Columbia, South Carolina, offers more than just Southern charm steeped in history and culture. It’s also a paradise for those with a refined sweet tooth. While national chains like Insomnia Cookies and Baked Bear provide reliable treats, those seeking a truly unique and memorable dessert experience should venture beyond the familiar and explore the heart of Columbia’s vibrant local scene.
In the Midlands, dessert isn’t merely an afterthought; it’s elevated to an art form. Local shops, cafes, and bakeries pour their passion into crafting exquisite treats that delight the palate and awaken the senses. From imaginative interiors brimming with character to cherished family recipes handed down through generations, Columbia’s dessert landscape caters to every preference. Whether you’re a chocolate enthusiast craving an indulgent brownie sundae, a gelato lover seeking exotic flavors, or a devoted cheesecake admirer, Columbia harbors a hidden gem awaiting your discovery.
Forgo the ordinary and embark on a sweet journey through the Midlands! Leave behind mass-produced confections and embrace the creativity that defines Columbia’s local dessert destinations. We’ve assembled a carefully selected list of the city’s most cherished sweet spots, so arm yourself with a spoon (or fork!), prepare to be astonished, and ready yourself for a dessert experience as distinctive and unforgettable as Columbia itself!
- 1333 Main St. Columbia, SC 29201
A Columbia fixture, Nibl Dessert & Cafe distinguishes itself through its innovative blend of Asian-inspired sweets and ethically sourced coffee and tea. Their menu, featuring freshly baked daily offerings, showcases enticing treats such as goat cheese basque cheesecake, lemon poppy seed pound cake, and matcha brownies, alongside an appealing array of crepe cakes. Coffee enthusiasts will value Nibl’s dedication to ethical sourcing, offering lattes, cortados, cappuccinos, and various espresso beverages to accompany your sweet indulgence. Columbia residents assert that Nibl’s distinctive concept, fresh ingredients, and unwavering commitment to quality position it as a leading contender in the city’s dessert landscape.
Bingsu
Panna Cotta
Espresso
Hot Tea
- 1237 Washington St. Columbia, SC 29201
“The Strudel Shop” in Columbia transcends the typical bakery experience. This intimate establishment, led by Chef Kevin, fondly known as “The Strudel Man,” transforms the modest strudel into a culinary masterpiece. Their daily-prepared menu showcases both sweet and savory strudels, with fillings spanning from traditional apple and cherry to innovative options like chicken pot pie and eggs Florentine. The Strudel Shop’s offerings extend beyond pastries, featuring gourmet soups, salads, sandwiches, and their renowned locally-favored chicken pot pie. Chef Kevin’s enthusiasm is evident in the open kitchen, and with gentle encouragement, patrons might even enjoy an impromptu piano recital! Columbia residents praise The Strudel Shop’s distinctive offerings, inviting ambiance, and dedication to excellence, securing its position as a frontrunner in the city’s varied dessert landscape.
Strudel
Cinnamon Roll
Focaccia Bread
Bread Pudding
- 1627 Main St. Columbia, SC 29201
Sweet Cream Co. distinguishes itself from typical ice cream parlors. This downtown Columbia treasure specializes in small-batch, handcrafted ice cream using fresh, local ingredients. Their innovative flavor creations consistently enchant patrons, with offerings like blackberry kale, lavender honey, and whiskey pecan enticing adventurous taste buds alongside traditional favorites such as Madagascar vanilla and dark chocolate. Sweet Cream Co. accommodates those with dietary restrictions, providing sorbet options and addressing various allergies. They also feature delectable homemade waffle cones, milkshakes, and cold brew coffee, making it an ideal destination for a sweet indulgence or a leisurely beverage. Columbia residents assert that Sweet Cream Co.’s dedication to fresh, local ingredients, creative flavors, and artisanal quality positions it as a leading contender in the city’s dynamic dessert landscape.
Waffle Cone
Cookie Sandwich
Spiced Chai
Coffee
- 5580 Sunset Blvd. Lexington, SC 29072
Mingos Cookies & Bubble Tea offers more than just sweet indulgences; it cultivates a festive and enjoyable atmosphere. This Columbia favorite provides a delightful retreat for all ages, ideal for birthdays, holidays, or simply as a mood lifter. Their renowned specialty is their oversized, gourmet cookies, freshly baked daily in an assortment of flavors including chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, and red velvet. Mingos’ offerings extend beyond cookies, featuring an enticing array of bubble tea flavors with extensive customization options to craft your ideal beverage. This lively establishment, known for its amiable staff and welcoming ambiance, is cherished by locals for its scrumptious treats, playful environment, and emphasis on creating lasting memories. Columbia residents highlight Mingos Cookies & Bubble Tea for its winning combination of delectable cookies, refreshing bubble tea, and a cheerful, celebratory atmosphere, securing its position as a frontrunner in the city’s eclectic dessert landscape.
Slushie Boba
Chocolate Chip
S'mores Cookie
Milk tea
- Location May Vary
Yearning for a donut with a distinctive flair? The Donut Guy in Columbia, SC, is your destination. This exceptional establishment elevates the traditional donut experience by emphasizing gourmet flavors and premium, fresh ingredients. Forget the stale, greasy offerings of chain stores – The Donut Guy presents handcrafted creations brimming with ingenuity. Their menu features a constantly evolving array of donuts, including options like maple bacon, salted caramel pretzel, and even Fruity Pebbles. The appeal extends beyond toppings – the donuts themselves come in delightful varieties such as glazed, cake, and old-fashioned, ensuring a selection for every palate. Columbia residents extol The Donut Guy’s commitment to quality, innovative flavors, and devotion to freshness. This unique approach and focus on artisanal excellence position The Donut Guy as a leading contender in the city’s dynamic dessert landscape.
Apple Fritter
Maple Glazed
Cookie Crumble
Cinnabon
- 930 Gervais St. Columbia, SC 29201
Venture beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in a realm of luxurious desserts at Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe. This Columbia staple captivates patrons with a rotating array of exquisite treats, all prepared in-house daily. Savor extravagant interpretations of beloved classics like cookies and cakes, alongside distinctive creations unique to this establishment. Envision towering milkshakes crowned with whipped cream and confections, or “adult milkshakes” that blend ice cream with spirits and coffee for an intoxicating twist. For those favoring traditional options, Kaminsky’s offers an enticing selection of layer cakes, cheesecakes, and pies, all crafted from scratch using premium ingredients. Beer, wine, and liquor choices complete the menu, rendering Kaminsky’s ideal for a refined dessert experience or a lively evening with friends. Columbia residents assert that Kaminsky’s distinctive ambiance, inventive menu, and dedication to quality homemade desserts position it as a frontrunner in the city’s diverse confectionery landscape.
Cookie
Cobbler
Cheesecake
Brownie
- 1465 Sumter St. Columbia, SC 29201
Immerse yourself in a Parisian cafe experience at Crêpes & Croissants, a Columbia treasure specializing in French pastry delights. This enchanting venue offers a delightful retreat from the ordinary, featuring a menu brimming with sweet and savory crêpes, delicate croissants, and luxurious pastries. Observe skilled bakers crafting warm, buttery croissants daily, ideal for a light breakfast or afternoon indulgence. Yearning for something more sumptuous? Crêpes & Croissants presents an enticing array of sweet crêpes, filled with classic combinations like Nutella and bananas or seasonal fruits and preserves. Feeling adventurous? Select a savory crêpe stuffed with ham, cheese, and vegetables for a fulfilling lunch option. Enhance your pastry experience with a cup of rich coffee or a selection of specialty teas to complete the authentic French ambiance. Columbia residents affirm that Crêpes & Croissants’ charming atmosphere, dedication to authentic French pastries, and commitment to quality ingredients establish it as a frontrunner in the city’s diverse dessert landscape.
Croissant
Macaron
Muffin
Coffee
- 1213 Lincoln St. Columbia, SC 29201
Imbued with Southern charm, Cupcake Down South stands as a Columbia favorite renowned for its enchanting cupcakes and commitment to premium ingredients. This local treasure eschews artificial flavors and preservatives, instead embracing fresh, all-natural components such as genuine vanilla beans, sweet cream butter, and seasonal fruits. The outcome? Cupcakes that are not only scrumptious but also brimming with authentic flavor. Cupcake Down South’s menu features a revolving selection of traditional and innovative cupcake varieties, ensuring a treat to satisfy every palate. From lavish chocolate creations to invigorating fruit-filled options, all their cupcakes are freshly baked daily and adorned with delightful frostings and imaginative decorations. Yet Cupcake Down South extends beyond cupcakes – they also present an alluring array of other sweet indulgences like cookies, brownies, and cheesecakes. Columbia residents affirm that Cupcake Down South’s dedication to quality, emphasis on fresh ingredients, and embrace of classic Southern charm establish it as a frontrunner in the city’s dynamic dessert landscape.
Vanilla Bean
Limon Blu
Chocoholic
Creamsicle
- 1614A Main St. Columbia, SC 29201
Enter a realm of refinement and indulgence at The Robinson Room, Columbia’s upscale dessert and cocktail establishment. This elegant venue elevates the dessert experience by focusing on sophisticated pastries, innovative tapas, and artisanal cocktails. Unlike typical dessert shops, The Robinson Room presents a menu that appeals to both sweet and savory preferences. Savor house-made pastries such as sumptuous chocolate crinkle cookies layered with Baileys Irish Cream cheesecake or a refreshing strawberry and rhubarb ice cream sandwich nestled between lemon shortbread cookies. Yearning for something savory? The Robinson Room offers an enticing array of tapas, ideal for sharing or enjoying as a light meal. Complete your experience by pairing your dessert or tapas with one of their ingenious cocktails, featuring house-made syrups and distinctive flavor combinations. Columbia residents extol The Robinson Room’s refined ambiance, imaginative menu selections, and dedication to artisanal quality, establishing it as a top choice for a memorable dessert or romantic evening out.
Bourbon Pudding
Smoked Apple Tatin
Cheesecake
- 110 Clemson Rd. Columbia, SC 29229
Yearning for a scoop (or two) of bliss? Look no further than Lick Ice Cream, a Columbia fixture renowned for its artisanal ice cream and lively atmosphere. Lick eschews mass-produced flavors, instead embracing small-batch creations crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Their distinctive flavor profiles consistently enchant patrons, with options like bourbon pecan pie, lavender honey, and salted caramel pretzel enticing adventurous palates alongside classics such as Madagascar vanilla and dark chocolate. Don’t hesitate to venture beyond your usual choices – Lick encourages flavor exploration through their amiable staff and generous sampling policy. Beyond ice cream, Lick offers an appealing selection of house-made waffle cones, milkshakes, and sundaes, ideal for crafting your personalized sweet indulgence. Columbia residents assert that Lick Ice Cream’s dedication to fresh ingredients, innovative flavors, and artisanal quality positions it as a frontrunner in the city’s dynamic dessert landscape.
Bubble Waffle
Taco Waffle
Dipped N' Coated
Brownie
