This one-night tasting brings in talent you don’t get to try every day, like Chef Joe Cash of Greenville’s Scoundrel (a 2024 James Beard semifinalist), Chef Tres Jackson of Charleston’s Sorghum & Salt, Chef Monique Mickle of The Darling Oyster Bar, and Chef Rob Masone of Kounter — a former SC Chef Ambassador.
They’ll be joined by Columbia Chefs Kristian Niemi + Jessica Shillato, along with Lula Drake Wine Parlour’s Rachael Harrison and Ashley Bundrick, representing the Capital City.
Guests can explore the museum as each chef serves up seasonal dishes that highlight the signature flavors of South Carolina’s regions.
Tickets start at $85, with proceeds supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Columbia. Use code COLATODAY10 for 10% off your ticket.
Asked
Asked
What’s your favorite South Carolina food staple?
A. Carolina Gold rice B. SC peaches C. ACE Basin shrimp D. Grits E. Barbecue sauces F. Bulls Bay oysters
Missed grabbing a gyro at the Greek Festival? You’re in luck. Gyromania will bring its Greek fare to the Gather COLA food hall in the BullStreet District, set to open later this year. The Elgin-based restaurant has a 4.7 Google rating with ~500 reviews.
Sports
The border battle is back — Gamecock football will face Georgia again for the next four seasons under the SEC’s new nine-game schedule. USC’s other permanent opponents? Florida and Kentucky. The full 2026 SEC schedule will be released today. (Sports Illustrated)
Seasonal
South Carolina is celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month, happening through October 15. Richland Library is hosting family storytimes and film screenings, while SCETV features local stories and interviews with leaders.
Environment
A ~3,000-acre forest in Marion County — once part of the Woodberry Plantation — has been conserved as part of the Freedomland community. The project, led by Pee Dee Land Trust and Open Space Institute, aims to preserve Black cultural heritage and local ecosystems. (The Post and Courier)
Eat
It’s pizza bracket season.The State is hosting its 2025 Pizza Poll, featuring 32 locally owned Midlands pizza spots. Cast your vote by Sunday, Sept. 28 for your favorite.
Arts
Original artwork by four SC women with disabilities has been transformed into Alivia’s national womenswear collections. Their designs debut locally today at Just the Thing boutique, with proceeds supporting Camp Cole.
Better insulation means lower bills... and we’ll take all the cost savings we can right now.This retailer is offering a buy two, get two free special on new windows — helping you keep extreme temps out, costs low, and curb appeal high. See disclaimers for important consumer information.*
History
Did you know?Lexington County and the town of Lexington are named after a key Revolutionary War battle. Visit the Cayce Historical Museum to explore the county’s history + stories that helped shape the nation — just ahead of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence.*
Eat
Looking for a place to dine with the whole family? Columbia offers a variety of options that cater to all ages. From casual eateries to fine dining, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Check out the list.*
Concert
Celebrate 100 Years of Hank Williams on Thursday, Sept. 25, at the Newberry Opera House. Acclaimed performer Jason Petty brings his award-winning tribute, “Hank & My Honky Tonk Heroes,” featuring classics like “Jambalaya” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart.” Use code COLA25 for 25% off tickets. Supported by DiscoverSC.*
Shop
Feeling fall? Us, too — that’s why we’re shopping HSN’s fall finds like this autumn tray decor set. New customers can save $15 with code WELCOME25.*
Community
Community
An enchanted evening awaits
Presented by South Carolina State Museum
The event also features a silent auction with offerings from local businesses. | Photo provided by South Carolina State Museum
Step into a night of history, elegance, and fairytale magic at the South Carolina State Museum’s One Enchanted Evening Gala on Friday, Oct. 17 from 6-10 p.m.
Groupon is your ticket to unbeatable local experiences — think chef-curated tasting menus, skyline tours, and spa days that melt stress away. New deals boasting up to 70% local experiences drop daily.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Reporting back from the Palmetto Peanut Boil, my favorite boiled peanut — along with the other judges — was the pot roast from the Nutty Professors. It had just the right amount of salt and burst with flavor. Last year, the SC crop of peanuts was hampered by excessive rains, but this year, we got to try ones grown across the state, including some right here in Richland County.
