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, 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

May 25, 2022

Business program expands with five new concentrations (Newberry College)

NEWBERRY — Newberry College’s business administration program will introduce five innovative concentrations this fall. Students in one of the institution’s largest areas of study will now be able to specialize their education to meet some of the 21st century’s greatest demands. The concentrations, all available within the business administration major, include business management and leadership, finance and […]

May 18, 2022

Benedict College first in nation to join Veteran Affairs’ healthcare studies program

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Undergraduate students at Columbia’s Benedict College now have another way to explore possible careers in the health care field since the college recently agreed to participate in the US Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veteran Health Administration Health Care Talent Academy (HCTA). The program introduces students to careers in the Veteran’s Healthcare System with courses meant to […]