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

March 13, 2025

ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. selects Lexington County to establish first South Carolina operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – ALLTAPE Adhesive Manufacturing Inc. (ALLTAPE), a manufacturer of adhesive products, today announced it selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $70 million investment will create 130 new jobs. Part of ATP Group and founded in Germany, ALLTAPE specializes in developing and manufacturing sustainable and solvent-free adhesive […]

January 15, 2025

Cardiff Products Corporation selects Lexington County for first South Carolina operation

COLUMBIA, S.C. – Cardiff Products Corporation (Cardiff Products), a beverage manufacturer, today announced it selects Lexington County to establish the company’s first South Carolina operation. The $99.6 million investment will create 94 new jobs. Founded in Canada in 2019, Cardiff Products is a family-owned business that specializes in producing high-quality beverages for the U.S. and Canadian markets. The […]