Columbia, SC Romantic Restaurants 2024: A Local’s Guide

Wine, Dine, and Romance: Restaurants with Unforgettable Atmosphere

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Are you craving a romantic night out in Columbia, SC? We’ve got you covered! Whether you’re sparking a new flame on a first date or rekindling the fire for your anniversary, Columbia’s vibrant restaurant scene offers something special for every couple.

This local’s favorite list highlights the top romantic restaurants in Columbia, SC for 2024. From intimate fine-dining experiences to charming cafes with sidewalk seating, we’ve got you covered. Our curated list features restaurants known for their ambiance, delicious food, and impeccable service, ensuring an unforgettable evening for you and your special someone.

Beyond ambiance, many of these restaurants focus on inventive, shareable plates, perfect for creating a memorable dining experience together. So, ditch the standard dinner fare and delve into a culinary adventure designed to tantalize your taste buds and spark conversation.

Have you thought of having an interactive date night at a restaurant? MOA Korean BBQ & Bar offers a fun twist on traditional dining. Imagine grilling your favorite meats and seafood together at your table, creating a memorable culinary adventure for two. While visitors make light of the “outstanding food” and “upscale ambiance,” the grill-at-your-table experience fosters a sense of connection and shared experience, perfect for sparking conversation and laughter. Don’t forget to explore their extensive bar menu for the perfect beverage to complement your sizzling date night at MOA.

Mandoo

Bibimbap

Stir-Fry

Bulgogi

Talk about romantic! Colas Restaurant, housed in a charming former bottling company, boasts rave reviews for its “warm and inviting atmosphere.” Diners consistently praise the “excellent service” and “eclectic American fare,” raving about dishes like the “sesame-encrusted asparagus” and “Mahi Mahi and Shrimp.” Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual date night, Colas Restaurant’s winning combination of ambiance, delicious food, and friendly service makes it a local favorite for Columbia romance.

Filet Mignon

Wine

Crème Brûlée

Step back in time for a romantic escape at Saluda’s Restaurant. Housed in a historic building, this Columbia staple wows with its “fresh, exciting atmosphere” and “white-linen tables.” Visitors praise the “impeccable service” and a menu featuring “reimagined Southern classics with a twist.” Imagine sharing a delectable plate of shrimp and grits or indulging in their melt-in-your-mouth steak Diane. Saluda’s offers a timeless elegance perfect for celebrating anniversaries or a new love. Don’t miss the opportunity to clink glasses at the “antique mahogany bar” for a truly unforgettable evening.

Crab Cakes

Oysters

Salads

Wine

How about a touch of Parisian flair for your date night? Motor Supply Co. Bistro brings a slice of France to Columbia. Visitors rave about the “lively atmosphere” balanced with a “romantic ambiance,” perfect for conversation and connection. The “French-inspired menu” focuses on seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh and flavorful culinary experience. Imagine sharing a decadent dessert or clinking glasses with a bottle of French wine in their beautiful patio seating. Motor Supply Co. Bistro offers a unique and memorable escape, perfect for sparking romance in the heart of Columbia.

Seafood

Salads

Wine

Unwind and connect at Lula Drake Wine Parlour. This sophisticated wine bar boasts a “warm, inviting atmosphere” and an “extensive wine list,” perfect for a cozy date night. Visitors highlight the “knowledgeable staff” who will help you discover the perfect bottle to share. Lula Drake’s focus on “small plates” encourages conversation and exploration of unique flavor combinations. Imagine indulging in artisan cheeses and cured meats, or savoring decadent desserts in their intimate setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or a casual night out, Lula Drake Wine Parlour offers a charming escape for Columbia couples.

Charcuterie

Pasta

Desserts

Full Bar

Terra Restaurant elevates romance with its “modern, elegant atmosphere” and ever-evolving “tasting menu.” Visitors praise the restaurant’s “impeccable service” and focus on “fresh, seasonal ingredients.” Imagine indulging in a multi-course culinary adventure designed to surprise and delight your taste buds. Terra provides the perfect backdrop for conversation and connection, making it a Columbia favorite for celebrating love or sparking something new. Don’t miss their expertly curated wine list, offering the perfect pairing for your romantic feast.

Salads

Lamb

Pizza

Full Bar

Smoked Restaurant offers a vibrant twist on romance. Customers highlight the “award-winning” house-smoked meats and “extensive seafood selection,” the “warm and inviting atmosphere” creates a perfect backdrop for connection. Imagine sharing a plate of succulent barbecue or indulging in fresh oysters on their spacious outdoor patio. Smoked offers a casual yet sophisticated ambiance, perfect for conversation and enjoying a memorable evening together. Don’t forget to explore their cocktail menu for the perfect libation to complement your smoky date night.

Seafood

Steak

Pasta

Cocktails

Step back in time for a charmingly romantic date night at Villa Tronco. This Columbia institution, housed in a historic firehouse, boasts a “warm, inviting atmosphere” steeped in family history. Visitors rave about the “authentic Italian cuisine” and the legendary “Carmella’s Famous Cheesecake.” Imagine cozying up in a brick-walled booth and sharing a classic pasta dish or indulging in a wood-fired pizza. Villa Tronco offers a touch of nostalgia and a taste of Italy, perfect for creating lasting memories with your special someone. Don’t miss their extensive wine list for the ideal pairing.

Salad

Seafood

Pasta

Cocktails

How about a touch of modern energy for your date night? Gervais & Vine offers a vibrant atmosphere with a touch of romance. Visitors consistently praise the “creative, modern American cuisine” and the “extensive drink menu,” perfect for sparking conversation and exploration. Imagine sharing a delectable charcuterie board or indulging in their house-made pasta on their beautiful outdoor patio. Gervais & Vine’s lively ambiance is balanced with “attentive service,” creating a memorable experience for Columbia couples seeking a night out that’s both fun and romantic.

Tapas

Wines

Cocktails

For a modern and sophisticated date night, SakiTumi Grill & Sushi Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere perfect for sharing and connection. While visitors emphasize the “fresh, delicious sushi” and “extensive menu,” the “elegant ambiance” creates an ideal backdrop for romance. Imagine indulging in beautifully plated sushi rolls or sharing a taste of their creative cocktails. SakiTumi offers a unique twist on a classic date night, perfect for conversation and enjoying a memorable evening together. Don’t miss their extensive sake selection for the ideal pairing.

Tapas

Sushi

Desserts