The University of South Carolina is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, a city known for its vibrant food scene. With so many dining options nearby, it can be hard to choose where to eat. Here are the top 10 places to eat near the University of South Carolina:
1. California Dreaming
California Dreaming serves a mix of hearty American classics and notable favorites, like thick-cut steaks, tavern-style sandwiches, and of course, its namesake salad– but what sets them apart from the rest is that every dish is prepared from scratch.
2. Pawleys Front Porch
A casual restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Pawleys Front Porch offers a variety of burgers and sandwiches. The pimento cheeseburger and the fried chicken sandwich are some of the favorites on the menu.
3. Di Prato’s Delicatessen
A popular deli located just a few blocks from campus, Di Prato’s offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. The roast beef sandwich and the black and white cookie are some of the favorites on the menu.
4. Bourbon
A trendy restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Bourbon offers a variety of Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and barbecue. The mac and cheese and the biscuits and gravy are some of the favorites on the menu.
5. Za’s on Devine
A casual Italian restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Za’s offers delicious pizzas, pastas, and salads. The Margherita pizza and the spaghetti carbonara are some of the favorites on the menu.
6. Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe
A fine dining restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Mr. Friendly’s offers a variety of Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and crab cakes. The she-crab soup and the fried chicken are some of the favorites on the menu.
7. Publico Kitchen & Tap
A trendy restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Publico offers a variety of Latin-inspired dishes like tacos, empanadas, and ceviche. The beef tongue tacos and the yucca fries are some of the favorites on the menu.
8. Groucho’s Deli
A popular deli chain located just a few blocks from campus, Groucho’s offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and sides. The STP dipper and the deli sandwich are some of the favorites on the menu.
9. The War Mouth
A Southern-inspired restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, The War Mouth offers a variety of dishes like fried catfish, collard greens, and hushpuppies. The pimento cheese and the deviled eggs are popular appetizers.
10. Cafe Strudel
A casual restaurant located just a few blocks from campus, Cafe Strudel offers a variety of breakfast and lunch dishes like pancakes, omelets, and sandwiches. The chicken and waffles and the shrimp and grits are some of the favorites on the menu.
These top 10 places to eat near the University of South Carolina offer something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger or a Southern-inspired dish. With so many delicious dining options in the area, it’s easy to see why Columbia is known for its vibrant food scene.
