Bar and Grill West Columbia/Cayce: 110 McSwain Dr., 391-4002 Mon-Sun 6:00-10:30 a.m. 4:30-11 p.m.

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. ¢-$.

Sulley’s Bar and Grill Forest Acres: 2005 N. Beltline Blvd., 667-9083 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Bar favorites like wings, burgers and mozzarella sticks, yes, but also grilled salmon, fried oysters and other more upscale fare. Tailgate menu, too. ¢-$.

Tap’s Pub Northeast: 104-B Columbia NE Dr., 699-4657 Mon-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, sandwiches, salads, soups, wings and appetizers. ¢.

Thirsty Fellow The Vista: 621 Gadsden St., 799-1311 Mon-Tue 11 a.m.-midnight; Wed-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (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. thirstyfellow.com. ¢

Tin Roof The Vista: 1022 Senate St., 771-1558 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 12 p.m. to 2 a.m.

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 bar-food-craving masses. tinroof.com. $.

TLC Sports Bar and Grill Rosewood/Olympia: 936 S. Stadium Rd., 251-3087 Mon-Tue 3 p.m.-midnight; Wed-Fri 3 p.m.-4 a.m.; Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.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. ¢.

Wet Willie’s Vista: 800 Gervais St., 779-5650 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noon-midnight Of course you know that Wet Willie’s is all about the daiquiris. But this self-described classicrock venue also is serious about the food, from oven-baked seafood to appetizers, sandwiches and pizza. Also check out the rotating specials such as sausage-stuffed mushrooms and a half-pound pulled-pork sandwich. ¢.

The Whig Main Street/Downtown/North Main: 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. thewhig.org. ¢.

The Woody The Vista: 808 Lady St., 779-9663 Wed-Thu 6 p.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

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

Tuesday-Sunday

BistroNew American @116 Espresso & Wine Bar West Columbia/Vista West: 116 State St., 791-5663 Tue-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri 5-11 p.m.-midnight; Sat 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. 116state.com. $.

Bistro on the Boulevard Harbison/Irmo: 1085-D Lake Murray Blvd., 369-1332 Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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

Cafe Caturra Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr., 782-0760 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

This trendy wine bar, part of a Southeastern chain, features bistro fare like warm crab wraps, pizza, pastas, soups, salads and more. Check out the variety of crostini and the cheese-and-charcuterie plate on the appetizer menu. cafecaturra.com. $.

Cellar on Greene Five Points: 2001D Greene St. , 343-3303 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m. (Shop open Mon-Fri 12 p,m.; Bar opens at 5 p.m.)

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 Downtown: 1215 Assembly St. , 451-0051 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. $$.

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

NOW OPEN Saturday Mornings 8am - 2pm

Sunday Buffet $9.99 10am - 2pm

Starting the first week of April

Call 779.6110 for more information 1212 HAMPTON STREET • COLUMBIA Behind The Columbia Marriott in the alley | freetimes

13

Breweries and Brewpubs A

fter a decades-long drought linked to antiquated laws, Columbia is now home to two production breweries, with a third on the way. Stop by their tap rooms for a few pints and a tour, and look for their beers on local taps. Note, though, that in South Carolina, breweries aren’t allowed to serve food — Conquest and River Rat are beer-only experiences. So don’t forget to check out the Midlands’ two brewpubs, Hunter-Gatherer and Old Mill, both of which do serve food in addition to brewing their own great beer for on-site consumption.

Breweries Conquest Brewing Co.

River Rat Brewery

947 S Stadium Rd., Bay 1 conquestbrewing.com Wed-Thu 4-9 p.m.; Fri 4-10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.9 p.m.; Sun 1-9 p.m.

Columbia’s first production brewery.

The Sacred Heart IPA is a special favorite around Columbia.

1231 Shop Rd., 724-5712 riverratbrewery.com Wed-Fri 4-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun 1-8 p.m.

Opened in March of 2014, River Rat is producing excellent and original beers with an East Coast vibe.

Copper River Grill Irmo/Harbison/Dutch Fork: 1230 B8 Bower Pkwy., 749-4647 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.

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 Columbia: 630 Assembly St. , 799-7800 Breakfast only: Mon-Sun 6:30 a.m.-10 a.m.

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

Goatfeathers Five Points: 2017 Devine St. , 256-3325 Kitchen: Sun and Wed 5:30-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 5:3010 p.m. Bar: Mon-Sun 4 p.m.- until With a focus on select wine and spirits, a sophisticated menu and a casual elegance at odds with nearby Five Points meat markets, Goats is a local institution that strays far from the collegiate herd. Whether you fall in with the philosophers at the big round table, opt for a candle-lit booth or hit the bar for an expertly mixed cocktail, the grown-up vibe is never fratty, if frequently fraternal. $.

Hampton Street Vineyard Downtown: 1201 Hampton St. , 252-0850 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.)

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. hamptonstreetvineyard.com. ¢-$$.

Julep’s Bistro 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. julepsbistro.com. $.

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Brewpubs Hunter-Gatherer Brewery and Ale House 900 Main St., 748-0540 huntergathererbrewery.com Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.

H-G’s pale ale, wheat and ESB are Columbia traditions — and the semiswanky brewpub fare, which ranges from tasty gyros to the occasional duck breast special, is great, too. Live jazz on Thursdays, and the occasional rock show on Fridays.

Old Mill Brew Pub 711 E. Main St., Lexington, 785-2337 oldmillbrewpub.net Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-midnight A fun, casual brewpub housed in an old mill on a scenic millpond in downtown Lexington — and it makes great beers, too. Outdoor and indoor seating available, and great shepherd’s pie.

Melting Pot

The Oak Table

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1410 Colonial Life Blvd., 731-8500 Mon-Thu 5-10 p.m.; Fri 5-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.-10 p.m.

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. meltingpot.com. $.

Downtown: 1221 Main St., 563-5066 Mon-Th 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-11 p.m.; Sat 5-11 p.m.; Sun brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Come for the modern American cuisine (which is delicious), or just come for the deep bar and fantastic signature cocktails, including the rye-based Mac-Hattan and the gin-based French Shogun. theoaktablesc.com. $-$$.

MoMo’s Bistro

Downtown: 1400 Main St., 988-1400 Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30 a.m., 5-9:00 p.m.; Sat 6:3011:30 a.m., 5-9:00 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. $.

Shandon/Rosewood: 2930 Devine St., 252-2700 Mon-Th 11:30 a.m. -2 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Got a hankering for some ostrich? MoMo’s upscale but comfy dining room offers exotic meats like kangaroo and ostrich, plus classic meat and seafood specials and lighter fare.

Sunday brunches offer a combination of classics and cooler stuff. $$.

Motor Supply Co. The Vista: 920 Gervais St., 256-6687 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.

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. motorsupplycobistro.com. $-$$.

Mr. Friendly’s 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. mrfriendlys.com. $-$$.

P.O.S.H.

Rue 77/Spice Bar and Grill Downtown: 1301 Assembly St., 708-4785 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10 p.m. (bar open later) Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

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. $.

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. saludas.com. $$.

Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar Northeast Columbia: 841-4 Sparkleberry Lane, 788-6966 Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: MonThu 5:30-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 5:30-10:00 p.m.; Bar: Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-until 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. $-$$.

Stone River West Columbia/Cayce: 121 Alexander Rd., 451-0044 Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Primarily a special-events venue, Stone River serves lunch four days a week at its fantastic riverfront location, offering American and Southern favorites in a lovely setting. $.

Stonefire American Grill Northeast: 566 Spears Creek Church Rd., 419-2332 Tue-Sun 4-10 p.m.

Upscale American classics — steakhousestyle 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. stonefireamericangrill.com. $-$$.

Terra 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. terrasc.com. $$.

Tombo Grille 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. tombogrille.com. $.

BBQ-WingsRibs 2 Fat 2 Fly Stuffed Chicken Wings Mobile food truck, 622-6063 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 food truck, 728-7512 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). $.

Big-T Bar-B-Que Gadsden: 2520 Congaree Rd., 353-0488 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.

Northeast: 1061 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-4295 Mon-Th 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. ¢.

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.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Buffalo Wild Wings Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4500 Devine St., 738-8090 Harbison/Irmo: 1000 Bower Parkway, 407-3431 Lexington: 5570 Sunset Blvd., 957-2999 Northeast: 10056 Two Notch Rd., 865-5222 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 Blythewood: 240 Blythewood Rd., 714-0181 Sun.-Th. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Lexington: 2000 Clemson Rd., 419-0022 Hours: 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. ¢-$.

Cockpit Barbeque Garner’s Ferry/Southeast: 905A Bluff Rd., 269-4167 Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thu-Fri 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

If you look on the Cockpit’s About page on Facebook, you’ll see the following message: “Barbeque so good, it’ll make you wanna slap yo’ mama!“ Two brothers team up to meet their bold claim by bringing some oldfashioned barbecue (briskets, ribs, burgers, etc.) to the Columbia area. Specials like 50cent wings and $1 Bud Light are also available on occasion. cockpitbarbeque.com. ¢

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

$$ avg. entrée > $15

Doc’s Barbeque and Southern Buffet Garners Ferry/Southeast: 1601 Shop Rd., 799-1532 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. docsbarbeque.com. ¢.

D’s Wings West Columbia/Cayce: 920 Axtell Dr. (Parkland Plaza), 791-4486 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. dswings.com. ¢.

Hooters Harbison/Irmo: 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 Lexington: 4952 Sunset Blvd., 356-1070 Tue-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Lexington: Hudson’s Smokehouse Express, 931 Old Two Notch Rd., 356-1070 Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. hudsonssmokehouse.com. ¢.

John D. Hite’s West Columbia/Cayce: 240 Dreher Rd., 7944120 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 Northeast: 4927 Alpine Rd., 788-8238 Wed 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thu 11 p.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. littlepigs.biz. ¢.

Maurice’s Piggie Park 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 Hours: 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.

Northeast: 252 O’Neil Ct., 865-0608 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Northeast: 9563 Two Notch Rd., 462-0882 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-8 p.m.Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Shandon/Rosewood: 4411 Devine St., 782-9547 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 622 St. Andrews Rd., 772-6999 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 1600 Charleston Hwy., 796-0220 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2450 Augusta Rd., 796-4777 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 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. piggiepark.com. ¢

Palmetto Pig Downtown: 530 Devine St. , 733-2556 Tue-Wed 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

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. $.

Publick House Five Points/Shandon: 2307 Devine St. , 256-2207 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-until; Sat-Sun 3 p.m.-until This restaurant and bar is a Devine Street 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. ¢.

YOUR BEST FOR THE PAST 17 YEARS!

Visit our new location at

923 GERVAIS ST.

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

| freetimes

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o rspring avnew sour flavo rs 5 new seasonal flavors

Quaker Steak and Lube Northeast Columbia: 941 Spears Creek Ct., 563-5501 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11-1 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, steals and more. $.

Shealy’s Bar-B-Que House Leesville: 340 E. Columbia Ave. , 532-8135 Buffet open daily from 11 a.m.-9 p.m , carry-out 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat breakfast buffet 7-9:30 a.m. Closed Wed & Sun. 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. shealysbbq.com. ¢.

True BBQ West Columbia-Cayce: 1237 D Ave., 791-9950 Wed-Sat 10:00 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-6 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 and Sexy Lady sauce. ¢.

WG’s Chicken Wings St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 736 St. Andrews Rd. , 772-1489 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 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. wgschickenwings.com. ¢.

Wild Wing Café

key lime

creamsicle banana pudding

Irmo/Harbison/Dutch Fork: 1150 Bower Pkwy., 749-9464 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Northeast: 480 Town Center Place, 865-3365 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

(Kichen closes at 12 midnight) Sun 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The Vista: 729 Lady St., 252-9464 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight, Thu-Sun 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. ¢.

Wing Zone Downtown: 132 Assembly St., 933-9464 Sun noon-2 a.m., Mon-Thu 11-2 a.m., Fri-Sat 11-3 a.m.

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. wingzone.com. ¢.

Wings & Ale

Columbia ‘the Vista’ 1213 Lincoln Street 803.212.4949

Make Life Sweet

| FreshCupcakes.com

9 Flavors Fresh Baked Daily • Gluten Free & Vegan Available

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Lexington/Lake Murray: 125-C Outlet Pointe Blvd., 750-1700 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun, 11 a.m.-11:30 p.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. wingsandalesc.com. ¢

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

$$ avg. entrée > $15

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

Café Strudel West Columbia/Cayce: 300 State St., 794-6634 Mon 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Tue-Sat 8 a.m.-10:00 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; kitchen closes daily 3-5 p.m.

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. caféstrudel.com. ¢.

Carolina Café & Catering Downtown: 945 Sumter St. (corner of Sumter & Pendleton), 799-6676 Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-3 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. carolinacaféandcatering.com. ¢.

College Grounds Café Downtown: 1217 College St., 708-9476 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

Cool Beans Coffee Company Downtown: 1217 College St., 779-4277 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-midnight; Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-midnight 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.) ¢.

Drip Coffee Downtown: 1441 Main St., 799-0067 Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Five Points: 729 Saluda Ave., 661-9545 Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

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. ¢-$.

First Citizens Café Downtown: 1210 Main St., 931-1200 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m.

Yes, it’s a coffee shop run by a bank. Hit up one of the “financial baristas” for a latte or some investment advice. Features baked goods, too, and a lovely renovated space in one of the oldest buildings on Main. ¢

Immaculate Consumption Downtown: 933 Main St., 799-9053 Breakfast: Mon-Fri 7:30-10:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m.3 p.m. (coffee until 6 p.m.) Sat. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

In addition to several different coffees and

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

beer, this coffee shop serves a wide range of sandwiches and fresh salads that folks rave about. ¢.

Chinese

Millwood Coffee Company

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4464 Devine St., Suite E (Bi Lo Shopping Center), 787-8898 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

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

Downtown: 2911 Millwood Ave., 667-9939 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Nice, simple breakfast, lunch and brunch in this Millwood Café, but the real attraction is all the varieties of coffee from points near and far. ¢.

The Gourmet Shop Five Points: 724 Saluda Ave., 799-3705 Kitchen: 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. thegourmetshop. net. ¢-$.

Wired Goat Café 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 J. Gumbo’s Downtown: 1401 Sumter St., 748-8878 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. ¢.

China Buffet Sushi and Bar

Egg Roll Chen Shandon: Shandon: 715 Crowson Rd., 787-6820 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

A longtime Columbia favorite, packed at the dinner hour with everyone from lawyers to construction workers, Eggroll 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. ¢.

Jin’s Hibachi & Chinese Northeast: 4435 Hardscrabble Rd., 788-3339 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Serving Hibachi lunch and dinners, Jin’s also features a full Chinese menu with everything you’d expect, including specialties and combinations. ¢-$.

Main Moon Rosewood: 2800 Rosewood Dr. Suite 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 Harbison/Irmo: 7509 St. Andrews Rd., 732-4488 Sun-Thurs 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.11 p.m.

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. $.

Tea Pot Chinese Restaurant West Columbia/Cayce: 829 Knox Abbott Dr., 796-7136 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.

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. teapot-columbia.com ¢.

Top China Buffet St. Andrews/Dutch Square: Corner of Broad River and St. Andrews Roads, 750-2299 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. ¢.

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.

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. ¢.

CaribbeanLatin Arkos Mojo Grill and Martini Bar Lexington: 109K Old Chapin Rd.,785-5660 Mon-Sat, 4 p.m.-until. Closed Sunday.

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. arkosmojo.com. $.

Calypso Caribbean Grill Northeast: 4760 Hardscrabble Rd., 865-4111 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Fresh, fast-casual Caribbean food, including roti (wraps), jerk chicken, salads and more. eatcalypso.com. ¢.

Mojitos Tropical Cafe The Vista: 1004 Gervais St., 779-1717 Tues-Fri 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.

Swanky Cuban/Caribbean restaurant featuring everything from beans and rice to pulled pork and fried plantains. The classic Cubano — a sandwich filled with pulled pork, ham and mustard — is delightful; and if you’re not into pork, there are other versions of the Cubano as well: a portobello mushroom version for the vegetarians, a chicken version and more.

Dessert and drink menus, plus a bar. $

See our full dinner & lunch menu on facebook

with entreés during dinner.

April & May only

Happy Hour 5-7pm

Tue-Fri 11:30am-10pm • Sat: Open at 5pm • Closed Sun & Mon • Kitchen Closes at 10pm • Bar Hours: 5pm-Until

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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Montego Bay Caribbean Restaurant 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.

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. $.

Taste of Jamaica Cafe & Lounge Forest Acres: 3123 N Beltline Blvd, 256-9050 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-until Oxtail, curry goat, fried plantains — in short, Jamaican favorites, appropriately located in Columbia’s international district.

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

Sunday 12 noon-3 a.m.

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

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. ¢

Capitol Cafe and Bakery Downtown: 1201 Main St., 255-6292 Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

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

Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop Lexington: 108-D S. Church St., 808-6004 Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. ¢.

Crossings Deli Northeast: 8604 Farrow Rd. Suite F, 736-4446 Mon-Thu 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Railroad-themed deli serves up the classics — reubens, pimento cheese sandwiches, meatball subs, tuna melts and homemade soups — to legions of office-dwelling BlueCross and Carolina Research Park employees. Try adding grilled chicken to the deliciously feta-laden Greek Delight pita. $.

Deli, The Lexington: 821-F East Main St., 957-3120 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. www.lexdeli.com. ¢.

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DiPrato’s Delicatessen 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. dipratos.com. ¢-$.

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 en route to or from the lake boasts about the Philly cheese steaks — and rightfully so.

Brought to you by the former owners of the popular Sub Cabin, its Philly sandwiches are second to none. Remodeled to include an outdoor seating area. Also serves subs, wings, pizza and French fries cooked in peanut oil. ¢-$.

Fifth Avenue Deli 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.

5thavenuedeli.com. ¢.

Firehouse Subs Downtown: 633 Main St., 733-9836 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Forest Acres: 3250 Forest Dr., 445-1312 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Northeast: 10136 Two Notch Rd., 419-8161 Sun-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Lexington: 109 Old Chapin Rd., 957-1100 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Fire station-themed deli featuring enticing hot and cold selections and combos. Soups, salads and a children’s menu are also available. firehousesubs.com. ¢.

Garden Bistro Vista: 1303 Assembly St., 933-9085 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Healthy downtown lunch option with an eclectic assortment of soup, salads, wraps and specialty sandwiches. gardenbistrosc.com. ¢.

Groucho’s 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.

Lexington: 117 1/2 East Main St., 356-8800 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2265 Sunset Blvd., 796-7826 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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. grouchos.com. ¢.

Hampton Place Cafe Downtown: 1230 Hampton St., 254-5847 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m.

Local favorite lunch spot with upscale sandwiches and salads and fantastic outdoor seating. Try the spinach and mushroom or

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

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. hamptonplacecafe.com. ¢.

Jason’s Deli Vista: 823 Gervais St., 540-1973 10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily 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.

Jersey Mike’s Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4717 Devine St., 787-0945 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 7241 Broad River Rd., 749-3022 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 1720 Sunset Blvd., 796-1126 Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Northeast: 136-3 Forum Drive, 865-8004 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

This sub shop sailed in from the Jersey Shore, where the chain started in 1956. It offers the usual cold sub choices plus hot options like the Meatball & Cheese, the Philly cheesesteak and the Bar-B-Que Beef Sub. jerseymikes.com. ¢.

Jimmy Johns Five Points: 2015 Devine St., 806-8282 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-3 a.m.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 5910 Garner’s Ferry, 695-3278 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Vista: 715 Gervais St., 933-9595 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10:00 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 131 Harbison Blvd., 407-4702 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Lexington: 914 North Lake Dr., Suite B, 359-0710 Daily 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chain serving subs, clubs and their meat-heavy signature sandwich, The J.J. Gargantuan. Subs on French bread, clubs available on whole wheat. Atypical vegetarian toppings include avocado, cucumber and sprouts. Delivery available for a modest charge. jimmyjohns.com. ¢.

Lunch Box Downtown: 1305 Lady St., 799-3318 Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

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

McAlister’s Deli Forest Acres: 4710-A Forest Dr., 790-5995 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 300 Columbiana Dr., 781-4550 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Lexington: 5175 Sunset Blvd., , 951-3332 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Northeast: 119 Sparkleberry Ln., , 788-7600 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Specializing in gigantic spuds, signature gourmet sandwiches, soups, salads, desserts and sweet tea. mcalistersdeli.com. ¢.

No Name Deli Downtown: 2042 Marion St., 252-0480 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-3:45p.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. ¢.

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

Pita Pit

Sub Station II

Downtown: 2002 A Greene St., 799-4557 Mon-Wed 10:30 a.m.- 2:30 a.m.; Thu-Sat 10:30 a.m.-3 a.m.; Sun noon-1 a.m.

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. pitapitusa.com. ¢.

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.

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

Roly Poly Sandwiches Downtown: 1202 Sumter St., 252-1081 Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-5 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. rolypoly.com. ¢.

Sammi’s Deli Five Points: 2009 Greene St., 256-7763 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 10 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. ¢.

Steve’s #1 Sub Contractor West Columbia/Cayce: 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 Mon-Fri 11:00 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 11:00 a.m.-8 p.m.

Great local sub place — why go corporate when you can get local that’s even better?

Serving Columbians since 1980. ¢.

Swanson’s Deli Downtown: 1332 Main St., 343-3253 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

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. swansonsdeli.com. ¢.

Tropical Grille Downtown: 601-D Main St., 799-0810 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily Healthy deli fare with a Cuban twist. ¢

Which Wich?

Downtown: 928 S. Main St., 343-3317 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 1230 1 Bower Pkwy., 407-4222 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Northeast: 494-1 Town Center Place, 227-2782 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

As the name implies, this place is all about the sandwich, with more than 50 from which to choose. Categories are simple: turkey, chicken, ham and pork, beef, vegetarian, Italian, “classics” and even seafood. Also serves breakfast sandwiches, “kidswiches” and cookies, shakes and malts. whichwich.com. ¢.

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Zoe’s Kitchen

Bubble Tea Cafe

Forest Acres: 4855 Forest Dr., 782-1212 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily Downtown: 1320 Main St., 771-0122 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

Specializes in garden fresh, healthy sandwiches, salads, hot plates and soups.

Also offers catering and delivery service. zoeskitchen.com. ¢.

Downtown: 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.

Harbison/Irmo: 1260-A6 Bower Pkwy., 781-7508 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun noon- 8 p.m.

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

Dessert Baskin-Robbins Forest Acres: 4711 Forest Dr., 782-0731 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Northeast: 9920 Two Notch Rd., 788-7755 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

With more than 4,500 locations, BaskinRobbins is the world’s largest ice cream chain.

Though everyone knows about the 31 flavors, it actually rotates some 100 flavors each year and possess an arsenal of a whopping 1,000 flavors overall. Oh yeah, and the ice cream cakes are second to none. ¢.

Cold Stone Creamery

Blue Flour

Cromer’s P-Nuts

Harbison/Irmo: 7703 St. Andrews Rd., 407-3603 Tues-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. ¢

Downtown: 1700 Huger Street, 779-2290 Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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! cromers.com.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Northeast: 202 Grace’s Way, 419-8889 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. brusters.com. ¢.

Lexington: 914-C N. Lake Dr., 951-2353 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9:30 p.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. coldstonecreamery. com. ¢

Cupcake Vista: 1213 Lincoln St., 212-4949 Mon-Wed 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Thu-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 12-5 p.m.

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. freshcupcakes.com. ¢.

Insomnia Cookies Five Points: 2013 Devine St., 877-632-6654 Mon-Sun noon-3 a.m.

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). insomniacookies.com. ¢.

Northeast: 480-6 Town Center Place, 728-0657 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Sun 12 noon-6 p.m.

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

Tropical Smoothie Cafe 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. ¢

Marble Slab Creamery

Tutti Frutti

Vista: 1001 Gervais St., 765-9100 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6000 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6243 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 1230 Bower Pkwy., 749-4233 Sun-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Northeast: 471-C Town Center Place, 419-8300 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Founded in Houston, more than 250 Marble Slab Creamery locations dot North America.

Ice cream is made on site daily, with flavors ranging from Vanilla Cinnamon to Dark Chocolate with Butterfinger. Servers mix ice cream with candy, nuts or other assorted toppings on a frozen marble slab. marbleslab.com. ¢.

Yoghut

Nonnah’s The Vista: 923 Gervais St., 779-9599 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. nonnahs.com. ¢-$.

Orange Leaf Five Points: 701-B Santee Ave., 771-7222 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.-10 p.m.

Banana fro-yo! Wedding cake fro-yo!

Pomegranate fro-yo! Cotton candy fro-yo!

Gummi Bears! Chocolate syrup! Hooray! ¢

Paradise Ice Downtown: 1627 Main St., 251-3311 Mon-Sat noon-8 p.m.; Sun noon-6 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. ¢

Peanut Man Northeast: 471-11 Town Center Place, 4190705 Vista: 1215 Lincoln St., 799-9988 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-8 p.m.

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 — dash; 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. thepeanutman.com. ¢

Sweet Cake House St. Andrews-Dutch Square: 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 749-9668 Mon 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tues-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 Sweet Cake House also serves sandwiches, deli salads and breakfast treats like turnovers and strudels. sweetcakehouse.com. ¢.

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Sweet, A Cupcake Company

Vista: 1205 Lincoln St., 260-1917 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-11 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. ¢.

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. ¢.

Ethiopian Salina Cafe Downtown: 1621 Main St., 255-0001 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. ¢.

French Crepes and Croissants 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. ¢

German Julia’s German Restaurant Northeast: 4341 Fort Jackson Blvd., 738-0630 Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; 5-9 p.m.; Sat 5-9 p.m.

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

The Wurst Wagen Mobile Food Truck, 463-6637 This mobile food truck boasts a Germantrained master butcher who uses local produce to season his sausage. There are specials every now and then, so visit them often to get the best prices. Check out their twitter page for location information: twitter.com/BestWurstWagen.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

GreekMediterranean Ariana’s Greek Restaurant 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 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. ¢-$.

Olive Grill Downtown: 1211 Taylor St., 799-9090 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Tidy little lunch spot featuring Mediterranean and Iranian dishes — your basic pitas and salads, but also traditional Iranian stews like gormeh sabzi. ¢-$.

Taziki’s Mediterranean Café 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 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.

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 Thursdays. ¢. greekband.com/zorbas.htm.

Indian Bombay Grill

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

This downtown lunch spot describes its fare as “Greek with a Southern twist,” though it’s hard to say what’s so Southern about the place besides the sweet tea and the availability of chicken salad. Really, though, it’s sort of irrelevant: people crowd in for the burgers and the gyros, mostly — and crowd in they do, every weekdayaround noon. Try the Beef Souvlaki Platter or Blackened Pork Chops, which arrive super fastand are easy on the wallet. ¢. greekboyssc.com.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 245 Bush River Rd., 772-5121 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.

Closed Tuesdays.

Featuring a range of South and North Indian dishes, as well as a handful of Indian Chinese entrees, this Boozer Shopping Center one-stop satisfies vegetarians and omnivores alike. Diners can choose between classic standards like Chicken Tikka, Lamb Vindaloo and Channa Masala, or sample less common fare such as the fenugreekseasoned Methi Chicken or Baingan Bartha, which pairs baked eggplant with tomato, onion and spices. The South Indian dosai (stuffed savory crepes) are not to be missed.

No booze; serves Halal meats. $.

Main Street Café

Delhi Palace

Greek Boys

Lexington/Lake Murray: 131 E. Main St., 8085886 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. ¢-$. mainstreetcafelexington.com.

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 5:30-9:30 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. On some Sat nights, restaurant offers live music.

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 5:30-8:45 p.m.; Wed-Fri-11:30 a.m.-2:15 p.m.; Wed-Sat 5:30-9:20 p.m.

Menu includes a wide selection of traditional Middle Eastern food such as hummus, baba ghannouj, 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. ¢-$.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 542 St. Andrews Rd., 750-7760 Open: Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-10:30 p.m.

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. delhipalace. ms11.net. ¢-$.

Spice Junction West Columbia/Cayce: 2335 Augusta Rd., 708-9158 Mon-Sat- 11:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-8:30 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-lentil porridge. If you like seriously spicy food, ask for some house-made hot sauce. $.

Italian 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). $.

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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Al’s Upstairs West Columbia/Cayce: 304 Meeting St., 794-7404 Mon-Sat 5-10 p.m.

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. $$. alsupstairsitalian.com.

Moe’s Grapevine Italian Restaurant

boasts a low-key atmosphere and terrific pizzas. ¢-$.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4478 Rosewood Dr., 776-8463 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. moesgrapevine.com. $.

Villa Tronco

Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders

Pasta Fresca

Harbison/Irmo: 1085 Lake Murray Blvd., 407- 4884 Lexington: 5339 Sunset Blvd., Hwy. 378, 957-6767 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. fiveguys.com. ¢.

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. pastafresca.net. ¢-$.

Carrabba’s

The Vista: 803 Gervais St., 799-4550 Mon-Sat 6 p.m.-until Some of the best fine dining in Columbia or anywhere else, you’ll find Northern Italian dishes here, including the signature Rack of Lamb dish. Wine list consistently wins awards. ristorantedivino.com. $$.

Harbison/Irmo: 370 Columbiana Dr., 407-1811 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat 11:00 a.m.11 p.m.; Sun 11:00 a.m.-10 p.m.

Northeast: 200 Grace’s Way, 865-5688 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Offers quality Italian dishes including chicken, veal, pasta, seafood and pizza that’s wood-fired in a brick oven. Plenty of salads, desserts and more to tempt the appetite. $.

Columbo’s Italian Eatery & Prime Steaks St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 2100 Bush River Rd. (inside the Radisson Hotel), 744-2200 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 offers a do-it-yourself pasta bar as well as breakfast. $-$$. columbos.net.

Delucca’s 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. deluccas.com. $.

Fazoli’s Harbison/Irmo: 139 Columbiana Cir. , 781-3149 Sun.-Th. 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

Northeast: 7621 Two Notch Road, 865-8322 Hours: Sun.-Th. 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

Fast, casual Italian food in a family-friendly setting. $.

Garibaldi Café Five Points: 2013 Greene St., 771-8888 Mon-Thu 5:30-10:00 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sun 5:30-10 p.m.

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. $$.

Kovachi’s Lexington: 309 S. Lake Dr., 356-1366 Mon-thu 11 a.m.-9 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. kovachis.com. ¢.

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Ristorante Divino

Rosso Trattoria Italia Forest Acres: 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.

Entrées include Rosso Bucco (tee hee), woodgrilled meats and seafood, rich pastas and sea scallops with lemon-saffron risotto. A winner all the way around. $-$$.

Stephano’s 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.

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

Travinia Italian Kitchen Lexington: 5074 Sunset Dr., 957-2422 Northeast: 101-A Sparkleberry Crossing, 419-9313 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.

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

Valentina’s Greek and Italian Cuisine

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. villatronco.com. $.

Inakaya Watanabe

Japanese/ Sushi

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. ¢.

Camon Japanese Restaurant Downtown: 1332 Assembly St., 254-5400 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 — not what you’ll encounter along the Gervais Street corridor, a couple of blocks away. 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 specials are popular, though at Fujiya you don’t have to share a common table with strangers, which is nice. Friendly, attentive service. $.

Ganbei Lexington: 5580-F Sunset Blvd., 808-1618 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 4:30-10 p.m.; FriSat 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, Wed, and Thurs 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.

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. ¢-$.

Hibachi House

The Villa

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant

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

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

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! sakuracolumbia.com. ¢.

Northeast: 224 O’Neil Ct., 699-2626 Mon 5-10 p.m.; Tue-Fri 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-11 p.m. Sun 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-9 p.m.

Elegant seating where outstanding sushi,

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 655-C St. Andrews Rd., 731-2538 Mon 5-10 p.m.; Tue-Fri 11:45 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5-11 p.m.

Excellent sushi, sashimi and traditional Japanese dishes. $.

Menkoi Ramen House

Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar Harbison/Irmo: 442 Columbiana Dr., 407-1264 Mon-Fri 5-10 p.m.; Sat 4-10 p.m.; Sun 3-9 p.m.

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 The Vista: 807 Gervais St., 931-0700 Sun-Wed 5 p.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 5 p.m.-until Sushi, sake and salacious servers . what else could you want out of an über-hip Vista sushi bar? sakifresh.com. $.

Sakura Japanese Restaurant Forest Acres: 4827 Forest Dr., 738-9330 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5:30-9:00 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 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.

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. satosteak.com. $-$$.

Sumo Lexington: 205-B Columbia Ave., 356-5597 Northeast: 151 Clemson Rd., 788-2300 Mon-Thurs 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 510:30 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.

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. $$.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

DELIVERY • EAT-IN TAKE OUT

Tios Mexican café 921 Sumter St

www.tiossc.com

• Blackened SALMON • Citrus MAHI MAHI • Garlic Chipotle SHRIMP • Lemon Pepper Tilapia • Fried Cod

803 252 7229 We Deliver!

West Coast Fish Tacos

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

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Sushi & Hibachi To Go

O Bok Korean Restaurant

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.

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.

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. ¢.

Sushi Yoshi Five Points: 2019 Devine St., 931-0555 Mon-Wed 11:30 am-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.

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

Tokyo Grill Harbison/Irmo: 378-2 Columbiana Dr., 749-9818 Forest Acres: 3151 Forest Dr., 738-7008 Lexington: 109 Old Chapin Rd., 356-2448 Northeast: 111 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 788-7288 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1316 Bush River Rd., 772-0988 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Hibachi grill serving up quick entrees in varieties of shrimp, steak and chicken combinations. Also serves sushi, wraps, salads and soups. tokyogrillcolumbia.com. ¢-$.

Tsunami Harbison/Irmo: 1290 Bower Pkwy., 407-3873 Vista: 700-C Gervais St., 312-9911 Mon-Sat 4:30 -11:45 p.m., Sun 4-10:45 p.m.

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

Korean Arirang 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 Cafe 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. bluecactuscafe.com. ¢.

Hero Korean Steak House and Sushi Northeast: 6634 Two Notch Rd., 699-9922 Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Sun 5-9 p.m. Closed Wed. 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. $.

26 freetimes |

Mexican 7 Mares Lexington: 4360 Augusta Road, 520-0067 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. $.

El Burrito Five Points: 934 Harden St., 765-2188 Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

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 Thursdays during warmer months. One of the best salads in town. ¢.

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. ¢.

La Estrella West Columbia-Cayce: 1921 Airport Blvd., 739-6520 Sun-Sat 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. ¢.

Hola Mexico Northeast: 9009 Two Notch Rd., 834-3014 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Classic Mexican-American restaurant combination plates and favorites, from flautas to chilaquiles to enchiladas and more. $.

El Mariachi

Qdoba Mexican Grill 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. ¢. qdoba.com.

Real Mexico St. Andrews-Dutch Square: 2421 Bush River Rd., 750-8990 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

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. West Columbia location includes a store, too. ¢.

Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina Lexington: 5135-H Sunset Blvd., 957 7482 Hours: Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

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.

Quesadillas, tacos, burritos, taco salads and other Mexican-American favorites freshened up for a broader audience. ¢-$.

San Jose Mexican Restaurant

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. ¢.

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 12 noon-10 p.m.

Offers a vast array of combination and specialty platters. Happy Hour and lunch specials also available. ¢.

Moe’s Southwest Grill

Tacos Los Poblanitos West Columbia/Cayce: Hook Ave. between Hwy. 1 and Jarvis Klapman Blvd., 414-9150 Sun-Thu 5-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 5-10 p.m.

This taco truck offers up Puebla-style food, including huaraches — thick ovals of griddlefried dough — topped with fresh meats, cheeses and regular taco fixins like cilantro and onions. ¢.

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. ¢. casalindasc.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 Place, 788-6639 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2217 Augusta Rd., 477-5818 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. moes.com. ¢.

Cecilia’s

Monterrey Mexican Restaurant

Cantina 76 Five Points/Shandon: 2901 Devine St., 708-6004 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.

Downtown: 1301 Main St., 764-1769 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. cantina76.com. $.

Casa Linda

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. $.

Chipotle Mexican Grill Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr., 738-8272 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily Vista: 610 Gervais St., 223-7801 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chipotle’s monster burritos, fresh tacos and delectable, chipotle-honey vinaigrette salads are hard to pass up. chipotle.com.

Eric’s San Jose Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6118 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6650 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

One of many Combo-Mexicano eateries in town, San Jose offers an extensive menu

West Columbia/Cayce: 199 Knox Abbott Dr., 794-3974 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 114 Afton Ct., 749-5928 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Lexington: 5570 Sunset Blvd., 356-8314 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Northeast: 7260 Parklane Rd., 699-6248 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat-Sun noon-10 p.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 2219 Broad River Rd., 798-9055 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

The Vista: 931 Senate St., 765-1465 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Serves lunch specials, combination platters and more, with vegetarian options available.

Fresh produce and meat delivered daily. ¢.

Pancho’s Forest Acres: 5400 Forest Dr., 738-9511 Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri-Sun 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Come for the $1.99 margaritas, stay for the classic Mexican cuisine. $.

Takosushi Vista: 1115 Assembly St., 771-7131 Mon-Thurs 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 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 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. ¢-$.

Tio’s Mexican Cafe 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. ¢. tiossc.com.

Middle Eastern Al-Amir Downtown: 629 Main St., 771-0515 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Al-Amir has a reputation for authentic and well-prepared Middle Eastern cuisine.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Signature dishes include hummus, falafel, lamb kabob, mujadara and shawarma. Salads, subs and daily dessert specials round out the menu. ¢-$.

Arabesque Shandon/Rosewood: 2930 Devine St., 779-6299 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

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. $.

Elie’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1058 St. Andrews Rd., 798-9664 Tue-Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.

Elie’s features fine dining in a friendly atmosphere. Cuisine ranges from falafel and baba ghanouj to kibbeh balls, kabobs and shawarma. Also offers Lebanese imported wine, belly dancers and Argileh pipes with flavored tobacco. ¢.

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. ¢.

Pizza

The bruschetta and garlic-and-oil glazed calzones are standouts. All menu items can be ordered for takeout. ¢-$.

CiCi’s Pizza Garners Ferry/Southeast: 141 Pelham Dr., 776-8900 Harbison/Irmo: 6120 St. Andrews Rd., 750-5900 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily Family oriented restaurant with inexpensive pizza buffet. Great for students, church groups, athletic groups, etc. Fun, clean and friendly environment. ¢. cicispizza.com.

Dano’s Pizza Shandon/Rosewood: 3008 Rosewood Dr., 254-3266 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.

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. danosdelivers.com. ¢-$..

Il Giorgione Pizzeria and Wine Bar Shandon/Rosewood: 2406 Devine St., 521-5063 Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m.- 10 p.m.; Sat 5:30-11 p.m.

Authentic pizzas and pastas, plus nice touches like an Italian cheese plate and lovely arugula salads. Good selection of affordable Italian wines. $.

Bobby’s House of Pizza & Subs

LaBrasca’s Pizza

Northeast: 2112 Clemson Rd., 699-3311 Mon-Sat. 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.

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 Lexington: 116 West Main St., 520-4689 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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. ¢.

Marco’s Pizza Northeast: 4561 Hardscrabble Rd., 419-3700 Mon-Thurs 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.midnight; Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Shandon/Rosewood: 3801 Rosewood Dr., 255-0990 Sun 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-midnight Chain pizza joint serves up, well, pizza — but also wings, salads and meatballs, as well as CinnaSquares and CheezyBread. ¢-$.

Mellow Mushroom 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.

The 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 12 noon-9 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. mellowmushroomcolumbia.com. $.

Nick’s House of Pizza West Columbia-Cayce: 1082A Sunset Blvd., 794-9240 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; 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 Five Points/Shandon: 2123 Greene St., 748-9661 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-3 a.m.

Need a slice to fuel another late night in Five Points? Drop by Nicky’s. Grab a beer while you’re there. nickyspizzaria.com.

Noah’s Antica Pizzeria St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 7719 St. Andrews Road, 445-1376 Sun-Fri 4-9 p.m.; Sat noon-9 p.m.

Fresh, authentic Neapolitan pizza — seriously. Takeout only. $.

Pizza Joint Forest Acres: 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.

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.

Pizza Man Pizzeria Shandon: 341 S. Woodrow St., 252-6931 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-12 a.m.; Sat 7 a.m.-midnight Sun 7 a.m.-11 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. ¢.

Building ‘Bites & Sites’ since 1976 QUAIL EGGS

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SPRING ONIONS

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803.791.3443 | terrasc.com 100 State Street | West Columbia, South Carolina

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

| freetimes

27

Pizza Palace

Village Idiot

Gilligan’s Steamer & Raw Bar

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. ¢-$.

Five Points/Shandon: 2009 Devine St., 252-8646 Mon-Sun 11:30 a.m.-until.

Delivery: 11:30 a.m.-midnight Forest Acres: 4517 Forest Dr., 787-5005 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Offering New York-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. villageidiotpizza.com. ¢.

Lexington: 938 N. Lake Drive, 808-2244 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

If you want great seafood in a laid-back, casual atmosphere reminiscent of the beach, go to Gilligan’s. Just across from the dam at Lake Murray, Gilligan’s outdoor deck attracts a fun and festive crowd. Known for their oysters and popcorn shrimp, Gilligan’s also offers a wide selection of seafood combos, salads, starters, raw bar options and dinner specials. gilligans.net. $.

Pizzeria Uno Chicago Grill Lexington: 5304 Sunset Blvd., 359-3888 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; 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. unos.com. $.

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 Northeast: 10120 Two Notch Rd., 788-7808 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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 eggplant parmigiana. ¢-$.

Tony’s Pizzalicious 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 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.

A pizzeria and much more. Serves Italian classics like manicotti; Greek classics like spanakopita (the Wed special) and baklava; and American classics like burgers. $.

Za’s Brick Oven Pizza 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. zasbrickovenpizza.com. ¢-$.

Seafood Blue Marlin The Vista: 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838 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.

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 a jalapeño salsa. Private dining facilities now available. bluemarlincolumbia.com. $.

Bonefish Grill Forest Acres: 4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200 Harbison/Irmo: 1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599 Mon-Thu 4-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 4-11:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Based out of St. Petersburg, Fla., 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. bonefishgrill.com. ¢-$.

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. $.

Harbor Inn Seafood Northeast: 7375 Two Notch Rd., 462-3498 Lexington: 411 W. Main St., 359-2979 Sun, Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Your favorite seafood platters come fried or broiled, with familiar sides like hush puppies and slaw. The Land and Sea special pairs a 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. harborinnseafood.com. ¢.

Ocean View Seafood Restaurant St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1904 Broad River Rd., 772-7811 West Columbia-Cayce: 1000 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-5700 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.

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. $.

Longhorn Steakhouse Harbison/Irmo: 171 Harbison Blvd., 732-2482 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

The Vista: 902-A Gervais St., 254-5100 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

“Beef,” that great embodiment of the man’s man, Robert Mitchum, once famously decreed, “It’s what’s for dinner.” That’s certainly the case at this modern-day saloon in the heart of the Vista, though lest you embarrass yourself, the rousing rodeo strings of Aaron Copland’s are all in your head, so put down the lasso. You can also get shrimp and salmon, of course, even chicken — though really, cowboy, why would you? $-$$. longhornsteakhouse.com.

Outback Steakhouse Harbison/Irmo: 252 Harbison Blvd., 732-3771 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Northeast: 7611 Two Notch Rd., 788-9800 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Popular Australian-themed steakhouse chain featuring Blooming Onion appetizers and all manner of salads, steak and chicken dishes. outback.com. $.

Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse Harbison/Irmo: 410 Columbiana Dr., 708-3151 Mon-Fri 5-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 4-10 p.m.

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

The Oyster Bar The Vista: 1123 Park St., 799-4484 Mon-Wed 4-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 4-11 p.m. (bar open later) Serves fresh Gulf oysters — steamed or raw — in a dressed-down atmosphere. Best of all: They shuck, you eat. Also serves up steamed shrimp and scallops. oysterbarcolumbia.com. $.

Downtown: 924-A Senate St. (Hilton Hotel), 212-6666 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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.

The seafood rocks, too. ruthschris.com. $$.

Texas Roadhouse

Pearlz Oyster Bar The Vista: 936 Gervais St., 661-7741 Daily 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. pearlzoysterbar.com. $.

Harbison/Irmo: 400 Columbiana Dr., 407-6670 Northeast: 8304 Two Notch Rd., 788-5384 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

High-energy, casual Southwest-themed restaurant featuring hand-cut steaks, award-winning ribs and several made-fromscratch items such as salad dressings, bread, croutons, mashed potatoes and gravy. $.

Steakhouse

Tapas

Arizona Steakhouse

Blue.

Northeast: 150 Forum Drive, 865-1001 Mon 11:30-9 p.m.; Tue-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; FriSat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

Offers a variety of salads, steaks, burgers, chicken and fish, ranging from prime rib to ahi tuna encrusted in pepper and sesame seeds. Moderately priced dishes and wine list heavy on California wines. The babyback ribs are a generous portion slathered in a rich tomato-based barbecue sauce. traviniaitaliankitchen.com. $.

Carolina Strip Club 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 midnight Steaks. Salads. Steak salads. Burgers, too, and seafood. Your straight-up American steakhouse. carolinastripclub.com. $-$$.

Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse Downtown: 1508 Main St., 728-0887 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m, 2-10 p.m.; Sat. 4-10 p.m.

Sun. 4-9 p.m.

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

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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. $$.

The 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 The 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. ¢-$.

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.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

The Mamas and the Tapas

Mai Thai

Earth Fare

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. $.

West Columbia-Cayce: 2249 Sunset Blvd., 939-4795 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat 5-9:30 p.m.

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. maithais.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. ¢. earthfare.com.

Thai Baan Sawan 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. baansawan.blogspot.com. $-$$.

Bangkok Restaurant Garners Ferry/Southeast: 7509-H Garners Ferry Rd., 776-2993 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

You might easily overlook a strip mall when looking for Thai food, but Bangkok was one of the first Thai restaurants in Columbia and remains worth the search. The pad thai and kaou phad 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 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. and 5-11 p.m; Sat 5-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

Charleston’s favorite Thai restaurant comes to Columbia’s upscale Cross Hill Market, bringing Thai classics and approachable twists thereupon. Nice cocktail selection. eatatbasil.com. $.

Thailand Restaurant St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 6024 St. Andrews Rd., 731-7715 Mon-Thu 11 a.m. -2:30 p.m., 5 p.m.-9; 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 Ankh Life International Cafe Harbison/Irmo: 6164 St. Andrews Rd., 772-4422 Mon-Thu, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Call for Sun hours.

Yes, even Irmo has an awesome vegan restaurant now. Daily specials often feature mock meats that will convert even the most devout meat eater. Vegan cupcakes, too. ¢-$.

Good Life Cafe 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.

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, meatbased diet. Main Street location has a full bar, too. goodlifecafe.net. $.

Lamb’s Bread Vegan Cafe Downtown: 2338 Main St., 253-7889 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri-Sat. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

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

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

$$ avg. entrée > $15

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.

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. rosewoodmarket.com. ¢.

Whole Foods Garners Ferry/Southeast: 702 Cross Hill Rd., 509-6700 Mon-Sun 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

The granddaddy of natural foods stores boasts a stellar deli and buffet.

Vietnamese Golden Chopstix West Columbia/Cayce: 1505 Charleston Hwy., 791-0206 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-8:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.; Sat noon-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.

Serves Thai and Vietnamese dishes, with a greater emphasis on Thai. 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 Northeast: 2300 Decker Blvd., 699-5959 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-9:30 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. pho-viet.com. ¢.

Open Mon-Fri 7am-Midnight • Sat & Sun 9am-Midnight 779.4277 • Catering Available

HOMEMADE DOUGHNUTS

Brunch Served Everyday Free bike delivery 11-2 m-f 708.9476

1217 College St. - Across from USC’s Horseshoe free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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Index restaurants by region BLYTHEWOOD

Carolina Wings............................................15 Groucho’s.....................................................18 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Valentina’s Greek and Italian .....................22

CHAPIN

Ava’s Copper Pot Bistro..............................14 Catch 22.......................................................28 Wired Goat Café..........................................17

DOWNTOWN

Al-Amir..........................................................26 Anthony’s Past Time Café ...........................6 Atlanta Bread Company..............................10 Beezer’s.......................................................18 Bubble Tea Café..........................................20 Cali’s Café....................................................18 California Dreaming......................................6 Camon Japanese Restaurant....................22 Cantina 76....................................................26 Capitol Café & Bakery.................................18 Carolina Café & Catering............................16 Carolina’s.......................................................6 Casserole 2 Go..............................................6 Chocolate Nirvana.......................................10 City Center Grill.............................................6 Cola’s American Cooking...........................13 College Grounds Café................................16 Cool Beans Coffee Co................................16 Courtyard Café............................................14 Cowboy Brazilian Steakhouse...................28 Crepes & Croissants...................................20 Cromer’s.......................................................20 Drake’s Duck In..............................................6 Drip Coffee...................................................16 Fancy That.....................................................6 Firehouse Subs...........................................18 First Citizens Café.......................................16 Good Life Café.............................................29 Greek Boys..................................................21 Hampton Place Café...................................19 Hampton Street Vineyard...........................14 Hibachi House.............................................22 Hunter-Gatherer..........................................14 Immaculate Consumption ..........................16 J. Gumbo’s...................................................17 Lamb’s Bread Vegan Café..........................29 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Lunch Box....................................................19 M Café..........................................................10 M Fresh.........................................................10 Mack’s............................................................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 Michael’s Café and Catering........................8 Midlands’........................................................8 Millwood Coffee Company.........................17 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Nathan’s Restaurant.....................................8 No Name Deli...............................................19 Oak Table.....................................................14 Olive Grill......................................................21 Paradise Ice.................................................20 Pitas..............................................................27 Pita Pit..........................................................19 P.O.S.H. .......................................................14 Roly Poly Sandwiches................................19 Ruth’s Chris..................................................28 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs...........................8 Rue 77..........................................................14 Salina Café...................................................20 Sushi & Hibachi To Go................................26 Swanson’s Deli............................................19 Tio’s Mexican Café......................................26 Tony’s Pizza and Italian Eatery..................22 Tropical Grille...............................................19 Uncle Maddio’s............................................28 Villa Tronco..................................................22 Whig, The.....................................................13 Wing Zone....................................................16 Yoghut...........................................................20 Zoe’s Kitchen...............................................20

FIVE POINTS

Andy’s Deli...................................................18 Baan Sawan.................................................29 Bar None......................................................10 Blue Cactus Café.........................................26 Cellar on Greene.........................................13 Delaney’s......................................................12 DiPrato’s Delicatessen................................18 Drip Coffee...................................................16 El Burrito.......................................................26 Garibaldi’s Café...........................................22 Goatfeathers................................................14 Gourmet Shop.............................................17 Grilled Teriyaki.............................................22 Groucho’s.....................................................18 Group Therapy.............................................12 Harper’s Restaurant......................................6

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Insomnia Cookies........................................20 Jake’s............................................................12 Jimmy Johns................................................19 Lucky’s..........................................................12 Mr. Friendly’s................................................14 Nicky’s Pizzeria...........................................27 Orange Leaf.................................................20 Pawleys Front Porch.....................................8 Pho Viet........................................................29 Pour House..................................................12 Qdoba...........................................................26 Salty Nut Café..............................................13 Saluda’s........................................................14 Sammi’s Deli................................................19 San Jose......................................................26 Sushi Yoshi..................................................26 Tutti Frutti.....................................................20 Village Idiot...................................................28 Waffle House...............................................10 Yesterdays Restaurant & Tavern ..............10

FOOD TRUCKS

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue..........................14 2 Fat 2 Fly.....................................................14 Wurst Wagen...............................................20

FOREST ACRES

Ally and Eloise Bakeshop...........................10 Baskin-Robbins...........................................20 Bonefish Grill...............................................28 Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery............................10 Café Caturra................................................13 Casa Linda...................................................26 Chipotle........................................................26 Five Guys Burgers & Fries............................6 Groucho’s.....................................................18 Lillian’s Eatery & Bakery.............................10 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 McAlister’s Deli............................................19 Miyo’s............................................................10 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Mousetrap......................................................8 Original Pancake House...............................8 Pancho’s.......................................................26 Pasta Fresca................................................22 Pizza Joint....................................................27 Rosso............................................................22 Sakura Japanese Restaurant.....................22 Sato Japanese Steak & Seafood...............22 Sulley’s Bar & Grill.......................................13 Taste of Jamaica..........................................18 Tokyo Grill....................................................26 Tombo Grille.................................................14 Village Idiot...................................................28 Yoghut...........................................................20 Yummy Yummy............................................17 Zoe’s Kitchen...............................................20

GADSDEN

Big-T Bar-B-Que .........................................14

GARNERS FERRY/ SOUTHEAST

Bangkok Restaurant....................................29 Basil Thai Restaurant..................................29 Big-T Bar-B-Que..........................................14 Buffalo Wild Wings......................................15 Casa Linda...................................................26 China Buffet Sushi & Bar............................17 CiCi’s Pizza..................................................27 Cockpit Barbeque........................................15 Doc’s Barbeque & Southern Buffet............15 Eric’s San Jose............................................26 Jersey Mike’s...............................................19 Jimmy Johns................................................19 Julia’s German Restaurant ........................20 LaBrasca’s Pizza.........................................27 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Marble Slab Creamery................................20 Moe’s Grapevine Italian..............................22 Panera Bread...............................................10 PDQ................................................................8 Pizza Palace................................................27 Rush’s.............................................................8 Saky..............................................................22 Sammiches & More.......................................8 Smashburger.................................................8 Taziki’s Mediterranean Café.......................21 Tony’s..............................................................8 Whole Foods................................................29

GASTON

Vacchio’s......................................................28

HARBISON/IRMO

Alodia’s Cucina Italia...................................21 Ankh Life International Café.......................29 Beef O’Brady’s.............................................10 Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders......................22 Bistro on the Boulevard...............................13 Blue Coyote..................................................10 Blue Flour.....................................................20 Bonefish Grill...............................................28 British Bulldog Pub......................................12 Bubble Tea Café..........................................20 Buffalo Wild Wings......................................15

Carolina Ale House.......................................6 Carrabba’s....................................................22 Cecilia’s........................................................26 Chickadee’s Diner.........................................6 CiCi’s Pizza..................................................27 Copper River Grill........................................14 DL McLaughlin’s..........................................18 Fazoli’s..........................................................22 Flaming Grill Supreme Buffet.....................10 Firehouse Subs...........................................18 Five Guys Burgers & Fries............................6 Great American Grill.....................................6 Groucho’s.....................................................18 Hemingway’s................................................12 Hooters.........................................................15 Interstate Hoagies and Steaks.....................6 Jersey Mike’s...............................................19 Liberty on the Lake........................................8 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Little Pigs......................................................15 Longhorn Steakhouse.................................28 Lucky’s Burger Shack...................................8 Marble Slab Creamery................................20 Mathias Sandwich Shop...............................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 McAlister’s Deli............................................19 Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse....................22 Miyo’s............................................................10 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 Outback Steakhouse...................................28 Panera Bread...............................................10 Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse.........................28 Rush’s.............................................................8 Rusty Anchor...............................................12 San Jose Mexican Restaurant...................26 Schiano’s......................................................28 Sun Ming......................................................17 Texas Roadhouse........................................28 Tokyo Grill....................................................26 Tropical Smoothie Café..............................20 Tsunami........................................................26 Vella’s Restaurant and Tavern...................10 Wild Hare Sports Café................................10 Wild Wing Café............................................16 Yoghut...........................................................20 Zorba’s Family Greek Restaurant..............21

LEESVILLE

Shealy’s Bar-B-Que House........................16

LEXINGTON

7 Mares.........................................................26 Antai Asian Dining.......................................10 Arkos Mojo Grill...........................................17 Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders......................22 Bentley’s Beach House...............................10 Buffalo Wild Wings......................................15 Café Chartier...............................................16 Carolina Wings............................................15 Carrabba’s....................................................22 Cribb’s Sandwich & Sweet Shop................18 Cold Stone Creamery.................................20 Compton’s Kitchen........................................6 Deli, The.......................................................18 Firehouse Subs...........................................18 Five Guys Burgers & Fries............................6 Flight Deck.....................................................6 Ganbei..........................................................22 Gilligan’s Steamer & Raw Bar....................28 Groucho’s.....................................................19 Harbor Inn Seafood.....................................28 Hudson’s Smokehouse...............................15 Kovachi’s......................................................22 Libby’s of Lexington.....................................27 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Main Street Café Bar & Grill.......................21 Marble Slab Creamery................................20 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 McAlister’s Deli............................................19 Mediterranean Café....................................21 Mellow Mushroom.......................................27 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 Old Mill Brewpub.........................................14 Pizzeria Uno Chicago Grill.........................28 Ray’s Pizzeria & Ice Cream Shoppe.........28 Red Bowl......................................................10 Rush’s.............................................................8 Salsarita’s.....................................................26 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs...........................8 Stephano’s...................................................22 Sumo............................................................22 Tokyo Grill....................................................26 Travinia Italian Kitchen................................22 Tutti Frutti.....................................................20 Vegetable Medley & Chavis Café................8 Wild Hare Sports Café................................10

NORTH COLUMBIA

Edna’s Drive In...............................................6

NORTHEAST

Arirang..........................................................26 Arizona Steakhouse....................................28 Baskin-Robbins...........................................20

Beef O’Brady’s.............................................10 Bert’s Southern Cooking..............................6 Big-T Bar-B-Que..........................................14 Bobby’s House of Pizza..............................27 Bruster’s Real Ice Cream............................20 Buffalo Wild Wings......................................15 Calypso Caribbean Grill..............................17 Caprioska.....................................................12 Carolina Wings............................................15 Carrabba’s....................................................22 Crossings Deli..............................................18 Fazoli’s..........................................................22 Five Guys Burgers & Fries ...........................6 Harbor Inn....................................................28 Henry’s.........................................................12 Hero Korean Steak House & Sushi...........26 Hola Mexico.................................................26 Hooters.........................................................15 Inakaya Japanese Restaurant...................22 Jin’s Hibachi & Chinese..............................17 Julep’s Bistro................................................14 Korea Garden..............................................26 Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles...........................8 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Marco’s Pizza...............................................27 Marble Slab Creamery................................20 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 McAlister’s Deli............................................19 Miyo’s............................................................10 MoBay..........................................................18 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 O Bok Korean Restaurant...........................26 Outback Steakhouse...................................28 Peanut Man..................................................20 Pho Viet........................................................29 Polliwog’s.....................................................12 Quaker Steak and Lube..............................16 Red Bowl Asian Bistro................................10 Rush’s.............................................................8 Schiano’s......................................................28 Serenity Restaurant & Lounge.....................8 Solstice Kitchen & Wine Bar.......................14 Stonefire American Grill ............................14 Sumo............................................................24 Sweet, A Cupcake Company.....................20 Tap’s Pub......................................................13 Tiffany’s Bakery & Eatery...........................10 Tokyo Grill....................................................26 Travinia Italian Kitchen................................22 Tsubaki.........................................................10 Very’s............................................................10 Wild Wing Café............................................16 Yummy Yummy............................................18

SHANDON/ROSEWOOD

American Roadside Burgers........................6 Arabesque....................................................27 Burger Tavern 77...........................................6 Cantina 76....................................................26 Cock N’ Bull..................................................12 Crust Bakehouse.........................................10 Dano’s Pizza................................................27 Devine Foods...............................................21 Earth Fare....................................................29 Egg Roll Chen..............................................17 Fifth Avenue Deli.........................................18 Fujiya............................................................22 Il Giorgione...................................................27 Henry’s.........................................................12 Kraken Gastropub.......................................12 Main Moon...................................................17 Marco’s Pizza...............................................27 Mediterranean Tea Room...........................21 MoMo’s Bistro..............................................14 Pizza Man....................................................27 Publick House..............................................15 Rockaway Athletic Club................................8 Rosewood Market & Deli............................29 Sammi’s Deli................................................19 Silver Spoon Bake Shop.............................10 Southern Belly.............................................13 TLC Sports Bar and Grill.............................13 Utopia.............................................................8 Za’s Brick Oven Pizza.................................28

ST. ANDREWS/ DUTCH SQ.

Bombay Grill................................................21 Columbo’s....................................................22 Corner Pocket..............................................12 Delhi Palace.................................................21 Elie’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine............27 Fuddruckers...................................................6 Inakaya Watanabe......................................22 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 Melting Pot...................................................14 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 Noah’s Antica Pizzeria................................27 Ocean View Seafood Restaurant..............28 Real Mexico.................................................26 Rush’s.............................................................8 San Jose Mexican Restaurant...................26 Sandy’s Famous Hot Dogs...........................8

Sweet Cake House......................................20 Taqueria Jalisco...........................................26 Thailand Restaurant....................................29 Tokyo Grill....................................................26 Top China Buffet..........................................17 Villa, The......................................................22 WG’s Chicken Wings...................................16 Wings & Ale..................................................16

THE VISTA

blue. .............................................................28 Blue Marlin...................................................28 Carolina Ale House.......................................6 Carolina Strip Club......................................28 Chipotle........................................................26 Cupcake.......................................................20 Five Guys Burgers & Fries............................6 Flying Saucer...............................................12 Garden Bistro...............................................18 Gervais & Vine.............................................28 Jason’s Deli..................................................19 Jillian’s............................................................6 Jimmy Johns................................................19 Kelly’s...........................................................12 Liberty Tap Room..........................................8 Longhorn Steakhouse.................................28 Mamas and the Tapas.................................28 Marble Slab Creamery................................20 M Grille.........................................................10 M Vista..........................................................10 Mellow Mushroom.......................................27 Menkoi Ramen House................................22 Mojitos..........................................................17 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 Motor Supply Co..........................................14 Nonnah’s......................................................20 Oyster Bar....................................................28 Palmetto Pig.................................................15 Pastry Shop at Nonnah’s............................10 Peanut Man..................................................20 Pearlz Oyster Bar........................................28 Le Peep..........................................................8 Ristorante Divino.........................................22 SakiTumi.......................................................22 Salsarita’s.....................................................26 TakoSushi.....................................................26 Thirsty Fellow...............................................13 Tin Roof........................................................13 Tsunami........................................................26 Wet Willie’s...................................................13 Woody, The..................................................13 Wild Hare Sports Café................................10 Wild Wing Café............................................16

WEST COLUMBIA/CAYCE

@116 Espresso & Wine Bar.......................13 2108 State......................................................6 Al’s Upstairs.................................................22 Ariana’s Greek Restaurant.........................21 Atlanta Bread Company .............................10 Backyard Café...............................................6 Café Strudel.................................................16 Compton’s Kitchen........................................6 D’s Wings.....................................................15 Delucca’s......................................................22 Egg Roll Station...........................................17 La Estrella....................................................26 La Fiesta.......................................................26 Golden Chopstix..........................................29 Good Life Café.............................................29 Grecian Gardens.........................................21 Groucho’s.....................................................18 Heather’s Artisan Bakery............................10 Hibachi Grill..................................................22 Jersey Mike’s...............................................19 John D. Hite’s...............................................15 Judy’s at the Market......................................8 Just Us Café...................................................8 Karl’s Korner................................................12 Kingsman Restaurant...................................8 Lizard’s Thicket..............................................8 Maurice’s Piggie Park.................................15 Mai Thai........................................................29 El Mariachi...................................................26 Moe’s Southwest Grill.................................26 Monterrey Mexican Restaurant..................26 Ms. B’s Southern Kitchen.............................8 Nick’s House of Pizza.................................27 Ocean View Seafood..................................28 Panaderia Odalys........................................10 Real Mexico.................................................26 Rush’s.............................................................8 Spice Junction.............................................21 Steve’s 1 Sub Contractor............................19 Stone River..................................................14 Sub Station II...............................................19 Sporting News Bar and Grill ......................13 Tacos Los Poblanitos..................................26 Tea Pot Chinese Restaurant......................17 Terra.............................................................14 Tony’s Pizzalicious......................................28 True BBQ......................................................16 Vella’s Restaurant and Tavern...................10 What-A-Burger............................................10

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

Japan and the

Jazz Age

February 7 - April 20, 2014

1515 Main Street in the heart of downtown Columbia, SC | 803.799.2810 | columbiamuseum.org Presented by The exhibition is drawn from The Levenson Collection and is organized and circulated by Art Services International, Alexandria, Virginia under the title DECO JAPAN: Shaping Art and Culture, 1920-1945. Support has been provided by The Chisholm Foundation and the E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation. Image: Artist Unknown, Songbook, Literary Song, The Trouble with Bright Eyes (detail), 1929, Color lithograph, 10 3/8 x 7 7/16 in. Courtesy of The Levenson Collection.

free-times.com/restaurants | Spring 2014

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31

PLAY&

STAY

WHAT TO DO:

ATTRACTIONS C

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.

This year, the city has been concentrating on its civil rights history, a lot of which happened in downtown Columbia. There are now seven markers along Main Street commemorating key local events and people, among them Sarah Mae Flemming, a black domestic worker who was accused in 1954 by a bus driver of sitting in

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the whites-only area; the incident preceded the famous Rosa Parks incident 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

New markers along Main Street highlight important events in Columbia’s civil rights history.

Photo by Patrick Wall

Arena, the Woodrow Wilson Family Home, the Robert Mills Houses and more.

The Columbia Museum of Art explores fascinating Art Deco works with Japan and the Jazz Age, which runs through April 20. The South Carolina State Museum is showing the exhibition Mama, Let’s Make a Moon, which features illustrations from Clay Rice’s children’s book of the same name. EdVenture Children’s Museum showcases the life cycle of 20 types of butterflies in Blooming Butterflies, which is on view until October. Disney on Ice comes to the Colonial Life Arena April 17 through 20. And the Township Auditorium has John Legend on April 16, Old Crow Medicine Show on April 24 and The Ultimate Doo Wop Show on May 3.

For a full calendar of events, please see page 46.

Spring 2014 | free-times.com/restaurants

PLAY&STAY Downtown USC South Main

I

t used to be that Main Street was overlooked as an entertainment district, but things are changing downtown. In addition to all the history you can soak up at the State House, there’s a burgeoning cultural life, too.

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; Good Life Café offers awesome raw vegan; The Whig is one of the hippest bars in town; and the Columbia Museum of Art has a steady stream of exhibitions and events to help keep culture alive downtown.

There’s also a Brazilian steakhouse, Cowboy. Coming soon: The Hub, which will bring 1,200 new residents to the area. Bottom line: One step at a time, 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 fewblock radius: Indian and Middle Eastern food; coffee; sandwiches; frozen yogurt; hot dogs; ice cream; bagels and locally brewed beers at Hunter-Gatherer.

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 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.

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Busted Plug Plaza

Koger Center

Randolph Cemetery

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 host, AgFirst, is moving from Taylor to Main Street. City Council has tentative plans to move the sculpture to Finlay Park and build a splash pad next to it.

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.

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.

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’s also a ton of other events happening here: the 20-somethingoriented Arts & Draughts series, the acclaimed Chamber on Main series, plus lots of lectures, films and more.

Conquest Brewing 947 S. Stadium Rd., 712-3063 conquestbrewing.com Columbia’s first production craft brewery, opened in 2013, has a tasting room open Wednesday through Sunday.

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, as it’s become the city’s unofficial haven for the homeless. 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.

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.

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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

Renaissance Cultural Arts Center renaissancefoundationsc.org To be located on the corner of Sumter and Taylor streets in the building once occupied by the Bethel AME Church, the Renaissance Cultural Arts Center aims to be a focal point for arts and history downtown.

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

2025 Marion St. Built between 1890 and 1895, this onestory 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.

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 734-2430 or visit scstatehouse.net for tour information.

Seibels House

palmettoconservation.org Conceived in 1994 as a statewide series of linked trails, the Palmetto Trail features 315 miles of completed paths thus far. In the Midlands, the 7.5-mile Capital City Passage is an urban section of the trail going from Riverfront Park to Fort Jackson.

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.

Ponder Art Gallery

Soda City Market

Palmetto Trail

(Benedict College) 1600 Harden St., 705-4605 benedict.edu Features works by black artists.

1500 Block of Main Street stateplate.org Held every Saturday morning, the Soda City market was launched by former state Agriculture Commissioner candidate Emile DeFelice. Offers sustainably produced meat and produce, as well as fresh bakery items, crafts and other locally produced goods.

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PLAY&STAY 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 arts-related 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 Columbia has come a long way on its riverfront development in the past few years, and the designation this spring of the Three Rivers Greenway as a National Recreation Trail underlines the point. The Three Rivers Greenway provides 9.5 miles of linked river access and will eventually cover 12 miles 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.

Township Auditorium 1703 Taylor St., thetownship.org First opened in 1930, the 3,000-plusseat Township Auditorium has hosted such artists as Elvis Presley, Duke Ellington, Pink Floyd and The Clash.

Reopened in 2010 after a $12 million facelift, the Township brings everything from R&B, country and rock 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 will they paint over the mural? We doubt it. Tunnelvision, a 1975 wall mural of a road

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EdVenture Children’s Museum

running through a tunnel, 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.

File photo

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 Woodrow Wilson’s family didn’t spend much time in Columbia, but we have to take what we can get. The family moved to town 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 Feb. 15.

Workshop Theatre 1136 Bull St., 799-6551 workshoptheatre.com A popular community theater that has been branching out in recent years with increasingly ambitious works.

Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West

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f Five Points is Columbia’s primary haven for college students, then the Vista offers the same for post-college professionals. This 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 theatre 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), Viva La Vista (a food festival) and Art Bar Agora, the Vista also has an increasing number of residential options.

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.

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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 home for USC men’s and women’s basketball.

Columbia Marionette Theater 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

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 Believe it or not, 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 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 nonSouth 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 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 leading progressively oriented theater company.

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

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PLAY&STAY Five Points Rosewood Olympia Southeast

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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 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 Rockaways. Rosewood has its own signature events, too, among them the Rosewood Crawfish Festival and the Tasty Tomato festival.

Over in the historic mill village of Olympia, you’ll find a dynamic community space at 701 Whaley — which houses the 701 Center for Contemporary Art, a farmers market 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 has become 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 shining 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 indeed a bang-up place to watch USC’s always-strong

WHAT TO DO: team. And while your inner accountant might moan and grown as you’re shelling out all that cash on concessions, your inner environmentalist can take pride in the stadium’s hydrogen-powered scoreboard — yes, really.

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).

ATTRACTIONS

1913. John J. Starks, president of Benedict College, bought the house in 1938.

Vista Marketplace 711 Whaley St., vista.locallygrown.net Held every Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Offers locally grown food, locally made wares and brunch.

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 by the Works Progress Administration — you know, that leftist agency started by FDR — WilliamsBrice has served as the site of lots of drunken football revelry, a U2 concert and an appearance by Obama and Oprah during the 2008 campaign.

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 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 to hip clothing and accessories at Sid and Nancy. When night falls, there are plenty of places to get your groove on, too (see Nightlife).

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 ultra-cool 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, 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

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Golf Blythewood 1084 Langford Rd. (Blythewood), 754-8600, golfclubsc.com With its winding streams, towering hardwoods and picturesque lake, this course has been consistently ranked

by Golf Digest as one of the best places to play in South Carolina. Designed by Ken Killian, the course is challenging but also playable for golfers at all levels.

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. 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.

Northeast Forest Acres Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden

S.C. Archives and History Center

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ome to the wonderful Sesquicentennial State Park, the Northeast also sports several golf courses, farmers markets, the enormous Village at Sandhill retail complex, the expansive Lake Carolina residential development 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.

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

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.

110 Industrial Park Rd. (Winnsboro), 803-712-4135, scrm.org Everybody loves trains, right? Take an hour-long ride, stroll through 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 Commemorates Fort Jackson’s prominent role in training American soldiers by acquiring and exhibiting artifacts dating to the fort’s founding in 1917.

Fort Jackson Museum 4442 Jackson Blvd., 751-7419 jackson.army.mil/Museum Acquires and exhibits Fort Jacksonrelated artifacts dating to the fort’s founding in 1917.

Village at Sandhill 481 Town Center Place, 419-0235 villageatsandhillonline.com Located off I-20 (Exit 80, Clemson Road), the Village at Sandhill is a tes-

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PLAY&STAY tament to the growth of Columbia’s Northeast region. Primarily a massive retail development — with major stores including Aeropostale, American Eagle, Bath and Body Works, Belk, BooksA-Million, Gamestop, Gymboree, Rice Music House, Victoria’s Secret and many more — the Village at Sandhill also boasts residential living, a popular 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

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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 man-made lake. Lake Murray offers a wide range of seasonal recreation options — including sailing, fishing (especially striped bass), camping and hiking — and a huge July 4 fireworks display. Public access is limited to the few parks and marinas scattered around the lake, so keep that in mind as you make your plans. A popular recent 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 Community Theatre, 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.

WHAT TO DO: 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 complex hosting tournaments and offering year-round lessons.

Chapin Community Theatre 107 Columbia Ave., 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. Currently raising funds for a new building.

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 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 Dedicated in 2008, this memorial to 9/11 was made from steel from Ground Zero in New York City.

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Frankie’s Fun Park 140 Parkridge Dr. 781-2342, frankiesfunpark.com Kids’ stuff? Hardly. This Harbison-area entertainment center packs three gokart tracks, three 18-hole mini-golf courses, batting cages, bumper boats, an arcade, a 5,000-square foot multitiered 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.

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.

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 www.lex-co.com/museum 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.

Peachtree Rock Nature Preserve scgreatoutdoors.com/ park-peachtree.html, 254-9046 Sadly, the geological wonder known as Peachtree Rock — a triangular-shaped

top-heavy sandstone formation that had stood on its pointed base for millions of years — fell recently, 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.

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, 70-acre 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 fullservice recreation complex offering fitness, athletics and cultural arts programs. Features a dance studio, art gallery, picnic areas, tennis courts, walking trails and more.

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.

S.C. National Heritage Corridor scnhc.org If you’re interested in checking out historic sites in the rural areas of the state, visit sc-heritagecorridor.org.

The corridor extends 240 miles across the state and its sites explore many facets of the state’s history.

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dance live bands karaoke comedy poetry euro-moto robots James Walker (1819-1889), The Battle of Gettysburg: Repulse of Longstreetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Assault, July 3, 1863, circa 1864-1870, oil on canvas, 90 x 240 inches, The Johnson Collection, Spartanburg, South Carolina. (detail)

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PLAY&

WHERE TO DRINK:

NIGHTLIFE

STAY D

o you love the nightlife? Love to boogie on the disco ‘round? Or maybe you love rock ‘n’ roll, and putting dimes in the jukebox?

Or maybe you’re just looking for a place to watch the big game, or to take your special friend for a quiet (or notso-quiet) night on the town.

No matter your preference, Columbia’s diverse nightlife scene has you covered. Whether it’s the beer list at Flying Saucer, the cozy bar at The Kraken, the people at Art Bar, rock ‘n’ roll at New Brookland Tavern or near-nightly night jazz at Speakeasy, there’s plenty of entertainment in these parts for all tastes and ages (well, all ages over 21, anyway).

And if you live in the ‘burbs — yeah, there are plenty of places to drink there, too.

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 Back Porch on Gervais 1616 Gervais St., 960-2585 Elegant bistro with a swanky bar.

Sometimes hosts bands; porch has heaters.

Le Cafe Jazz 930 Laurel St., 400-1879 You want jazz? Stop by this jazz club in Finlay Park.

Cantina 76 Downtown: 1301 Main St., 764-1769 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.

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 beer and liquor selection. Looking

to impress your local-hipster date?

You can’t go wrong here. Live jazz on Thursdays, too.

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, including the ryebased 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.”

Sheraton Rooftop Lounge 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.

broadened its clientele to Greeks and Main Street urban professionals. Still has that rad jukebox.

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

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-tocome-by wines and beers.

The Whig 1200 Main St., 931-8852, thewhig.org The Whig used to be Columbia’s coolkids-only bar, but its dollar-slice Mondays and cheap-taco Tuesdays have

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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

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.

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

Blue.

721A Lady St., 251-4447 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 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.

Flying Saucer 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 hundreds-deep beer list stocked with beers you’ve never heard of, and beers you’ve only heard about in legend.

Gervais & Vine Sheraton Vault Martini Bar

Jillian’s

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.

Jet Nightlife 700B Gervais St., 708-8208 jetnightlife.com Jet Nightlife offers a touch of big-city nightlife in lil’ ol’ Columbia, what with its bottle service, contemporary EDM DJs and VIP areas.

828 Gervais St., 461-4677 libertytaproom.com Attention hipsters: If you’re looking for that hot roller derby girl, you might have taken a wrong turn. (She’s at Art Bar.) Young professionals, however, should find much to enjoy here between the clientele, much-acclaimed 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 new Vista nightclub, which boasts regional DJs, laser lights and weekend drink specials. VIP and bottle service, too, if you’re a real baller.

Mojitos Tropical Café 1004 Gervais St., 779-1717 Last year, 400,000 Americans visited the communist island of Cuba thanks to an easing of travel restrictions. If you want to visit a tropical nightlife paradise serving up delicious Cuban food, however, it’s a lot easier to just head to this enticing Vista locale.

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-thanaverage beer selection will keep you coming back. Best of all? They shuck, you eat.

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PLAY&STAY

WHERE TO DRINK:

NIGHTLIFE

Pearlz

Uncle Louie’s

The Bird Dog

Goatfeathers

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.

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.

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.

2017 Devine St., 256-3325 Goatfeathers is the ideal habitat if you’re looking for that dark and mysterious, film-noir kind of ambience. The delicious food and gourmet desserts, perennially attractive staff, romanceconducive lighting and convenient Five Points locale make Goatfeathers one of Columbia’s all-time favorite hangouts.

Breakers

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.

Pearlz Upstairs 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.

PT’s 1109 1109 Assembly St., 253-8900 pts1109.com 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 hotspot, 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.

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 2013 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! 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.

Wet Willie’s 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 thevista.wobusa.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 living-room atmosphere keeps ‘em coming back.

Five Points Devine Street Rosewood Olympia The Back Corner 634 Harden St., facebook.com/theback-corner Where does porn star Ron Jeremy hang out when he’s in town. At this Five Points ravery.

Bar None 620 Harden St., 254-3354 Open from happy hour until sunrise, Bar None is the last refuge of the latenight lush and the service industry worker. Try the smoked wings, when they’re available.

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801 Harden St., 771-6360 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.

Group Therapy

Henry’s

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.

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.

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.

Jake’s 2112 Devine St., 252-5253 jakesofcolumbia.com Meet the new Jake’s — same as the old Jake’s. But that’s a good thing: 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.

Kildare’s Irish Pub

Concocktions 724 Harden St., 256-8860 Offers exactly what you’d want from a Five Points sports bar: Cheap drinks, good vibes, sports. Stays open late.

Live DJs, too.

Cover 3

724 Harden St., 256-1390 Not, as far as we can tell, affiliated with the mid-Atlantic Irish pub chain of the same name. Nor, as far as we can tell, as frat-tastic as Jungle Jim’s, which used to occupy the space, was. We bet it’s busy on St. Patrick’s Day.

711 Harden St., 533-7030 The Cover 3 is a zone 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.

The Kraken Gastropub

Delaney’s

Lucky’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.

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.

2100B 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.

Foxfield Bar & Grille

Nicky’s Pizza

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.

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.

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PLAY&STAY 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.

The 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.

Publick House 2307 Devine St., 256-2207 Exceptional beer selection, challenging trivia, hip music selection, überfriendly 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.

Sharky’s 636 Harden St., 799-8337 A favorite Five Points hangout since 1985, Sharky’s has repeatedly nabbed the Best College Bar award in Free Times’ Best of Columbia issue. House favorites: Bud Light, Jack Daniels and kamikaze shots with Southern Comfort. After the partying, Sharky’s keeps things safe by offering free cab rides.

WHERE TO DRINK: go with its laid-back feel and slowcooked ‘cue.

Speakeasy 711 Saluda Ave., 255-0869 delaneysspeakeasy.com Now home to live jazz more nights of the week than not, Delaney’s classy, hip younger sibling also boasts a fine liquor selection, great beers and a topnotch staff, as well as fine cigars and comfy leather couches. Also hosts the Science Café series.

The Tavern on Greene 2002C Greene St., 252-7265 Perhaps unfairly labeled as a hippie bar — though it is especially welcome to Dead, Spread and Phish heads — the Tavern on Greene is a late night hangout for local musicians and party people alike. An underrated and often overlooked Five Points institution.

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

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.

Callaway’s Bar & Grill 2410 Augusta Rd., 926-1199 Pool tables, big-screen TVs and food: What more do you want from a sports bar?

Conundrum Music Hall

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 orange-blooded Clemson fan.

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.

Utopia

Deeanne’s Sports Bar

3830A Rosewood Dr., 733-2222 Cozy is the name of the game here — this Rosewood neighborhood bar offers an off-the-beaten-path haven for eating, drinking, catching up with friends and taking in some tunes from its frequent guest singer-songwriters.

New Brookland Tavern

Village Idiot 2009 Devine St., 252-8646 villageidiotpizza.com Columbia’s quintessential collegetown 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.

The Southern Belly 1332 Rosewood Dr., 799-5212 southernbellybbq.com Still-pretty-new Rosewood hangout offers live music and a stocked bar to

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1306 Charleston Hwy., 739-2303 A private sports bar in West Columbia.

122 State St., 791-4413 newbrooklandtavern.com New Brookland Tavern is best known for being Columbia’s go-to spot for live local, regional and national live music, 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.

Platinum West 1995 Old Dunbar Rd., theplatinumplus.com Exactly like Platinum Plus, but in West Columbia.

NIGHTLIFE Rooster’s Den 1215 Augusta Rd., 794-8200 A members-only bar in Triangle City.

The Skyline Club 100 Lee St., 822-8608 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-in-thewall not without its charms.

Comedy House 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.

Hooters 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 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. Host local art and local acoustic musicians, too. Plus: Pinball!

2711 Middleburg Dr., 799-2120 One of this town’s hidden gems, the 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 incredible comfort food.

Off the Rail 10327 Two Notch Rd., 708-4817 Nightly shot specials.

The Pizza Joint 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.

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PLAY&STAY Polliwog’s 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 Lane, 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’Neill Ct., 736-7474 Love karaoke? You’ll love Tsubaki, where the karaoke is as authentically Japanese as next-door Inakaya’s sushi.

The Venue 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.

Wild Wing Café 480 Town Center Place, Suite 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.

WHERE TO DRINK:

Harbison/Irmo Lake Murray Lexington St. Andrews Baja Broiler 1345 Old Chapin Rd., 356-0040 bajabroiler.net Freshly made Southwestern food and wings, weekly karaoke and occasional live music on the weekends make this a Lexington County hotspot.

Bentley’s Beach House 1605 N. Lake Dr., 808-7263 A popular stop for Lexington locals located near the Lake Murray Dam. Family-friendly; cheap eats, cheaper drinks.

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.

Buckets II 114 Glassmaster Rd., 520-8375 Hot grill, cold brews. Need we say more?

Exclusive Reggae Bar & Grill

Platinum Plus

1004 Zimalcrest Dr., 798-2119 exclusivereggaegrill.com If I and I been away from the island too long, this bar provides a taste of Jamaica, mon.

362 Jacob Rd., 731-0555 Good (or bad): The girls at Platinum Plus take their clothes off. Better (or worse): Platinum Plus serves booze.

Finz Seafood House 211 Chapin Rd., 941-7148 Nothing fishy about this cozy Chapin watering hole, which often books singer-songwriters and small cover bands.

Goodfellas Grill & Bar 7608 U.S. 378., 951-4663 As far back as I can remember, I always wanted to hang out at a laid-back bar in Lexington.

Hemingway’s 7467 St. Andrews Rd., 749-6020 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 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.

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.

Carolina Wings & Rib House

Liberty on the Lake

105 Northpoint Dr., 356-6244 carolinawings.com What can we say about this Columbia institution? There’s one in almost every neighborhood, they carry a good selection of bottled beers, and the assortment of buffalo wing flavors is enticing, too.

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!

Copper River Grill

Main Street Café

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. Extensive menu along with beer, wine and specialty cocktails like the Copper River Caramel Apple Martini and the Killer Whale Chocolate Martini.

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.

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NIGHTLIFE

131 E. Main St., 808-5886 mainstreetcafelexington.com 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.

Rusty Anchor 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.

Schooners 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.

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 button-down crowd.

Outt Saloon 1573 S. Lake Dr., 359-0458 Private sports bar in Red Bank. Hosts live music.

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PLAY&

WHERE TO STAY:

STAY ACCOMMODATIONS Sheraton Columbia | file photo

Downtown USC South Main St. The 1425 Inn 1425 Richland St., 252-7225 the1425inn.com 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 Just off I-126; extended-stay friendly.

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 clariontownhouse.com On the Five Points end of Gervais Street, the 160-room Clarion is still only three blocks from the State House, a half-mile 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 bomb-ass 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 countryhearth.com Good luck getting a room in October: This 45-room hotel is one block from the State Fairgrounds and a quartermile from Williams-Brice Stadium.

Equidistant from both Five Points and The Vista, though you’ll probably need to cab it to both. Amenities: Smokefree rooms; free Wi-Fi; on-site parking; complimentary breakfast.

Courtyard Columbia Downtown at USC 630 Assembly St., 799-7800 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 high-class Vista and the fun-loving Five Points.

It’s also close to Williams-Brice Stadium and several arts venues (Colonial Life Arena, Koger Center, Columbia Museum of Art), fine restaurants (California Dreaming, Moe’s) and more. Should you feel like throwing your own party, the hotel’s only a block away from Green’s. Amenities: Smoke-free rooms; room service; free Wi-Fi; mini-fridge; fitness center; outdoor swimming pool; restaurant; on-site parking; free airport shuttle.

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Embassy Suites Columbia Greystone 200 Stoneridge Dr., 252-8700 columbiagreystone.embassysuites.com 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.

Extended Stay America Columbia West 450 Gracern Rd., 251-7878 extendedstayhotels.com Just outside downtown Columbia, off I-126. Ideal for extended stays. Amenities: Fully equipped kitchens; business center; fitness room; pets allowed.

Homewood Suites by Hilton 250 Greystone Blvd., 239-4663 Just outside downtown Columbia, 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 facilities; parking garage; smoke-free rooms; on-site dry cleaning services; library.

Marriott Columbia 1200 Hampton St., 771-7000 marriottcolumbia.com.

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.

Dig those delicious buffets, too! Also 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.

Sheraton Columbia 1400 Main St., 988-1400 sheratoncolumbiadowntown.com Housed in the historic Palmetto Building, built in 1913, the 135-room 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 lounge area; plus, there’s a bar on the roof, a bar in the old bank vault, and a restaurant in the basement with a pretty good bar. 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 every-

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WHERE TO STAY:

ACCOMMODATIONS

thing else. Amenities: Airport shuttle; lounge; exercise room; business center; valet parking; public Wi-Fi (not free).

northwest and Fort Jackson to the southeast.

Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia-Northeast

Studio Plus

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.

180 Stoneridge Dr., 771-0303 Just outside downtown Columbia, off I-126. Specially designed for extended stays. Amenities: Fully equipped kitchens; pets allowed.

The Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West Hampton Inn Historic District 822 Gervais St., 231-2000 hamptoninncolumbia.com The 122-room Hampton is located right in the heart of the Vista, giving walking access to rock clubs (Art Bar), dance clubs (Jet Nightlife), 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; nonsmoking floors.

Hilton Columbia Center 924 Senate St., 744-7800 hiltoncolumbia.com Columbia’s newest high-rise hotel, 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 hicolumbiasc.com 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-spanking-new, 132room SpringHill Suites is within walking distance of everything the Vista has to offer, from fine dining (Gervais and Vine, Motor Supply) to chic nightlife (Art Bar, Blue, Rust) to fine arts

Hilton Columbia Center | file photo (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 newly built, 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.

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 fantastic record store (Papa Jazz), an amazing burrito establishment (El Burrito) and a host of fine restaurants (Garibaldi’s, Saluda’s), cool clothiers (Sid and Nancy, Salty’s) and other hipster hangouts (Goatfeathers, The Gourmet Shop). Don’t bet on booking a post-St. Pat’s Festival room, though. Double-plus points for the complimentary wine served in the lobby every evening. Amenities: Free continental breakfast; free guest park-

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ing; 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 www.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.

Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia North 8105 Two Notch Rd., 736-5600 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 Suite Blythewood 120 Creech Rd., I-77 Exit 27, 803-333-0315 Located off I-77, Blythewood Road Exit 27, the Holiday Inn Express is roughly equidistant from Lake Murray to the

Harbison/Irmo Lake Murray Lexington St. Andrews Comfort Suites Lexington 325 W. Main St. (Lexington), 996-2000 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; cordless speakerphone with voice mail; a hair dryer; microwave and more.

Hilton Garden Inn 434 Columbiana Dr. (Harbison), 407-6640 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), 3914000 Columbia’s first eco-friendly nonsmoking 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 high-energy sports bar on the ground level.

Hyatt Place Columbia Harbison 1130 Kinley Rd. (Harbison), 407-1560 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 Court (Lexington), 957-5000, lexingtonwingate.com Situated at the intersection of I-20 and Highway 378. Offers free Continental breakfast; high-speed, wireless Internet access; high-quality mattresses and pillows; in-room safe; 24-hour business center; fitness room; and whirlpool.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS APRIL

seminars, workshops, youth activities, a health fair and local and national entertainment.

The Addams Family Koger Center for the Arts broadwayincolumbia.com April 28-29 Yeah, yeah, we have no doubt the singing and dancing in this adaptation will be good. But it sucks that Thing only appears to open up the curtain.

Camden Cup

Artista Vista

Lexington Wine Walk

The Vista artistavista.com April 24-27. Columbia’s oldest and most celebrated gallery crawl.

Columbia International Festival South Carolina State Fairgrounds cifonline.org April 5-6. Long-running annual international food and culture festival offers bazaars, ethnic foods, national exhibitions, a fashion show, cultural performances and culminates in a parade of nations.

This year, the festival gives a special emphasis to the countries of South Asia.

Eau Claire Fest Eau Claire Town Center facebook.com/EauClaireFest April 26. Formerly the Ribs and Renaissance Festival, the Eau Claire festival celebrates the North Columbia neighborhood with a marketplace, music and food.

Indie Grits Festival

Bruno Mars performs at the Colonial Life Arena on June 13.

O

K, you’re in town, now where’s the action?

For comprehensive events coverage on a weekto-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.

MUSEUM EXHIBITIONS

when geisha become flappers and ancient origami cranes transformed into sleek, gold statuettes.

Animal Instinct: Paintings by Shelley Reed

South Carolina State Museum scmuseum.org Through June 29. Illustrations from artist Clay Rice’s most recent children’s book, Mama Let’s Make a Moon.

Columbia Museum of Art columbiamuseum.org May 16-Sep. 14. A collection of approximately 40 large-scale black and white paintings of animals posing as people, including a wall-length mural.

Japan and the Jazz Age Columbia Museum of Art columbiamuseum.org Through April 20. The story – through art – of the innovation that came from a clash between the old and the new,

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Mama Let’s Make a Moon

Meiji Magic Columbia Museum of Art columbiamuseum.org Through May 18. Imperial porcelain from Japan from the collection of Alex and Barbara Kasten.

indiegrits.com April 11-20. So much more than just a film festival. This Nickelodeon Theatrecurated and -directed event, which screens gritty films from Southern filmmakers at venues throughout downtown, also packs surprisingly exciting concerts, a Slow Food Columbia eat-and-greet, a hand puppet slam and a hip-hop family day.

Olympia Fest olympiafest.com April 26. History, gravel quarry tours, family activities, arts, crafts, live music, more.

River Rocks Festival Riverfront Park riverrocksfestival.com April 12. Yes, River Rocks is a music festival, boasting easygoing rock bands, but it also supports the Congaree Riverkeeper’s efforts to keep our rivers clean.

Runaway Runway Township Auditorium columbiadesignleague.org/ runaway-runway Apr. 5. One man’s trash is another’s haute couture, as this recycled fashion show proves.

Sparkleberry Country Fair Clemson Extension, Northeast Columbia sparkleberryfair.com April 25-26. Like the South Carolina State Fair, except way smaller: Amusement rides, food, crafts, vendors, etc. Plus, in true country style, lots of tractors.

Tartan Day South Historic Columbia Speedway tartandaysouth.com April 3-6. A celebration of all things Celtic.

MAY Black Expo

Camden Polo Field cityofcamden.org May 5. For real, Camden is home to the second oldest polo field in the nation.

Go see some dudes on horses hit a hard little ball. lexingtonwinewalk.com May 10. Held on the 100 block of East Main Street in Lexington, the Lexington Wine Walk offers wine tastings, hors d’ouevres and live music. Fundraiser for the Lexington Beautification Foundation.

Rosewood Crawfish Festival Rosewood Drive rosewoodcrawfishfest.com May 3. Come hungry. The annual Crawfish Festival cooks up more than 7,000 pounds of Louisiana crawfish, taking over Rosewood Drive for a whole day. Stuff yourself with Cajun and Creole cuisine in addition to samples from Rosewood restaurants. It’s a feast for the ears as well, with four stages dominated by ‘90s alt-rockers and up-and-coming locals.

South Carolina Book Festival Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center scbookfestival.org May 16-18. South Carolina’s premier literary festival. Workshops, readings and literary discussions.

JUNE Bruno Mars Colonial Life Arena coloniallifearena.com June 13. Love him or hate him, Bruno Mars has ridden Prince-isms and Michael Jackson-isms — not to mention a great deal of talent — to the top of the pop star game. Big get for Columbia.

Columbia Fashion Week columbiafashionweek.com June 18-21. Who says Columbia doesn’t have style? Go get dazzled at a few displays on the runway and attend special events like the annual Beautiful People Party.

Conductors Institute Koger Center conductorsinstitute.com June 8-21. Aspiring conductors come to town from all over the country and beyond to hone their craft. Conducting sessions are open to the public.

Lake Murray Independence Day Celebration Lake Murray lakemurraycountry.com June 28. Boat parade and fireworks extravaganza.

South Carolina Black Pride southcarolinablackpride.com 25-29 Like the annual Pride festival, but black-oriented.

Southeastern Piano Festival sepf.music.sc.edu June 15-24. Standard lore has it that Columbia is dead in the summer. Tell that to the audiences at the Southeastern Piano Festival, who flock in to see some of the nation’s most talented up-andcoming pianists.

Colonial Life Arena coloniallifearena.com May 15-17. Features more than 200 exhibitors and vendors, as well as

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FRESH

Tastes Better!

Chicken Deluxe Filet

WITH LETTUCE, TOMATO, MAYONNAISE

Chicken Filet WITH PICKLES KLES

Chicken Club Filet WITH BACON, CHEESE, LETTUCE, TOMATO, MAYONNAISE

• Never frozen or microwaved • Pressure cooked to pure perfection

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• Hand battered with 13 secret herbs and spices

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