Small Business Saturday: Restaurant Edition Columbia, SC 2024

A Foodie's Guide to Columbia, SC Local Small Businesses

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Small Business Saturday is an opportunity to celebrate the distinct character and allure of our local communities. In Columbia, SC, there’s no finer way to demonstrate your support than by patronizing one of the city’s numerous exceptional local eateries. Columbia’s culinary landscape is a vibrant mosaic of flavors, mirroring the city’s rich heritage and diverse culture. From Southern comfort staples like barbecue and fried chicken to international cuisines inspired by global influences, there’s a dish to please every palate. Whether you’re an experienced gourmet or simply seeking a delectable meal, you’ll discover it all in the heart of the city. A distinguishing feature of Columbia’s local restaurants is their dedication to utilizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many chefs take pride in supporting regional farmers and producers, ensuring their dishes are not only flavorful but also sustainable. This commitment to quality and sustainability has propelled Columbia’s food scene to new heights. Beyond the exquisite cuisine, Columbia’s local restaurants offer welcoming and inviting atmospheres. Whether you’re in search of a casual dining experience or a special occasion venue, you’ll find an establishment that meets your requirements. From quaint cafes with outdoor seating to upscale eateries with elegant dining rooms, there’s an option for every preference. By opting to dine at local restaurants on Small Business Saturday, you’re not only supporting these enterprises but also contributing to Columbia’s vibrant culture and economy. You’re helping to generate jobs, promote local sourcing, and foster a sense of community. Join us as we explore some of Columbia’s finest local restaurants and discover why this city is a culinary haven. From hidden gems to beloved favorites, there’s something for everyone to savor. Let’s make this Small Business Saturday memorable by supporting the businesses that make Columbia truly special.

For an exceptionally unique and gratifying breakfast or lunch outing, make your way to Bart’s Crazy Good Coffee. This Columbia treasure transcends the typical diner experience. While they offer classic comfort food staples such as piping hot tomato soup and fluffy ham and egg platters, Bart’s transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. Their renowned Reuben sandwich, a local favorite, features tender corned beef generously stacked on crisp rye bread with zesty sauerkraut and velvety Swiss cheese. The secret lies in Bart’s technique of slow-cooking their corned beef for hours, ensuring it’s remarkably succulent and brimming with savory flavor. Yet Bart’s appeal extends beyond its menu; it’s about the entire experience. The warm, welcoming atmosphere embraces patrons like family, while amiable baristas craft delectable coffee concoctions that pair seamlessly with your meal. Columbia residents assert that Bart’s Crazy Good Coffee’s ideal combination of exceptional cuisine, cozy ambiance, and friendly service positions it as the premier choice for a truly satisfying breakfast or lunch experience.

Decaf Coffee

Iced Coffee

Dark Coffee

In Columbia’s center, locals enthusiastically praise Momma Rabbit’s Nibbles and Sips, an enchanting tea room and cafe offering an exceptional culinary retreat. This delightful establishment transcends the ordinary lunch venue. Upon entering, patrons are transported to a fanciful wonderland, adorned with vintage teacups, eclectic furniture, and a welcoming atmosphere. However, Momma Rabbit’s true enchantment lies in its distinctive menu. Eschewing typical cafe offerings, handcrafted savory and sweet “rabbit holes” take center stage. Imagine delicate cucumber tea sandwiches with a hint of lavender or luxurious mini quiches brimming with seasonal flavors. Their signature “Queen of Hearts” scone is a must-try – a flaky delight adorned with a rosewater glaze and garnished with edible rose petals. Complement your meal with a selection of loose-leaf teas or artisanal specialty beverages, each bearing a whimsical moniker. Columbia residents assert that Momma Rabbit’s fantastical ambiance, delightful small bites, and dedication to unique flavors position it as the premier destination for a charming and unforgettable afternoon tea experience.

Bunny Tails Dessert

Crab Cake Benedict

The Dixie Bowl

Beer enthusiasts and gastronomes alike acclaim Angry Fish Brewing Co. as Columbia’s premier small business eatery. This distinguished brewery prides itself on a distinctive farm-to-table approach, tailoring its menu around seasonal ingredients procured from local farms. Patrons extol the ever-evolving selection of inventive pub fare, such as their signature “Angry Burger” featuring a house-crafted patty generously topped with smoked gouda, caramelized onions, and a zesty Angry Ale BBQ sauce. Beyond its delectable offerings, Angry Fish’s true essence lies in its inviting ambiance. The capacious taproom boasts a warm industrial aesthetic, complete with a communal table ideal for engaging fellow beer aficionados in conversation. However, the crowning jewel is the expansive outdoor beer garden, which hosts live music on weekends and offers captivating views of Columbia’s skyline. Local residents consistently laud Angry Fish Brewing Co. for its impeccable fusion of innovative cuisine, award-winning brews, and vibrant atmosphere, deeming it an essential destination for any culinary enthusiast exploring Columbia’s gastronomic landscape.

Eats Burger

Mahi Taco

Pork Potstickers

Rooted in tradition yet infused with a whimsical touch, JJ Tea House transcends the typical bubble tea establishment. Founded by two sisters inspired by their grandmother’s tea recipes, this unique venue offers a harmonious blend of authentic Taiwanese tea culture and contemporary creativity. Their artisanal bubble teas showcase both classic flavors and unexpected delights. Local favorites include the signature “Jasmine Milk Tea,” redolent with floral notes, and the “Taro Smoothie,” boasting a vivid purple hue and velvety sweetness. For more adventurous patrons, the “Mango Sticky Rice Tea” presents an innovative fusion, combining luscious mango, chewy rice pearls, and aromatic tea. Complementing their beverage selection, JJ Tea House offers an enticing array of house-made pastries, such as the melt-in-your-mouth “Pineapple Buns” and the delicate “Red Bean Panna Cotta.” The inviting ambiance, adorned with warm lighting and comfortable seating, provides an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon with friends or a solitary indulgence in a delectable bubble tea creation. Columbia residents assert that JJ Tea House’s dedication to premium ingredients, innovative flavors, and welcoming atmosphere positions it as the premier destination for an authentic yet enchanting bubble tea experience.

Green Milk Tea

Mango Fruit Drink

Taro Milk Drink