Bites & Sights Spring 2011 by Free Times

Columbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide to Dining, Attractions & Nightlife

bites&

sights spring 2011

Inside:

Play&Stay

9 Downtown USC

South Main Street

21 Vista Riverfront

State Street Vista West

What to Do and Where to Stay in Columbia

Five Points Northeast Lake Murray 33 43 47 Devine Street Forest Acres Lexington Rosewood Olympia

Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden

Harbison Irmo

S:7.5”

sunday come to ruth’s chris every

S:9.25”

best and enjoy the

steak frites.

Filet & Frites Every Sunday night enjoy a Petite Filet and shoestring fries.

$29.95

924 Senate Street | 803.212.6666 | ruthschris.com At the Hilton Columbia Center in the Historic Vista District

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803-931-0700

SakiTumiGrill.com

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bites&sights free-times.com | 1534 Main St. Columbia, SC 29201 | (803) 765.0707 Published by Portico Publications, LTD.

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Restaurants by Cuisine

5 American/Southern 4 Asian 1 14 Bagel/Bakery 4 Bar/Pub Food 1 6 BBQ/Wings/Ribs 1 8 Bistro/New American 1 26 Brew Pub 6 Café/Coffee House 2 7 Cajun 2 7 Caribbean/Latin 2 7 Chinese 2 8 Deli 2 0 Dessert 3 6 German 3

Attractions & Nightlife

6 Greek/Mediterranean 3 7 Indian 3 7 Italian 3 7 Japanese/Korean 3 8 Mexican 3 0 Middle Eastern 4 0 Pizza 4 1 Seafood 4 41 Steakhouse 2 Sushi 4 2 Tapas 4 2 Thai 4 42 Vegetarian 2 Vietnamese 4

ON THE COVER: Hunter-Gatherer. Photo by Jonathan Sharpe.

9 Downtown USC

South Main Street

21 Vista Riverfront

State Street Vista West

Five Points 33 Devine Street Rosewood Olympia

Northeast 43 Forest Acres

Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden

Lake Murray 47 Lexington Harbison Irmo

From sizzling steaks

to fresh fish paired with the best local ingredients. 803.791.3443 100 State St.| West Columbia, SC | terrasc.com

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American/ Southern 300 Senate Vista: 300 Senate St., 748-8909 Daily lunch menu features upscale traditional Southern favorites with new twists. Private dining room available for banquets and special events. $.

Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar Harbison/Irmo: 5185 Fernandina Rd., 749-4767 Lexington: 605 Columbia Avenue, 356-6889 Northeast: 245 O’Neil Court, 736-6104 Northeast: 10102 Two Notch Rd., 419-2235 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 2344 Broad River Road @ I-20, 731-2853 Southeast: 4505 Devine St., 787-4687 West Columbia: 2815 Augusta Rd., 926-1759 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

Sure, chain restaurants aren’t exactly synonymous with trend-setting culinary arts, but therein lies their appeal. At Applebee’s, you won’t be the guinea pig of some budding French chef; instead, you’ll get time-tested American fare with a proven track record. From steak, chicken and seafood to absurdly decadent desserts, there’s a reason why there are 1,600 Applebee’s in this country.

The Backyard Cafe West Columbia-Cayce: 940 Old Barnwell Rd., 951-0405

blue. Vista: 721-A Lady St., 251-4447 Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m. (Kitchen closes at midnight.)

A tapas bar and cocktail lounge that features the city’s only ice bar to go with breads and spreads and tapas items including Wasabi Encrusted Ahi Tuna and a Filet with Red Wine Reduction. Also serves salads, chips and dips and desserts. Enjoy sitting outside under the patio listening to the waterfall and take advantage of a happy hour that includes half-off all tapas and drinks from 5 to 7 p.m. ¢-$.

Cafe Millwood Southeast: 2911 Millwood Ave. , 771-0441 Tues-Fri 7-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

At lunch, this neighborhood restaurant offers up meat-and-three specials, plus assorted sandwiches, burgers and salads. At breakfast, the café serves the classics: omelets, eggs, bacon, sausage, French toast and more.

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

Located in a historic railroad station, California Dreaming opened in 1984 and ever since has been a popular destination. Serves large salads, burgers, sandwiches, seafood, pasta, chicken and steaks. Truly outstanding mixed drinks, and the honey croissants always are a hit. centraarchy.com. ¢-$.

Carolina Ale House Vista: 708 Lady St., 227-7151

Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

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

Harbison/Irmo: 227 Columbiana Dr., 407-6996 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

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Houston’s Lowcountry Grill File photo

on tap and 40 or so bottle selections. Downtown Vista location features Columbia’s most popular rooftop bar and 99-cent kids meals. carolinaalehouse.com. ¢-$.

Carolina’s Downtown: 1615 Gervais St., 771-8711 Breakfast: Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30 a.m., Sat-Sun 6:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Lunch: Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Dinner: Mon-Sat 5-10 p.m. Sunday Brunch: 11-2 p.m. Late night buffet: 10 p.m.-2 a.m.

Located at the Clarion Hotel, Carolina’s offers

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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, along with a limited menu featuring Reubens, burgers, chicken salads and club sandwiches. Extremely popular for its Mothers and Fathers Day buffets. clarionhotelcolumbia.com/dining. ¢-$$.

Cayce Cafe West Columbia-Cayce: 901 Holland Ave. , 794-6543 Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat 7 a.m.-noon.

Open early for classic Southern two-egg breakfasts with everything from liver pudding to smoked sausage on the side; big omelets; breakfast sandwiches; Adluh stone-ground grits; and biscuits and gravy made using the original Parris Island Marine Corps recipe. Lunch, too: Check out the daily meat-andthree board for specials. ¢

City Center Grill Downtown: 1200 Hampton St., 771-7000 Mon-Fri a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 6:30 a.m.noon, 5-10 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 West Columbia/Cayce: 1118 B Avenue , 791-0750 Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-2:15 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-noon

Compton’s Kitchen is Southern cooking at its finest. Serving breakfast and lunch, you’ll leave with a bellyful of home cooking. With most everything made from scratch, you can’t go wrong with Compton’s meat and two veggies with iced tea and bread. Regular lunch entrées include fried chicken, stewed beef and rice, salmon patties, liv-

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ers and gizzards, country-style steak and the expected sides: fried okra, buttered spinach, squash casserole, June peas, etc. comptonskitchen.com ¢.

Dam Bar & Grill Lexington: 1605 North Lake Drive , 808-0882 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sun noon-2 a.m.

From the Dam Burger to the Dam wings, there’s about something for everyone at Lexington’s Dam Bar & Grill. Great starters and sandwiches, plus nice finds such as catfish nugget baskets, quesadillas, bucket specials and even a lite menu. Also has pool tables. dambarandgrill.net. $-$$

Drake’s Duck In Downtown: 1544 Main St., 799-9290 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

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

Edna’s Drive In 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. ¢.

End Zone Grill Shandon/Rosewood: 1332 Rosewood Dr., 929-7677 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Located in the old Jerry Kelly’s location, End Zone Grill keeps up the former’s tradition of great burgers, salads, soups and sandwiches along with gator bites and daily meat-andthree specials. ¢.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries Forest Acres: 4751 Forest Dr., 787-3178 Harbison/Irmo: 285 Columbiana Dr., Suite N, 407-6443 Northeast: 460-2 Town Center Place, 7886200 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 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. ¢.

Fuddruckers St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1801 Bush River Rd., 798-3775 Sun-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-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. ¢.

price key ¢ = average entrée less than $10 $ = average entrée $10-15 $$ = average entrée more than $15

Great American Grill @ Hilton Garden Inn Harbison/Irmo: 434 Columbiana Dr., 407-6640 Mon-Fri 6-10 a.m., 5:30-9 p.m.; Sat-Sun 7 a.m.-11 a.m., 5-10 p.m.

Upscale apps, 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 beef, Harper’s also offers fresh seafood, creative salads and more. Get there early for lunch or you’ll have a wait. Sunday brunch runs 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and features signature omelets and more. harpersrestaurants.com. $.

Houston’s Low Country Grill North Columbia: 3800 N. Main St., 255-0100 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Longtime caterer Frank Houston’s North Main Plaza restaurant serves up Southern faves from collard greens to crab cakes. ¢-$.

Jillian’s The Vista: 800 Gervais St., 779-7789 Mon-Wed 11:30 a.m.-midnight; Thu 11:30 a.m.-1 a.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 a.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-midnight

Jillian’s is designed for eating, drinking and mingling, with plenty of visual stimulus from 15 TV monitors and 13 big-screen TVs. The menu includes appetizers, burgers, sandwiches, pizza, soups, salads and desserts. jilliansonline.com. ¢-$.

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Kingsman Restaurant West Columbia/Cayce: 936 Axtell Dr. (Parkland Shopping Center) , 796-8622 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-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 their grilled rib eye, which is one of the city’s best, they also brag on Taz’s Taters (grilled potatoes with onions and ham). Serves liquor. Busy lunch, lots of atmosphere. ¢.

Kovachi’s Lexington: 309 S. Lake Drive , 356-1366 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 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. kovachisoflexington.com. ¢.

Liberty Taproom & Grill 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.-9 p.m. Bar open until 2 a.m. all week.

Liberty begins with sturdy American fare (mmm ... burgers) but doesn’t end there. 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 their fresh seafood, pizzas, chicken and pastas. Great location, covered outdoor seating area in back, great beer selection. tbonz.com. $.

Lizard’s Thicket Blythewood: 711-1 University Village Dr., 451-8400 Downtown: 818 Elmwood Ave., 779-6407 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.

Meat loaf, fried chicken, mac ‘n’ 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. ¢.

LuLu’s Hot Dogs Five Points: 2303 Devine St., 834-5144 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Simple and effective: grilled hot dogs with mustard, chili, slaw and onions; chips; beer; and soft drinks. What else could you possibly need, anyway?

Mac’s on Main Downtown: 1710 Main St., 929-0037 Mon-Tue 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-8 p.m.; Wed-Thu 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-midnight; Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5 p.m.-1 a.m.; Sat 5 p.m.-midnight

Yam fries! Shrimp and grits! Barbecue! Premier jazz and blues club by night; popular allyou-can-eat Southern lunch buffet on weekdays. Rotating buffet items include ribs, fried catfish, Moncks Corner Meatloaf and Cajun Pork Chops. Signature dishes: Viola’s Macaroni and Cheese and Mac’s Peach Cobbler.

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macsjazznblues.com. ¢-$.

Main Street, Rooftop Bar and The Vault at the Sheraton Downtown: 1400 Main St., 988-1400 Main St: Mon-Sun 6:30 a.m.-until. Rooftop: Mon-Sun 4 p.m.-until. Vault: Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-until (kitchen closes at midnight).

Located downstairs in the Sheraton hotel (you enter at street level), Main Street offers up eclectic fare ranging from duck ravioli to burgers, soups and salads, barbecue chicken, quesadillas and even a Bac ‘N’ Blue Shrimp and Grits, which is the classic shrimp and grits combo with bacon and blue cheese added. The Vault serves up martinis in the former bank vault, and the rooftop bar offers one of Columbia’s best views. $.

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

One of the more out-of-the-way restaurants in town, 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 food. Downhome lunch and dinner specials, and huge portions.¢

Original Pancake House Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr. (Trenholm Plaza), 782-6742 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat-Sun 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Pancakes as you like them. Offering a full menu including cinnamon-glazed apple pancakes, freshly squeezed juices, homemade fruit syrups and more. And if you’re not in the mood for pancakes, try the new 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. ¢.

Le Peep

@116 State Street File photo

Northeast: 110-7 Forum Dr., 736-8377 6:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Locally franchised breakfast and brunch chain offers up sweet and savory crepes, pancakes, waffles, omelets, sandwiches, smoothies and a slew of variations on eggs Benedict. Mmm … eggs Benedict.

Pawley’s Front Porch Five Points: 827 Harden St., 771-8001 Sun-Mon 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Tue-Wed 11:30 a.m.10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Bar open later Fri-Sat.

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

Rockaway Athletic Club Shandon: 2719 Rosewood Dr., 256-1075 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-midnight (bar open later)

This local institution was a stop for President Bush during a visit to Columbia, and for good reason. For years, locals have been flocking to Rockaway for its unbeatable pimento cheeseburgers and excellent seafood. Until God makes a cheeseburger, you won’t find its equal in this town. ¢.

Rush’s

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 7450 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-5201 Harbison/Irmo: 283 Harbison Blvd., 781-1277 Lexington: 201 Columbia Ave., 359-8858 Northeast: 10016 Two Notch Rd., 699-1376 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 (Decker Blvd. Location closes at 10 p.m.)

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. ¢.

Salty Nut Café Five Points: 2000-A Greene St., 256-4611 Kitchen: Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.midnight. Bar: Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-until. (Limited latenight menu after 10 p.m.)

Known for its huge half-pound burgers — topped with chili, Cajun spices, jalapeños or other toppings — this relaxed Five Points staple also offers wraps, salads and sandwiches. Draws a diverse crowd at lunch, while the nighttime vibe is more college hangout. The wraparound deck is packed in warm weather. saltynut.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. West Columbia/Cayce: 1344 Knox Abbott Dr., 794-7612 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. They also sell ice cream, though if you still have room after the main event, you’re doing something wrong. ¢.

The Southern Skillet West Columbia-Cayce: 1213 Sunset Blvd , 606-1083 Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

When the Sunset Grill changed ownership and later closed, Cayce favorite Southern Skillet moved from its State Street location to take over the Highway 378 space. Offers a lunch buffet and Southern favorite specials like pot roast, fried chicken, chicken & dumplings, fries pork chops and a slew of sides.

Sweet Tea Family Restaurant Harbison/Irmo: 502 Lexington Ave. , 345-3312 Tues-Thurs 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-until; Fri 7-10 a.m., 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-until; Sat 8-11 a.m. and 5 p.m.-until; Sun 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Classic Southern family restaurant with buffet and meat-and-three specials, in addition to pizzas, wings and burgers. Even has Southern faves like chicken-and-waffles. Lots of special nights where kids eat free, plus catering.

Tony’s Garners Ferry/Southeast: 3055 Bluff Rd., 776-3261 Mon-Fri 5:30 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat 7 a.m.-11 a.m.

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

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Downtown | USC South Main St.

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Downtown USC South Main St.

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ith The Vista and Five Points nearby, downtown is often overlooked as an entertainment district. But before you skip this part of town, you should take another look: In addition to all the history you can soak up at the State House, there’s a burgeoning nightlife, too. The White Mule brings in top-notch musical acts; The Whig is one of the hippest bars in town; the area’s monthly First Thursday art parties are energetic and eclectic; and, as always, the Columbia Museum of Art has a steady stream of exhibitions and events to help keep culture alive downtown both day and night. Plus, there’s jazz and blues at Mac’s on Main, the opening of Mast General Store in the spring and an impending move by the Nickelodeon Theatre. Bottom line: One small step at a time, things are happening downtown. Just south of the Capitol is a string of establishments catering largely to university students and faculty, as well as state employees. Whether it’s coffee, sandwiches, frozen yogurt or locally brewed beers at Hunter-Gatherer, this part of town gives students without cars little reason to lament their lot.

What to Do Attractions Busted Plug Plaza 1400 Block of Taylor St. Love it or hate it, this giant metallic fire hydrant by Blue Sky is indeed the face of public art in Columbia. Damn, it’s tempting to climb into this thing on a July afternoon.

Columbia Museum of Art

Main and Hampton streets, 799-2810 columbiamuseum.org If you’re in town on the first Friday of the month, head to the super-popular Arts & Draughts series, which features … well, art and beer. Permanent collection emphasizes European fine and decorative arts, while its traveling exhibitions bring an eclectic array of exhibitions, some of which feature contemporary works. Also presents concerts, lectures and multidisciplinary programming.

Congaree National Park

nps.gov/cosw, 776-4396 First, a disclaimer: Congaree National Park is not actually downtown; we’ve listed it here because there is no section called “20 miles out of town in Hopkins.” This 22,000acre park boasts the largest old-growth, floodplain forest on the continent. Yes, we said “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, 20 miles southeast of Columbia (S.C. 48 from Bluff Rd. or Exit 5 off I-77).

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Finlay Park midnet.sc.edu/parks/finlay.html 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. 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 and its rooms reflect the Federal period to the early postbellum years.

Koger Center

1051 Greene St., 777-7500 koger.sc.edu The Koger Center is operated by USC and has served as Columbia’s primary facility for the performing arts since 1989. Seats just over 2,000.

Mann-Simons Cottage

1403 Richland St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org One of only a few houses in South Carolina owned by free blacks in antebellum days

The Columbia Museum of Art hosts the photography exhibit Who Shot Rock ‘n’ Roll through May 22. File photo. and preserved as an 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.

McKissick Museum

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.

Nickelodeon Theatre

McMaster Gallery (USC)

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.

937 Main St., 254-3433 nickelodeon.org Specializing in foreign and independent films, the Nickelodeon has ongoing plans to move into the Fox Theatre on Main Street. Also presents the popular annual Indie Grits Film Festival.

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South Main Street

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Main Street’s Urban Tour. File photo. Ponder Art Gallery (Benedict College) 1600 Harden St., 758-4460 www.benedict.edu Features works by African-American artists.

Riverbanks Zoo & 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 hosts popular annual events such as Boo at the Zoo, Brew at the Zoo and Lights Before Christmas.

Robert Mills House and Park

1616 Blanding St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org The Robert Mills House is best known for its designer, who also designed the Washington Monument. Open for tours, it is one of only five National Historic Landmarks in the city.

S.C. State House

Main St. at Gervais St. 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.” Visit the “citizens’ interest” section of scstatehouse.net and scroll down for tour information.

Seibels House 1601 Richland St., 252-7742 historiccolumbia.org Built in the late 18th century, the Seibels House now serves as the Historic Columbia Foundation office and is a popular spot for weddings. Historic Columbia was chartered in 1961 to prevent the loss of the Robert Mills House and now is involved in many aspects of historic preservation in Columbia.

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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.

Town Theatre

1012 Sumter St., 799-2510 towntheatre.com The oldest continuously operating community theater building in the country.

Township Auditorium 1703 Taylor St. Ticket Info: 576-2350 Charge by phone: 783-2222 thetownship.org First opened in 1930, the 3,000-plus-seat Township Auditorium has hosted such artists as Elvis Presley, Duke Ellington, Pink Floyd and The Clash. Reopened in 2010 after a $12 million facelift.

Tunnelvision

Taylor and Marion streets Along with that huge fire hydrant, this 1975 realistic wall mural of a road running through a tunnel (also by Blue Sky) is an iconic piece of local public art.

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 historiccolumbia.org 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

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USC’s McKissick Museum displays the USC Chernobyl Research Initiative: 25 Years After the Disaster through May 7. Courtesy photo. left two years later following a dispute over mandatory chapel service between Wilson’s father and the Presbyterian Theological Seminary where he taught.

Workshop Theatre

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

Nightlife 803 Hookah Bar & Lounge 919C Sumter St., 343-3239 A tight, close-to-campus spot with a hookah bar, oxygen bar and spirits bar.

Hunter-Gatherer 900 Main St., 748-0540 More than the token local microbrew joint, H-G offers 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, and the occasional rock shows on Fridays.

Mac’s on Main

1710 Main St., 929-0037 Yes, this Main Street institution is known for its scrumptious buffet during the day, but at night, the only thing hotter than the waitresses is the live music, which caters to blues and jazz aficionados.

Sheraton Rooftop Lounge, Main Street & Vault Martini Bar

1400 Main St., 988-1400 Not for the acrophobic, the Sheraton’s hip Rooftop Lounge offers a classy clientele, fine libations and desserts. Also at the Sheraton: Main Street, located under the hotel, and the Vault Martini Bar. Nestled within the bank’s original safe, the Vault Martini Bar is a popular hotspot for those who insist upon their martinis shaken, not stirred, and with a twist of sophistication.

The Whig 1200 Main St., 931-8852 Inhabited by hipsters young and old, this dark, underground bohemia offers good, cheap beer and good, cheap liquor to go along with cheap eat. Has an awesome jukebox filled with classic punk, Motown, jazz and much more. Also offers occasional DJs and live bands.

The White Mule

1530 Main St., 661-8199 First and foremost a music venue — and the finest dedicated listening room in town — The White Mule has cozy quarters, a dark ambience and a bitchin’ patio. It also serves booze, from domestic beers to ultra-fine martinis.

Where to Stay Accommodations 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 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 quarter-mile from Williams-Brice Stadium. Equidistant from both Five Points and The Vista, though you’ll probably need to cab it to both. Amenities:

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• BREAD

SELECTION •

• BREAKFAST

ALL DAY •

•

LUNCH ALL DAY •

FOR ANYTIME •

CAROLINA CAFE CLASSICS

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South Main Street Smoke-free rooms; free Wi-Fi; on-site parking; complementary 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 highclass Vista and the fun-loving Five Points. It’s also close to Williams-Brice Stadium and several arts venues (the 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.

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.

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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 (it’s in the top five Columbia hotels on Yahoo! Travel). 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.

Rodeway Inn Governors House Hotel

1301 Main St., 779-7790 choicehotels.com. We doubt any governor will be staying in the 80-room Governors House, but it still offers plenty of creature comforts (cable TV, refrigerator, a pool) for a reasonable rate; it’s also just down the street from the Columbia Museum of Art, and über-hip speakeasy The Whig, and it’s within striking distance of the Vista. If the free breakfast isn’t to your liking, there’s an adjoining Chick-fil-A on the ground floor. Mmm … Chick-fil-A. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; free wi-fi; swimming pool; non-smoking rooms; smoke-free rooms.

Sheraton Columbia

1400 Main St., 988-1400 sheratoncolumbiadowntown.com Housed in the historic Palmetto Building, built in 1913, the 135-room Sheraton is

Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. Photo courtesy Riverbanks Zoo. 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 cattycorner from the Columbia Museum of Art and within striking distance of the Vista, Five Points, USC and just about everything else. Amenities: Airport shuttle; lounge; exercise room; business center; valet parking; public Wi-Fi (not free).

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bites&sights | freetimes

Mayflower

Heather’s Artisan Bakery

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1420-10 Colonial Life Blvd., 798-4888

West Columbia/Cayce: 1524 L Ave., 807-1428

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 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. heathersartisanbakery.com. ¢.

A self-described “Oriental grill,” Mayflower specializes in a variety of foods prepared with a Chinese flair. The seafood is its strength, but they also offer an ambitious menu including steak, pork chops and chicken. The most popular item is the Queenstown Chicken, deep-fried with a sweet-and-sour sauce. Now serving sushi as well. $.

Panaderia Odalys

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.

7 a.m.-10 p.m. daily

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

Northeast: 3250 Forest Dr. Ste. B, 743-9996

Rosewood: 406 Howard St., 733-2222 Lunch: Mon-Fri 12 p.m.-2:30 p.m.Dinner: Sun-Thu 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; fri-Sat 6 p.m.-10 p.m. (bar open later)

Eclectic neighborhood bar and eatery off Rosewood Drive. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating area, menu heavy on salads and sandwiches plus appetizing daily specials. Live music Wednesdays through Saturdays. utopiasc.com. ¢.

Vella’s Restaurant & Tavern West Columbia/Cayce: 829 Knox Abbott Dr., 796-4629 Mon-Thu and Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 912 Chapin Rd., 941-7113 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Family friendly neighborhood restaurant in the classic tradition — simple, great food and a cheerful staff that treats customers as, well, family. Menu focuses on steaks and ribs, wings, sandwiches and house specials. ¢-$.

Very’s

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: 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. yesterdayssc.com. ¢.

Asian Antai Asian Dining

Northeast: 6729 Two Notch Rd., 788-6254

Lexington: 5084 Sunset Blvd. (McCauley Square) , 356-0062

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

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

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

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. $.

Vista Bar and Grill Vista: 1301 Assembly St., 251-0255 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thu-Sat 5 p.m.-midnight.

Downtown lunch and dinner spot focusing on burgers, barbecue and chicken sandwiches, all-beef hot dogs, salads and wings. Also offers a bar and features live music, DJs and Latino dancing on occasion. myspace.com/ thevistagrill. ¢.

What-A-Burger West Columbia/Cayce: 804 Meeting St., 794-1929 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

Wild Hare Sports Café Lexington: 5474 Augusta Rd., 951-1916 Harbison/Irmo: 5122 Old Bush River Rd., 213-1000 The 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

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M Café Downtown: 1417 Sumter St., 779-5788 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.

This Asian grill is one of downtown’s hotspots, and for good reason. Choose from standard Chinese stir fry dishes, including vegetarian options, or reasonably priced grilled items like salmon or flank steak, which come with a healthful salad plus a choice of white rice, brown rice or steamed noodles. From the owners of Miyo’s. Also features a sushi bar. miyos.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- 11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 p.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 wellstocked bar. Yum! miyos.com. ¢-$.

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

Northeast: 715 Fashion Dr., Ste. 1, Village at Sandhills, 788-8878

Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m.

Utopia Food & Spirits

Forest Acres: 4711 Forest Dr., 790-0733

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.

Downtown: 922 S. Main St., 779-6496

File photo

Lillian’s Eatery & Bakery

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 of white cake with a chocolate butterberry cream in between and a fan of caramelized sugar on top. ¢-$$.

Miyo’s

Jasmine Café

Fri 10 a.m.-5 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

West Columbia-Cayce: 103 N. 12th St., 794-3323

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

Panera Bread Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6080 Garners Ferry Rd., 647-9722

Northeast: 481-11 Town Center Place, 462-9991

Mon-Sat 6 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

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.

Harbison/Irmo: 1007 Bower Pkwy., 407-5773

Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine. House specialities include Spicy Orange Peel Chicken, Seafood Double Pan and Spicy Thai Green Curry Chicken. Full sushi bar and gluten-free menu available on request. redbowltegacay.com. $.

Panera’s cornerstone is freshly made, all-natural artisan breads. Serves a variety of sandwiches and soups offerings in a comfortable, high-tech atmosphere. Panera is also committed to community service, donating bread to hunger relief agencies and offering products or gift certificates to charitable causes. panerabread.com. ¢.

Thai Wasabi Lexington: 5454 Sunset Blvd. Ste. E , 957-9849 Tue-Thurs 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and 4-10:30 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Asian fusion cuisine features sushi, hibachi, Chinese stir frys, Thai curries and noodles (including pad thai and basil duck) aand even Asian desserts like sweet sticky rice with mango, and red bean ice cream.

Bagel/Bakery Atlanta Bread Company Downtown: 1307 Main St. , 779-0101

Mon-Sat 6 am.-8 p.m., Sun 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

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. (Kitchen closes at 2:30 p.m.)

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

Bar/Pub Food

Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Bailey’s Sports Grill

West Columbia/Cayce: 108 Sunset Ct., 791-1150

Harbison/Irmo: 115 Afton Ct., 407-3004

Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.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. atlantabread.com. ¢.

Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery Forest Acres: 4699 Forest Dr , 738-8112 Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-4 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. brueggers.com. ¢.

Chocolate Nirvana Downtown: 1531 Richland St., 799-9982 Mon-Fri 9 a.m.-3 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. Orders only. chocolatenirvanabakery.com. ¢-$$.

Open every day of the year. Really. Bailey’s is an enormous sports bar and grill serving a wide variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts in generous portions. Features a fullservice bar and large selection of domestic, imported and premium draft beers. State-ofthe-art audio and video systems for viewing sporting events as well as tournament-quality billiards tables, shuffleboard, ping pong and darts.tentcorp.com. ¢.

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. Large selection of beers on tap. ¢.

Beef O’Brady’s Harbison/Irmo: 2742 N. Lake Dr., 781-5656 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 4 p.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 8 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

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

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. ¢.

Bey’s Sports Bar Five Points: 711 Harden St., 255-2996

a creative menu, with everything from barstool classics — mozzarella sticks and club sandwiches — to Latin American specialties —plaintain chips and skirt steaks. Happy hour buffet, too.

Cock N’ Bull

Mon-Sun 3 p.m.-until

Shandon: 326 S. Edisto , 251-4474

Nachos, pizza, wings, burgers and more. Pizza served late-night. ¢.

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m. (bar open later); Sunday Brunch: 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Bogarts Restaurant and Bar West Columbia/Cayce: 530 12th St., 791-4617 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 4-10 p.m.

Features wide variety of specialty sandwiches, big burgers, wings and entrées, including chicken and steak dishes, many named for Humphrey Bogart movies. Try the fried grouper finger basket. Also offers daily lunch and dinner specials. ¢.

British Bulldog Pub Harbison/Irmo: 1220 Bower Prkwy., 227-8918 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m., Sat-Sun 9 a.m.-2 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. $

The Caddy Shak Lexington: 381 Pilgrim Church Rd., 356-2239 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

It’s a golf course! It’s a restaurant! With pasta entrees, burgers, hot dogs and salads, plus seafood specials Thurs-Sat.

Caprioska Northeast: 7001 Parklane Rd., 699-8300 Mon-Wed 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Thurs-Sun noon-2 a.m.

Any sports bar named for the caprioska, a beloved Brazilian mixed drink, is going to have a good drinks selection. But it also has

free-times.com | Spring 2011

Now open in a new location at the corner of Rosewood and S. Edisto, 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-nchips, pot roast and more, plus the alwaysamazing shrimp burger.

who deliver the high-end pints and mammoth soft pretzels in knee socks and fig leaves. Seriously: the palette 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: 2107 Greene St., 256-1203 Bar: Mon-Fri 4:30 p.m.-until; Sat-Sun 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Kitchen: Sat-Wed 7 p.m.-3 a.m.; Thu-Fri 7 p.m.-4 a.m.

This bar, a longtime Columbia favorite, has upgraded its menu with deluxe salads, TexMex, wings, burgers, sandwiches (including a tasty Philly cheesesteak) and platters. Offers free delivery downtown and is open very, very late. grouptherapybar.com. ¢.

Corner Pocket

Hemingway’s

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 489 Piney Grove Rd., 731-0403

Harbison/Irmo: 7467 St. Andrews Rd., 749-6020

Mon-Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 7 p.m.-2 a.m.

Serves 25 different sandwiches, as well as buffalo wings. Casual atmosphere befriends the T-shirt & suits alike. Daily lunch specials. myspace.com/hemingways_sc. ¢.

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. myspace.com/cornerpocketsc. ¢-$.

Delaney’s Five Points: 741 Saluda Ave. , 779-2345 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Irish pub with 27 beers on tap and variety of food. Live acoustic and Celtic music Tuesday through Saturday and trivia on Sundays. delaneyspub.com. ¢.

Flying Saucer The Vista: 931 Senate St., 933-9997 Mon 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Tue-Wed 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noon-midnight

The Saucer, as this Vista oasis has come to be known by local beer geeks, operates according to the more-is-better principle — unless, of course, you’re talking about the waitresses,

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

Icy’s Sports Bistro Northeast: 10005 Two Notch Rd., 736-5775 Mon-Wed 2 p.m.-2 a.m.; Thu-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m. (Kitchen closes at midnight)

You’ll find familiar choices at this state-of-theart sports bar, including burgers and sandwiches, chicken fingers, wraps, appetizers, salads and wings. myspace.com/icys02. ¢.

Jake’s Kickstand Cafe Harbison-Irmo: 7811 Broad River Rd., 781-2590 Mon-Sat 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m. (bar open later)

A self-described “burger and chicken joint,” Jake’s serves up custom-built burgers with toppings like applewood bacon, fried green tomatoes, jalapenos and more, plus salads, starters and beer s on tap and in bottles. Kids’ menu, too.

Karl’s Korner Pool Room & Tavern West Columbia-Cayce: 1800 Memorial Dr , 791-1772 Mon-Fri noon-2 a.m.; Sat noon-midnight

As you can guess from the name, Karl’s Korner is all about the pool, with leagues and tournaments happening all the time. Of course, when you’re hungry after scratching the 8-ball, they can settle your stomach right down with your basic bar food specials. Burger, anyone? ¢. thekornerpoolroom.com.

Kelly’s 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. facebook.com/kellyspubcolumbiasc. ¢

Lucky’s Five Points: 2100 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. ¢.

One More Grill & Pub St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 3636 Bush River Rd., 772-7711 Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-11 p.m.

With a name like this, what more do you need? They serve everything you’d expect and a little more. ¢.

Pour House Five Points: 800 Harden St., 931-3033 Tue-Sat 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

A fun and relaxing place to hang out with

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Tap’s Pub Northeast: 104-B Columbia NE Dr., 699-4657 Wed-Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Mon-Sat 4 p.m.-until

This patriotically themed pub offers entrees like Italian chicken giambotta or Appian Way pork chops in addition to pasta dishes, sandwiches, salads, soups, wings and appetizers. ¢.

Thirsty Fellow Vista: 621 Gadsden St., 799-1311 Mon-Sat 11a.m.-2 a.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-2 a.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. Sunday brunch includes breakfast pizzas.

Tin Roof Vista: 1022 Senate St., 771-1558 Daily 11 a.m.-until

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 jalapeno poppers to satisfy the bar-food-craving masses. $

Tipsy Toad Tavern

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. Serves lunch weekdays. facebook.com/theloosecockaboose. ¢.

Rooster’s Wings ‘n Things

Triple Crown Bar & Grill West Columbia/Cayce: 103 N. 12th St., 926-0055

Tue-Sat 4 p.m.-until.

Tue-Sun 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Variety of great beers on tap, including classics such as Guinness Smithwick’s, Newcastle Brown and Harp, and traditional Irish pub food like Irish O’ Rings, Irish Pumpernick, McDag’s Irish Meatloaf and Corned Beef & Cabbage. Live music Wed-Fri. ¢. facebook.com/people/ Puddlin-Duck/1679155479

Wings come in orders of 10, 20, 30 or 50 in varieties like lemon pepper, Cajun hot and garlic pepper. Appetizers include fried corn and fried pickles, while the rest of the menu features sandwiches, burgers, salads and entrees like ribs or hamburger steak. roosterswings.com. ¢-$.

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. ¢.

Rookies Sports Bar & Grill

Rusty Anchor

Wet Willie’s

Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m. (Kitchen: 11 a.m.-midnight)

Formerly Icy’s Sports Bar & Grill, Rookies offers sandwich selections like the patty melt and BLT, or half-pound burgers with an assortment of toppings. Other items include salads, wraps and other low-carb/vegetarian choices, as well as buffalo wings, chicken fingers and plenty of appetizers. ¢.

Wed-Sun 5 p.m.-until. Quarterdeck: Summer only.

Lakeside destination features all-you-caneat seafood specials to go with generous chicken, steak, scallop, salmon and lobster offerings. Live music through the summer on one of the town’s best outdoor venues. rustyanchorrestaurant.com. $.

Rooster’s Den

State Street Pub

West Columbia/Cayce: 1215 Augusta Hwy. , 794-8200

West Columbia/Cayce: 136 State St., 796-2006 Kitchen: Mon-Sun 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

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

Plenty of munchies, including fried mushrooms, a variety of chicken strips, wings and sandwiches, as well as veggie burgers. statestreetpub.com. ¢.

Private sports bar with 10-foot projectionscreen TV, free pool, daily specials, monthly

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What do you get when you combine a great location on Main Street with good food, beer and wine and regular live music? Awesomeness, that’s what. Try the Quesadilla Florentine as an appetizer or the Mexicali sandwich. Also offer pizzas, soup and salads and, if our opinion counts for anything, they have the best pasta salad in town. thewhitemule.com. ¢.

BBQ/Wings/Ribs Gadsden: 2520 Congaree Rd. , 353-0488

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 7535 Garners Ferry Rd., 776-7132 Northeast: 1061 Sparkleberry Ln., 788-4295 Mon-Thu 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. ¢.

Bone-In Artisan Barbecue on Wheels Various locations and hours, 957-1818 Smoked meats on homemade focaccia; cilantro-lime coleslaw; grilled pimento cheese sandwicheson jalapeno cornbread — this is barbecue done fancy and right. For locations and hours, follow the truck on Twitter (twitter.com/artisanbbqtruck) or visit artisanbbqtruck.com.

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

Northeast: 224 O’Neill Ct., 736-7474

Northeast: 7167 Two Notch Rd., 419-1500

Mon-Sat 6-10 p.m.

Carolina Wings & Rib House

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

Harbison/Irmo: 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555

Downtown: 1530 D Main St., 661-8199

Hamburgers, steaks, wings, full bar. Karaoke on weekends. Daily specials and a friendly atmosphere. ¢.

Harbison/Irmo: 10708 Broad River Rd., 781-4606

Northeast: 108 Columbia Northeast Dr., 865-2859

The White Mule Music Pub & Eatery

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-2 a.m. (Kitchen 11 a.m.-10 p.m.)

Tsubaki

The Puddlin’ Duck

A nostalgic, throwback dance club to celebrate Woody Windham, a Columbia DJ since 1960; accordingly, the menu includes stuff like The Beach Billy Burger and Penny Loafer Quesadilla. Drink specials abound.

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

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-4 a.m.; Sat 3 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noonmidnight.

birthday parties and private parties. Friendly neighborhood bar. roostersden.org. ¢.

Tues-Sat 5 p.m.-until

Mon-Fri 4:30 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat 6 p.m.-2 a.m.

Downtown: 936 S. Stadium Rd., 251-3087

friends and catch the game on any number of wide-screen TVs. Drink specials, pub food and more. myspace.com/pourhousebar.

The Vista: 808 Lady St., 779-9663

Big-T Bar-B-Que

TLC Sports Bar and Grill

Terra

The Woody

Harbison/Irmo: 103 Beaufort St. (Chapin), 932-4470

The Tipsy Toad Tavern delivers on its effort to be a local pub in the most traditional sense while also acknowledging its proximity to Lake Murray with a seafood-heavy menu that far eclipses the entrees typical of what one normally associates with pub food. You won’t do better anywhere near this close to the lake for good food and beer. chapin-explorer.com/ ad-tipsy-toad-tavern.htm. ¢-$.

File photo

ers and a mean grilled cheese sandwich. Also home of the infamous Taco Tuesdays, when beef or bean tacos are $.50 apiece and the crowds are massive.

Vista: 800 Gervais St., 779-5650 Mon-Thu 4 p.m.-12 a.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun 12:30 p.m.-1 a.m.

Of course you know that Wet Willie’s is all about the daiquiris. But Wet Willie’s also is serious about the food. From oven-baked seafood to tasty appetizers, sandwiches and pizza, you can’t go wrong here. Also check out their rotating specials such as sausagestuffed mushrooms and a half-pound pulledpork sandwich. ¢.

The Whig Downtown: 1200 Main St., 931-8852 Mon-Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat-Sun 6-11 p.m. (Bar open later)

Hip underground bar across from the State House serves pizzas, sweet potato fries, burg-

Blythewood: 240 Blythewood Rd., 714-0181 Lexington: 105 Northpoint Dr., 356-6244 Northeast: 2000 Clemson Rd., 419-0022 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 7587 St. Andrews Rd., 781-0084 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. (bar open later); Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

The Vista: 600 Gervais St., 256-8844 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Bar open until midnight Thu-Sat.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2347-C Augusta Rd., 791-0260 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 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. carolinawings.com. ¢-$.

D’s on Beltline Forest Acres: 2005 Beltline Blvd., 787-2595 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Brunch: Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Classic American steaks, ribs, wings and seafood are sure to please those seeking comfort foods. Walls are covered in interesting American memorabilia. Large open bar, daily specials, occasional live acoustic music and

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

an extensive kids’ menu create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Serves 16 different wing sauces, as well as Cajun Creole pasta, Rocky Top Chicken, steamed seafood treats and certified Angus Sirloin. ¢.

Maurice’s Barbecue

D’s Wings

Lexington: 766 W. Main St., 359-8789

West Columbia/Cayce: 920 Axtell Dr. (Parkland Plaza) , 791-4486

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

Lexington: 1010 S. Lake Dr., 356-1909

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

Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 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. ¢.

Northeast: 252 O’Neil Ct., 865-0608

Doc’s Barbeque and Southern Buffet Garners Ferry/Southeast: 1601 Shop Rd., 799-1532 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thu-Sat 4:30-10 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. ¢.

Green’s BBQ North Columbia: 5310 Farrow Rd., 338-1746 Thu-Sat noon-9 p.m.

Rich barbecue, strong hash and salty-sweet chopped pork are among the items at Green’s, which features a four-tier deck and a soulful back-room lounge. Available for catering. ¢.

Hooters Harbison/Irmo: 5195 Fernandina Rd., 407-9464 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 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. hooters.com. ¢-$.

Hudson’s Smokehouse Harbison/Irmo: 301 Park Terrace Dr., 661-7535 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 am.-3 p.m.

Lexington: 4952 Sunset Blvd. , 356-1070 Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 am.-10 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

In a town full of barbecue joints, Hudson’s distinguishes itself with Cheerwine, succulent pork and a mean and lean tender brisket. Was spotlighted by Turner South as a “Blue Ribbon Barbecue Joint.” Offers mustard-based, ketchup-based and vinegarand-pepper options as well as featuring music from three to four nights a week. hudsonssmokehouse.com. ¢.

John D. Hite’s West Columbia/Cayce: 240 Dreher Rd., 794-4120 Fri 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

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

Little Pigs Harbison/Irmo: 11210 Broad River Rd., 781-6160 Thu 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Northeast: 4927 Alpine Rd., 788-8238 Wed 11 a.m.-2 p.m.; Thu 11 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

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Downtown: 800 Elmwood Ave. , 256-4377 Mon-Thu 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri -Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 1141 Lake Murray Blvd., 732-5555 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-9:00 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

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

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

West Columbia/Cayce: 1600 Charleston Hwy., 796-0220 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2450 Augusta Rd., 796-4777 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

Serves fresh pork, ribs, beef and chicken pitcooked over hickory coals and doused with Carolina Gold mustard-based sauce. mauricesbbq.com. ¢.

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

Fabulous all-you-can-eat buffet featuring pulled pork barbecue, hash, green beans, slaw and crispy fried chicken. A great downtown option if you’re craving Shealy’s but don’t want to drive so far. Be sure to arrive early or late to beat the rush. Discount available for USC students. palmettopig.com. ¢.

Publick House Shandon: 2307 Devine St., 256-2207 Mon-Sun 4 p.m.-until (kitchen until midnight Sun-Thu, 1 a.m. Fri-Sat)

This restaurant and bar is a Devine Street icon, and rightfully so. Offers billiards and wide range of beers on tap, as well as several 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. Irish music on Sundays a plus. myspace.com/publickhouse. ¢.

RB’s Bodacious Bistro Downtown: 1901 Main St., 251-0303 Mon-Fri 8-10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Surprisingly smoky, down-home pulled pork wonderfulness tucked away inside a straightlaced bank tower. The macaroni and cheese is splendid. Includes wraps, pimento cheese sandwiches, burgers and other lunch items. Serves real breakfast, too — eggs, biscuits, hash browns and more. ¢-$

Shealy’s Bar-B-Que House Leesville: 340 E. Columbia Ave. , 532-8135 Mon-Tue 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Carry Out 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Sat breakfast buffet 7-9:30 a.m.

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. ¢.

Southern Pig BBQ Blythewood: 135-A Blythewood Rd., 786-4301 Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat breakfast from 6-10 a.m.

Southern Pig, in the IGA shopping center, offers decent pulled pork BBQ and sides served buffet style. Low prices and lots of food make it a good family dining option. blythewoodnet.net/ad_southern_pig_bbq.htm. ¢.

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State Street Wing Shack West Columbia: 114 State St., 794-9577 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-midnight; Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sat noon-2 a.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Nestled in the hip State Street strip across the river from the Vista, The Shack has been through more than a few incarnations lately (Good Times, Ambrosia) but has settled on a menu of bar classics like wings, chicken tenders, sandwiches and salads, along with appetizers like jalapeno poppers, fried pickles and potato skins. A bunch of TVs, beer and wine round out the experience. Check out the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, too.

True BBQ West Columbia-Cayce: 1237 D Ave., 791-9950 Thurs-Sat 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Like any good South Carolina barbecue joint, True BBQ is open just three days a week. 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.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Several flavors of wings, including dryseasoned flavors, along with salads, sandwiches and appetizers in a family atmosphere. Lounge area for 21 and older. wgschickenwings.com. ¢.

Wild Wing Café Harbison/Irmo: 100150 Bower Pkwy., 749-9464 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight, Thu-Sun 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

Northeast: 480 Town Center Place, 865-3365 The Vista: 729 Lady St., 252-9464 Mon-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 Jalapeno 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. wildwingcafe.com. ¢.

Wing Zone Downtown: 132 Assembly St., 933-9464 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sun noon-1 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 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 125-C Outlet Pointe Blvd. , 750-1600 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-11:30 p.m. (Kitchen until 10:30 p.m.); Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m. (Kitchen until 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. scwingsandale.com. ¢.

Back Porch on Gervais

Copper River Grill

Downtown: 1616 Gervais St., 834-6394

Harbison/Irmo: 1230 Bower Prkwy., 749-4647

Mon-Sun 4:30 p.m.-2 a.m.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. (bar open until 2 a.m.)

A bistro with a covered outdoor eating area, Back Porch offers elegant lunch dishes like the Croque Monsieur, which tops ham and smoked turkey breast with melted cheddar and mozzarella on a toasted baguette with roasted garlic aioli. In the evening, the menu ups the ante with selections like cornish game hen, breast of duckling and seafood risotto, which combines shrimp and scallops in a lobster broth with tomato, toasted pine nuts and gorgonzola. $.

The Bistro

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

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

Lexington’s stab at the gourmet pizza market offers a range of pasta dishes and nightly chalkboard specials, though the thin crust pies that emerge from the brick oven — topped every which way — are what keep this place hopping, especially on weekends. The pan-seared filet mignon is finished with a port wine reduction and oven baked for a unique taste. $.

Mon 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tues-Thurs 5 p.m.-10 p.m., FriSat 5 p.m.-11 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 116 State St., 791-5663 Tue-Thurs 4 p.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 4 p.m.-midnight; Sat 10 a.m.-midnight; Sun 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Combine a coffee shop atmosphere with great wine and food, and you have @116. Fresh-baked pastries and homemade soups accompany coffee-spiced steak, pizzas and empanadas. A Sunday brunch features omelets, sweet potato pancakes and more. Also has Spanish wines, great sangria, martinis and a White Russian drinks menu. ¢-$.

Columbia: 630 Assembly Street , 799-7800

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-until; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Five Points: 2001D Greene Street , 343-3303

@116 Espresso & Wine Bar

Courtyard Cafe by Marriott at USC

Lexington: 109 J Old Chapin Rd., 356-9915

Cellar on Greene

Bistro/ New American

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 enough, the 32-oz. Big Sky Porterhouse. More beer specials than anyone in town mean Copper River always has a lively evening crowd almost any day of the week. copperrivergrill.com. $.

Part wine shop, part tapas bar, the Cellar on Greene is the place to go for wines by the halfand 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 truffleparmesan raw fries are exceptional.

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.

Goatfeathers Five Points: 2017 Devine St., 256-3325 Kitchen: Mon-Sun 5:30-10 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 meet-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. myspace.com/goatfeathers. $.

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, hand-cut 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. ¢-$$.

DANCE LIVE BANDS KARAOKE IMPROV POETRY 803.929.0198 » 1211 PARK ST ARTBARSC.COM 18 freetimes | bites&sights

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3/16/11 7:18 PM

Hennessy’s

Mo Mo’s Bistro

Downtown: 1649 Main St., 799-8280

Shandon/Rosewood: 2930 Devine St., 252-2700

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

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

Offering a comfortable and quiet atmosphere, Hennessy’s has served the Columbia area for more than 20 years. The chefs accent their dishes with Lowcountry pizzazz. Specialties include steak and lobster, rack of lamb and fresh seafood dishes. Wide array of desserts and full liquor and wine list. No children under 6 after 6 p.m. hennessyssc.com. $$.

Mo Mo’s redefines casual fine dinging with an articulate and creative upscale menu and an imaginative wine list, with dishes ranging from rabbit mac-and-cheese to braised pork belly with a spiced honey glaze.

Melting Pot 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.$$.

Motor Supply Co. The Vista: 920 Gervais St., 256-6687 Tue-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-9:30 p.m.; FriSat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-9 p.m.

An early pioneer of dining in the Vista 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

Mint Julep Bistro & Lounge

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.

Northeast: 120 Sparkleberry Crossing, 419-7200 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 4 p.m.-11 p.m.

Advertising itself as “comfort food for the soul,” Mint Julep’s menu takes the Mediterranean tapas concept and applies it to Southern specialties. The result is items such as Lobster Mac & Cheese, Black-Eyed Pea Hummus, Crab Cake Napoleon and Pepper Jack Collards, to name a few. You can order them individually or combine two or three to make a meal. Nightly and weekly specials also show up as well as, of course, mint juleps if you’re thirsty. mintjuleprestaurant.com. ¢-$.

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 addition to its daily menu, Mr. Friendly’s offers innovative nightly specials. mrfriendlys.com. $-$$.

P.O.S.H. Downtown: 1400 Main St., 988-1400 Mon-Fri 6:30-10:30 a.m.; Sat-Sun 6:30-11 a.m.

Located inside the downtown Sheraton lobby, P.O.S.H. serves up breakfast seven days a week. $. continues on page 26

PINT NITE $3.00

EVERY MONDAY Most everything on the tap wall.

beerknurd.com 20 10

931 SENATE ST. in the VISTA . 933-9712 free-times.com | Spring 2011

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Spring 2011 | free-times.com

Vista | Riverfront State Street | Vista West

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Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West

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 local rock clubs, a theatre and a grocery store (converted from a former Confederate printing plant). The Vista also has an increasing number of residential options, making the area a prime component of downtown development. Just across the Gervais Street bridge sits an eclectic mix of nightspots, galleries, gift shops and restaurants — including quite a few authentic Mexican spots. With cheap rent, businesses and patrons are realizing that West Columbia has many of the amenities of its sister city across the river, with fewer hassles.

What to Do Attractions Art + Cayce 1329 State St., 765-0838 compass5partners.com Located in the offices of Compass 5 Partners in Cayce, Art + Cayce hosts occasional shows, often of works by USC faculty and students.

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, African-Americans invented a new dance, the “Big Apple.” Now popular for events and receptions.

Colonial Life Arena 801 Lincoln St. at Greene St. Charge by phone: 1-866-472-8499 General Info: 576-9200 thecolonialcenter.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 columbiamarionettetheatre.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.

free-times.com | Spring 2011

EdVenture Children’s Museum 211 Gervais St., 779-3100 edventure.org, info@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 columbiasc.net, 545-3100 Separating the Historic Columbia Canal and the Congaree River, Riverfront Park is a popular jogging/walking trail encompassing 167 acres just west of Huger Street.

The Mercy Shot plays Art Bar. Photo by Jonathan Sharpe.

South Carolina State Confederate Relic Room & Museum 301 Gervais St., 737-8095 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 S.C. State Museum.

South Carolina State Museum 301 Gervais St., 898-4921 museum.state.sc.us Housed in the historic Columbia Mill building (built in 1893), the S.C. State Museum has permanent and rotating exhibitions covering South Carolina’s cultural history, natural history, science, technology and art. The museum also brings in non-S.C.-related blockbuster exhibitions.

Three Rivers Greenway riveralliance.org, 765-2200 Columbia has come a long way on its riverfront development in the past few years, and the recent designation of the Congaree River Blue Trail as a National Recreation Trail underlines the point. 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

State Street, on the west side of the Gervais Street bridge. File photo. walking and running, and the West Columbia Riverwalk Amphitheatre hosts outdoor concerts and more.

Nightlife

Trustus Theatre

116 State St., 791-5663 A coffee shop that serves booze? Be still our beating hearts! Dig those specialty cocktails; also serves an extensive assortment of wines.

520 Lady St., 254-9732 trustus.org, trustus@trustus.org Columbia’s leading progressively oriented theatre company.

@116 Espresso & Wine Bar

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2010

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1211 Park St., 929-0198 If you’re looking for a non-corporate nightspot where you can ditch the lawyers and get to know the artists and musicians, you need look no further than this eclectic Vista bar. Cool but never pretentious, the Art Bar is good for people-watching, conversation and music (both bands and DJs), not to mention open-mic poetry nights and improv comedy. Don’t miss Mr. B’s karaoke on Wednesdays.

The Big Ugly 931A Senate St., 834-5496 The Big Ugly’s tagline invites you to unleash your “inner Cajun,” but aside from the food, The Big Ugly’s as American as bars come: wing specials; dangerously cheap drink specials; and live music on the weekends.

Blue.

STAY Kelly’s Deli & Pub

1001 Washington St., 254-4464 If this converted fire station reminds you of Five Points, it’s probably because its owners cut their teeth working for places like Group Therapy and Jungle Jim’s. These Gamecock fans host regular acoustic performances in addition to karaoke and open mic contests.

Liberty Tap Room 828 Gervais St., 461-4677 Attention hipsters: If you’re looking for that hot roller-derby girl, you might have taken a wrong turn. 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.

Moda Lounge

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.

930 Lady St., 463-0144 Silver medalist in the 2010 Free Times Best of Columbia poll for Best New Bar or Club, this dancetorium entices attendees to get their respective grooves on by offering a little taste of South Beach dance-club nightlife.

Carolina Ale House

New Brookland Tavern

708 Lady St., 227-7151 Southeastern chain grille-and-groggery 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.

122 State St., 791-4413 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. Friendly staff, too, as well as kitschy ‘90s arcade consoles.

Flying Saucer 931 Senate St., 933-9997 Beer nerds (or knurds) rejoiced when this renowned purveyor of draughts landed in Columbia; dudes rejoiced when they saw the waitresses in schoolgirl uniforms. Offering more selections than most commoners could imagine, this is a beer drinker’s paradise with a nice front porch, some live music and the occasional commemorative pint glass.

Gervais & Vine 620 Gervais St., 799-8463 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. Columbia needs more places like this.

H2O 220 State St., 794-8443 An alternative watering hole in Vista West, H2O offers, among standard bar fare like karaoke and line dancing, Star Search-type talent shows and male and female drag shows.

Jillian’s 800 Gervais St., 779-7789 The closest you’ll get to a Chuck E. Cheese for grown-ups, Jillian’s offers billiard tables, an arcade, a beach volleyball court, pingpong tables, walls of huge flat-screen televisions and more in addition to its extensive list of imports, domestics and other assorted cocktails and libations.

free-times.com | Spring 2011

Vista | Riverfront State Street | Vista West

Art Bar

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PLAY&STAY

Vista Riverfront State Street Vista West

Nonnah’s 930 Gervais St., 779-9599 Best known for its desserts, Nonnah’s is a good place to stop for coffee and drinks after dinner or a show.

Pearlz 936 Gervais St., 661-7741 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.

PT’s 1109 1109 Assembly St., 253-8900 You could live your whole life in Columbia and not know this gay bar exists, and, frankly, its regulars probably wouldn’t mind all that much. Conversely, this haunt is a treasure to the folks who frequent it.

Rust 918 Gervais St., 251-2405 Rust, with its upscale distinctions, a taste of big-city style and sophistication right in the heart of our casual college town.

SakiTumi 807 Gervais St., 931-0700 Sushi, sake and salacious servers ... what else could you want out of an über-hip Vista sushi bar?

Thirsty Fellow 621 Gadsden St., 799-1311 Launched by Willie Durkin — formerly of Shannon’s, Sneakers and Durkin’s — Thirsty Fellow serves up eclectic, delicious pizzas and offers a full bar.

Gervais Street in the Vista. File photo. Tin Roof 1022 Senate St., 771-1558 Started in Atlanta in 1996, Tin Roof now has five locations in the Southeast. Its calling card(s): 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 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 When the clock strikes two on Sunday morn, one of the few public options here in the Soda City is this watering hole between Palmetto Pig and Todd & Moore. Always fun and always packed with a diverse clientele.

Uncle Louie’s 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.

a lot of bang for your buck and a kick-ass music room upstairs, Wet Willie’s is a late-night Vista favorite. Order a giant White Russian and commence flirting.

The Wild Hare 902-B Gervais St., 929-0374 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-toearth crowd.

Wild Wing Café 729 Lady St., 252-9464 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 a popular Columbia oldies-radio disc jockey — who DJs every night of the week here — The Woody is a new addition to The Vista. You have to duck through an alley, but don’t let that ward you off. Offers nightly drink specials.

Wet Willie’s 800 Gervais St., 779-5650 How can you not love a bar that specializes in grain alcohol slushies — er, daiquiris. With

bites&sights | freetimes

Wide selection of Drinks & Eats

Enjoy the Best Party Music Nightly

HAPPY HOUR WEDNESDAYS

Live Entertainment Starts @ 7pm

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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, Wet Willie’s), dance clubs (NuTabu), swanky bars (Rust) and chic shops, not to mention walking distance to the Congaree River. Double points for its catty-corner location to Liberty Taproom. Rated as one the top three hotels in Columbia by Yahoo! Travel. Amenities: Free deluxe breakfast; exercise room; business center; free Wi-Fi; outdoor pool; non-smoking floors.

Hilton Columbia Center 924 Senate St., 744-7800 hiltoncolumbia.com Columbia’s newest high-rise hotel, the 222room 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/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 hiexpress.com Just outside the Vista and down the street from Finlay Park, the Holiday Inn Express

Vista | Riverfront State Street | Vista West

Accommodations

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.

PLAY&STAY

Where to Stay

SpringHill Suites Columbia 511 Lady St., 978-2333 marriott.com/cash Located near the corner of Pulaski and Lady, the brand-spanking-new, 132-room 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 (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.

The Gervais Street bridge links The Vista and Vista West. File photo.

2010

RUNNER-UP

2010

RUNNER-UP

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Dining continued from page 19

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • SUPPER ———————————————

Saluda’s Five Points: 751 Saluda Ave. , 799-9500 Mon-Sun 5:30-10 p.m.; Sun brunch 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

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: 841 Sparkleberry Ln. , 788-6966 Lunch: Tue-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Dinner: Mon-Thu 5:30-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Bar: Mon-Sat 5 p.m.-until

From the people who bring you Mr. Friendly’s and Gervais & Vine, Solstice presents an upscale dining experience with such dishes as Seared Diver Scallops, Sesame-Ginger Tuna Tartare, Brown Sugar In-House Brined White Farms Pork Chops and the ZinfandelMolasses Braised Beef Short Ribs. Extensive wine list and elegant, yet cozy, atmosphere. solsticekitchen.com. $-$$.

Stonefire American Grill

Good home cooking for breakfast, lunch and supper that’s a great value!

Northeast: 566 Spears Creek Church Rd., 419-2332 Mon-Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat-Sun 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

A menu based around upscale American classics — steakhouse-style burgers, prime rib, roasted chicken, grilled salmon and even a classic New England lobster roll — is 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

Winner of a 2007 Wine Spectator Award for Excellence, this upscale Vista West spot offers quality pours to match its tasty victuals. Featuring dishes like Pan Seared Triggerfish, Trout Meuniere Amandine and Braised Lamb Shoulder, the menu is artful and impressive. And if you can’t afford to put high culinary art on your plate, the brick oven pizzas, at $10 apiece, are a true and delicious bargain. 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.)

14 convenient locations to serve you! 10170 Two Notch Rd. (803) 419-5662

7942 Garners Ferry Rd. (803) 647-0095

2234 Sunset Blvd. (803) 794-0923

7620 Two Notch Rd. (803) 788-3088

402 Beltline Blvd. (803) 738-0006

1824 Broad River Rd. (803) 798-6427

3147 Forest Dr. (803) 787-8781

2240 Airport Blvd. (803) 796-7820

7569 St. Andrews Rd. (803) 732-1225

818 Elmwood Ave. (803) 779-6407

711-1 University Village Dr. (803) 451-8400

501 Knox Abbott Dr. (803) 791-0314

621 West Main St. (803) 951-3555 4616 Augusta Rd. (803) 785-5560

lizardsthicket.com

—————————————— OPEN 6AM • 7 DAYS A WEEK CATERING AND DROP-OFF SERVICES AVAILABLE

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Features fine wine, great appetizers, pasta, unique entrees (such as the Tombo Rito) and nightly specials. Run by the same owner as Motor Supply Co and with a menu crafted by Motor’s executive chef Tim Peters, Tombo offers amazingly well crafted dinners, from Crispy Roasted Duckling, Flatiron Steak to Carpaccio of Beef Tenderloin and Steamed Prince Edward island Mussels. You can’t go wrong here.Menu changes to reflect seasonal offerings. Live entertainment Wednesdays and Saturdays. tombogrille.com. $.

Brew Pub Hunter-Gatherer Downtown: 900 Main St., 748-0540 Mon 4-10 p.m.; Tue-Wed 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 4-11 p.m.

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

Café/ Coffee House Artsy Fartsy West Columbia-Cayce: 906 Knox Abbott Dr., 708-4731 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Art and coffee: two great tastes that taste (and look) great together.

Café Strudel West Columbia/Cayce: 118 State St., 794-6634 Mon-Wed 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; Thu-Sat 8:30 a.m.10:30 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-2:30 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. Also hosts a legendary Sunday brunch. cafestrudel.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 cold specialty drinks. Catering available seven days a week including boxed lunches and catered trays. Free delivery to downtown and campus. carolinacafeandcatering.com. ¢.

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

Serves fresh sandwiches, soups, salads and desserts. Large selection of coffee drinks, including the Perfect Woman and Holy Mocha. Near campus. ¢.

Glorious Coffee Company Harbison/Irmo: 6903 St. Andrews Rd. Ste. 4, 749-6004 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Serving coffee and delectable foodstuffs — sandwiches, breakfast pastries and more — with Christian overtones. ¢.

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. ¢-$.

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.)

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

Starbucks Five Points: 747 Saluda Ave. , 779-1082 Mon-Thu 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr., 743-4350 Mon-Thu 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 5:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 6:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6080 Garners Ferry Rd., 695-0115 Mon-Thu 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 100 Columbiana Circle (Columbiana Centre), 749-4557 Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun noon-7 p.m.

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

Northeast: 480-6 Forum Dr., 462-3352 (Village at Sandhills)

Taste of Jamaica Café & Lounge

Mon-Thu 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 7 a.m.- 11 p.m.; Sun 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

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

Northeast: 163-8 Forum Dr., 736-3412 (Village at Sandhills) Mon-Thu 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-10 p.m.

The Vista: 831 Gervais St., 779-3484 Mon-Thu 6 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 6 a.m.-midnight; Sun 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

Honestly, is there anybody out there who doesn’t already know about this place? Either you’re a devoted zealot in the crusade for super-strong Seattle lattes and bizarro cup-sizing, or you think Starbucks is the Evil Empire. Moving on … starbucks.com. ¢.

Tropical Smoothie Cafe Harbison/Irmo: 1150 Bower Parkway, Suite F2, 781-6535 Mon-Thu 6 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 6 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

In addition to real-fruit smoothies, Tropical Smoothie Cafe serves a variety of wraps, sandwiches and salads. tropicalsmoothiecafe.com. ¢

Village Gourmet St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1410 Colonial Life Blvd. , 798-6300 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

This humble lunch spot emphasizes the little things with great results: fresh herbs in the windows, a peppermill on every table, pasta salad loaded with fresh veggies like zucchini and squash. Oh yeah, the Village Gourmet also has sandwiches like a roasted red pepper pimento cheese or a smoked applewood BLT, as well as a selection made with Armenian cracker bread. Catering available. thevillagegourmet.net. ¢.

Cajun The Big Ugly Vista: 931 Senate St., 834-5496 Sun-Wed 11 a.m.-1 a.m., Thurs-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

The newest addition to the Vista’s thriving bar scene serves up a solid array of Cajun-dusted bar food, from crawfish etouffee to fried green tomatoes. Salads, soups and sandwiches join fresh fish entrees, burgers, wings and gumbo — not to mention the warm cinnamon pound cake, which would go equally well with milk or a Sazerac.

Caribbean/Latin Mojitos Tropical Cafe Vista: 1004 Gervais St., 779-1717 Tues-Thurs 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-11 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.

Old San Juan Restaurant Northeast: 108 Columbia NE Dr., 419-4365 Tue 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. (buffet only); Wed-Sat 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

A true Puerto Rican restaurant featuring such mouth-watering dishes as the Empanadilla Rellena and the signature Mofongo Relleno. For a beverage, try the Guanaba, a tropical fruit that tastes like pineapples and strawberries. Affordable daily specials and side dishes are sure to please those looking for a truly authentic experience. oldsanjuanrestaurant.net. ¢.

Forest Acres: 3123 N Beltline Blvd., 256-9050

Oxtail, curry goat, fried plantains — in short, Jamaican favorites, appropriately located in Columbia’s international district.

Chinese China Buffet Sushi and Bar Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4464 Devine St., Suite E (Bi Lo Shopping Center) , 787-8898 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

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

Columbiana Super Buffet Harbison/Irmo: 285 Columbiana Dr., 781-8841 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat-Sun 10:30 a.m.10:30 p.m.

What can you say other than it’s a loaded Chinese buffet with all the fixins in the Columbiana Mall area, convenient to both the mall and theater if you find yourself there and craving some good lo mein, teriyaki chicken or moo goo gai pan. ¢.

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.

Inexpensive, fresh Chinese-American standards prepared to order. eggrollchen.com. ¢.

Egg Roll Station West Columbia/Cayce: 135 Sunset Blvd. , 791-4060 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Inexpensive, fresh Chinese-American standards prepared to order. ¢.

Golden China West Columbia/Cayce: 3313 Platt Springs Rd., 739-5999 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Specializing in Hunan, Szechuan and Cantonese cuisine, Golden China offers a wide selection plus lunch specials from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. ¢.

Hong Kong Downtown: 1211 Taylor St., 779-6689 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Affordable lunch buffet Monday through Friday from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. plus a large a la carte and combination menu. Delivery available for a $10 minimum. ¢.

Jin’s Hibachi & Chinese Northeast: 4435 Hardscrabble Rd., 788-3339 Tues-Sun 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. ¢-$.

Sun Ming St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 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 Chinese 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 Hunan-style 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 ¢.

free-times.com | Spring 2011

bites&sights | freetimes

DiPrato’s File photo

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. ¢.

Anthony’s Dairy Bar Downtown: 2001 Hampton St., 255-0900 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Top China Buffet

Yummy Yummy Chinese Restaurant

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

Northeast: 3902 Two Notch Rd., 714-9922

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

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

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

Yummy Yummy II Forest Acres: 4600 Forest Dr., 790-9979 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri & Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

price key ¢ = average entrée less than $10 $ = average entrée $10-15 $$ = average entrée more than $15

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

Anthony’s offers daily lunch specials for the downtown lunch crowd, including their award-winning wings, sandwich baskets, subs, pitas and more. If you’re into some Southern delicacies, try their gizzards alone or as a meal deal. Side items include fried okra alongside corn dogs and sausage dogs, and Anthony’s even offers seafood. ¢.

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.; Sun noon-3 a.m.

Sandwiches like the T-Bird, the Godfather and the Rebel Rouser have become mainstays for any self-respecting college student or budgetconscious diner. New on the menu are Wheat Wraps and a Big Bear Cheesesteak. ¢.

Blimpie Subs & Salads Lexington: 815 N. Lake Dr., 808-9710 Mon-Sat 6 a.m.-10 p.m

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 422-B Bush River

Thai lotus restaurant

Rd., 772-3735 Mon-Tue 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Wed-Thu 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Offering hot and cold selections like the Steak & Onion Melt, the Tuna Melt, the Ultimate Club, and the VegiMax. Its signature sandwich is the Blimpie Best with ham, salami, cappacola, prosciuttini and provolone. Also offers wraps and carb-friendly items. ¢. blimpie.com.

Café Gervais Downtown: 1202 Sumter St., 251-3456 Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Café Gervais serves salads, burgers and sandwiches, ranging from turkey and roast beef to grilled cheese and Philly cheesesteak. Also serving bagels, muffins and biscuits for breakfast and daily specials. ¢.

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

Established coffeehouse Cool Beans is still upstairs, but College Grounds Cafe is serving sandwiches downstairs, plus healthy breakfast and brunch foods — bagels, fruit, grits and more. Lots of vegetarian-friendly options. ¢

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 8604 Farrow Rd., #F, 736-4446 Mon-Fri 9 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.

THAI

Noodle Dishes Barbecue • Curry House Specialities Vegetarian & Tofu

JAPANESE

Teriyaki • Tempura Noodle Dishes Sushi & Sashimi Soups & Salads

NEW MENU, LOWER PRICES! HAPPY HOUR 4-7 PM • $1 SUSHI $2 DRAFT BEER

SPEND $25 RECEIVE $5 OFF w/ coupon one special per table Expires 6/29/2011

2010

RUNNER-UP

2010

RUNNER-UP

LUNCH BUFFET $6.99 INCLUDES SOUP OR SALAD AND TEA 11am-2pm Monday - Friday

COME ENJOY THE BEST TRUE THAI FOOD IN TOWN 612 St. Andrews Road • Ashland Park • 803-561-0009 • 803-561-0006 Open 7 Days a Week: Sun-Thur 11-10 • Fri-Sat 11-11

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Try adding grilled chicken to the deliciously feta-laden Greek Delight pita.

The Deli Lexington: 821-F East Main St., 957-3120 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-3 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. lexdeli.com. ¢.

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 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 17 signature sandwiches, build your own or explore the paninis and salads. The menu also offers 10-12 dinner entrées, including crab cakes and salmon. 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 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

European Mini Market Carries specialty prepared foods from Eastern Europe, Germany, Russia and more.

Fifth Avenue Deli Shandon: 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.

Harbison/Irmo: 7467 St. Andrews Rd., 407-8521 Northeast: 10136 Two Notch Rd., 419-8161 Lexington: 109 Old Chapin Rd., 957-1100 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

Doza Rizen Cafe

Groucho’s

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

West Columbia-Cayce: 1202 Sunset Blvd. , 708-6020

File photo

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun noon-5 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. ¢-$.

Chapin: 107 Virginia St.; 345-2980

Mai Thai

West Columbia-Cayce: 515 Meeting St., 939-7088

The Vista: 923 Gervais St., 933-9085 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Garden Bistro is a healthy and delicious downtown lunch option, offering an eclectic menu of soups, salads, wraps and specialty sandwiches. gardenbistrosc.com. ¢.

Blythewood: 730 University Village Dr., 754-4509

Lexington: 117 1/2 East Main St., 356-8800 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Northeast: 111 Sparkleberry Crossing, 419-6767 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 2009 Broad River Rd., 750-3118 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Mon-Sat 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2265 Sunset Blvd., 796-7826

Five Points: 611 Harden St. , 799-5708

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Forest Acres: 4717 Forest Dr., 790-0801

Pitas, wraps and deli sandwiches meet soups, salads and other lunchtime fare — and tasty cakes, cookies and brownies, too.

Harbison/Irmo: 800 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-4515

Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-8:30 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 Café 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 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. ¢.

Delhi Palace www.DELHIPALACESC.com

2010

2009

free-times.com | Spring 2011

542 St. Andrews Road Columbia, SC 29210 Across from Goodwill

$5.00 off with purchase of $20.00 or more one coupon or special per table expires 6/30/11

803.750.7760 bites&sights | freetimes

No Name Deli

Sub Station II

Downtown: 2042 Marion St., 252-0480

West Columbia/Cayce: 503 Knox Abbott Dr., 791-8693

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

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

Pita Pit 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. ¢.

Quiznos Downtown: 1401 Sumter St., 765-2511 Mon-Fri 10 a.m-5 p.m., Sat 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Forest Acres: 5424 Forest Dr., 790-0613 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun noon-8 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 278 Harbison Blvd., 732-6511 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Lexington: 5580 Sunset Blvd., 359-2627 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Northeast: 10008 Two Notch Rd., 865-2242 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 1602 Airport Blvd., 796-0171 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Chain sub store specializes in toasted, fresh subs, including the Chicken Carbonara, Tuscan Turkey on Rosemary Parmesan Bread and Prime Rib Cheesesteak. Also serves breakfast, bread bowls, soups and salads. Catering available. quiznos.com/subsandwiches. ¢.

Mojito’s Tropical Café File photo

Honey Baked Ham

Linda’s Little Deli

Forest Acres: 7451 Two Notch Rd., 782-4267

Northeast: 4130 Bethel Church Rd., 787-4351

Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun 12 p.m.-4 p.m.

Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-3 p.m.; Sat. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Honey Baked Ham serves hardwood-smoked, honey-spiced spiral-cut ham and turkey. Takeout box lunch includes a sandwich, cookie, drink and chips. heavenlyham.com. ¢.

Jersey Mike’s Cayce/West Columbia: 1720 Sunset Blvd., 796-1126

This tiny, rustic eatery has thrived on a wordof-mouth reputation built around its sandwiches and soups. The Club is quite a mouthful, and the BLT has a perfect balance of bacon and crispy lettuce. Come for Wednesday’s Cajun and Creole specials or order the special on Saturday for a taste of what Linda’s can do. Catering available. ¢.

Roly Poly Sandwiches Downtown: 1258 Lady St., 252-1081 Mon-Fri 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2 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-Sun 7 a.m.-2 a.m.

Shandon/Rosewood: 506 Beltline Blvd., 782-4662 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Downtown: 1621-A Main St., 255-0001

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

McAlister’s Deli

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4717 Devine St., 787-0945

Forest Acres: 4710-A Forest Dr., 790-5995

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

Harbison/Irmo: 300 Columbiana Dr., 781-4550

Harbison/Irmo: 7241 Broad River Rd., 749-3022

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

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

Lexington: 5175 Sunset Blvd., 951-3332

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. ¢.

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

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

Schlotzsky’s Deli

Jimmy Johns

Nathan’s Restaurant

Despite its vowel-challenged name, Schlotzsky’s became a successful national chain on the strength of its fresh-baked bread and generously portioned oven-toasted sandwiches. Also on the menu are healthy wraps and salads in addition to gourmet pizzas. schlotzskys.com. ¢.

Five Points: 2015 Devine St., 806-8282 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-3 a.m.

The Vista: 715 Gervais St., 933-9595 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 5910 Garner’s Ferry Rd., Ste. B, 695-3278. Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Chain serving subs, clubs and their meatheavy 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. ¢.

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

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

Downtown: 1840 Hampton St., 254-0484 Mon-Fri 6:30 a.m.-2:30 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. ¢.

Nature’s Deli Downtown: 1616 Taylor St., 748-9344 Mon-Fri 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

With fresh natural ingredients and extensive made-to-order preparation, Nature’s Deli offers an eclectic mix of Italian, Greek and American menu items. ¢.

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Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-6 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. sammisdelionline.com. ¢.

Northeast: 7132 Parklane Rd., 865-2867 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

Steve’s #1 Sub Contractor West Columbia/Cayce: 1471 Platt Springs Rd., 791-9222 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

West Columbia/Cayce: 748 Main St. (S. Congaree), 755-7470 Great local sub place — why go corporate when you can get local that’s even better? Serving Columbians since 1980. ¢.

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. Atkins-friendly. Twelve Midlands locations from which to choose. substationii.com. ¢.

Swanson’s Deli Downtown: 1332 Main St., 343-3253 Mon-Fri 11:30 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. ¢.

Which Wich? Downtown: 928 S. Main St., 343-3317 Mon-Sun 10 a.m.-10 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, Itaian, “classics” and even seafood. Also serves breakfast sandwiches, “kidswiches” and cookies, shakes and malts. whichwich.com. ¢.

Ye Ole Fashioned Ice Cream & Sandwich Café Garners Ferry/Southeast: 7490 Garners Ferry Rd. , 783-8221 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

A Charleston tradition since 1972, Ye Ole’s burgers are enormous and have been voted the best burgers in Charleston. Its hot dogs have won similar acclaim, and while there’s plenty of sandwiches and entrées to choose from, it also has all your ice cream and milkshake needs covered, being particularly proud of its signature banana split. yeolefashioned.com. ¢.

Zoe’s Kitchen Forest Acres: 4855 Forest Dr., 782-1212 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Downtown: 1320 Main St., 771-0122 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-3 p.m.

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

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 With more than 4,500 locations, Baskin-Robbins 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.baskinrobbins.com. ¢.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream Harbison/Irmo: 378 Columbiana Dr., 407-5904 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Northeast: 202 Grace’s Way, 419-8889 Sun-Thu 12 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 12 a.m.-11 p.m.

A popular Pennsylvania-based chain that makes all their 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. ¢.

Cold Stone Creamery Lexington: 914-C N. Lake Dr., 951-2353 Sun-Thu noon-12 p.m.-9 a.m.; Fri-Sat noon-10 p.m.

“The Ultimate Ice Cream Experience.” When you boast that, you better have the prodcontinues on page 36

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Five Points | Devine St. Rosewood | Olympia

STAY

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Five Points Devine Street Rosewood Olympia

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 also offers an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants and bars where you’ll find everything from books, coffee, hip clothing and CDs 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 an impressive area of locally owned retail spots and some higher-end 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 or hear some music, such as the Cock ‘n’ Bull Pub and Rockaways. Rosewood has its own signature event, too: the Rosewood Crawfish Festival. Over in the historic mill village of Olympia, you’ll find a dynamic new art space at the 701 Center for Contemporary Art and a squeaky clean new baseball stadium, too.

What to Do Attractions 701 Center for Contemporary Art

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.

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 visual arts exhibitions as well as cutting-edge music and dance performances and other events.

Five Points Retail

All-Local Farmers Market

Shops on Devine

711 Whaley St. Held every Saturday from 8 a.m. until noon. Grass-fed pork, organic coffee, locally grown fruits and vegetables, locally made baked goods and more.

Carolina Stadium 431 Williams St. University spokespeople will tell you that USC’s shining new baseball stadium (which opened in 2008) is located in the Innovista district, but locals know the area as Olympia. Regardless of what you call it, the 9,000-seat baseball stadium is indeed a bang-up place to watch USC’s national champions. 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 hydrogenpowered scoreboard — yes, really.

Five Points is for strolling, dining and shopping. Retail options are wide, encompassing everything from hip vinyl at Papa Jazz and hip clothing at Loose Lucy’s to thoughtful toys at Creative Kids. When night falls, there are plenty of places to get your groove on, too (see “Nightlife”). Just up the hill from Five Points on Devine Street are a string of high-quality, locally owned boutiques. From eco-friendly children’s clothes at K.D.’s Treehouse to ultracool furniture at Bohemian Home, Devine Street merchants specialize in some of the most unique and eclectic offerings in the city.

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

Williams-Brice Stadium uscsports.cstv.com Situated close to both Rosewood and Olympia, Williams-Brice Stadium is party central

free-times.com | Spring 2011

Columbia’s own pop legends Hootie & the Blowfish are honored in a monument on Saluda Avenue. Photo by Laurie Moot. 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 — Williams-Brice has served as the site of lots of drunken football revelry, a U2 concert and an appearance by Obama and Oprah.

Nightlife Bar None 620 Harden St., 254-3354 Open well after most establishments have announced last call, this is the last refuge of the late-night lush. Filled with shuffleboard tables, rock music and sloshed 20-somethings, what more could you ask for?

bites&sights | freetimes

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brant atmosphere round out the package — but get there early, as it fills up fast, especially on pint nights.

Dr. Rocco’s

801 Harden St., 771-7363 With an outdoor patio that rests at the corner of Harden and Greene streets, Dr. Rocco’s affords an ideal spot for people-watching in Five Points.

Goatfeathers

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

Grandma’s

724 Harden St., 479-4219 A classic Five Points college bar: Cheap drinks, cheap wings, good music. Stays open late.

Group Therapy Five Points at sunset as imagined by Columbia artist Blue Sky. He’s also the creator of downtown’s Tunnelvision and Busted Plug. Courtesy photo. Bey’s

Chubby’s 2 by 4

711 Harden St., 255-2996 Hipsters and frat dudes alike have flocked to this dive-y Five Points drinkery, which offers an eclectic selection of live music, from cutting-edge indie rock bands to singersongwriters to dance-crazy Djs, in addition to its dangerously cheap drink specials.

715 Harden St., 256-7733 Winner of the Best Bar to Go to with $10 to Your Name award in the 2007 Best of Columbia poll, Chubby’s is still a prime spot for eating and drinking on the cheap.

Cantina 76

2901 Devine St., 708-6004 This Devine Street joint is abuzz with young women in cocktail dresses and couples on dates who come for the Tex-Mex cuisine and stay for the excellent margaritas, made in all shapes, flavors and sizes with top-shelf tequilas.

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.

Delaney’s

741 Saluda Ave., 779-2345 Delaney’s is as Irish as it comes here in the Bible Belt. Of course they have Guinness, but they’ve also got quite an assortment of classy imports and plenty of good ol’ Irish grub. Personable staff, live music and a vi-

2107 Greene St., 256-1203 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.

The House

2020 Devine St., 253-7888 The House is the home for live music in Five Points, hosting local and regional bands and, occasionally, disc jockeys most nights of the week. Offers many on-the-cheap drinks specials, and there’s a row of billiards tables in the back.

The Library

805 Harden St., 929-6955 A classic Five Points college bar: Cheap drinks, cheap wings, good music. Stays open late.

Locals 640 Harden St., 255-0818 A favorite for its laid back, fun-loving atmosphere. They sell huge slices of pizza and will let you keep your lemon-drop glass if you’re so bold. Staffers have shots named after them, and there’s always a chance your picture will pop up on their web site. Locals is also the bar behind those clever game-day stickers you’ll see people wearing at football tailgates. Has become a Five Points tradition in just a few years.

Lucky’s

2010

2100 Devine St., 929-1118 For the Vista experience in Five Points, Lucky’s is your place — good wine and beer selection and an outdoor patio.

Mucho Margaritas 2010

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819 Harden St., 251-3185 Yes, the margaritas, voted best in the Free Times Best of Columbia poll, are, in fact, spectacular, but the family-owned restaurant and bar also offers fine Tex-Mex food and cheap beer.

Five Points Devine Street Rosewood Olympia Nightcaps 2722 Devine St., 771-6575 An out-of-the-way place with respect to Five Points, Nightcaps has a pool table, a bigscreen television, comfy lounge chairs and a good late-night atmosphere. With only a handful of places staying open ‘til sunrise anymore, it’s a popular haven for those not ready to let the night end.

Pavlov’s

2000-B 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.

Pawley’s 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 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.

Publick House

2307 Devine St., 256-2207 Exceptional beer selection, challenging trivia, hip music selection, über-friendly staff, good burgers and the best raw fries around.

Red Hot Tomatoes

634 Harden St., 799-1015 From barroom bingo to karaoke, dance music to red-hot bartenders and customers, Red Hot Tomatoes has everything it needs to keep the parade of partygoers coming. A Five Points institution since 1988.

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.

The Saloon

812 Harden St., 779-4445 From the people that brought you Delaney’s and Speakeasy comes The Saloon — where beer comes in Mason jars and a city slicker can buy a cowboy hat to look the part.

Salty Nut Café

2000-A Greene St., 256-4611 A quick hop from USC, the Salty Nut sees its fair share of co-eds at night, though its relaxed atmosphere and huge half-pound burgers attract a more diverse crowd for lunch. As far as the nighttime appeal goes, what more could a modern college student ask for than peanuts, beer, burgers and sports?

Sharky’s

636 Harden St., 799-8337 What you might already know about Sharky’s: It’s been a favorite Five Points hangout since 1985, been repeatedly voted Best College Bar in Free Times, been listed in Playboy’s Top 100 College Bars issue and it was once the No. 1 Jim Beam sales account in the world. What you might not know: Sharky’s also works hard to keep the partying safe by offering free cab rides and contributing to MADD.

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

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Five Points | Devine St. Rosewood | Olympia

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Five Points Devine Street Rosewood Olympia

Five Points Fountain. File photo. Speakeasy 711 Saluda Ave., 255-0869 Delaney’s classy, hip younger sibling boasts a fine liquor selection, great beers and a top-notch staff, as well as fine cigars, comfy couches and weekly jazz.

The Tavern on Greene

2002-C 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 burger and spirits in an easygoing atmosphere.

TLC Sports Bar and Grill

936 S. Stadium Rd., 251-3485 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.

Utopia 406 Howard St., 733-2222 Cozy is the name of the game here — this Rosewood neighborhood bar offers plush indoor and outdoor seating, both of which are perfect for catching its frequent singersongwriter guests.

Village Idiot

2009 Devine St., 252-8646 Columbia’s quintessential college-town pizza joint in a pub atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy delicious fare, cold beer, wallet-friendly weekly specials and a heaping helping of revelry. Serving New York-style pizza since 1990. Dine in, pick up or delivery, and menu also features salads, sandwiches and wings.

free-times.com | Spring 2011

Yesterday’s Restaurant and Tavern 2000 Devine St., 799-0196 A great place for an undergrad to take his or her squeeze out for dinner without maxing out the credit card. Good food, aboveaverage beer and liquor selection. Bar in the back has its own entrance on Devine Street. A veritable Columbia landmark since 1978.

Saluda Avenue offers both bars and boutiques. File photo.

Where to Stay Accommodations 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 (American Apparel, Sid and Nancy, Luna, 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 parking; nonsmoking rooms; free Wi-Fi; lounge.

The Whitney Hotel 700 Woodrow St., 252-0845 whitneyhotel.com This tastefully furnished, 74-room hotel is perfect for those who love the nightlife but still want some peace and quiet at night. Less than a mile from Five Points and roughly a 20-minute walk from campus, it also provides primo access to some of Devine Street’s fineries. Rated among the top 10 hotels in Columbia by Yahoo! Travel. Amenities: Full buffet breakfast; free Wi-Fi; full kitchen, washer/dryer and balconies in rooms; laundry valet service; outdoor pool; non-smoking rooms; free airport shuttle.

bites&sights | freetimes

p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Lexington: 100 Old Cherokee Rd., 808-7522 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Northeast: 471-C Town Center Place, 419-8300 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

The Vista: 1001 Gervais St., 765-9100 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.

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. ¢.

Nonnah’s The Vista: 930 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.

Perhaps most popular for its offering of fine desserts, Nonnah’s also serves lunch and dinner. Lunch menu includes sandwiches, salads and soups. Dinner menu includes such delicacies as stuffed portobello mushrooms and six-ounce filets. Try a cappuccino or cognac to round out the meal. nonnahs.com. ¢-$.

Sweet Cake House St. Andrews-Dutch Square: 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 749-9668 Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.-5 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

The Gourmet Shop File photo

Dining continued from page 30

FruitiCup Five Points: 631-B Harden St., 771-0061 Mon-Sat: 12 a.m.- 10:00 p.m.; Sun: 12 a.m.-9 p.m.

uct 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. ¢.

Cromer’s P-Nuts 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. cromers.com.

Northeast: 10136 Two Notch Rd. #100-A; 736-3385 Open daily 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

First, choose your frozen yogurt flavor from the ever-changing assortment; then, top it with everything from brownie chunks to fresh fruit to every kind of candy imaginable. Pay by weight. Feel like a kid again. Also serves boba milk tea.

Happy Frog Café Harbison/Irmo: 11107-F Broad River Rd., 732-9599 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Yogen Früz Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 1-10 p.m.

Sandhill, Yogen yogurt and fruit smoothies and a healthy sweet

Yoghut Downtown: 601 Main St., 386-9786 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Frozen yogurt with fresh toppings; coffee drinks, smoothies and parfaits.

Yumilicious Forest Acres: 4710 Forest Dr., 782-0077 Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Self-serve Texas yogurt chain with a variety of flavors and more than 30 toppings. Free Wi-Fi and Wii!

German

Vista: 1213 Lincoln St., 212-4949

Located just off the Peak exit off I-26 in the Food Lion Shopping Center, the Happy Frog Café specializes in Italian gelato ice creams, espressos and panini sandwiches. happyfrogcafe.com. ¢.

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

Insomnia Cookies

Mon-Thurs 4-9p.m., Fri 4-10 p.m., Sat noon-10 p.m., Sun noon-7 p.m.

Cupcake

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 Chocolate Almond to about anything sweet you can think of, Cupcake has your sweet tooth covered and then some. freshcupcakes.com. ¢.

Desserts & More Northeast: 4611 Hardscrabble Rd., Ste. 101 , 699-8800 Mon-Fri 7 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Specializes in desserts, including cookies, cakes (try the Red Velvet Cake) and pies, but also features large breakfast and lunch menu, including sandwiches, soups and salads. Gourmet coffee selection to boot. desserts-n-more.com. ¢.

36 freetimes | bites&sights

Five Points: 2013 Devine St., 877-632-6654 Mon-Sun 7 p.m.-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. ¢.

Marble Slab Creamery Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6000 Garners Ferry Rd., 783-6243 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

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

Devine Foods Shandon: 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 GreekMediterranean restaurant as you’ll find anywhere, and the prices are reasonable. Great Spanakopita. ¢-$.

Grecian Gardens West Columbia/Cayce: 2312 Sunset Blvd. , 794-7552 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

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

Greek Boys 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 weekday around noon. Try the Beef Souvlaki Platter or Blackened Pork Chops, which arrive super fast and are easy on the wallet. greekboyssc.com. ¢.

Main Street Café, Bar & Grill Lexington: 131 E. Main St., 808-5886

Northeast: 480-4 Town Center Place , 223-9543

Located at the Village at Fruz offers signature frozen blends, soft-serve yogurt, candy snacks for those with tooth. yogenfruzsc.com. ¢.

Greek/ Mediterranean

Huller’s Black Forest Harbison/Irmo: 380 Columbiana Dr. , 781-0026

Started by New Jersey German-American transplants (and sausage-making experts), this authentic German restaurant features all the sausages, schnitzels and spaetzle you could ever wish for. Buffet features specialties plus a drink, salad and dessert. $

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. ¢.

Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat 5-10 p.m. (bar open later all week)

Intimate casual dining specializing in Mediterranean European cuisine, including gyros and spanakopita. Their souvlaki uses pork tenderloin and a twist on a classic Greek marinade. Serves pork chops and ribeye steaks, too. ¢-$.

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.; Sun 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Opened by the brother of the Mediterranean Tea Room in Shandon, the Mediterranean Cafe 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 Saturday nights, restaurant offers live music. Private dining room available. ¢-$.

Mediterranean Tea Room Shandon: 2601 Devine St., 799-3118 Mon-Tue 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5:30-8:45 p.m.; Wed-Fri-11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Wed-Sat 5:30-9:45 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. ¢-$.

Zorba’s Family Greek Restaurant Harbison/Irmo: 6169 St. Andrews Rd., 772-4617 Mon-Thu 10:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 7320 Broad River Rd., 7497000 (Express location) Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

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

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

Indian Bombay Grill 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.; SatSun 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 onestop 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 fenugreek-seasoned 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. $.

Delhi Palace St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 542 St. Andrew’s Rd., 750-7760 Sun 11 a.m.-3 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.; Sun 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

Recently relocated to a revamped St. Andrew’s Rd. location, 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. ¢-$.

Panjabi Dhaba St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1201 Bush River Rd., 798-8011 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m.

Best way to get a sampling of its traditional Indian menu is to try the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet, one of the best in town. Offers plenty of vegetarian dishes, too, and specializes in Northern and Southern Indian cuisine. Available for private parties. $.

Tandoori Grill Northeast: 110-A Columbia Northeast Dr., 462-0788 Daily 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Fri-Sun 5-10 p.m.

Calling Indian buffet fans: Get your fix 7 days a week at Tandoori Grill, where you can find all the classics: samosa, pakora, tandoori chicken and an array of curries and other Indian favorites.

Italian Al’s Upstairs West Columbia/Cayce: 304 Meeting St., 7947404 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. $$.

Bellacino’s Pizza & Grinders Harbison/Irmo: 1085 Lake Murray Blvd. , 407-4884 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Lexington: 5339 Sunset Blvd., Hwy. 378, 957-6767 Generous portions of hearty Italian pizza and grinders. Affordable prices, friendly staff and consistent quality keep this popular restaurant full. ¢.

Carrabba’s Harbison/Irmo: 370 Columbiana Dr., 407-1811 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 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.;

free-times.com | Spring 2011

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

Offers quality Italian dishes including chicken, veal, pasta, seafood and pizza that’s woodfired 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 Rvier Rd. (inside the Radisson Hotel) , 744-2200 Mon-Sun 6:30 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. $.

Dianne’s on Devine

Motor Supply Co. File photo

Shandon: 2400 Devine St., 254-3535 Mon 5-9 p.m.; Tue-Sat 5-10 p.m.

Dim lighting, sultry jazz and exquisite service make Dianne’s an excellent choice for special occasions. Delicious fare features heavy Italian influence on chicken, steak and pasta dishes. You won’t go wrong anywhere on the upscale menu. diannesondevine.com. $-$$.

Garibaldi Café Five Points: 2013 Greene St., 771-8888 Mon-Thu 5:30-10:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-11 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. $$.

Moe’s Grapevine Italian Restaurant Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4478 Rosewood , 776-8463 Lunch: Tue-Fri 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dinner: Tue 5-9 p.m.; Wed-Sat 5-10 p.m.

Accomplished local Italian chef, popular at noted previous stops around town, has his own restaurant specializing in Mediterranean cooking as well as daily specials and special pizza selections alongside an impressive array of soups, salads and desserts. moesgrapevine.com. $.

Pasta Fresca Forest Acres: 3405 Forest Dr., 787-1838

Wood-Grilled Swordfish, Lobster Spaghetti and Lemon-Saffron Risotto. A winner all the way around. rossocolumbia.com. $-$$.

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 7:30 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

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

The Villa

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. pasta-fresca.net. ¢-$.

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

Ristorante Divino 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 Wine Spectator awards. ristorantedivino.com. $$.

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 every day)

From the owner of Gervais & Vine comes this welcome addition to the Forest Acres dining landscape. Out-of-this-world seafood highlights the Italian-Mediterranean menu, but don’t miss out on the wood-fired traditional pizzas. Entrées include Rosso Bucco (tee hee),

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1704 Bush River Rd., 798-6360

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. ¢.

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 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9 p.m.

Located next to Sounds Familiar on Rosewood 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. $.

Fusion Bowl Asian Cuisine & Sushi Lexington: 5166 Sunset Blvd. , 996-1333 Sun-Thu 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10 a.m.-11 p.m.

Fusion Bowl serves sushi, hibachi-style cooking and, if that weren’t enough, Thai and Chinese cuisine. Offers daily lunch specials for $5 as well as half-price sushi after 8 p.m. with the purchase of two alcoholic beverages. fusionbowlsc.com. ¢-$.

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.-3 a.m.; Sat 5 p.m.-3 a.m.

Charming, low-priced Italian favorite. The food is terrific, the atmosphere casual and the pizzas are great. ¢-$.

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. ¢.

Villa Tronco

Hero Japanese House

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. $.

Japanese/ Korean Blue Cactus Café 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

Northeast: 6634 Two Notch Rd., 699-9922 Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m. Sun 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Closed Wednesdays.

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. ¢-$$.

Hibachi Restaurant Tama Northeast: 2318 Decker Blvd. , 699-5041 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

Restaurant Tama offers inexpensive and fast Hibachi-style entrees. The menu includes sushi, tempura and American appetizers with a children’s menu, too. Also features ribeye

bites&sights | freetimes

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 (seasonal). One of the best salads in town. myspace.com/elburritosc. ¢.

Cabo Fresh Taco Downtown: 1425 Sumter St., 799-1712 Mon-Fri 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

A much-needed addition to downtown lunch offerings, Cabo Fresh Taco serves slightly gringo-ized variations on the classic Baja taco: fried grouper tacos with cabbage slaw; pulled pork tacos with pineapple salsa; and more. Queso dip, beans and good homemade salsas round out the tasty, affordable menu.

Cantina 76 Shandon: 2901 Devine St., 708-6004 Mon-Wed 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Thu-Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

A Tex-Mex, Southern-inspired taco and margarita bar with lots of atmosphere. Upscale margarita menu draws well-dressed young Shandonites and young professionals, food features fish and barbecue brisket tacos, among other entrées. $.

Casa Linda Forest Acres: 2009 Beltline Blvd. , 738-0420 Sat-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Miyo’s File photo

steak, chicken teriyaki, shrimp, lobster and filet mignon cooked while you watch. ¢.

Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar Harbison/Irmo: 442 Columbiana Dr., 407-1264 Mon-Thu 5-10 p.m.; 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. ¢-$$.

O Bok Korean Restaurant Northeast: 1616 Decker Blvd. , 787-1100 Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun 1-9 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 an assortment of unusual relishes, including kimchee. ¢.

Sato Japanese Forest Acres: 1999 Beltline Blvd. , 782-1064 Tue-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 4:30-10:30 p.m.; Sat 5-10:30 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 Northeast: 151 Clemson Rd., 788-2300 Mon-Thurs 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m., Fri-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10:30 p.m; Sun 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-9:30 p.m.

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

Tokyo Grill Harbison/Irmo: 378-2 Columbiana Dr., 749-9818 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.

Lexington: 109 Old Chapin Rd., 356-2448 Northeast: 111 Sparkleberry Crossing Dr., 788-7288 St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1316 Bush River Rd., 772-0988 Hibachi grill serving up quick entrees in varieties of shrimp, steak and chicken combinations. Also serves sushi, wraps, salads and soups. tokyogrill.lbu.com. ¢-$.

Mexican Baja Broiler Lexington: 1345 Old Chapin Rd., 356-0040 Tue-Fri 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat-Sun 4 p.m.-2 a.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 806 St. Andrews Road; 731-5190 Baja Broiler offers Tex-Mex cuisine, with all meat cooked over an open wood fire, and bar favorites like chicken wings, quesadillas and more. Heart-healthy and low-carb options are available, and the kitchen can accomodate special needs. Features live entertainment several nights a week. bajabroiler.net. ¢-$.

Garner’s Ferry/Southeast: 7546 Garner’s Ferry Rd., 783-3990 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. ¢.

Cecilia’s Harbison/Irmo: 6169 St. Andrews Rd., 772-7154 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; 5-9 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.-3 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. $.

Chipotle Mexican Grill

La Estrella Northeast: 2630 Decker Blvd., 788-8998 West Columbia-Cayce: 1921 Airport Blvd. , 739-6520 Sun-Sat 9 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 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat 11-10 p.m.; Sun 11-9:30 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-Thu 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m.; Sun noon-10 p.m.

Family operated Mexican-American restaurant featuring combination plates and favorites, from flautas to chilaquiles to enchiladas and more. Reopened summer 2010. $.

Latinos Northeast: 2401 Percival Rd., 790-9771 Tues-Sat 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. (bar open later)

Part Mexican restaurant, part Puerto Rican restaurant and part sports bar, Latinos has everything from tostones and Cubano sandwiches to hot wings to burritos packed with carne asada. Lot of Mexican and domestic beers and a full bar make this a good place to party the night away.

Moe’s Southwest Grill Downtown: 625 South Main St., 256-9663 Mon-Sun: 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Forest Acres: 2130 N Beltline Blvd., 743-9663 Mon-Sun 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 945 Lake Murray Blvd., 749-6638 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.- 9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Lexington: 914 N Lake Dr., 996-9200 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Forest Acres: 4840 Forest Dr., 738-8272

Northeast: 470-1 Town Center Place, 788-6639

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

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

From Moe’s, Casa Linda and Monterrey to El Burrito, Yo Burrito and Qdoba, you can’t say Columbia is lacking in Mexican options these days — and that’s not even counting all the authentic joints dotting the landscape in West Columbia. Nonetheless, Chipotle should do just fine, as its monster burritos, fresh tacos and delectable, chipotle-honey vinaigrette salads will be hard to pass up. Coming soon to Devine Street, also.

West Columbia/Cayce: 2217 Augusta Rd., 477-5818

El Chico St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1728 Bush River Rd., 772-0770 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

This Dallas-based Tex-Mex chain has been at it since 1940, and the capacity crowds at its sole South Carolina outlet are an indication why. Pitting the standard taco and fajita against signature “top shelf tastes” like the Cascabel Chicken & Spinach Quesadillas and the Brisket Enchiladas, which arrive topped with either a chipotle wine sauce or chili con carne, the game plan is simple: mix up the expectations and pile everything high. elchico.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

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town, San Jose offers an extensive menu of specialties and combination platters along with Mexican beers and margaritas. Everybody’s got their favorite Mexican place, and for many folks, this is it. ¢.

Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 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. ¢.

Monterrey Mexican Restaurant Harbison/Irmo: 114 Afton Court, 749-5928 Lexington: 5570 Sunset Blvd., 356-8314 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat 11:30-10 p.m.; Sun noon-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.-10:30 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-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat-Sun 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.

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

Voted Best Mexican Restaurant in Free Times readers’ poll. Serves lunch specials, combination platters and more, with vegetarian options available. Fresh produce and meat delivered daily. ¢.

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

free-times.com | Spring 2011

bites&sights | freetimes

Las Palmas File photo

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 their awardwinning No. 4 Salsa. tiossc.com. ¢.

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. ¢-$.

Yo Burrito

Northeast: 2112 Clemson Rd., 699-3311

Shandon: 2631 Devine St., 799-7579 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

Fresh Mexican grill specializing in burritos, quesadillas and a fresh salsa bar. Offers the giant Mo Burrito, veggie specials and homemade desserts. Thursday features an all-night happy hour, and Friday features seasonal live music. Known to be a favorite of Steve Spurrier. ¢. yoburrito.com

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

Harbison/Irmo: 7001 St. Andrews Rd., 732-0522 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5:30 p.m.-10 pm.; Sat 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 498 Piney Grove Rd., 750-3611

Northeast: 471-1 Market Place (Sandhills), 865-5865 Al-Amir has a reputation for authentic and well-prepared Middle Eastern cuisine. Signature dishes include hummus, falafel, lamb kabob, mujadara and shawarma. Salads, subs and daily dessert specials round out the menu. ¢-$.

Family owned and operated, Mucho Margaritas offers a wide variety of Mexican restaurant classics and bar specialties, a la carte items, vegetarian combos and more. Great wings, too. ¢

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

Elie’s Authentic Lebanese Cuisine

Las Palmas

Tacos Nayarit

Northeast: 21711 Percival Road, Lot No. 1

Northeast: 1900 block of Decker Blvd.

Hours vary

Usually parked between the Percival and Decker exits on I-77, the Las Palmas truck’s tortas and gorditas are worth the chance it might not be there on the day you go. But it usually is — and on weekends, it’s often open late, until 11 p.m. Try the horchata, a rich, creamy spiced Mexican drink.

For the tastiest tacos de lengua (beef tongue) in town, visit this Decker taco truck, which does a booming business during the lunch hours. The chorizo is tasty, too — perfectly crumbly and bright. Tacos are cheap and come with all the fixins — cilantro, radish slices and a roasted jalapeño. Assorted Mexican sodas are on offer for drinks.

Mucho Margaritas Five Points: 819 Harden St., 251-3185 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5-10 p.m.; Thu-Fri 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 5 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat noon-2 a.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

Northeast: 801 Sparkleberry Ln., 419-8862 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sat noon-10:30 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

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

Jasmine Deli and Cafe Downtown: 601 Main St., 771-1530 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Mon-Thurs 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-11 p.m.

Pitas

Qdoba Mexican Grill Five Points: 2006 Devine St.; 799-1950 Mon-Wed 7 a.m.-11 p.m.; Thurs 7 a.m.-Sun 10 p.m.

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 6070 Garner’s Ferry Rd., 783-8766 Mon-Sat 7 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 7 a.m.-9 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

Taqueria Jalisco St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 612 St. Andrews Rd., 731-5546 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sat noon-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9 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. ¢-$.

St. Andrews-Dutch Square: 2421 Bush River Rd., 750-8990

Tequila Bar & Grill

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

Mon-Sun, noon-2 a.m.

West Columbia-Cayce: 517 W. 12th St., 739-0821 Plenty of 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.

San Jose Mexican Restaurant Forest Acres: 4722 Forest Dr., 790-0678 Mon-Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 1000 Marina Rd., 749-9484 Mon-Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sat noon-10 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

40 freetimes | bites&sights

Lexington: 4350 Augusta Hwy. , 808-2955

Plenty of tequila, as you’d guess, is on the menu here to help wash down homemade soups, tortas and other traditional Mexican favorites. Happy Hour from 4-7 p.m. every day — try the $2.75 10 oz. margarita at your own risk. ¢.

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.

Now on Sumter Street and boasting a new cantina as well, Tio’s is a family owned TexMex café distinguished by its extensive and eclectic salsa offerings. Shelves along the walls display the variety of hot sauces available,

Northeast: 486-11 Town Center Place (Village at Sandhill) , 708-4874 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-1 a.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Charlotte-based franchise specializing in, as the name suggests, wood-fired pizzas. But wait, there’s more! Sandwiches, apps and pasta accompany the pizzas, as does an extensive beer and wine list. Try the Spicy Shrimp or the Quattro Fromaggio pizza, which includes mozzarella, parmesan, gouda and goat cheese with sun-dried tomatoes. Kids’ specials, too. brixxpizza.com. ¢-$.

Cardoni’s Pizza Lexington: 116 W. Main St., 951-3550 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4:30-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m and 4:30-11 p.m.; Sun 4-9:30 p.m.

CiCi’s Pizza

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. ¢.

Vista: 1115 Assembly St., 771-7131

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.

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza

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

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

Takosushi

Bobby’s attracts a loyal following with a more extensive menu than most neighborhood pizza joints, including pizzas with gourmet toppings and several Greek offerings. The bruschetta and garlic-and-oil glazed calzones are standouts. All menu items can be ordered for takeout. ¢-$.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1058 St. Andrews Rd., 798-9664

10 a.m.-10 p.m. daily

Forest Acres: 5400 Forest Dr., 738-9511

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

Neighborhood pizza, sub and pasta restaurant. Features 12 speciality pizzas, including a White Pizza, Steak Pizza and Spinach Pizza. Also serves calzones, strombolis and wings. cardonispizza.com. ¢.

Sandwiches, salads and soups with a Mediterranean flair. Includes plenty of vegetarian options — and plenty of dessert options, too, like the ultra-rich chocolate cheesecake.

Pancho’s

Bobby’s House of Pizza & Subs

Downtown: 1800 Taylor St., 343-3454 Mon-Fri 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5:30-8:30 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 Antonina’s Ristorante & NY Pizzeria Lexington: 2361 Augusta Hwy. , 951-1600 Tue-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 4-9 p.m.

One of these days you might find yourself starving and driving down Augusta Highway, convinced that the only things you’re going to come across are horse farms, small car dealerships and the occasional gas station. Then you’ll see Antonina’s. Yes, you should stop. Casual dining with TVs up front and a more upscale dining area in the back. antoninas.com. ¢-$.

Blythewood House of Pizza & Subs Blythewood: 135 Blythewood Rd., 754-0444 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Located next to the IGA in Blythewood, the House of Pizza & Subs offers the usual subs,

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 141 Pelham Dr., 776-8900 Sat-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Harbison/Irmo: 6120 St. Andrews Rd., 750-5900Family 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: 2800-C 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. danosdelivers.com. ¢.

LaBrasca’s Pizza 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. ¢.

Locals Five Points: 640 Harden St., 255-0818 Mon-Fri 7 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat 8 p.m.-2 a.m.

Locals has beefed up its menu with some serious pizza varieties and has earned a reputation recently for its enormous slices, called the Local’s Big Slice. Specialty slices abound, including the Ass-Kickin Chicken that comes covered in hot-wing sauce, jalapeno and banana peppers, crushed red peppers and cheese; and the Screw P.E.T.A., which piles on the meats. There’s a vegetarian-friendly Wabbit, A Shrimp-Ta-Keel-Ya and more. Wings and breadsticks also are available. localsbar.com. ¢.

Spring 2011 | free-times.com

Mellow Mushroom 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 1-9 p.m.

A popular Vista lunch and dinner spot, Mellow Mushroom serves gourmet handtossed 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. mellowmushroomcolumbia.com. $.

Nick’s House of Pizza West Columbia-Cayce: 1082A Sunset Blvd. , 794-9240 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

plant parmigiana. ¢-$.

Tony’s Original Pizza West Columbia/Cayce: 975 Knox Abbott Dr , 794-5469 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Of the two unaffiliated Tony’s Pizzas in Cayce, this one is older, having opened in 1967. Offers pastas, pizza and other Italian favorites.

Tony’s Pizza West Columbia/Cayce: 224 Knox Abbott Dr., 936-0033 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Italian food with a Greek twist, including salads, pastas, pizzas and more.

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. $

Village Idiot

Pizza Joint

Forest Acres: 4517 Forest Dr., 787-5005

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 Sun-Thu 7 a.m.-11 p.m.; Fri-Sat 7 a.m.-midnight

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. ¢.

Pizza Palace

Five Points: 2009 Devine St., 252-8646 Mon-Fri 4 p.m.-2 a.m.; Sat-Sun 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday brunch 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Delivery: 11:30 a.m.-midnight Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Offering NY style hand-tossed pizza by the pie or slice for lunch, dinner and delivery, the Village Idiot is a favored spot for USC students. Other featured menu items include sandwiches (Jersey Cheesesteak), wings, calzones and stromboles, pasta (Baked Ziti), salads and wings. ¢. villageidiotpizza.com

Z Pizza Vista: 1004 Gervais St., 708-4703 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

Lexington: 5580 B Sunset Blvd., 957-7777 Formed in 1986 in California, zpizza focuses its efforts on healthy, light and organic pizzas. Also offers gourmet sandwiches and salads. zpizza.com. ¢-$.

Al Amir File photo

Bonefish Grill

Pearlz Oyster Bar

Forest Acres: 4708 Forest Dr., 787-6200

Vista: 936 Gervais St., 661-7741

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

Daily 4 p.m.-close

Harbison/Irmo: 1260 Bower Pkwy., 407-1599 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. Although reservations aren’t required, they are recommended, especially on weekends. bonefishgrill.com. ¢-$.

A Charleston-based chain, Pearlz offers raw and cooked oysters and an array of other Lowcountry and American seafood favorites, from oyster po’boys to New England lobster rolls. Burgers and salads are available for the non-seafood-loving.

Steakhouse Arizona Steakhouse

Garners Ferry/Southeast: 1314 Leesburg Rd., 695-9800

Za’s Brick Oven Pizza

Gilligan’s Steamer & Raw Bar

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

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.

Lexington: 938 N. Lake Drive , 808-2244 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 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. The Cali salad comes with mandarin oranges, bell peppers, red onions, mushrooms, pine nuts, grape tomatoes, goat cheese, blackened sushi-grade tuna and a balsamic vinaigrette. zasbrickovenpizza.com. ¢-$.

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. $

Offers a variety of salads, steaks, burgers, chicken and fish, ranging from aprime 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. $.

Harbor Inn Seafood Northeast: 7375 Two Notch Rd., 462-3498

The Vista: 902-A Gervais St., 254-5100 Harbison/Irmo: 171 Harbison Blvd. ,732-2482

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

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

Lexington: 411 W. Main St., 359-2979 Your favorite seafood platters come fried or broiled, with familiar sides like hush puppies and slaw. The Land and Sea special pairs 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. ¢.

“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 Hoedown 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. $-$$.

A classic menu of pizza, calzones and stromboli is peppered with club sandwiches, burgers and Greek fare. ¢-$.

Pizza Pro & Sub City Northeast: 8604 Farrow Rd., 462-1776 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Just as the name implies, these guys are all about doing subs and pizza the right way. Huge meatball sandwiches and homemade pizza sauces are just two of the many reasons to give them a try. Daily lunch specials, express pick-up and personal and corporate catering available. ¢.

Pizzeria Uno Chicago Grill Lexington: 5304 Sunset Blvd. , 359-3888 Sun-Sat 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 deep-dish pizzas. You also can get thin crust as well as seafood, chicken, steak and salad platters. unos.com. $.

Pop’s NY Pizza Five Points: 707 Harden St., 540-7677 Sun-Wed 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11:30 a.m.3:30 a.m.

Authentic, gourmet New York-style pizzas in thin and Sicilian varieties sold by the slice or pie. Also serves calzones, Philly cheesesteaks, hoagies, Italian sandwiches, wings, salads and more. Every Tuesday is Movie Night, where Pop’s screens new releases at 7 and 9 p.m. on its plasma-screen TVs. ¢-$.

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 egg-

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Zia’s New York Pizza West Columbia/Cayce: 1720 B Sunset Blvd. , 796-2241 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Thu-Sat 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Family style pizza place with emphasis on New York-style pizzas. Also offers spaghetti, chicken parmesan, lasagna and other Italian specialties. Get pizza whole or by the slice, and family meal deals are available for takeout ¢-$.

Seafood Blue Marlin The Vista: 1200 Lincoln St., 799-3838 Mon-Thu 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Fri 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. and 5-11 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 jalapeno salsa. Private dining facilities now available. bluemarlincolumbia.com. $.

Ocean View Seafood Restaurant St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 1904 Broad River Rd., 772-7811 Mon-Thu 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Expansive menu features expansive portions of all manner of fried and broiled seafood. Daily specials, platters, steaks and sandwiches round out the menu with an emphasis on freshness. Hearty, affordable lunch specials on weekdays. $.

Oyster Bar The Vista: 1123 Park St., 799-4484 Mon-Wed 4-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 4-11 p.m. (bar open later)

A true old-fashioned oyster bar. Serves fresh Gulf oysters, steamed or raw, steamed shrimp and scallops. ¢-$.

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

Longhorn Steakhouse

Outback Steakhouse Harbison/Irmo: 252 Harbison Blvd. , 732-3771 Mon-Thu 4:30-10 p.m.; Fri 4:30-11 p.m.; Sat 3:30-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9 p.m.

Northeast: 7611 Two Notch Rd., 788-9800 Mon-Thu 4-10 p.m.; Fri 4-11 p.m.; Sat 3-11 p.m.; Sun noon-9:30 p.m.

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

Ruth’s Chris Steak House Downtown: 924-A Senate St. (Hilton Hotel) , 212-6666 Mon-Sun Breakfast: 7-10 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Dinner Mon-Thu, Sun 3-10 p.m., Fri-Sat 3-11 p.m.

What can you say, it’s Ruth’s freaking Chris. Among the best steaks on planet Earth, hands

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down, and you’ll be paying mightily for them. Their seafood rocks, too. ruthschris.com. $$.

Texas Roadhouse Harbison/Irmo: 400 Columbiana Dr., 407-6670 Sun-Thu 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Northeast: 8304 Two Notch Rd., 788-5384 High-energy, casual Southwest-themed restaurant featuring hand-cut steaks, awardwinning ribs and several made-from-scratch items such as salad dressings, bread, croutons, mashed potatoes and gravy. $.

Saky Garners Ferry/Southeast: 4963 Jackson Blvd., 787-5307 Mon-Wed 5-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 5-10:30 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. $.

Sushi Yoshi Five Points: 2019 Devine St., 931-0555 Mon-Sat 5-10 p.m.

Sushi Camon Japanese Restaurant Downtown: 1332 Assembly St., 254-5400 Mon-Sat 5-10 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. $.

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

Tsunami The Vista: 700-C Gervais St., 312-9911 Mon-Sun 4:30 p.m.-midnight (bar open later)

Harbison/Irmo: 1290 Bower Pkwy., 407-3873 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m-late night; Sat-Sun 4 p.m.-late night

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

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.-9:30 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 phad 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. ¢-$.

Mai Thai West Columbia-Cayce: 2249 Sunset Blvd. , 939-4795 Mon-Fri 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sat 5-9 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 $

Thai Lotus

Tapas

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 612 St. Andrews Rd., 561-0006

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

Gervais & Vine

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 655-C St. Andrews Rd., 731-2538 Elegant seating where outstanding sushi, sashimi and other Japanese cuisine take center stage. Popular with families and large groups for their spectacular Inakaya Boat Specials. Good variety and value. $.

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

The buffet at this elegant but casual Asian restaurant is enormously popular, especially on weekends, but menu items like Mussaman Curry and Thai Style Shrimp Scampi make choosing difficult. Factor in some of the best sushi in town — try the multifaceted Celebration Roll, for example — and you’ll never decide. ¢-$.

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant Northeast: 224 O’Neil Ct. , 699-2626

SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar The Vista: 807 Gervais St., 931-0700 Mon-Wed 4:30 p.m.-10 p.m.; Thu-Sat 4:30-until

Upscale Vista hotspot includes a popular bar area and a separate sushi bar. Extensive sake list complements beer and wine offerings, and SakiTumi also has weekly sushi and drink specials that are east on the wallet. Plenty of non-sushi items on menu, including grilled items and tasty appetizers such as the Lotus Root Chips. Also check out their regular sushimaking classes. sakitumigrill.com. $.

Sakurabana Japanese Restaurant Forest Acres: 4827 Forest Dr., 738-9330 Mon-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. $.

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

The Vista: 620-A Gervais St., 799-8463

True Mediterranean wine and tapas bar with more than 40 wines by the glass and a wide selection of appetizers. Dishes prepared in view and are a fusion of Greek, Italian and Spanish cuisine. The seared sea scallops are served over grilled ciabatta with fresh olive tappenade and topped with fresh oven-dried tomatoes. A Vista gem. gervine.com. ¢-$.

Virtu Restaurant & Bar Shandon: 2406 Devine St., 376-8888 Mon-Wed 11 a.m.-midnight; Thurs-Fri 11 a.m.-2 a.m.; Sat 5 p.m.-2 a.m.

Diverse tapas menu features small dishes from cuisines worldwide. Bar carries craft beers, wines and fancy drinks.

St. Andrews/Dutch Square: 6024 St. Andrews Rd., 731-7715 Mon-Sun Sat 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Authentic and delicious Thai food. Serves numerous entrées, soups and salads, with choices of mild, medium or hot. $.

Vegetarian Earth Fare Store hours: Mon-Sat 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Baan Sawan Five Points: 2135 Devine St., 252-8992 Tue-Thu 5:30-9 p.m.; Fri-Sat 5:30-10 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

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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. ¢.

STONE

Downtown: 2338 Main St., 253-7889 Mon-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 Shandon: 2803 Rosewood Dr., 765-1083 Store hours: Mon-Sat 9 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Hot meals served Mon-Sat 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday 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. ¢.

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 p.m.; Sat noon-2 p.m., 5-9 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

Thailand Restaurant

Shandon: 3312-B Devine St., 799-0048

Thai

Lamb’s Bread Vegan Café

Northeast: 2300 Decker Blvd. , 699-5959 Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

Five Points: 2011 Devine St., 779-4077 Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.-9 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. ¢.

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.

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Northeast | Forest Acres Ft. Jackson | Blythewood Camden

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Northeast Forest Acres Fort Jackson Blythewood Camden

t used to be that heading northeast from downtown Columbia was just a long, lonely drive down Two Notch Road with a handful of restaurants and strip malls along the way to the area’s wonderful Sesquicentennial State Park. Now the Northeast is Richland County’s fastest-growing area, sporting several farmers markets, the enormous Village at Sandhill retail complex, the expansive Lake Carolina residential development and top-notch schools that keep residents coming. Home to plenty of national retailers and restaurants, too.

What to Do Attractions

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 trail. Located 13 miles northeast of Columbia on Two Notch Road.

Golf Club at Crickentree

Village at Sandhill

1084 Langford Rd. (Blythewood), 754-8600 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.

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

Kershaw Fine Arts Center 810 Lyttleton St., Camden, 803-425-7676 fineartscenter.org Presents community-oriented theater, music, dance and exhibits, as well as the annual Carolina Downhome Blues Festival.

S.C. Archives and History Center 8301 Parklane Rd., 896-6100 scdah.sc.gov Think Confederate money isn’t worth anything? You’re wrong! The S.C. Archives and History Center has been auctioning old Confederate money online lately, and apparently there is plenty of interest in it. The center is also presenting numerous events and programs commemorating the 150th anniversary of secession; if you’d like to see the Ordinance of Secession up close (also called the “Scroll of Treason”), this is where you’ll find it.

Sesquicentennial State Park southcarolinaparks.com 788-2706 This 1,419-acre park features a 30-acre lake surrounded by trails, picnic areas and campsites. Also offers boating, fishing, swimming,

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481 Town Center Place, 419-0235 Located off I-20 (Exit 80, Clemson Road), the Village at Sandhill is a testament to the growth of Columbia’s Northeast region. Primarily a massive retail development — with major stores including American Eagle, Belk, Victoria’s Secret, Bath and Body Works and many more — the Village at Sandhill also boasts residential living, a popular movie theater and community events, including concerts at Rice Music House.

The Golf Club at Crickentree hosts numerous tour events. Courtesy photo.

Nightlife Brixx 486-11 Town Center Place, 708-4874 Another open-late eatery-cum-drinkery in the Village at Sandhill, this one offering live music and drink specials among wood-fired pizzas.

Caprioska 7001 Parklane Rd., 699-8300 Karaoke on Tuesdays sponsored by the Big DM, Columbia’s leading R&B radio station. Upscale atmosphere with plush couches in its lounge area; plenty of TVs in its sports bar.

Comedy House 2768 Decker Blvd., 798-9898 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 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 were one, Hooters is famous for its wings and women — both of which can get pretty hot.

Village at Sandhill. Photo by Laurie Moot. Icy’s Sports Bistro

The Puddlin’ Duck

10005 Two Notch Rd., 736-5775 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.

108 Columbia Northeast Dr., 865-2859 A welcome addition to nightlife and dining offerings in the Northeast, The Puddlin’ Duck offers Irish delicious grub (mmm … bangers), Irish beer and occasional live music in a friendly environment.

The Mouse Trap 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 food.

Salsa Cabana 2005 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.

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Taps Pub & Restaurant 104-B Columbia NE Dr., 699-4657 Patriotically themed pub.

Tsubaki

Sesquicentennial State Park features a 30-acre lake. Courtesy photo.

224 O’Neill Ct., 736-7474 Love karaoke? You’ll love Tsubaki, where the karaoke is as authentically Japanese as Inakaya’s sushi.

Where to Stay

The Venue

Holiday Inn Express Suite Blythewood

Bloomsbury Inn

120 Creech Rd., I-77 Exit 27 1-803-3330315 Located off I-77, Blythewood Road Exit 27, the Holiday Inn Express is roughly equidistant from Lake Murray to the northwest and Fort Jackson to the southeast.

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.

Wild Wing Café 480 Town Center Place, Suite 2 865-3365 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.

wine and cheese happy hour along with such modern amenities as wireless Internet and a swimming pool.

Accommodations

1029 Broad St. (Camden), 773-9015 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.

Residence Inn by Marriott Columbia-Northeast 2320 Legrand Rd., 788-8850 Located off I-77 near the intersection of Farrow and Rabon roads, the Residence Inn is just around the corner from Providence Hospital Northeast and minutes away from Fort Jackson. Spacious suites come fully equipped with refrigerator, microwave and coffee maker, as well as wireless Internet access.

Camden House Bed & Breakfast Bryan Lee performs at the annual Carolina Downhome Blues Festival. Courtesy photo.

Northeast | Forest Acres Ft. Jackson | Blythewood Camden

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1502 Broad St., 713-1013 camdenhouse.us Completed in 1832, this four-room bedand-breakfast is in the heart of downtown Camden. You’ll get classic comforts such as a Southern breakfast, afternoon tea, and a

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Lake Murray | Lexington Harbison | Irmo

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Lake Murray Lexington Harbison Irmo

or visitors to the area, the key draw in this part of town is Lake Murray, where you’ll find more than 500 miles of shoreline along South Carolina’s largest 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. For Columbians from all areas of town, this area’s big-name retailers such as Best Buy, Lowe’s, Target and Barnes and Noble — and that’s not even mentioning Columbiana Centre — make it a necessary stop. Along with extensive shopping options, good schools and neighborhoods keep drawing people to the area. There’s more to the area than the lake and retail outlets, however. Among your options: Saluda Shoals Park, which features a wetlands preserve; Harbison State Forest, a great place to bike; and Chapin Community Theatre, which has been serving the area for more than 25 years.

What to Do

Dreher Island State Recreation Area

Attractions

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.

Bicycle City Bicyclecity.com It’s not finished yet, but this bold project in Gaston aims to be just what its name suggests — a car-free community. Planned highlights include eco-friendly homes, trails, lake recreation, an organic market and more. Parking will be available on the edge of the community.

The Caddy Shak www.mycaddyshak.com Restaurant and driving range and a Par 3 course at the StoneBridge Golf Club. On 381 Pilgrim Church Rd., off Highway 6 near Lake Murray.

Chapin Community Theatre 107 Columbia Ave., Chapin, 240-8544 www.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.

Crooked Creek Park 1098 Old Lexington Highway (Chapin) 345-6181 “Crooked Creek” makes this park sound like it’s a dirt path next to a trickle of water. Actually, it has a 53,000-square-foot community center with a full gym and racquetball courts, along with tennis courts, athletics fields, picnic areas and, oh yeah, walking trails.

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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 recre-

Harbison State Forest comprises 2,177 acres of public green space including 16 miles of roads and trails. Photo by Laurie Moot. ational activities. Lakemurraycountry.com lists public access points, as well as marinas and landing spots.

exhibits, summer camps, health and wellness programs, meeting facilities and more.

Lexington County Museum

200 Leisure Lane, 772-3336 Built in 1973 and located in the St. Andrews area, Seven Oaks Park is a full-service recreation complex offering fitness, athletics and cultural arts programs. Features a dance studio, art gallery, picnic areas, tennis courts, walking trails and more.

US Highway 378 and Fox St. Lexington, 359-8369 lexingtonsc.org/lexington_county_ museum.html 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.

Seven Oaks Park

State Farmers Market

lexingtonsc.org/peachtree_rock.html 254-9049 Peachtree Rock is a geological wonder: an upside-down sandstone formation that has stood for millions of years and is a testament to the ancient marine environment that was once here. Located off S.C. 6 in southern Lexington County near Swansea.

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. Major wholesale vendors include Senn Brothers, Severt & Sons Produce Co., V.B. Hook & Co., L&N Produce, Ayer & Price Fruit Co. and Raybon Tomato. Also features an exhibition kitchen, restaurant and a bakery. Open Mon-Sat 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sun noon to 6 p.m.

Saluda Shoals Park

Village Square Theatre

Peachtree Rock Nature Preserve

icrc.net/saludashoals, 731-5208, 2132050 (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

105 Caughman Rd., Lexington villagesquaretheatre.com 359-1436 info@villagesquaretheatre.com Community theater from the Lexington County Arts Association.

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Nightlife

large-screen TVs, fine finger foods and bucket specials are sure to please any bargoer.

Alter Ego

Hemingway’s

109U Old Chapin Rd., 808-0832 Twisted tapas bar by day, swank lounge bar by night. Nightly drink specials, occasional live music.

Bailey’s Sports Grille 115 Afton Court, 407-3004 If you’re a serious billiards enthusiast, you’ll be challenged to find a better place. Bailey’s has well-maintained regulation tables and pretty good bar food, too. And if your pool game is suffering, they have plenty of other sports on television throughout the bar.

Baja Broiler 1345 Old Chapin Rd., 356-0040 Freshly made Southwestern food and wings, weekly karaoke and occasional live music on the weekends make this a Lexington County hotspot.

British Bulldog Pub 1220 Bower 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 wth specials on Guinness and Irish whiskeys, but the Bulldog doesn’t forget us Yanks, offering basketball (and soccer, too) on big-screen televisions and multiple, cold domestics.

Carolina Ale House 277 Columbiana Dr., 407-6996 Southeastern chain grille-and-grog offers good eats, a good beer selection and plenty of televised sports.

Carolina Wings & Rib House 7587 St. Andrews Rd., 781-0084 105 Northpoint Dr., 356-6244 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.

Copper River Grill 1230 Bower Parkway, 749-4647 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

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 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 were one, Hooters is famous for its wings and women — both of which can get pretty hot.

Main Street Café 131 E. Main St., 808-5886 This little Greek restaurant is tucked into a storefront space in the middle of the recently streetscaped section of Main Street in downtown Lexington. The addition of live local music several nights a week makes it a great way for Lexington residents to enjoy dinner and some entertainment without having to travel into Columbia.

Rusty Anchor 1925 Johnson Marina Rd., 749-1555 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 On the eastern shores of Lake Murray by the confluence of Bush River Rd., North Lake Drive and Lake Murray Boulevard, Schooners is a simple, unassuming bar and grill, offering daily specials, cheap wings, televisions and live music.

Tequila Bar & Grill 4350 Augusta Hwy., 808-2955 Plenty of tequila, as you’d guess, is on the menu here to help wash down homemade soups, tortas and other traditional Mexican favorites. Happy Hour from 4 to 7 p.m. every day. Try the 10 oz. margarita at your own risk.

court. Named Best Sports Bar in the Best of Columbia poll for three years running.

Wild Wing Café 1150 Bower Pkwy., 749-9464 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.

Where to Stay Accommodations Clarion Inn West Columbia 500 Chris Dr., 794-9440 Just four miles from the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, the Clarion in West Columbia is

convenient for business travelers, with highspeed, wireless Internet; free continental breakfast; a free weekday newspaper; an exercise room; and an on-site business center.

Comfort Suites Lexington 325 W. Main St., 996-2000 A 100 percent non-smoking hotel, Comfort Suites Lexington also offers 32-inch flatscreen TVs with premium channels and a DVD player; free wired and wireless highspeed Internet access; cordless speakerphone with voice mail; a hair dryer; microwave and more.

Hilton Garden Inn 434 Columbiana Dr., 407-6639 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.

Wingate By Wyndham Columbia 108 Saluda Pointe Ct., 957-5000 Situated at the intersection of I-20 and Hwy 378. Offers free Continental breakfast; highspeed, wireless Internet access; high-quality mattresses and pillows; in-room safe; 24-hour business center; fitness room; and whirlpool.

103 Beaufort St., 932-4470 A godsend to the culturally deprived lake area, the Tipsy Toad features a good beer selection (Anchor Steam on tap!) and Vistastyle atmosphere.

The Watershed

The Dam Bar & Grill

The Wild Hare

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Harbison State Forest comprises 2,177 acres of public green space including 16 miles of roads and trails. Photo courtesy S.C. State Forestry Commission.

Tipsy Toad Tavern

489 Piney Grove Rd., 731-0403 Karaoke, cover bands and lots of pool (hence the name “Corner Pocket,” get it?). Wannabe pool sharks are welcome — but be ready to meet your match.

1605 N. Lake Dr., 808-0882 A popular stop for Lexington locals located near the Lake Murray Dam — duh — this bar and grill caters heavily to the biker and country crowds, but its numerous pool tables,

Lake Murray | Lexington Harbison | Irmo

STAY

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Lake Murray Lexington Harbison Irmo

711 E. Main St., 808-5886 Christian bookstore offering live music and fellowship. Coffee, desserts and wireless Internet access next door at the Wired Bean.

5122 Bush River Rd., 213-1300 A sports bar with plenty of TVs, pool tables and dartboards, this location also offers an outdoor bar area with a sand volleyball

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