On the Road

Columbia

Soda City

A couple hikes over the bridge in Columbia, South Carolina
Hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor adventures fill the hours between brewery visits.

Between the University of South Carolina’s flagship campus and the towering stature of the State House, Columbia, South Carolina, doesn’t spring to the minds of most as a food-and-drink mecca. Still, the riverside city has shown up in big ways, proving it doesn’t just cater to co-eds and the political elite. Old stalwarts dish out gourmet plates and expertly crafted cocktails while a new guard of eclectic eateries have sprung up at the city’s farthest reaches (and beyond). Vegan soul food to Peruvian comforts to dishes that are rooted in Africa represent the flavors of Columbia. The capital city college town has claim to one of the oldest recorded pimento cheese recipes and the first pimento cheeseburger—an invention you won’t regret trying. Head to Soda City market on Saturday mornings, where a closed-down Main Street plays host to food trucks, live music, and artisan makers. Craft beer is taking over this city, where more than twelve breweries reside and more are on the horizon. With evidence of renewal everywhere, Cola will leave you looking forward to what’s next.

explore columbia heading-plus-icon

Barbecue Pickled Cabbage on a barbecue sandwich
Key Ingredient

Key Ingredient: Barbecue Pickled Cabbage

According to this seasoned Columbia chef, pickling is for rebels, and this barbecue pickled cabbage might just be your next sandwich staple.

Market treats of strawberries, blueberries and peaches in buckets
Partnered

Exploring Roadside Markets: Summer Treats Off the Beaten Path

Scoops of farm-fresh ice cream make perfect market treats. SC farmers are known for their produce and it’s even better served in a cone.

Peaches Watercolor
In Season

In Season: Peaches

Greenville’s Mr. Crisp finds balance in the sweetness of summer peaches; here they share their tactics and a recipe for mignonette.

CITY GUIDES

explore nearby

On the Road

Greenville

Tucked in the folds of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville has been quietly gaining [...]

On the Road

Charlotte

Ingenuity paired with creativity is at the helm of the thriving restaurants and breweries [...]

On the Road

Charleston

The darling of Southern food, Charleston brims with award-winning restaurants and chefs. Recently, Lowcountry [...]

The Local Palate Marketplace Ad: I'm Just Here for the Snacks

shop the south

Discover the Local Palate's thoughtfully curated selection of regional food products.

SHOP NOW

nearby destinations

Getaway

Getaway: The Quirk Hotel

Quirk Hotel in Charlottesville, Virginia, offers a cozy place to rest with a collection of vibrant modern art arranged throughout.

At the Table

10 Pie Recipes for Autumn Baking

From buttermilk to butternut, our best pie recipes make for fun fall baking projects and the perfect way to finish holiday feasts.

Thumbnail ()
Partnered
Partnered

Red’s Corner: A Food Truck Shangri-La

Red's Corner, a food truck park in Southern Pines, North Carolina serves up something for everyone with diverse cuisine and community.