Best Fine Dining in Columbia SC: Top Restaurants and Menus

If you’re looking for a fine dining experience in Columbia, SC, you’re in luck. This charming city is home to a variety of upscale restaurants that offer everything from classic steakhouse fare to innovative fusion cuisine. 

In the bustling culinary world, some ingredients and food items stand out more than others. From the rich creaminess of cheese to the delicate taste of pan-seared scallops, these ingredients are not only versatile but also beloved by many. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to indulge in a memorable meal, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes in Columbia’s vibrant culinary scene.

If fine dining is your thing, you’ve come to the right place. However, date night doesn’t mean you have to break the bank. Check out my guide to the best restaurants for date night in Columbia for a more inclusive list of spots you can take your boo.

However, with Columbia’s diverse culinary scene offering everything from traditional steakhouses to innovative fusion eateries, food enthusiasts are truly spoilt for choice in this vibrant city.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner for two or a festive group celebration, you’ll find plenty of choices to suit your needs. And with so many top-rated restaurants to choose from, you’re sure to discover a new favorite spot every time you visit.

Key Takeaways

• Columbia, SC offers a diverse selection of fine dining restaurants, from classic steakhouses to innovative fusion cuisine.
• Many of the city’s top-rated restaurants are located in the Vista and Five Points neighborhoods, which offer a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
• With so many excellent options to choose from, Columbia is a must-visit destination for foodies and fine dining enthusiasts alike.

Overview of Fine Dining in Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC is home to a diverse range of fine dining restaurants that offer a unique culinary experience. With a variety of cuisines, from classic American to Italian and French, you are sure to find a restaurant that caters to your taste buds.

When it comes to fine dining in Columbia, SC, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, dress codes are often enforced, so it’s best to check ahead of time to avoid any surprises.

Secondly, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Lastly, prices can be on the higher side, but the quality of the food, service, and ambiance is well worth it.

One of the most popular fine dining restaurants in Columbia, SC is Halls Chophouse. This restaurant is known for its excellent service and amazing steak. The restaurant has become my go-to fine dining spot and is perfect for special occasions. 

Another great option is Saluda’s Restaurant, which offers American cuisine and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its fresh ingredients and creative dishes.

If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Di Vino Rosso is a must-visit. This restaurant offers a wide variety of Italian dishes and an extensive wine list. The restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere and is perfect for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.

For those looking for a unique dining experience, The Melting Pot is a great option. This restaurant specializes in fondue and offers a fun and interactive dining experience. The restaurant also offers a variety of cocktails and wines to complement your meal.

Columbia, SC has a lot to offer when it comes to fine dining. With a variety of cuisines and restaurants to choose from, you are sure to have a memorable dining experience. When planning your next night out, be sure to check out one of the many fine dining options in Columbia, SC.

Top Fine Dining Restaurants

Columbia, SC is home to some of the best fine dining restaurants in the country. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out or a fancy dinner with friends, there’s a restaurant for everyone. Here are some of the top fine-dining restaurants in Columbia, SC:

If you’re in the mood for Asian food, Columbia is a haven. I made a whole list of the best Asian restaurants in Columbia if you’re looking for sushi or other Eastern fare.

Terra

Terra is a farm-to-table restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasonality of the ingredients, ensuring that you get the freshest and most flavorful dishes possible. The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out or a special occasion.

Saluda’s

Saluda’s is a classic American restaurant that has been a staple in Columbia for over 30 years. The menu features a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to juicy steaks. The mashed potatoes are a standout side dish, with a creamy texture and rich flavor. The asparagus is also a great choice, with a tender texture and fresh taste.  

The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a nice family dinner or a refined night out with friends. They also serve up a delicious lunch menu. 

Hampton Street Vineyard

Hampton Street Vineyard is a sophisticated restaurant that offers a fine dining experience with a southern twist. The menu features a variety of dishes, from classic southern favorites to modern cuisine. Many of their dishes are designed to complement the wines produced on the vineyard. 

The restaurant has a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic night out or a special occasion.

Motor Supply

Motor Supply is a trendy restaurant that offers a bdining experience. The menu features a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to hearty meat dishes. The restaurant has a band lively atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

They also serve up one of the best desserts in Columbia, in my humble opinion.

Halls Chophouse

Halls Chophouse is a Charleston-based steakhouse that has made a name for itself in Columbia for serving up the best steaks in town. They offer a variety of steaks, including filet, ribeye, and bone-in ribeye. They also have beef braised ribs on the menu, which are slow-cooked for 12 hours and served with a red wine reduction.

The restaurant has a classy, upscale atmosphere and attentive service. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and experience is worth it, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion.

They are also one of the best brunch spots in Columbia, too.

Black Rooster

Black Rooster is a French-inspired restaurant that offers classic dishes with a modern twist. The menu features a variety of seafood, meat, and vegetarian options, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a chic and stylish atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for a fancy dinner with friends.

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Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Ruth’s Chris Steak House is a well-known chain that offers high-quality steaks cooked to perfection. Their menu includes a variety of cuts, including filet, ribeye, and New York strip.

If you’re feeling extra hungry, you can even order a porterhouse for two. The restaurant is known for its elegant atmosphere and excellent service. Prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and experience is worth it.

Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse

If you’re looking for a unique steakhouse experience, Rioz Brazilian Steakhouse is worth a visit. They offer a variety of cuts of meat, including sirloin, flank steak, and filet mignon, all cooked on skewers and served tableside.

The restaurant also has a salad bar with a variety of options. Prices are on the higher side, but the all-you-can-eat experience is worth it if you’re a big meat lover.

LongHorn Steakhouse

For a more casual steakhouse experience, LongHorn Steakhouse is a good option. They offer a variety of cuts of steak, including sirloin, ribeye, and filet, as well as other menu items like burgers and salads.

Prices are more affordable than some of the other options on this list, but the quality of the food and experience is still good.

Blue Marlin

For a more upscale experience, check out Blue Marlin. This Low Country-style restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, along with other Southern-inspired fare.

The lunch menu includes options like shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and crab cakes. The prices can be a bit steep, but the quality of the food and the elegant atmosphere make it a great choice for a special occasion.

Kingsman Restaurant

Kingsman Restaurant is a hidden gem in Cayce, just outside Columbia. They offer a variety of menu items, including steaks, seafood, and pasta.

Their steak options include filet, ribeye, and New York strip. Prices are more affordable than some of the other options on this list, but the quality of the food and experience is still good.

Exploring the Vista and Five Points

If you’re looking for the best fine dining in Columbia, SC, you’ll definitely want to explore the Vista and Five Points. These two areas are known for their vibrant dining scenes and offer a variety of options for discerning foodies.

The Vista

The Vista is a trendy neighborhood located just west of downtown Columbia. It’s known for its arts and entertainment scene, as well as its many restaurants, bars, and cafes. When it comes to fine dining in the Vista, you won’t be disappointed. Here are a few of the top options:

Restaurant	Cuisine	Price Range
Hall’s Chophouse	Steakhouse	$$$$
Motor Supply Co. Bistro	American	$$$
Terra	Mediterranean	$$$
Cola’s Restaurant	Southern	$$$
Pearlz Oyster Bar	Seafood	$$$

Five Points

Five Points is another popular neighborhood for foodies. It’s located just south of the University of South Carolina and is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse dining options. Here are a few of the top fine dining options in Five Points:

Restaurant	Cuisine	Price Range
Saluda’s Restaurant	American	$$$$
Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe	Southern	$$$
The Gourmet Shop	European	$$
Il Giorgione	Italian	$$
Bourbon	American	$$$

Whether you’re looking for a romantic night out, a special occasion, or just a delicious meal, the Vista and Five Points have something to offer. So why not plan a night out and explore the best fine dining in Columbia, SC?

Private Dining Options

If you’re looking for a private dining experience in Columbia, SC, you have plenty of options to choose from. Many fine dining restaurants offer private rooms for events, business meetings, and special occasions.

Here are some of the best private dining options in Columbia, SC:

Restaurant	Capacity
Cola’s Restaurant	Up to 40 guests
Halls Chophouse	Up to 100 guests
Saluda’s Restaurant	Up to 45 guests
Blue Marlin	Up to 50 guests
Pearlz Oyster Bar	Up to 20 guests

These are just a few of the private dining options available in Columbia, SC. Be sure to contact the restaurant to book your private dining experience and discuss menu options and pricing.

When booking a private room, be sure to consider the following:

• Capacity: Make sure the room can accommodate your group size comfortably.
• Menu options: Discuss menu options with the restaurant in advance to ensure that you can accommodate any dietary restrictions or preferences.
• Pricing: Be sure to discuss pricing with the restaurant in advance to avoid any surprises.

Wine Selection

When it comes to fine dining, wine selection is just as important as the food. Luckily, Columbia, SC has no shortage of places with an impressive wine list to complement your meal. Let’s take a look at some of the best spots to sip and savor in the city.

One of the top wine spots in Columbia, SC is Di Vino Rosso. This Italian restaurant offers an extensive wine list with over 300 bottles from around the world.

Their knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect pairing for your meal, whether you’re in the mood for a bold red or a crisp white. They also offer a rotating selection of wines by the glass, so you can try something new with each visit.

Another great option is Ratio. This upscale restaurant offers a curated selection of wines from small producers, with an emphasis on natural and organic wines.

Their wine list changes frequently, so you can always expect something new and exciting. They also offer wine flights, so you can sample a variety of wines and find your new favorite.

If you’re looking for a more casual spot to enjoy a glass of wine, head to Lula Drake Wine Parlour. This cozy wine bar offers an impressive selection of wines from around the world, with a focus on natural and biodynamic wines.

They also offer a rotating selection of wines by the glass, so you can try something new each time you visit.

Here’s a table to summarize the wine selection at these three restaurants:

Restaurant	Wine Selection	Features
Di Vino Rosso	Over 300 bottles from around the world	Rotating selection of wines by the glass
Ratio	Curated selection of natural and organic wines	Wine flights
Lula Drake Wine Parlour	Impressive selection of wines from around the world	Rotating selection of wines by the glass

No matter which restaurant you choose, you can be confident that you’ll find a great selection of wines to complement your meal. Cheers!

Reviewing the Reviews

When it comes to finding the best fine dining restaurants in Columbia, SC, reviews can be a great resource. But how do you know which reviews to trust? Here are some tips for reviewing the reviews:

• Look for patterns: If multiple reviews mention the same dish or aspect of the restaurant, it’s likely that it’s a standout feature. For example, if several reviews rave about the steak at a particular restaurant, it’s probably worth trying.
  
• Consider the source: Take the reviewer’s profile into account. Are they a regular reviewer on the site? Do they have a history of leaving balanced reviews? Or are they a one-time reviewer who only leaves negative feedback?
  
• Read between the lines: Sometimes, a negative review can be a positive sign. For example, if a reviewer complains about the portion size being too small, it might mean that the restaurant serves high-quality, well-portioned food.
  

When analyzing reviews, it can also be helpful to create a table to highlight your findings. For example, you might create a table that compares the number of positive and negative reviews for each restaurant you’re considering.

Frequently Asked Questions