Real Local: Lynn Luc

Columbia SC is a city on the rise, and wherever there's something new opening or an event happening, you'll be sure to find Lynn Luc. Read along for some of Lynn's favorite picks in Columbia and why she's in love with this capital city.

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From new hangouts to old favorites, you'll find all manner of things to do here. Click above to see how Lynn spends a weekend in Columbia SC.

Hi, I'm Lynn. To say that I'm in love with Columbia SC is an understatement. Columbia's home to my favorite food, amazing sunsets and the best people.

I've put together my ultimate weekend in Columbia, and I hope you'll read along for some insider info on many of my favorite places.

And if you ever have a question on where to go or what to do, just send a message to me at @gocola. Cheers!

Friday DINNER: The War Mouth, the dishes are decidedly Southern and classic, while the cocktails are equals parts modern and delicious. Foods like chicken bog, a South Carolina chicken and rice recipe, and deviled eggs will have you marveling at how something so simple can be so good. The cocktail list won't disappoint, especially when you watch all the drink-making action from the bar (blowtorches and all).

Pro Tip: Close to a local coffee shop and brewery, the War Mouth is perfect Southern-style cuisine. I find myself craving their seasonal cocktails and house hot sauce with a bowl of warm grits. 

Featured: The War Mouth

Friday NIGHT: Head to The Grand for nightlife central -- from bowling in a historic building to giant Jenga and huge cocktail bar, this entertainment hot spot on the 1600 block of Main Street has all you need to while away a few hours. 

Pro Tip: Head downstairs for The Grand's self-serve beer and wine, plus arcade and board games. It's sure to be a hit with whatever group of friends you're traveling with.

Featured: The Grand on Main

Saturday MORNING: First stop on a Saturday morning? Soda City, of course. This weekly Main Street market is full of vendors serving up locally roasted coffee, international foods, and handmade crafts.

Pro Tip: Typically with over 100 vendors rain or shine, Soda City offers lots of options to fill your morning. My go-to would be getting produce from Livingston Farms, KY Fresh-Cut Flowers, and food from Mary's Arepas or Fat Cat Biscuit. You'll probably see me there any Saturday, so say hi!

Featured: Soda City Market

 

Saturday OUTING: Public art is popping up in every district around Columbia. Check out the Lincoln Street Tunnel for the perfect background art for your 'gram. Then be sure to take a bike from the nearby Blue Bike SC rack to see other local art around town.

Pro Tip: If you want to get even more immersed in Columbia's art scene, get a list of public art by stopping at the One Columbia office off of Main Street. 

Featured: One Columbia

Saturday BRUNCH: A Saturday is just calling for things decadent and delicious. You can get both at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli where a cinnamon roll comes with every meal whether you get a bagel sandwich or the to-die-for pimento cheese shrimp and grits. 

Pro Tip: Fill your day with their cinnamon roll coffee along with build-your-own sandwiches. If you're a breakfast fan like me, you're in luck because they serve their full menu all day long.

Featured: Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli

Saturday NIGHT: Head to Publico for margarita flights and amazing taco fusion concoctions. 

Pro Tip: Publico's porch is the perfect spot to hang outdoors under patio lights, play cornhole on their new turf, and enjoy a margarita flight.

Featured: Publico

 

SUNDAY FUNDAY: Breweries are everywhere in Columbia, and the newest is Steel Hands Brewing where you can get the amazing Coffee Lager or Tropical IPA. You'll be a fan, so keep an eye out for these brews are your local store.

Pro Tip: I usually go for cocktails, but I find myself gravitating towards Steel Hands' Coffee Lager. I love the atmosphere at Steel Hands, and you can usually find me here for Sunday Funday.

Featured: Steel Hands Brewing