The Horseshoe 10. Another Broken Egg Cafe - State Street
Cool Beans Coffee Company
Home Team BBQ
Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe
Five Guys - Senate Street
Columbia Craft Brewing
The Baked Bear
Beezer’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop
Village Idiot
Cookout
20. Fresh Greene’s
Halls Chophouse
Hibachi House
Tsunami Vista
Cantina 76
4. Breakfast Jawn 5. Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles 6. The Belgian Waffle Truck 7. Barnes & Noble – USC
Greene Street
Assembly Street
Blossom Street
GET TO KNOW CAREER CENTER Your
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We’re networking via career and internship fairs, employer visits and mentoring through Mentorship Hub. We’re education through workshops, panels, career coaching and career assessments. We’re real-time career-related data in Gamecock GradStats. We’re experiential education through internships, co-ops, part-time and full-time jobs in Handshake. We’re skill building with mock interviewing and guidance on professional documents and personal branding. We’re all of these things and so much more!
Get to know your Career Center today and nd out how we can help you reach your career goals.
Dear Best of Carolina 2025 readers,
What a ride! It feels appropriate that my last edition of Best of Carolina as editor-in-chief is old-school and nostalgic, reminiscing about the traditions, experiences and community that make Columbia great. Welcome to BOC: U!
Acting as the Marketing Director of Garnet Media Group and the editorin-chief of Best of Carolina has been the highlight of my time at USC. Working with this team through the years has been an absolute blast, starting as a writer and photographer and finishing as an editor and copy editor. It’s been great to see this team and its members grow and elevate their work to what it is today.
It has been an honor to get to know Columbia’s institutions, businesses, and organizations over the four editions of Best of Carolina to which I have contributed. Coming from a small town in California, I initially felt like an outsider. But after spending more than four years living and experiencing Columbia, I have developed a great appreciation for the work, effort and hospitality this community provides to anyone fortunate enough to be here.
Now it’s your turn to turn back the clock. Sit back and feel the nostalgia of your time at USC or your experiences in Columbia. Remember the best-of-the-best things about this community, and enjoy Best of Carolina 2025.
Best, Tyler Sprague
Director
Marketing
| Garnet Media Group
Best Student Organization Carolina Band
By Marley Bassett
FOUNDED IN 1920, the Carolina Band or “The Mighty Sound of the Southeast,” spreads Gamecock spirit wherever it goes and helps unite the USC community through its performances both on and off campus.
The 360-member band can be found performing at every football game, at home or away and captivating the crowd with their pregame and halftime shows, which are unique to every game.
During games, the band can always be found in the stands, leading the crowd in singing the alma mater and various chants to help cheer the Gamecocks to victory.
The band has performed at various tournaments, such as the 2013 Duke’s Mayo Bowl, the 2018 Belk Bowl, the 2022 Gator Bowl and most recently, the 2025 Cheez-It Bowl.
They also performed during the halftime of a Carolina Panthers game in the fall of 2015.
In November of 2024, the band took their Gamecock spirit to one of the biggest stages of all, the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
The group originally learned they were going to Macy’s during a practice in September 2023, but the news was announced to the public after the band performed during halftime at the Furman University game.
Drum major and trumpet player for the band Brayden Russell said that finding out that they were performing in the Macy’s parade was “surreal.”
“It honestly felt like they were joking,” he said. “But ever since it got announced, it’s just been pure joy and excitement.”
In order to prepare for the parade, the band had to undergo several vigorous rehearsals.
They would set aside time during specific practices to work on parade tracking, which is when the band would assemble in their parade formation to make sure their lines stayed straight.
They also had to practice their performance in Herald Square, which had a different setup than their parade formation.
“We had a minute and 15 seconds (in total) to perform at Herald Square, as everybody does,” Russell said. “We had to practice walking in at a super fast tempo, do our little drill, and then play the fight song, marching out.
The band decided to perform their own rendition of the traditional English folk song, “Greensleeves” for their performance.
Once they got to New York, they only had two practices left to ensure that they were parade-ready.
“We had one practice on Tuesday out in New Jersey where we basically ran through everything we’d been running through at home,” Russell said. “And then we had a rehearsal at about two in the morning, and we had to go into Herald Square with every other band, and we had 10 minutes to practice.”
the mace that they perform with during every football game as they marched through the streets of New York City and by conducting the band in the square during the performance.
Russell said that performing in the parade was “the experience of a lifetime” and that he was “super grateful to take it all in.” He also thanked the USC community for all of their support.
“We see their support, and we appreciate all of the love we get from the student
As a drum major, Russell got the opportunity to lead the band by twirling
By Kara Rottmann
FOR SOME USC STUDENTS, a game of infection may be a nostalgic rite of passage, but for others, it is a campuswide brawl. The Best New Student Organization for Best of Carolina 2025, Cocks vs Zombies, combines elements of the classic game that we all know with their own rules in order to create something that all students can participate in.
“It’s just a way to relax and to have fun on campus,” Club President Gianna Mancine, a third-year biology student, said.
The game is simple. One person starts out as the “infected” or, in this case, the zombie. Their goal is to tag the other players in order to get them to join their team. The zombies continue to tag players on the other team, also known as the “cocks.” The game ends with one final game of tag when no cocks are left standing, and the zombies have tagged all of the players.
The two teams are marked by different color ribbons. This makes it easy to spot another player or even a student’s next target. Since there are no safe zones or time limits, everywhere on campus is fair game during any time of the day. A casual walk to class may just turn into a sprint to stay “safe” — and that is exactly what happened.
“We saw this one guy who had a red ribbon on his backpack…we were zombies at the time. As soon as he saw us, he started running,” Mancine said.
An academic semester may not be stress-free for all students. It is easy to get caught up in responsibilities such as homework, studying for exams or a job. Clubs like Cocks vs Zombies allow students to step back and have fun during the academic semester. It gives them a break from what might be a rigorous schedule.
At one point, the club consisted of Mancine and Vice President Jasmine
ground up and now has over 100 players. What was once a small game for a few students is now expanding rapidly.
“I hope that it gets bigger…and that the whole campus gets to play,” Whitely said.
Mancine and Whitely’s goal of destressing students is demonstrated in their ability to place their own spin on a game that most may already know. Through their leadership, they have given an outlet to many students at USC to participate in a game that emphasizes strategy, teamwork and their own physical ability.
Students who are looking to join Cocks vs Zombies can join through GarnetGate or the club GroupMe. By next semester, who knows how many students are participating in the campus-wide game, Cocks vs Zombies.
Best Sorority
By Olivia Ireland
THE BETA DELTA CHAPTER of Delta Zeta has captured the heart of Columbia and won Best Sorority for Best of Carolina 2025. Founded in 1902 in Oxford, Ohio, the chapter was first established at the University of South Carolina in 1928. This group of women upholds strong values and consistently presents themselves well across campus.
President Madeline Work describes Delta Zeta as her “home away from home.” She emphasized how her goal is to make members feel welcome and build deeper connections with one another.
“I want members to feel like more than just a number,” Work said.
Best Fraternity DELTA ZETA THETA CHI
By Kara Rottmann
Like other Greek organizations, Delta Zeta supports local and national charities in its philanthropic efforts. Locally, it supports Sweet Caroline, and nationally, it supports the American Society for Deaf Children.
The national American Society for Deaf Children is dedicated to supporting families with deaf and hard-of-hearing children. Sweet Caroline raises funds for leukemia awareness and helps organize bone marrow registry drives in memory of a Delta Zeta sister who died from leukemia in 2005.
“I think that it is special that we stay connected to Caroline’s parents; it
member Holly Sharman said.
Delta Zeta’s unwavering commitment to philanthropy and community service is truly commendable. By supporting two different philanthropic platforms, they demonstrate the impact a united group can have. Their dedication uplifts those in need and also inspires others to engage in meaningful work.
LENDING A HELPING HAND to their surrounding community is something that the Theta Chi Fraternity at USC embodies. The 160 fraternity members work closely to help veterans and their families through their philanthropy, United Service Organizations. This fall, the brothers put on a successful fundraiser in which a fraternity member had to run a mile for every $10 donated.. The fraternity also raised money through their philanthropy by bringing a petting zoo to campus. After students donated, they had the opportunity to meet and interact with several animals.
Since arriving at USC in 2015, Theta Chi has engaged in community service. Their leadership showcases this idea of giving back to the community that has given them so much.
“The best leader is the best servant,” Paul Scutti, Theta Chi’s president and a thirdyear finance and accounting student, said.
Leading a fraternity is not an easy task. However, Scutti has created an environment where all of the brothers are brought together, regardless of year or pledge class. The close bonds of
Best Sports Club COCK HOCKEY
By Alicia Caracciolo
SOLD OUT GAMES. Sold out jerseys. National championships.
For any Gamecock fan, these things should automatically make you think of two teams: Gamecock women’s basketball and Cock Hockey.
With more than 19,000 followers on Instagram, the club hockey team at the University of South Carolina has earned the title of Carolina’s Best Sport Club.
The club employs students to serve in management positions, social media positions, and more to support their platform. In 2024, Cock Hockey captured its first championship title at the
National Tournament.
The team plays home games at Flight Adventure Park in Irmo. While it is a 30-minute drive from campus, they frequently sell out games. The small fan space and buzzing environment help Cock Hockey draw new fans into the sport.
“While I am not the biggest hockey fan, the environment of Cock Hockey made my experience at games worthwhile,” said fourth-year public relations student Sydney Jack. “It was an excitement-filled arena that made me look forward to returning.”
a special game at Charlotte’s Truist Field. The backdrop of the city gave this outdoor game a layer of charm to the club’s match.
Grace Harper, Assistant General Manager and Vice President of Special Events for the Charlotte Knights, spoke about the vision behind the team’s first outdoor game.
“We wanted to bring the winter fun in addition to all of the charm that our holiday lights provide, so that you have kind of this full entertainment hub in the holiday season,” Harper said to The Daily Gamecock in November 2024.
Best Professors
College of Arts and ScIences
Traci Dingle
Criminology and Criminal Justice
David Roberts
Biological Sciences
College of Education
Erica Milliron
CarolinaLIFE Program Director
School of Music
Quintus Wrighten School of Music
College of Information and communications
Kelly Davis School of Journalism
College of Engineering and CompUTING
Jeremiah Jeffrey Shepherd
Darla moore school of business
Christine Glenski Accounting
College of Social work
Breanne Grace College of Social Work
Honors College
College of Pharmacy
Katherine Goldberg DeSaussure College
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management
Steven Taylor
Sport and Entertainment Management
ARNOLD School of public health
Elizabeth Anderson
Department of Exercise Science School of nursing
Marissa Bartmess
Professional Nursing Practice
THOMAS COOPER
Best Student-Run Business Breakfast Jawn
By Brynn Burke
THREE YEARS AGO, two Darla Moore School of Business students saw a need for a quick, delicious breakfast option on campus with a simple purpose: students feeding students. To fill this need, they opened The Breakfast Jawn, a food truck on Greene Street. The truck is open Monday through Friday and fully run by USC students. It serves breakfast burritos, bowls and pancakes.
Owners Logan Fowler and Jacob Matthew had the idea when they were looking for part-time jobs in the restaurant industry to earn extra money. When they couldn’t find the right fit, they decided to open their own restaurant on campus with the help of William Knapp, a College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management professor who works with Carolina Food Co., USC’s food service provider.
different ideas, and they tell us to go shoot for it.”
Now, a couple of years later, they’ve upgraded from a stand outside of Gambrell Hall to a food truck on Greene Street. Students can even use meal swipes to grab breakfast on their way to class.
The food truck remains entirely studentrun, including finances and hiring. Fowler and Matthew are making plans to ensure that Breakfast Jawn remains student-run after they graduate this spring.
“Getting to feed people is definitely the most rewarding,” Jacob Matthew, coowner of The Breakfast Jawn, said. “You wake up early on Friday morning, it’s not fun, but then you’re feeding 150 to 200 people.”
“We pitched our idea to them, they gave us a checklist of things we needed to do and that’s how we got our stand,” Fowler said. “They’ve been nothing but supportive of us. We come to them with
“We’re hoping that when we get that process done, that it continues into perpetuity,” Matthew said. “I think it’d be super cool if I come back for a football game in five years, and the truck’s still here with students still running it.”
Check out why Breakfast Jawn was voted the Best Student-Run Business, and enjoy $1 pancakes every Friday!
Congratulations to Erica Milliron on being named Best Professor in the Best of Carolina awards!
Erica Milliron is the director of CarolinaLIFE, the university’s inclusive postsecondary education program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Milliron works tirelessly to create learning environments that spur success for everyone. We are proud to be the home of this worldchanging program.
CarolinaLIFE students focus on academic instruction, career education and training, independent living, social and community engagment and personal development.
Best Black-Owned Business Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles
By Marley Bassett
ORIGINALLY OPENED IN 2012, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles has been nominated for a multitude of awards for their amazing soul food, especially their famous chicken and waffles.
The restaurant is co-owned by husband and wife chefs Kitwanda “Kiki” and Tyrone Cyrus, the restaurant first opened their doors in their location off of Parklane Road. The couple then opened two more locations, one on Bower Parkway in the Harbison district and one in North Charleston, South Carolina.
While they are most known for their chicken and waffles, Kiki’s serves up a
Clothing Store
wide array of down-home Southern soul food, including fried okra, macaroni and cheese bites, smothered pork chops, shrimp and grits and fried apple pie. The restaurant also hosts events, including live jazz and open mic nights.
The original restaurant has been host to many celebrities including Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, both of whom came while they were campaigning for president.
Kiki was named a S.C. Chef Ambassador in 2018, and last year she and her husband advanced to the semi-finalist round for the prestigious James Beard
Awards. Both were nominated for James
ratulations to College of Social Work Associate Professor Dr. Breanne for the well-deserved honor of being named the Best Professor for the College of Social Work!
BestBBQ/Ribs
HOME TEAM BBQ
By Brynn Burke
HOME TEAM BBQ, initially founded in Charleston, South Carolina, opened its fifth location in Columbia in May 2019. Since then, it has been voted Best of Carolina’s Best BBQ/Ribs multiple years in a row. The restaurant combines vintage decor with a modern twist on barbecue.
The menu features barbecue favorites like pulled pork, brisket and wings. They’re known for their signature rub and variety of sauces sitting right on the table. Tried and true Southern favorites are available every day in the center of Five Points, featuring classics like pulled pork sandwiches, sliced or chopped
brisket and smoked turkey. The menu goes beyond just barbecue and includes tacos, nachos and salads.
If you’re looking for a drink to pair with your meal, try the famous Gamechanger, a frozen rum drink guaranteed to blow you away with its refreshing flavor.
Home Team is more than a barbecue joint. Its ambiance is unmatched, with its eclectic decor covering the walls and plenty of TVs for watching the game. The restaurant even has a late-night menu for the bustling nightlife scene of Five Points.
Best Coffee Shop
Cool BEAns coffee company
By Olivia Ireland
IT COMES AS NO SURPRISE that Cool Beans Coffee Company has brewed up another win for Best Coffee Shop! With its welcoming environment and cozy ambiance, it is one of the top study spots, hangout areas and so much more.
“The customers set Cool Beans apart from other coffee shops,” said Ella Barnett, one of Cool Beans’ baristas. “Customers will come in for hours and that is how we build the relationships that we have.”
Cool Beans offers a cozy space with its friendly staff and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. The welcoming
space encourages customers to come in and stay.
“It’s a comfortable place to study, a spot for brunch with friends, or a quick coffee stop.” said frequent customer Avery Krudop.
Not only do they have delicious pastries and coffee, but they also host a weekly live mic event on Wednesdays for local artists. Barnett elaborates further on live poetry reading and live music.
“Overall, it is an opportunity for the local community to express themselves and show off their work,” Barnett said.
CONGRATULAT IO NS,
D R. Q UINTUS WR IG HTEN, JR
VOTE D BEST PROFESSOR IN THE SCH OO L OF MUSIC
A Carolina alumnus and former Carolina Band drum major, Dr. Wrighten serves as USC’s Assistant Director of Bands and Associate Director of Athletics Bands. Congratulations from the School of Music and USC Bands, and thank you for your work with our students and your service to our university. Forever to thee!
Cool Beans is only steps from campus and is open daily until 9 p.m. Its menu changes constantly, offering coffee lovers new drinks monthly. Whether you enjoy a classic caramel latte or are looking for a change, like an Italian Cream Soda, Cool Beans will always have something to offer!
Best Pizza
Village idiot
By Marley Bassett
VILLAGE IDIOT PIZZA has been spinning out pizzas to the Columbia community for over 30 years. With food this good and an atmosphere to match, it’s no wonder this pizza place is beloved by USC students and the city alike.
Originally opened in 1990, Village Idiot serves the community in two locations: in Five Points and at the Olympia Mills. The restaurant serves up a variety of New York-style pizzas, including specialties
and other traditional pizza fare like wings, mozzarella sticks and cannolis.
Not only does Village Idiot serve delicious food to the surrounding area, but it also serves the community through its Pizza for Preemies program. This program started in 2018 to support the March of Dimes during Prematurity Awareness Month in November and was launched a year after current owners Kelly and Brian Glynn brought home their premature
twins, who spent 71 days in the NICU. During the month of November, a portion of sales from both Columbia locations will go to the March of Dimes, and those who dine in on World Prematurity Day can buy their Pesto Preemievera to win free pizza.
Village Idiot Pizza serves up smiles for the Columbia area through its food and charitable efforts, so it is no surprise that it has once again won Best Pizza.
By Brynn Burke
“I’m a big people person. I tend to build a really good team. The staff that I have, I can’t even put into words. It’s my other family,” Taylor said.
FOR ALMOST 30 YEARS, Beezer’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop has been serving delicious sandwiches and other deli specialties right near the heart of campus. The history runs deep for Gamecocks of all ages. With late-night hours, good deals and quick service, the tradition of Beezer’s is a staple for the community.
This well-known deli is located next to the infamous Horseshoe. The location is convenient, but the secret sauce? Quick service and personal connection. If you’ve been to Beezer’s for the lunch rush, you might know Mr. Bill. The owner’s father works every day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and thrives on connecting with customers through quick conversations that mean something to everyone who walks through the door.
“He talks to everybody. Not only are you getting a good sandwich for cheap and fast, you’re also talking about your day,”
Chris Taylor, general manager of Beezer’s, said. “Maybe for 20 seconds, but you’re still getting to talk a little bit.”
Beezer’s has been hit with many challenges over the years. From COVID-19 to an increase in popular chains, it’s hard to keep up. Taylor stepped in five years ago and knew they had to make some changes while maintaining the traditional feel of the deli and keeping their regulars satisfied.
“Probably on a good day, 50 to 100 customers, I know what their sandwich is when they walk through the door,” said Taylor. “We’re so happy to have that.”
Beyond the fresh, homemade bread and the legendary Godfather sandwich, Beezer’s prides itself on their staff.
Beezer’s Gourmet Sandwich shop is truly unique. It’s a constant for alumni and students to come back year after year to bring back the feeling of Gamecock spirit and tradition. There’s something nostalgic about the photos on the walls and the emotional connection customers create with the staff.
Check out Beezer’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop and try the renowned Godfather. Or maybe shop their discounted day-old homemade bread for only $1. It’s a mustsee in Columbia – just ask the people who voted Beezer’s the Best Lunch.
Best Breakfast/Brunch
Another Broken Egg Cafe
By Olivia Ireland
ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE has cracked the code for winning Best Breakfast/Brunch for Best of Carolina 2025! With two locations, one on State Street and one on Devine Street, Another Broken Egg has a full menu of southernstyle inspired breakfast and brunch to offer new and returning customers. Whether you are looking for a classic breakfast with scrambled eggs or want to mix it up with a customizable omelet, Another Broken Egg is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Established in 1996 in Old Mandeville, Louisiana, Another Broken Egg has served customers for nearly 30 years! Today, the company has 70 locations in 14 different states and is still expanding across America.
Morgan Hilton has worked at Another Broken Egg for three years, first as a line
cook and now as a kitchen manager for its Columbia location. She believes the welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect place for brunch with friends or family.
“I think the great hospitality brings our guests back, and also having great food is a plus!” Hilton said.
Their menu offers a variety of dishes, varying from different types of omelets to sandwiches, classic breakfast foods and more. Waitress Alyssa Cargile believes this is one of the restaurant’s driving successes.
“With this being a national chain, I think the menus being the same between all of the restaurants, customers know that they can get the same thing wherever they are, and it will still be good,” Cargile said.
Another Broken Egg Cafe stays consistently excellent in food quality, warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere. With a diverse menu catering to various tastes and a commitment to making every customer feel at home, it’s no wonder this beloved breakfast spot has captured the heart of Columbia and other locations across America. Whether you’re a regular or a
Fresh GreenE’s Best VegetarianVegan/Options
Best Place for a Fancy Dinner
Best Asian Cuisine Halls Chophouse
Hibachi House
Best Sushi
Tsunami Vista
Best Mexican Food
Cantina 76
By Brynn Burke
HOME TO SOME OF THE BEST MEXICAN food in Columbia, Cantina 76 has become well-known among USC students for its tasty and affordable meals, amazing drinks and a great atmosphere to hang out with friends and family.
Owned by friends Jeb Babcock, Chad Elsey, Rob Ward and Craig Wyatt, they opened their first location on Devine Street in 2009 before expanding to a second location in Columbia on Main Street in 2013, with further locations opening up in Greenville, Mount Pleasant and Kiawah Island, South Carolina.
The restaurant is well-known for its variety of tacos, including barbecue brisket, fried chicken, jalapeño shrimp and surf ‘n’ turf. It also offers other Mexican-style foods, such as queso, enchiladas, chimichangas, nachos and chips and salsa.
In addition to having five-star food, Cantina 76 also has top-notch drinks that are the perfect complement to their food. They are best known for their tequila cocktails like The Cantina, Prickly Pear, Strawberry Basil or The Devine. Guests can also order the Margaritas Muy Bueno by the glass or by the pitcher on the rocks.
With everything excellent that Cantina
Photo By Tyler Sprague | GMG
Jake’s on Devine Best Five Points Bar
By Brynn Burke
JAKE’S ON DEVINE is a Five Points staple for students, Columbia natives, dog lovers and others. This unique bar offers a community within the district. While the crowd varies depending on the day, students take over during the school year, especially on Wednesdays.
“I have no idea where ‘Wednesday Night Jake’s’ stems from, but it’s a tradition that you can ask any USC student about. On Wednesday night, everyone’s going to Jake’s,” Abrianna Reaves, a fourth-year student at USC said. “It’s worth it to wait in line because sometimes it goes to the end of the street.”
They offer live music, late-night food and over 30 craft beers for energetic Five Points bar-goers. Create core memories with live music on the deck or play trivia on Tuesdays. The atmosphere and community are unmatched at Jake’s.
“It’s very versatile because you can have a lot of fun with your friends when it’s a big event like game day or the Santa Bar Crawl,” Reaves said. “But there’s also nights like trivia nights where it’s a little slower or more intimate and you can have fun with a smaller group of friends.” Jake’s is also known for its “Yappy Hour” and is the most dog-friendly bar in Five
Points. Dog owners can register their dog ahead of time and get a signature Jake’s bandana for their dog to rock all over Columbia. Yappy Hour is on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They even offer an annual Halloween Dog Costume Competition, where all proceeds go to local animal shelters.
Next time you’re in the mood for a fun night on the town, check out Jake’s on Devine to see for yourself why it was voted the Best Five Points Bar for Best of Carolina 2025.
By Tyler Sprague
SINCE 1992, Art Bar has been Vista’s most eclectic dive bar. It’s known for its vivid atmosphere and out-of-thisworld decor and has been voted Best of Carolina 2025’s Best Vista Bar!
With a full bar, lounge, dance floor and a kitchen open until midnight serving burgers, wings and sandwiches, Art Bar has something for everyone. In addition to its regular offerings, Art Bar hosts a different event every night. A manager and bartender who goes by the name Rosey says the events attract different crowds every night.
“I love that I can see different people every night of the week. Every time I come in, it’s like, it’s not the same, set night,” Rosey said. “It’s always got a little bit of a variable to it. So, you don’t know what you’re going to walk into on any night.”
Monday nights are Movie Mockery, a comedy show where comedians provide live commentary, making fun of a movie “Mystery Science Theater-style.” The shows occasionally feature additional music guests, raffles, and themed prize giveaways! Art Bar hosts improv comedy on Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are karaoke nights. Thursdays feature Useless Trivia with three rounds of trivia and up to $100 in prizes. Can’t make it on a weeknight? Art Bar has you covered with live music and DJs on Fridays and Saturdays.
put an effort into making this something unique for people to experience. I think that definitely sets it apart from anywhere else,” Rosey said.
After almost 20 years of working at Art Bar, Rosey says he can’t wait to continue to build the community Art Bar has created.
It’s not just the events that attract people from all over the city. Rosey believes Art Bar’s atmosphere and presence in the Columbia community is what makes it special.
“It’s definitely a unique vibe that nowhere else in this town has got. We care more
“We definitely appreciate the business, and we’re going to keep doing this. I work for some great people here, and I’m very happy that they allowed us to do what we’re able to do here for everybody,” Rosey said. “My main goal here is to make this a safe space for anybody that walks through that door.”
Best Sports Venue
WILLIAMS-BRICE STADIUM
By Alicia Caracciolo
THE PHRASE “SATURDAYS DOWN SOUTH” takes on a meaning bigger than most people can imagine in the city of Columbia, South Carolina.
Every single 2024 home Gamecock Football game was sold out, and it is no surprise that the stadium earned the title of Best Sports Venue for the eighth year
The student experience at Willy-B, as it is affectionately known, is one of excitement and energy.
“You walk in, and everyone is so excited to be there,”
student Sydney Dunlap said. “I really feed off of the energy of the crowd in that
Williams-Brice Stadium brings people together for the love of the Gamecocks, the love of the university and the love of
The Frat Lots Best Tailgating Spot
THE THIRD FLOOR Best Local Musician
By Francesca Cumello & Tyler Sprague
ONCE AGAIN, THE THIRD FLOOR of the University of South Carolina’s Capstone Residence Hall is the namesake of 2025’s Best Local Musician, The Third Floor. The group of friends who lived in the same dorm hall have quickly become one of Columbia’s favorite homegrown bands. Ryan Pellatt (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Neal Goldberg (bass), Nick Guzman (vocals, drums) and Carter Vogt (lead guitar) have been together for about three years, first playing as a group at the Koger Center for the Arts in a battle of the bands.
Each member developed a passion for music from a very young age. Pellatt began playing the piano when he was six and continued throughout his childhood. “It wasn’t until junior year of high school that I started teaching myself guitar and
He had a lot of practice over those two years and then “took a year off of school after high school before starting (his) freshman year of college and played guitar every single day.”
This lifelong journey has led to great things for The Third Floor, most notably opening for COIN at USC’s Cockstock concert in October 2023 and performing at the Jam Room Music Festival in November 2023.
This is quite a feat for the band members, who are also full-time students at USC. Balancing being college students and musicians is no easy task, but Pellatt said they have been able to make it work.
“It certainly gets difficult sometimes, but we are all very driven in both our studies and our music. Most of our gigs and shows happen at night, so there is little conflict with classes. However, we all certainly need to budget our time well so that we can get homework done and study for exams. There have been a few gigs we’ve had to turn down because of school as well as assignments turned in late because of gigs. But overall, there isn’t too much conflict with school and music,” Pellatt said.
With their recently released singles “Marlboro Blues” and “Feelin’ Again, “ the band already has new lyrics to sing along to. Listeners should watch for their next
COLONIAL LIFE ARENA
By Zoe Baskerville & Tyler Sprague
entertainment center, being voted Best Concert Venue for the fifth year in a row!
Colonial Life is versatile, regularly hosting major national musical and comedic acts. The arena has brought big names such as the Hootie and the Blowfish, the Jonas Brothers and The Eagles to the heart of Columbia.
Fans routinely fill the arena with
electrifying energy each winter to support the men’s and women’s basketball teams that call Colonial Life home. Those seeking a thrill in the offseason of college basketball won’t be disappointed, as events from WWE Smackdown to Monster Jam come to the venue throughout the year.
Owned by the University of South Carolina, the concert venue also plays a crucial role in student life. In January 2025, Colonial Life hosted Cockstock,
a lively concert opened by Mariah the Scientist and headlined by Quavo, with reduced ticket prices for USC students.
Coming up this year, Colonial Life Arena will welcome artists like Trey Songz and Bow Wow in April, as well as comedians Katt Williams in May and Nate Bargatze in August. Also, keep an eye out for their special events like Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo on March 7 and 8 and Disney on Ice and Monster Jam 2025 in April.
The University of South Carolina’s Department of Sport and Entertainment Management is among the world’s best programs of its kind, combining classroom experiences from a world-class faculty with unmatched opportunities.
The Department of Sport and Entertainment Management at the University of South Carolina proudly celebrates you on being named Best College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management Faculty Member.
St. Pat’s in five points Best Local Festival
By Brynn Burke
ST. PAT’S IN FIVE POINTS is a combination of music, culture and community hosted by the Five Points Association to bring people together for the energetic holiday. Tens of thousands of people come to see a lineup of musicians, try local foods and snap a picture with the green fountain.
family-friendly event includes VIP areas, a playground for kids and fun activities throughout Five Points.
The festival celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, but it also works to benefit local charities in Columbia. It has raised over a million dollars over the past 42 years and contributes more than $12 million annually to the local economy.
“Everyone’s there to have fun and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day,” Brown said. “I’ve never had a bad experience with anyone. Everyone’s there to listen to music and have fun.”
“They have four stages set up, so you look at the lineup beforehand and decide which concerts you want to go to,”
Molly Brown, a fourth-year student, said. “You go stage to stage listening to the concerts you’ve picked out.”
“It’s an all-day concert. It starts with a 5K in the morning,” said Brown. “You can come all day to Five Points, and it’s easy to walk to.”
This jack-of-all-trades festival caters to everyone. From a 5K to live music performance and everything in between, it’s hard not to have fun at South Carolina’s biggest one-day festival.
By Brynn Burke
SODA CITY MARKET is Columbia’s combination of culture and community, and it is part of most people’s weekend routines.
Every Saturday morning, people from all over the Southeast gather on Main Street to shop local vendors, gather fresh produce and enjoy the feeling of a screen-free social outing. Soda City Market was founded in 2005 as a small farmers’ market and was moved to Main Street in 2012, where it has continued to grow year after year.
hope for the future and achieving your dreams. It does that for USC students and beyond,” Pope said.
With 200 vendors every weekend, Soda City Market guarantees something for everyone, in addition to bringing together the community.
Olivia Pope, business and finance manager for Soda City Market, started as a vendor herself and fell in love with its surrounding community.
“It was filling a void for what Columbia needed at the time,” Pope said. “Now, in 2025, it fills that void, but it does so much
where they can ensure the products they buy are sustainable and grown locally. It’s easy to get inspired walking down the street and observing the unique creativity of each of the vendors. The market goes beyond local craftsmanship. Market lovers can enjoy live music on every block, discover new artists and immerse themselves in new foods from the melting pot of vendors that line the blocks.
“It encapsulates what is possible for you as a person and the spirit of entrepreneurship. It’s also a vision of
“I think now, more so than ever, community and gathering spaces are so important. Younger generations are looking for slow, screenless activities,” Pope said.
This off-campus social outing is just a short walk from the university, making it perfect for students to immerse themselves in something unique every Saturday morning.
Photo By Tyler Sprague | GMG
By Olivia Ireland
CAROLINA STYLES has been crowned the Best Hair Salon for Best of Carolina 2025! Conveniently located on the third floor of Russell House University Union, the salon offers various cuts and styles with a long history of serving the university community. If you are looking for a new ’do, Carolina Styles has you covered!
Carolina Styles has become a beloved hair salon known for its exceptional service and welcoming atmosphere. Owner Wanda Davis takes pride in creating personalized haircuts and styles that complement each client’s individuality. Davis has been operating Carolina Styles for over 30 years and continues to build stronger relationships with each client daily.
Client Pearl Thomas says she has been a customer for those three decades, and she and Davis became friends over the
many years she’s been getting her hair done.
“My regular customers have continued to come back over the years; even students that have been here for four years and graduated will still come back for services, including quite a few staff members,” Davis said. “Building a relationship with each client, through my work and communication, is what brings customers back.”
With a talented stylist like Davis, the salon has become a beloved spot on USC’s campus. For students who may not have transportation to off-campus salons and barber shops, Davis provides an easy way to maintain their personal style, including haircuts, updos, beard trims, braids and locks.
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when salon visits were not possible, she
was dedicated to prioritizing customers.
Best Tattoo/Piercing
IMMACULATE PIERCING
By Grace Farrar & Tyler Sprague
BEFORE IMMACULATE PIERCING
opened its doors in 2007, owner Sarah Wooten had a vision for the studio and the perfect name to describe it.
“It means perfectly, unquestionably, spotlessly clean,” Wooten said. “It seemed a good fit for how we do what we do.”
She set out to provide the Columbia community with a reputable piercing studio, and Immaculate Piercing is still going strong 18 years later.
Immaculate Piercing offers a wide array of services, but the most popular is earlobe piercing. Other popular piercings
include the helix, nostril, conch and tragus. Appointments are preferred and fill up fast, so be sure to book them in advance! There are also limited hours for walk-in jewelry shopping each week.
Pricing varies, but each piercing has a service and jewelry fee, and they stock jewelry pieces of every type for every budget. If you want multiple piercings in one appointment, there is a $10 discount on each additional piercing. Regardless of your piercing, you can be sure you’re getting the best service in town.
“Our core belief is that everyone deserves safe, appropriately performed piercings,
with quality jewelry that can last a lifetime, delivered by friendly people in a welcoming atmosphere,” Wooten said.
Take On The South, the podcast of USC's Institute for Southern Studies, explores the complexity of the United States' most distinctive region through conversations with those who think, write, teach, and reflect on the South, both historically and today. We examine the highs and lows of the American South through interesting conversations about everything from pro wrestling to poetry, and gumbo to grits!
Questions? For more information about the minor in Southern Studies, email Dr. Matt Simmons at simmonwm@mailbox.sc.edu.
Congratulations to Senior Instructor KELLY DAVIS!
VOTED BEST CIC PROFESSOR FOR 2025
“Thank you for always being there for our students! Your dedication to making every interaction count adds immeasurably to the warm and caring atmosphere in our school and in the college as a whole.”
Damion Waymer Director, School of Journalism and Mass Communications
Commitments to Experiential Learning: The Carolina Agency Bateman PR Competition Public Relations Student Society of America
Best Gym
Wellness and fitness center
By Kara Rottmann
RIGHT OFF BLOSSOM STREET sits the Wellness and Fitness Center, USC’s student hub for all things fitness. The spacious gym has equipment and machines for nearly every exercise imaginable, a 52-foot rock wall and even an outdoor pool. From getting your heart rate up to relaxing in the South Carolina sun, it truly has something for every student at USC.
The gym first opened its doors in 2003, providing a large space for students to unwind from a busy academic routine. Now, the three-story gym remains a bustling community and a versatile place for every individual’s needs.
From workout classes to pick-up basketball games, students can enjoy many activities during their free time. The fitness center has intramural sports leagues, weights for every lifting ability, sports equipment and dedicated spaces for raquetball and handball. Yet, its amenities go beyond the building itself, as its Outdoor Recreation program takes students outside the bounds of campus. Opportunities include kayaking along the Congaree River and skiing at Snowshoe Mountain.
On campus, activities such as table tennis and other organized games are available on site. Students can enjoy
