15 Best Brunch Spots in Columbia, SC

If you’re looking for the best brunch in Columbia, SC, you’re in luck. The city boasts a vibrant culinary scene with plenty of options to suit every taste and budget. From classic American diners to upscale restaurants, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a leisurely brunch with friends and family.

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If you foodies find yourself in Columbia, you’ve gotta check out my guide to the best desserts in Columbia.

What’s the best place for brunch in Columbia?

One standout spot is The Gourmet Shop, which has been a local favorite for over 40 years. Their brunch menu features classic dishes like eggs Benedict and French toast, as well as more creative options like a smoked salmon and avocado tartine. The charming outdoor patio is the perfect place to enjoy your meal on a sunny day.

Another popular choice is Motor Supply Co. Bistro, which has been named one of the best brunch spots in the city by multiple publications. Their farm-to-table menu changes regularly, but you can expect dishes like shrimp and grits, buttermilk pancakes, and a daily frittata. The restaurant is located in a historic brick building and has a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Key Takeaways

  • Columbia, SC has a diverse brunch scene with options for every taste and budget.
  • The Gourmet Shop and Motor Supply Co. Bistro are two standout spots with delicious menus and unique atmospheres.
  • Whether you’re in the mood for classic brunch dishes or something more creative, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits the bill.

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The Gourmet Shop

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC, you can’t go wrong with The Gourmet Shop. This cozy café is located in the Five Points neighborhood, and it’s known for its mouth-watering food and excellent coffee.

One of the highlights of The Gourmet Shop is its selection of croissants. These buttery, flaky pastries are made fresh every day, and they come in a variety of flavors. Some of the most popular options include ham and cheese, almond, and chocolate.

In addition to its croissants, The Gourmet Shop also serves a range of other breakfast and brunch dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, you’re sure to find something that hits the spot. Some of the most popular menu items include:

  • Belgian waffles
  • Breakfast burritos
  • Quiches
  • Omelets
  • Avocado toast

Of course, no brunch would be complete without a good cup of coffee or tea. The Gourmet Shop offers a wide selection of both, including espresso drinks, drip coffee, and loose-leaf tea.

If you’re looking for a cozy, welcoming place to enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC, The Gourmet Shop is definitely worth checking out. With its mouth-watering croissants, tasty brunch dishes, and excellent coffee and tea, it’s no wonder why this café is so popular with locals and visitors alike.

ProsCons
Delicious croissantsCan get crowded
Excellent coffee and teaLimited seating
Wide selection of brunch dishesPrices can be a bit high
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Motor Supply Co. Bistro

If you’re looking for a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC, Motor Supply Co. Bistro is a must-visit spot. This local favorite has been serving fresh, local, and diverse dishes in the heart of the historic Congaree Vista since 1989. With a focus on farm-to-table produce and sustainably farmed, house-butchered meats, the menu changes daily for lunch and dinner, offering diners something new and delicious every time they come through the door.

One of the standout features of Motor Supply Co. Bistro is their commitment to using classic French culinary techniques to create progressive, New World cuisine. This means that you can expect to find dishes that are both familiar and exciting, with unexpected twists and unique flavor combinations.

If you’re looking to pair your brunch with a delicious cocktail, Motor Supply Co. Bistro has you covered. Their bar program focuses on creative cocktails made with high-quality ingredients, and they offer an extensive wine list featuring both local and international selections.

Here’s a quick overview of what you can expect from a brunch at Motor Supply Co. Bistro:

CuisineFrench-inspired, New World
AtmosphereCharming, with a heated patio
Price Range$30 and under
Signature Dishes House-butchered meats, farm-to-table produce
DrinksCreative cocktails, extensive wine list

Motor Supply Co. Bistro is a fantastic choice for brunch in Columbia, SC. With their focus on local, sustainable ingredients and classic French techniques, you’re sure to find something delicious and exciting on the menu. Plus, their charming atmosphere and excellent bar program make it the perfect spot for a leisurely weekend brunch with friends or family.

Tazza Kitchen

If you’re looking for a place to have a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC, Tazza Kitchen is an excellent choice. This casual eatery located in Trenholm Plaza (Forest Acres) offers a seasonal menu that highlights ingredients sourced from dozens of farmers and food artisans. Tazza Kitchen is known for its wood-fired cooking and influences from Southern Italy and Baja California.

One of the things that set Tazza Kitchen apart is its farm-to-table philosophy. The restaurant sources its ingredients locally, ensuring that everything is fresh, high-quality, and sustainable. 

This commitment to using local produce and supporting local farmers is evident in the taste of the food. Whether you’re ordering wood-fired pizzas, tacos, salads, or cocktails, you can taste the difference that fresh, locally sourced ingredients make.

Tazza Kitchen’s brunch menu is available on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 2:30 pm. 

The menu features classic brunch dishes like French toast, breakfast burritos, and eggs benedict, as well as unique items like the brunch pizza, which is topped with bacon, eggs, and cheese. There are also plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options available.

If you’re a fan of wood-fired cooking, you’ll love Tazza Kitchen’s brunch menu. Many of the dishes are cooked in the restaurant’s wood-fired oven, which gives them a unique smoky flavor. For example, the wood-fired breakfast pizza is topped with prosciutto, arugula, and a sunny-side-up egg. The wood-fired avocado toast is another popular option, featuring avocado, pickled onions, feta cheese, and a poached egg.

Tazza Kitchen is a great choice for brunch in Columbia, SC. With its farm-to-table philosophy, wood-fired cooking, and delicious menu, it’s easy to see why this restaurant is so popular. If you’re in the Forest Acres area, be sure to stop by Tazza Kitchen and try their brunch for yourself.

ProsCons
Locally sourced ingredientsLimited parking
Wood-fired cookingCan get crowded
Vegetarian and gluten-free optionsPrices are a bit high
Unique brunch dishesNo reservations accepted

Cafe Strudel

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If you’re looking for a great brunch spot in Columbia, Cafe Strudel is definitely worth checking out. With two locations in West Columbia and Lexington, this local restaurant has become a staple for brunch in the city.

One of the standout dishes at Cafe Strudel is their famous Hangover Hash Browns. These crispy, golden-brown hash browns are topped with onions, banana peppers, tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and two eggs cooked to your liking. It’s the perfect dish to cure any hangover and start your day off right.

In addition to the Hangover Hash Browns, Cafe Strudel also offers a variety of other brunch dishes, including omelets, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. And if you’re in the mood for something savory, their lunch and dinner options are available every day except Sunday.

If you’re a fan of Bloody Marys, you won’t be disappointed with Cafe Strudel’s take on this classic brunch cocktail. They offer a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, where you can customize your drink with a variety of toppings and garnishes.

Cafe Strudel is a great choice for brunch in Columbia. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the food is consistently delicious. And if you’re a fan of local art, be sure to check out the modern artwork on display throughout the restaurant.

ProsCons
Famous Hangover Hash BrownsOnly open for brunch on Sundays
Build-your-own Bloody Mary barLimited vegetarian options
Casual and friendly atmosphereCan get crowded on weekends

Boku Kitchen

If you’re looking for a unique brunch experience, Boku Kitchen is a must-visit spot in Columbia, SC. This Asian and Ramen restaurant offers a Dim Sum brunch with small plates like Chicken Satay and Spinach Egg Dumplings. The brunch menu also includes a variety of entrees like Ramen and Fried Rice.

One of the highlights of Boku Kitchen’s brunch menu is their Boku Bloody Mary. Made with their in-house bloody mix and soju, this cocktail is topped with half honey chicken, char siu pork bao buns, and pork potstickers. It’s a meal in itself and a great option for those who want to try something different.

Boku Kitchen’s atmosphere is modern and trendy, with an open kitchen and a bar area. The restaurant is located in the Vista neighborhood, making it a convenient spot for those who want to explore the area after brunch.

ProsCons
Unique brunch experienceCan get crowded on weekends
Trendy atmosphereLimited vegetarian options
Boku Bloody MaryNo reservations for brunch
Convenient location 

Boku Kitchen is a great spot for those who want to try something new for brunch. The small plates and Boku Bloody Mary are worth the visit alone, and the trendy atmosphere adds to the experience. Just be prepared for a potential wait on weekends, as they don’t take reservations for brunch.

Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli

If you’re looking for a sweet brunch spot in Columbia, the Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli is a must-visit. This cozy little deli specializes in all things cinnamon rolls, and their unique flavors are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cinnamon roll or something a bit more adventurous, the Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli has got you covered. Some of their most popular flavors include Strawberry Cheesecake, Wildberry Graham Cracker, Banana Foster, Apple Cobbler, Bacon Maple, and Coconut Cream.

In addition to their delicious cinnamon rolls, the Deli also offers a variety of other breakfast and brunch items, including breakfast pizza. This unique dish features a crispy crust topped with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese. It’s the perfect savory complement to the Deli’s sweet cinnamon rolls.

If you’re planning a special event or just want to treat your coworkers to something sweet, the Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli also offers catering services. Their cinnamon rolls are always a hit at office parties and other events.

ProsCons
Wide variety of cinnamon roll flavorsLimited hours (closed at 2 PM)
Delicious breakfast pizzaSmall seating area
Catering services availableCan be crowded during peak hours

If you’re looking for a sweet and satisfying brunch spot in Columbia, the Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli is definitely worth a visit. With their unique flavors and delicious breakfast pizza, you’re sure to leave with a smile on your face.

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Publico Kitchen and Tap

If you’re looking for a trendy spot to enjoy brunch in Columbia, SC, Publico Kitchen and Tap is definitely worth checking out. Located in the Five Points neighborhood, this restaurant and bar offers a unique blend of Latin and Asian-inspired cuisine, as well as craft beer and cocktails.

One of the standout brunch options at Publico is the Smoked Salmon Benedict. This dish features poached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado, and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Banana Nutella Waffle is a great choice. It’s served with fresh bananas, Nutella, whipped cream, and powdered sugar.

In addition to the food, Publico also offers a great selection of drinks. If you’re a fan of mimosas, you’ll love their Mimosa Flight. You can choose from a variety of flavors, including orange, grapefruit, and peach. If you’re more of a beer person, they have an extensive craft beer list that includes both local and national brews.

Here’s a table highlighting some of the brunch options and prices at Publico:

DishDescriptionPrice
Smoked Salmon BenedictPoached eggs, smoked salmon, avocado, hollandaise sauce, English muffin$13
Banana Nutella WaffleWaffle, Nutella, fresh bananas, whipped cream, powdered sugar$10
Huevos RancherosFried tortilla, black beans, ranchero sauce, avocado, queso fresco, two eggs$11
Publico Breakfast SandwichBacon, scrambled eggs, cheddar cheese, tomato, avocado aioli, brioche bun$9

Publico Kitchen and Tap is a great spot for brunch in Columbia, SC. With its unique menu and great drink options, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Publico Columbia South Carolina

Liberty Tap Room

If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC, you should definitely check out Liberty Tap Room. They offer weekend brunch specials every Saturday and Sunday from 11 am to 3 pm.

One of their most popular brunch dishes is the Shrimp and Grits, which is made with creamy grits, sautéed shrimp, andouille sausage, peppers, onions, and a Cajun cream sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for brunch.

When it comes to drinks, Liberty Tap Room has a great selection of craft beers that pair perfectly with their brunch menu. They also offer $4 Bloody Marys and $3 Mimosas during brunch hours, so you can enjoy a delicious drink while you dine.

If you’re looking for a quick overview of what Liberty Tap Room has to offer for brunch, here’s a table that highlights some of their popular dishes and drinks:

Dish/DrinkDescription
Shrimp and GritsCreamy grits, sautéed shrimp, andouille sausage, peppers, onions, and a Cajun cream sauce
Eggs Any WayThree eggs cooked to your liking
Mimosa FlightsA flight of four different mimosa flavors
Bloody Marys$4 Bloody Marys during brunch hours
Craft BeerA great selection of craft beers to choose from

Liberty Tap Room is a great spot to enjoy a delicious brunch in Columbia, SC. With their tasty dishes, refreshing drinks, and welcoming atmosphere, you’re sure to have a great experience.

The Grand on Main

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If you’re looking for a stylish and modern brunch spot, The Grand on Main should be at the top of your list. This American restaurant and bar is located in Columbia, SC and offers a unique and upscale dining experience.

One of the standout features of The Grand on Main is its boutique bowling alley. This is a great way to add some fun to your brunch experience. You can book a lane and enjoy some friendly competition while you wait for your food.

The food at The Grand on Main is also exceptional. The brunch menu offers a variety of delicious options, from classic breakfast dishes to more unique items. Some of the most popular brunch dishes include the Cheddar Herb Biscuits and the Charcuterie Board.

In addition to great food, The Grand on Main also offers an impressive selection of fine wines. You can pair your brunch with a glass of your favorite vintage or try something new from their extensive wine list.

Here’s a table summarizing some of the key features of The Grand on Main:

FeatureDetails
LocationColumbia, SC
Type of CuisineAmerican
Brunch HoursSaturday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Bowling AlleyYes, boutique bowling alley available for booking
Popular Brunch Dishes Cheddar Herb Biscuits, Charcuterie Board
Wine SelectionExtensive list of fine wines available for pairing with your meal

The Grand on Main is a great choice for brunch in Columbia, SC. With its unique combination of upscale dining, boutique bowling, and fine wines, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Another Broken Egg Cafe

If you’re looking for a brunch spot in Columbia, SC, Another Broken Egg Cafe is definitely worth checking out. With two locations in the area, you’re never too far from their delicious breakfast and brunch offerings.

One of the standout dishes at Another Broken Egg Cafe is their Brioche French Toast. Made with thick slices of brioche bread and topped with your choice of fruit, whipped cream, and syrup, this dish is a sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for brunch.

Another popular option is their Eggs Benedict. You can choose from classic Eggs Benedict, Crab Cake Benedict, or Veggie Benedict, all of which are served with perfectly poached eggs and a rich hollandaise sauce.

Here’s a quick overview of some of the menu items at Another Broken Egg Cafe:

DishDescription
Brioche French ToastThick slices of brioche bread topped with your choice of fruit, whipped cream, and syrup.
Eggs BenedictClassic Eggs Benedict, Crab Cake Benedict, or Veggie Benedict served with perfectly poached eggs and a rich hollandaise sauce.
OmeletsChoose from a variety of omelets, including the Lobster and Brie Omelet, the Garden Omelet, and the Hey Lucy! Omelet.
PancakesFluffy pancakes served with your choice of toppings, including blueberries, bananas, and chocolate chips.

With its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, Another Broken Egg Cafe is the perfect spot for a weekend brunch with friends or family.

Original Pancake House

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If you’re looking for a classic breakfast spot, The Original Pancake House is a must-visit. This restaurant has been serving up delicious breakfast and brunch dishes for over 60 years.

Their menu features a wide variety of pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast favorites. You can’t go wrong with their signature dish, the Apple Pancake. This fluffy pancake is filled with sautéed apples and cinnamon sugar, and it’s baked to perfection.

Another popular dish is the Dutch Baby. This oven-baked pancake is light and airy, and it’s served with lemon and powdered sugar. If you’re in the mood for something savory, try the Denver Omelette or the Corned Beef Hash.

The Original Pancake House has a cozy, diner-like atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual brunch with friends or family. The service is friendly and efficient, and the prices are reasonable.

ProsCons
Delicious pancakes and wafflesCan get crowded on weekends
Cozy atmosphereLimited seating
Reasonable pricesNo reservations

Drip

Another cozy and unique brunch spot in Columbia, SC is Drip Coffee. Not only do they serve delicious coffee, but the shop also doubles as a local art gallery. You can sip on a latte while admiring the works of local artists on the walls.

Drip Coffee offers a variety of breakfast and brunch options, including avocado toast, breakfast burritos, and croissants. They also have a selection of sandwiches and salads for those looking for a heartier meal. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try their pastries and cakes.

Here’s a table summarizing some of the menu items and prices:

Menu ItemPrice
Avocado Toast$8
Breakfast Burrito $9
Croissant$4
Sandwiches$10-$12
Salads$9-$11
Pastries$2-$4
Cakes$5-$6

In addition to their food and drink offerings, Drip Coffee also has a small selection of records for sale. If you’re a music lover, be sure to peruse their collection while you’re there.

Drip Coffee is a great spot for a casual and artsy brunch experience in Columbia, SC.

Za’s Brick Oven Pizza

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Another unique brunch spot that serves delicious food in a cozy atmosphere is Za’s Brick Oven Pizza. Located on Devine Street, Za’s is a popular restaurant that is known for its wood-fired pizzas, but it also offers a great brunch menu on weekends.

Za’s brunch menu features a variety of dishes that are perfect for brunch, including sweet and savory options. You can start your meal off with a Mimosa or a Bloody Mary, both of which are expertly crafted and pair well with the brunch menu items.

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Za’s offers a variety of pancakes and French toast options. The Cinnamon Roll Pancakes are a standout dish that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. For something more savory, try the Breakfast Pizza, which is topped with bacon, eggs, and cheese.

One of the best things about Za’s is that they use local ingredients whenever possible, which means that the food is always fresh and flavorful. The restaurant also has a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch.

ProsCons
Local ingredientsLimited indoor seating
Great Mimosa and Bloody MaryCan be crowded on weekends
Cozy atmosphereLimited brunch menu options
Delicious sweet and savory dishes 

Za’s is a great brunch spot that is worth checking out if you’re in the Columbia area. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, the restaurant has something for everyone. Plus, the cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails make it a great place to relax and enjoy a leisurely brunch.

Hall’s Chophouse

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience with exceptional food and service, Hall’s Chophouse is the perfect spot for brunch in Columbia, SC. Located at 1221 Main St Suite 150, this restaurant offers a variety of delicious brunch dishes and fine wines.

One of the standout items on the menu is the filet mignon, which is cooked to perfection and served with a side of your choice. The meat is incredibly tender and juicy, making it a must-try dish for any meat lover.

In addition to the filet mignon, Hall’s Chophouse also offers a variety of other brunch options, including their famous Halls Chophouse Burger, which is made with prime house-ground beef, lettuce, tomato, onion, and Parmesan-truffle fries. They also have a delicious Steak Sandwich with caramelized onion, mushrooms, Gruyère, horseradish, and blue cheese aioli.

To accompany your meal, Hall’s Chophouse has an extensive wine list with many fine wines to choose from. Whether you prefer red, white, or sparkling, there is a wine that will perfectly complement your brunch dish.

Hall’s Chophouse provides a luxurious dining experience with exceptional food and service. If you’re looking for a special brunch spot in Columbia, SC, this is definitely worth a visit.

ProsCons
Exceptional foodExpensive
Luxurious atmosphereLimited vegetarian options
Extensive wine listCrowded during peak hours

Market on Main

Market on Main offers a wide variety of delicious brunch options that will satisfy any appetite.

One of the standout dishes at Market on Main is their famous shrimp and grits. Made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this Southern classic is a must-try for anyone visiting the restaurant. The dish features plump, juicy shrimp served over a bed of creamy, stone-ground grits, and is topped with a flavorful tomato and bacon gravy. It’s no wonder that Market on Main has been named one of the best brunch spots in Columbia by Southern Living.

But shrimp and grits isn’t the only thing that Market on Main does well. Their brunch menu is full of other delicious options, including omelets, benedicts, and breakfast sandwiches. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try their fluffy buttermilk pancakes or their decadent French toast made with brioche bread.

Market on Main also offers a variety of drinks to complement your meal. Their signature cocktails are a must-try, with options like the Main Street Mule and the Market Bloody Mary. They also have a great selection of beer and wine, as well as non-alcoholic beverages like fresh-squeezed juice and locally roasted coffee.

 Market on Main is a fantastic brunch spot in Columbia, SC. With its delicious food, great drinks, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to start your day.

ProsCons
Delicious shrimp and gritsCan be crowded on weekends
Great drink selectionLimited vegetarian options
Welcoming atmosphereNo outdoor seating
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find bottomless mimosas during brunch in Columbia, SC?

– The Grand – offers bottomless mimosas for $15 during their Sunday brunch buffet.
– Publico Kitchen & Tap – offers bottomless mimosas for $15 during their Sunday brunch.
– The War Mouth – offers bottomless mimosas for $20 during their Sunday brunch.

What are some popular downtown Columbia brunch spots?

– The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli – known for their sweet and savory cinnamon rolls, this spot also offers breakfast sandwiches and quiches.
-Cafe Strudel – a funky spot with outdoor seating and a diverse menu, including breakfast burritos and waffles.
-The Gourmet Shop – a gourmet market and cafe offering a range of breakfast and brunch options, including quiches and breakfast sandwiches.

Are there any Black-owned brunch restaurants in Columbia, SC?

Yes, there are a few Black-owned brunch restaurants in Columbia, SC. Check out:
– The Breakfast Place – a casual spot with classic breakfast and brunch options, including pancakes and omelets.
– Big Momma’s Soul Food Kitchen – a soul food restaurant that serves breakfast all day, including chicken and waffles and grits.
– The Southern Belly BBQ – a barbecue joint that offers breakfast sandwiches and burritos on weekends.

What are the best breakfast spots in Columbia, SC?

If you’re looking for the best breakfast spots in Columbia, SC, check out some of these options:
– Cafe Strudel – known for their creative breakfast dishes and funky atmosphere.
– The Gourmet Shop – a gourmet market and cafe that offers a range of breakfast options, including quiches and breakfast sandwiches.
– The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli – famous for their sweet and savory cinnamon rolls, this spot also offers breakfast sandwiches and quiches

Which restaurants offer mimosas in Columbia, SC?

If you’re looking for restaurants that offer mimosas in Columbia, SC, check out these options:
– The Grand – offers mimosas during their Sunday brunch buffet.
– Publico Kitchen & Tap – offers mimosas during their Sunday brunch.
– The War Mouth – offers mimosas during their Sunday brunch.

What are the top Sunday brunch buffets in Columbia, SC?

If you’re looking for a Sunday brunch buffet in Columbia, SC, check out these options:
– The Grand – offers an extensive Sunday brunch buffet with a variety of breakfast and lunch options.
– The Oak Table – offers a Sunday brunch buffet with Southern-inspired dishes and a carving station.
– Motor Supply Co. Bistro – offers a Sunday brunch buffet with a range of breakfast and lunch options, including a seafood station.