After sharing the exciting news about GATHER COLA, Columbia’s first open-air food hall, we asked what local shops and restaurants you’d love to see fill the space. Here’s what readers had to say:
Global flavors
- “Thai, Indian, Chopt, or something similar” — Laura L.
- “Thai street food” — Maggie P.
- “Indian, Thai, Greek, healthy bowls” — Michelle W.
- “Yafo Mediterranean” — Kim W.
- “Some kind of taco shop” — Mandy M.
- “Birria tacos” — Maggie P.
- “Italian — not pizza” — Nancy S.
- “Bakery, pizza, ice cream, Chicago Italian beef” — Juliet L.
Columbia favorites
- “Grecian Gardens” — Ashley B.
- “Spotted Salamander” — Bill
- “Pita’s” — Tricia R.
- “Miyo’s” — Angelica T.
Health-conscious
- “A true dedicated, no cross-contamination gluten-free restaurant” — Colette V.
- “Yafo, gluten-free options, Bartaco, sushi, craft cocktails” — Kim W.
- “Any restaurants with gluten-free options and a flower shop” — Rose S.
- “Smoothie and açaí bowls, salad bar restaurant, gluten-free lunch options” — Andrea F.
- “Slutty Vegan” — Robin G.
- “Vegan or very vegan-friendly eatery” — VP
- “Vegan restaurant” — Pat D.
Coffee and desserts
- “Methodical Coffee” — Mabel I.
- “More bakeries and ice cream options” — Multiple readers
Boutique and retail
- “Belk Boutique” — Jim L.
- “Local artisan pop-up shops” — Multiple readers
Entertainment and experience
- “Live music should be the focus, but craft beer would also be great” — Mike A.
With construction starting this month and an opening planned for late 2025, there’s still plenty of time to dream about what could fill the space. For now, take a look at GATHER GVL for more wishlist inspiration.
