Looking for the next new restaurant hitting Cola’s food scene? Check out these buzzy places to eat and drink in Columbia — plus, some spots coming soon. Keep tabs on this list to stay ahead of the culinary curve. And don’t forget to bookmark it.
March
Cousins Maine Lobster, mobile (various locations)
Shark Tank–featured Cousins Maine Lobster has launched its first Columbia food truck, serving lobster rolls, tacos and other seafood staples as part of a Southeast expansion.
Crispy Cones, 1204 Main St. (next to Moxy Hotel)
Shark Tank–featured grilled dough cone ice cream shop opening its first Columbia location downtown.
D&Tea Dessert and Bubble Tea, 911 State St., Cayce,
D&Tea Dessert and Bubble Tea has opened in Cayce’s Parkland Plaza, offering a menu of bubble teas, cheesecakes, tiramisu and mochi.
Downtown Beach Bar & Grill, 918 Gervais St.
This new spot in the Vista took over the former Social space with a beach-themed concept, tropical drinks, and coastal-inspired food.
Three Notch’d Brewing, 945 Sabal St.
Taking over the former Iron Hill Brewery location, this new Virginia-based brewery makes its beers on site and features an extensive menu.
February
The Red Zone Sports Diner, 7500 Wilson Blvd.
The sports-themed restaurant offers all-day breakfast, a full bar, and a family-friendly game-day atmosphere.
LeeBoy Kountry Kitchen, 8604 Farrow Rd Ste. F
The new spot for meat-and-three is now open after expanding from a catering business into a dine-in restaurant. The menu features fried chicken, pork chops, veggies, and daily lunch specials.
Ladder 13, 1001 Senate St.
The signature restaurant inside the new Lantern Hotel Columbia is open in the restored firehouse on Senate Street in the Vista. The menu, developed by James Beard-nominated chef Kevin Johnson, features Mediterranean-inspired dishes and cocktails.
Cousins Maine Lobster Truck, mobile
The brand that broke out on Shark Tank will make its permanent Cola debut with buttery rolls, lobster tots, and New England Chowder.
Smokez and Bubbly Restaurant and Lounge, 1301 Assembly St.
Open now in the former Bistreaux on Assembly Street, chef Jessica Long says the concept blends upscale dining with nightlife energy, featuring steak dishes, specialty cocktails, and weekly events like karaoke and R&B night.
January
Metro Diner, 106 Percival Rd. Ste.1649 Main St. 400
The Florida-based chain offers all-day breakfast and a variety of comfort foods at its new location in the Jackson Shopping Center.
Black Dog Pizza, 1649 Main St.
Open in the former spot occupied by The Woody, the new pizza spot takes a Neo-Neapolitan approach. The pizzas lean on the classic Neapolitan technique — airy dough, charred edges, and simple toppings — but with a sturdier crust that works better for slices, sharing, and takeout.
Beacon Coffee and Cafe, 733 University Village Dr., Blythewood
Now open near Food Lion off Blythewood Road, the new shop offers specialty coffee, pastries, breakfast, and lunch in a cozy space for chats or coworking.
Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, 4508 Hard Scrabble Rd. + 1784 S Lake Dr., Red Bank
The Florida-based chain is known for its 40+ rotating Italian ice flavors and soft serve.
December
Gather COLA, BullStreet District
The much anticipated food hall opened with nine restaurants, including Cocobowlz, Bull and Bread, Bessie’s Burgers & More, Gyromania Grille Express, Big Easy Seafood, Smoke It Up Express, Bahn Sai, Los Chicanos Jr., Kiki’s Chicken & Waffles, and Remedy.
Ni Hao Hibachi ‘N Wok, 4360 Augusta Rd., Lexington
Grab classic Chinese dishes for takeout or dine in.
Sukiya Japanese Steakhouse, 360 Columbiana Dr.
The restaurant opened in the former Yamato spot on Columbiana Drive, bringing hibachi back to the building.
November
Caribe Cuban Cafe, 3813 Augusta Rd., West Columbia
Try Cuban classics like the ropa vieja and churrasco, plus sandwiches and sides.
The Dear Donut, 728 DeWitt Dr., Unit E, Lugoff
The shop makes fresh doughnuts daily, from classic glazed to a hot chocolate doughnut.
Hava Smoothie Cafe, 914 N. Lake Dr., Ste. A1, Lexington
Try a smoothie or bowl for a quick, lighter stop.
Rock N Pizza, 471-1 Town Center Place (Village at Sandhill)
A slice-or-whole-pie spot with specialty pizzas and build-your-own orders.
Vino Sabor, Corner of Sumter + Lady Streets
The new stylish wine bar opened one block from the State House in a developing area downtown.
October
Cuban Corner, 1212 Hampton St.
This Soda City Market vendor opened a brick-and-mortar to grab ropa vieja or a Cuban sandwich all week.
Manhattan Pie, 1004 Gervais St.
Grab it by the slice or a whole pie at this spot with Big Apple-style ‘za.
Methodical Coffee, BullStreet District
The Greenville-based roaster opened a 3,400-sqft flagship café with a bakery, upstairs lounge, and a private “library” space.
Pressed Panini, 2712 Emanuel Church Rd., West Columbia
Paninis and café-style lunch options for fast takeout.
San Jose Jr., 1616 Taylor St.
Located across the street from The Township Auditorium, this is a smaller version of one of their typical spots that’s great for takeout or a cozy sit-down meal.
Voodoo Brewing Co., Downtown Lexington
The locally run taproom from a Pennsylvania-based brewery is opening with 24 craft beers and pub bites.
The Yard, 1626 Main St.
A Main Street sports bar and grill with big-game screens, drinks, and bar food.
September
Charter 803 Bar & Grill, 269 Charter Oak Rd., Lexington
This bar and grill has barbecue, hearty sandwiches, and some international spice influences.
Breakfast at Ruiz, 566 Spears Creek Church Rd., Elgin
Brunch favorite expanded to Elgin, bringing shrimp & grits, French toast, and more.
Que! Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill, 1467 Sumter St.
The downtown expansion of the local favorite is open in the former Pizza Hut location next to Greek Boys.
August
Arroyo Tacos + Tequila, 819 Harden St., Columbia
Five Points got a fresh taco + margarita bar from the Saluda’s crew, adding some late-night energy to the strip.
Knowledge Perk Coffee, 737 Gadsden St.
USC students who live in Gateway 737 now have a spot for espresso drinks, brewed coffee, and study breaks.
Na’cho Margarita, 712 W Main St., Lexington
Lexington’s newest Mexican spot leans into seafood with shrimp and octopus towers, as well as plenty of quick lunch specials.
Surfin Sumo, 1211 Taylor St., Columbia
This casual downtown lunch spot serves poke bowls, kālua pork, and surf vibes.
Vedha Indian Cafe, 5076 Sunset Blvd., Lexington | Indian
Expect classic Indian dishes like biryani, butter chicken, and dosas, plus plenty of vegetarian-friendly options.
Vibez Coffee, 622 Canalside St., Columbia
The new café at Sola Station pours honey matcha lattes and chill frozen brews.
July
Lazy Daisy Coffee Co., 4615 Forest Dr., Suite 1
A sunny Cardinal Crossing café pouring espresso drinks, teas, and honey lattes, complete with a pet-friendly patio.
Hibachi & Wings, 5594 Sunset Blvd., Lexington
Plates of hibachi chicken and shrimp meet baskets of wings and Southern sides in this quick-service Lexington spot.
Dulce Losa Ice Cream Factory, 1400 Summit Pkwy
Northeast Columbia’s newest ice cream shop scoops more than 25 flavors with unlimited toppings in a playful, cow-themed space.
June
16 Handles, 4840 Forest Dr., Suite 19, Forest Acres
The NYC-based self-serve yogurt and ice cream shop — offering 16 rotating flavors (including vegan options) and a toppings bar — will hold its grand opening on Saturday, June 28 at Trenholm Plaza. The first 100 guests get free fro‑yo, and there’ll be half-price treats midday.
The Champagne Restaurant & Lounge, 902 Gervais St.
Opened in the historic Seaboard Railroad Station in the Vista, this upscale dining and lounge venue serves modern American cuisine in a space with a private dining room + outdoor patio.
Eatery 117, 117 Spears Creek Church Rd., Elgin
The new café serves loaded grits, classic breakfast plates, fresh salads, and espresso drinks.
Granby Burger, 2100 Devine St.
This no-frills burger joint brings hand-pattied burgers with crowd-pleasers like the Mr. Knozit burger with pimento cheese. Don’t miss the double‑fried, hand‑cut fries — crispy, fresh, and perfect alongside your burger.
Ember, 101 W. Main St., Lexington
The downtown Lexington steakhouse features hand‑cut aged steaks, sustainably sourced seafood, house‑made pastas, a signature wood‑ember grill, along with a curated wine list.
JJ’s Place, West Columbia + Soda City Market
A Soda City Market favorite turned brick-and-mortar, JJ’s Place now serves fresh-baked sweets while keeping its Saturday market presence.
Mel’s Dairy Bar, 3239 Forest Dr., Forest Acres
Now open in the former Zesto’s, Mel’s brings a classic counter-service vibe with burgers, fries, and soft-serve cones. Just look at this double burger going viral on Reddit.
Thai Delicacies, 1213 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia
Taking over the former Olde Country Buffet, this spot serves up an eclectic lineup of Thai and Burmese favorites — from papaya salad and pad Thai to poke bowls, khao soi, mochi ice cream, and mango sticky rice.
May
Enzo’s Delicatessen, 612 Whaley St., Suite C
Now open in the Don Luigi location, Enzo’s new spot blends deli vibes with Italian market options.
Bibimbox + Kumo Kumo Café, 275 Park Terrace Dr., Suite #800
This two-in-one concept brings Korean comfort food and playful sweets to Harbison. Order up spicy tteokbokki and crispy wings, then head to Kumo Kumo inside for matcha desserts and specialty drinks.
Sumo Sushi & Hibachi Grill, 1100 Dutch Fork Rd., Irmo
This second area location serves up sizzling hibachi plates, sushi rolls, and deep-fried specialties, including the fan-favorite Godzilla roll.
April
Guthrie’s, Sunset Blvd. + Mineral Springs Rd., Lexington
If you’re a fan of crispy chicken fingers, crinkle-cut fries, and plenty of saucy condiment options, this one’s for you.
Que! Bueno Mexican Bar & Grill, 4420 Devine St.
Taking over the former Barrio Tacos space, this new spot brings sizzling fajitas, queso-topped burritos, and a full bar.
Tacos Nayarit, 1100 Knox Abbott Dr., Cayce
Try the birria tacos or go for the al pastor — both come highly recommended.
Coming soon
George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar, State St., Cayce
George Roberts Wine & Raw Bar is expanding from Irmo with a second location in Cayce, featuring a raw bar, cocktails and outdoor seating.
Driftwood Smokehouse, 101 Sandalwood Rd., Leesville.
Driftwood Smokehouse, a new concept from the Maurice’s Piggie Park family, is set to open on Lake Murray with barbecue, seafood, and waterfront dining.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, Location TBD
The Ohio-based gourmet ice cream company was founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Jeni Britton.
Brown Bag Deli, 100 Pontiac Business Center Dr, Elgin
The longtime mobile truck will open its first brick-and-mortar location on Spears Creek Church Road next to Pontiac Elementary School. The New York-style sandwich food truck has a soft opening planned in March ahead of an April grand opening.
Bang Back Pinball Lounge, 2719 Rosewood Dr.
The Five Points game lounge is bouncing into the former Rockaway Athletic Club on Rosewood. The arcade bar and restaurant plans to open later this year with family-friendly vibes and a pimento cheeseburger nodding to the building’s past.
Silver Spoon Tavern, 4478 Rosewood Dr.
The new Indian restaurant from chef Jebakumar Jebaraj, is opening soon on Rosewood Drive in the former Alley Street Eats space. The new restaurant will serve dishes such as biriyani, dosas, and clay-oven-cooked tandoori and is expected to open in early February.
Ruckers, 736 Meeting St.
Owner Shay Winslow told the Free Times that the bar dive bar will charge a $10 annual membership and plans to offer live music, classic bar food, and a neighborhood-focused atmosphere.
Coastal Crust, The Lawn at BullStreet District | Wood-fired pizza | Projected opening: Late 2025
The SC-based pizzeria chain will open in the revitalized Williams Building, the centerpiece of The Lawn — a new community plaza in BullStreet. The pizzeria is planned for the historic façade space opening directly onto the green lawn.
Mother’s Oysters + Pies, Shoppes at Flight Deck, Lexington | Raw bar + pizza | Projected opening: September
This Riviera-inspired spot will offer a rotating raw bar, Neapolitan-style pizzas, pasta, and wine.
Moltó Vino, 128 State St., West Columbia | Self-serve wine bar
Dreaming of 24/7 wine on tap? This membership-based spot features wall-to-wall wine machines and stylish vibes.
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, 2151 Boyce St., BullStreet District | Seafood | Projected opening: TBD
Set to open across from Segra Park, this NC-based chain brings oysters, seafood baskets, and beach-town vibes.
Slip 53, Five Points | Spring 2026 opening
The coastal-inspired oyster and seafood spot will open in the former Pecknel Music Co. building.
