This is my go-to list of food spots I genuinely love and return to again and again. From meaningful first-date dinners to comfort-food favorites, every place here has earned a permanent spot in my rotation. If you’re looking for delicious, tried-and-...
Map
Sections
4
Dessert Spots
Lunch/Dinner Recs
Brunch
Other
Dessert Spots
This list is dedicated to my favorite dessert spots — places I’ve personally tried, loved, and continue to crave. From ice cream and Italian ice to donuts and sweet treats, every recommendation here is something I’d genuinely go out of my way for. If...
Such a fun dessert spot with ice cream that’s rolled fresh right in front of you. The texture is super creamy, the flavors are delicious, and it always feels like a little treat experience — not just dessert. Perfect when you want something sweet and...
Kremo Ice Cream
One of my favorite places for a refreshing treat. Their Italian ice x ice cream combo is unique, smooth, flavorful, and perfect when you want something sweet but not too heavy. I love how many flavors they offer, and it’s always my go-to on a hot day...
Jeremiah's Italian Ice
The ultimate dessert spot if you love ice cream sandwiches 🍪🍦. Everything is made fresh, and you get to customize your sandwich with different cookies and ice cream flavors. It’s indulgent, fun, and always worth it.
The Baked Bear
Some of the creamiest, most flavorful ice cream around. Handle’s has a huge variety of rotating flavors, and every scoop is rich and satisfying. Perfect for a classic ice cream stop that never disappoints.
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream
Lunch/Dinner Recs
This list includes my go-to lunch and dinner spots — places I’ve personally eaten at and would happily return to again and again. From casual comfort food to more memorable sit-down meals, every recommendation here is reliable, delicious, and worth t...
This place is extra special to me — it’s where I went on my first date, and it’s still my favorite Mediterranean spot. Everything is fresh, flavorful, and consistently amazing. If you love Mediterranean food done right, this is one of those places yo...
Kairos Mediterranean
My go-to spot when I’m craving comfort food — especially their spuds 🥔. Hands down some of the best baked potatoes around: hearty, satisfying, and always hit the spot. Perfect for an easy, reliable meal.
McAlister's Deli
A Columbia classic that never disappoints. Rush’s is my go-to for quick, satisfying comfort food — especially when I’m craving a solid burger, fries, and a milkshake. It’s simple, nostalgic, and consistently good every time.
Rush's
A local go-to for hearty, satisfying sandwiches. Beezer’s is perfect when you want something quick but filling, with generous portions and classic flavors. It’s casual, reliable, and always a solid choice when you’re craving a good sandwich.
Beezer's Gourmet Sandwich Shop
A great spot for a cozy, elevated lunch. I had the prosciutto panini with tomato soup and it was absolutely delicious — comforting, flavorful, and perfectly paired. It’s the kind of place you go when you want something simple but really well done.
The Gourmet Shop
An incredible date night spot with gorgeous decor and the most romantic vibes. The charcuterie is beautifully done and perfect for sharing, and the goat cheese, arugula, and prosciutto pizza is absolutely delicious. It’s the kind of place you choose ...
Robinson Room
A go-to for comforting, Southern-inspired food done really well. Their biscuits with jams and honey are a must, and everything from the fried chicken to the sides is consistently delicious. Perfect for brunch or dinner when you want something hearty ...
Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar
The pasta and desserts can’t be beat!
Di Vino Rosso
10/10 date spot
Di Vino Rosso
Brunch
This list is for my favorite breakfast and brunch spots — the places I go when I want a great start to the day. From coffee and bagels to sit-down brunch favorites, every spot here offers consistently good food and a reason to come back. Perfect for ...
The yummiest bagels, no question 🥯. I always order a plain bagel with honey walnut cream cheese — it’s simple, comforting, and absolutely perfect every time. A must-stop if you’re a bagel lover.
Carolina Cafe & Catering Co
A charming spot that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch. Their crêpes are delicate and flavorful, and the croissants are buttery and fresh — exactly what you want when you’re craving something cozy but still special. It’s the kind of p...
Crêpes & Croissants
A must-stop if you love comfort food. Their cinnamon rolls are warm, gooey, and absolutely worth the hype, and the grilled cheese is just as good — perfectly melty and satisfying. It’s one of those spots that’s simple, cozy, and always hits the spot.
The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
Other
A go-to spot when you’re craving something warm, salty, and comforting. Their pretzels are soft, fresh, and best enjoyed straight out of the oven. Perfect for a quick snack or an easy treat that always satisfies. I love their sweet dips with the pret...