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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at South Carolina chapter.

If you’re new to Columbia or just looking for some new places to eat, I have compiled a list of all the best spots. Columbia has so many choices to offer, always making it so hard to choose, but if you follow this list you’re sure to be satisfied.

SmallSUGAR

Starting with my personal favorite spot in Cola, SmallSUGAR. They are in the Vista, just across from Tsunami, tucked away and secluded. They offer amazing tartines, bowls, and breakfast dishes all served on fresh sourdough. Whenever I’m there, I always go for the avocado tartine with a side of beets. If you’re not in the mood for a full meal, they have amazing pastries made fresh every day.

Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli

The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli is a new discovery of mine. They have what seems like a never-ending selection of sandwiches, each of which comes with a free “mini” cinnamon roll, but honestly it is the size of a regular one. If sandwiches are not your thing, this is still a must go spot for their cinnamon rolls themselves. They have been featured on Food Network and have won many awards, rightfully so. You cannot go wrong with their classic, but they also offer a variety of flavors.

The Gourmet Shop

Located in the heart of Five Points, the Gourmet Shop is a French inspired café with delicious breakfast and lunch options. Their menu ranges from sandwiches to charcuterie to waffles. Not only is their food amazing but it is also very reasonably priced, making it a go-to of mine. When you’re done eating or while waiting for a table, be sure to head inside to their shop, full of kitchen products and food.

Rosewood Market

Rosewood Market, although not a restaurant, has some of my favorite food in Columbia. This is an organic grocery store located on Rosewood Drive that offers a fresh served hot bar Monday-Saturday from 11am-3pm. They have many selections including tofu, sweet potatoes, peppers, and brussels sprouts. This is the perfect place for those who love veggie and grain bowls but do not have the time to meal prep it themselves.

Kaminsky’s Dessert Bar

Although not a breakfast, lunch, or dinner spot, I could not make a list without including Kaminsky’s Dessert Bar. Located in the Vista, this is a must stop for everyone visiting Columbia, whether you’re celebrating or simply are craving dessert. Every night they have a new selection of cakes along with milkshakes, churros, and my personal favorite, cookie sundaes.

Columbia has an abundance of amazing food choices and this list is only the beginning. If you’re in Columbia, be sure to stop by and try them out. You will not be disappointed.

Amber Brown

South Carolina '26

Amber is an editorial member of the Her Campus South Carolina chapter. She writes articles every month best directed at other females giving advice, reviews, and sharing her opinions on all things college, South Carolina, entertainment, and lifestyle. Amber is a sophomore nursing student at the University of South Carolina from her home state of Maryland. She has a strong passion for helping children and infants so once she graduates with her BSN in the year 2026, she hopes to become a labor and delivery, pediatric, or NICU nurse in a hospital. When Amber is not with Her Campus, she has many passions and hobbies. She loves taking hot yoga classes, and hopes to one day become an instructor herself, hiking scenic trails that end in an overlook view, baking and cooking new recipes, and traveling. She has been vegetarian for 9 years and is a huge advocate of living a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Amber is a huge movie fan, specifically those from the 80s and 90s, but she will always be up to date on the newest films in theatres. When the end of the year approaches and we have reached the fall and winter months, you will find many festive and seasonal articles from her as she loves to be in the spirit of the season.