Dining & Nightlife

Start Satisfying Your Cravings

Central SC has no shortage of dining options that cater to every palette. The culinary scenes in our Region are booming with exciting restaurants and seasoned chefs that are dedicated to providing the best cuisines South Carolina has to offer. But it’s not just Southern fare that we specialize in – everything from international flavors to vegan delicacies are well within reach. Plus, our lively nightlife scene is buzzing with opportunities to get out on the town, whether you’re looking for a relaxing night or a bustling party.

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Year-round food festivals in Central SC

Top 5

City for millennial migration

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Fine dining restaurants in Columbia

Cuisine Worth Craving

Central SC has a flavorful spectrum of cuisines ranging from Southern comfort to contemporary, diverse dishes. Our downtown districts, like St. Matthews, Newberry, and Columbia, are filled to the brim with unique dining options, including Lula Drake, Il Giorgione Pizzeria & Wine Bar, Calhoun Cafe, Lucy’s Traditional Southern Bakehouse, Sam Kendall’s, Alodia’s Cucina Italiana, Figaro, Edisto Beer Garden (new in 2023!), and Terra.

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A shot of performers performing to a large crowd at the Icehouse Ampitheater in Central SC

Planning a Night on the Town

From bars to dance clubs to lively downtown areas, Central SC has the nightlife scene for you. Venues like the Koger Center, Tin Roof, The Senate, Bill’s Pickin’ Parlor, the Icehouse Amphitheater, the Newberry Opera House and Township Auditorium offer a variety of experiences that range from concerts to plays. For a more lowkey night, State Street in West Columbia, Main Street in downtown Columbia, Five Points or historic Newberry, and downtown Lexington are lined with restaurants and pubs to enjoy.

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Featured News & Stories

October 9, 2024

84 Lumber grows South Carolina footprint with new operation in Clarendon County

$13.4 million investment will create 78 new jobs COLUMBIA, S.C. – 84 Lumber, included on Forbes list of America’s largest private companies, today announced it selects Clarendon County to establish the company’s second component plant in South Carolina. The $13.4 million investment will create 78 new jobs. Founded in 1956, 84 Lumber is a […]

October 8, 2024

Birla Carbon selects Orangeburg County for first South Carolina operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Birla Carbon, a leading manufacturer and supplier of carbon solutions, today announced it selects Orangeburg County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $1 billion investment will create 124 new jobs. Birla Carbon will construct a 435,000-square-foot building at the Tri-County Industrial Site in Orangeburg to serve as a […]