West Columbia
Just a quick hop over the Gervais Street Bridge from downtown, West Columbia is a city that’s been on the move, and it doesn’t look like they have plans to slow down anytime soon. Located on the Congaree River, locals and visitors alike take delight in the bustling State Street scene and the hometown feel with endless dining and retail offerings that will satisfy everyone’s interests. Craft beer lovers will appreciate brew-pubs like WECO Bottle and Biergarten, foodies can indulge at local classics like Al’s Upstairs, and for serial-shoppers, West Columbia offers 763 Antiques Mall, State Street Trading Company, Cherry’s Delight, and more.
Here you can go from strolling the Riverwalk or exploring the art park to a rooftop bar with a downtown skyline view in a matter of minutes.
Cafe Strudel: Located in a 1920s building on State Street, Cafe Strudel is a neighborhood restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for their “hangover hash browns,” and bottomless coffee bar, it’s the perfect place to start the morning - or any time of day since they serve breakfast all day long. For lunch or dinner, may we recommend the fried green tomatoes or horseradish pimento cheese?
West Columbia Riverwalk: Home to 4.5 acres of the 12.5 miles and growing Three Rivers Greenway, the West Columbia Riverwalk is a gem of green space. Lighted trails and ADA-compliant pathways and facilities welcome Columbians, visitors, and their four-legged friends. Outdoor enthusiasts will find fishing spots and canoe launches, plus the amphitheater hosts a range of concerts and programming all year long.
Terra: Chef Mike Davis refined his craft under James Beard award-winning chefs like Susan Spicer and Frank Stitt, and has made a name for himself for more than a decade at Terra. Terra is the perfect place to learn more about locally and regionally grown ingredients. From Columbia’s own Anson Mills’ heirloom grains to its Manchester Farms Quail, Terra showcases Midlands gems. Make sure not to miss the butchers plate and Grilled Carolina Heritage Farms Pork Chop. And if you’re in the mood for pizza, the duck confit pizza from the wood oven will hit the spot.
Ed's Editions: With more than 40,000 books in stock, Ed’s Editions is the spot to find your next page turner. Family owned and operated since 2001, their knowledgeable booksellers will be happy to help you find exactly what you are looking for amongst their stacks of used and collectible books. Pro tip - their first Friday sales feature books at 20% off.
Savage Craft Ale Works: West Columbia’s latest addition, Savage Craft Ale Works, is an experience to be had. This veteran-owned brewery made roots in the former Brookland police station, fire department, and jail, and after the huge remodel, guests can now enjoy their taproom offerings in three distinct spaces. Sip on a cold craft brew in the dining room, or listen to live music in the spacious beer garden and grab a snack at the Jailhouse. If you want to elevate your experience (literally), head upstairs and take a seat at the city’s largest rooftop bar. This rooftop boasts a large fire pit, perfect for those chilly nights, and insulated cup holders in the tables to keep your drink cold all night long.
Black Rooster: Right where Gervais turns into Meeting Street, you’ll find the modern and “Frenchish” Black Rooster. Here the menu ranges from entrees like the Royale with Cheese…French Onion Style and Vietnamese Mussels, and plenty of small plate options like Le Grilled Cheese and Beef Tartare, portioned just right for when you want bites to share. Best part? You can snap of pic of the mouth-watering creations and the city skyline in one shot on the rooftop which has one of the best views of downtown Columbia.
The Hideout: For a cozy morning pick-me-up, check out The Hideout, the city’s newest breakfast and brunch spot. Coffee lovers can choose from the classics or more adventurous choices like the Strawberry Nutella Latte. If avocado toast is calling your name, just take your pick at any one of their unique spins on the signature breakfast delight. But with creations like Mango Salsa, Margarita, and Mediterranean, you might just have to make your way through the whole avocado toast menu.