New Eats in Columbia SC 2024: Tacos, BBQ, and Beyond!

Unique Eats & Hidden Gems: Discover Columbia's Newest Food Scene

moakoreanguy
June 14, 2024
1:24 pm

Columbia, South Carolina, is no stranger to delicious dining. From the smoky allure of its world-famous barbecue to the comforting embrace of Southern staples, the city’s food scene has always held a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of locals and visitors alike. However, Columbia is not resting on its laurels. The year 2024 has witnessed a vibrant explosion of innovative eateries, each bringing a unique flavor and experience to the ever-evolving culinary landscape.

This year is not just about quantity, though. It’s about diversity. Whether you’re a dedicated carnivore seeking the perfect brisket or a health-conscious foodie searching for vibrant plant-based options, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings in Columbia’s newest restaurants. Upscale establishments with meticulously crafted dishes and breathtaking presentations are sharing the city’s sidewalks with trendy fast-casual spots offering quick, flavorful meals perfect for a busy lunch break.

What truly sets Columbia’s new restaurants apart is their commitment to local sourcing. Many establishments are procuring ingredients directly from South Carolina farms, bringing a farm-to-table freshness that shines through in every bite. This dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients not only supports local agriculture but also ensures that every meal captures the essence of Columbia’s unique spirit.

So, grab your appetite and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure! With a mix of global influences and Southern charm, Columbia’s newest restaurants offer something for everyone. From fiery Latin American flavors to the comforting embrace of classic Italian comfort food, prepare to be surprised and delighted by the creativity and passion that’s defining Columbia’s 2024 dining scene.

Drake’s Duck-In

American

March 2024
1544 Main St. Columbia, SC 29201

A beloved Columbia institution is back! Drake’s Duck-In, a local favorite since 1907, has recently completed a full renovation and reopened its doors in March 2024. This Columbia staple is once again serving its legendary chicken sandwich, a menu highlight alongside breakfast and lunch options. According to customer reviews, Drake’s Duck-In boasts a menu packed with crowd-pleasers, including its famous chicken sandwich, bologna sandwich, chili dog, chicken wings, chicken & waffles, and crispy fries. Are you looking for a taste of Columbia history with a modern twist? Head down to Drake’s Duck-In and experience their newly renovated space while enjoying their classic dishes!

Chicken Sandwiches

Fish

Waffles

TakoSushi

Fusion

May 2024
4711 Forest Dr. Columbia, SC 29206

South Carolina’s favorite fusion restaurant, TakoSushi, has made its arrival in Forest Acres! This new location marks their fifth in the state, offering locals a unique blend of Asian and Southwestern cuisine. TakoSushi is renowned for its delectable sushi creations, alongside a menu brimming with flavorful appetizers. They have built a loyal following for their enticing lunch specials and maintain a vibrant dinner crowd on weekends. Are you craving sushi rolls or a satisfying stir-fry? Or perhaps tamales and sizzling quesadillas are more your style? TakoSushi caters to diverse palates, ensuring there is a dish to tantalize everyone’s taste buds. Are you looking for a delicious and innovative dining experience in Forest Acres? Head to the new TakoSushi location and support this exciting addition to the local food scene!

Sushi

Burritos

Vicious Biscuit

American

April 2024
3246 Forest Dr. Columbia, SC 29204

This one is for the Columbia breakfast enthusiasts! Vicious Biscuit, a beloved South Carolina-born restaurant chain, has officially opened its doors in the Forest Acres area. This exciting addition to the Columbia food scene is already winning over locals with its mouthwatering menu. Customer reviews rave about Vicious Biscuit’s extensive breakfast offerings, featuring everything from shrimp & grits to a vast selection of biscuit creations. Craving pancakes or waffles? They have you covered! And for those seeking an extra kick to start their day, Vicious Biscuit even offers a selection of breakfast cocktails. Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying breakfast experience in Forest Acres? Head to the new Vicious Biscuit location and discover why it’s quickly becoming a Columbia favorite!

Biscuits

Breakfast Varieties

Slim Chickens

American

May 2024
456 Killian Rd. Columbia, SC 29203

Slim Chickens, a popular restaurant chain renowned for its delicious fried chicken, has officially opened its sixth South Carolina location on Kilian Rd. This new addition offers a wide variety of crave-worthy chicken dishes, from juicy sandwiches and crispy tenders to flavorful wings and golden fries. Don’t forget to explore their tempting sides like milkshakes and waffles! Locals are raving about the chicken tender basket, mac and cheese, fried okra, fried pickles, fried mushrooms, and the wings. Whether you’re seeking a quick and satisfying lunch or a casual dinner with friends, Slim Chickens has something to satisfy every appetite. Are you ready to experience the Slim Chickens phenomenon for yourself? Head to their new location on Kilian Rd. and join the Northeast Columbia community in welcoming this exciting addition to the local food scene!

Wings

Tenders

Sandwiches

Wraps

Prohibition

American

April 2024
1556 Main St. Columbia, SC 29201

History buffs and cocktail connoisseurs rejoice! Prohibition Bar & Restaurant, the Charleston institution renowned for its immersive speakeasy experience, has officially opened its doors in Columbia, SC. This exciting addition to the Columbia food scene promises a one-of-a-kind dining experience that transports you back to the glamour and intrigue of the Jazz Age. Prohibition Columbia boasts an expertly crafted menu from a team of veteran chefs. Their offerings include delectable dishes like lobster rolls and grass-fed short rib burgers, alongside tempting flatbreads and classic wings. But the magic doesn’t stop there! Prohibition boasts an experienced Beverage Director who has curated a hand-crafted drink selection to tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in signature cocktails like the Cherry Sour or the Carolina Wren, or explore their extensive wine and beer offerings. Local reviews rave about Prohibition Columbia’s unique atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a memorable evening out. Whether you’re seeking a delicious meal or a night of handcrafted cocktails in a stylish setting, Prohibition Columbia has something to offer everyone. Step back in time and experience the Prohibition era in style! Visit Prohibition Bar & Restaurant in Columbia today.

Flatbreads

Burgers

Steak

Wings

Sully’s Streamers

American

February 2024
5580 Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072

Get ready to experience a unique and delicious twist on the classic bagel sandwich. Sully’s Steamers, a fast-casual restaurant franchise known for its mouthwatering steamed bagel creations, has arrived in downtown Columbia! This marks the eighth location for the South Carolina-born chain, bringing their innovative concept to Devine St. Unlike traditional toasted bagels, Sully’s utilizes a unique steaming process that creates a soft, chewy texture perfect for their overflowing fillings. Their menu boasts a variety of steamer combinations, from breakfast favorites like the Breakfast Bagel to meaty masterpieces like the Meat Chimney. Craving something lighter? The Smoked Salmon option is sure to satisfy. Sully’s Steamers takes pride in its South Carolina roots. By visiting their new Devine St. location, you can not only experience a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure but also show your support for a local success story.

Bagel Sandwiches