Columbia may be known for its Southern hospitality, but when the lights dim and the wine is poured, this city knows how to set the mood. I found myself drawn to places where the lighting was low, the food made you slow down, and the company felt even more special. These are the restaurants that invite conversation, that hold you in the moment. Romantic in the truest sense—not just for anniversaries or proposals, but for reconnecting, unwinding, and letting a meal become a memory.
Best Romantic Restaurants in Columbia, SC:
Dine in Southern Elegance at Halls Chophouse Columbia
This wasn’t just a steakhouse—it was a full experience. From the moment I walked in, it felt like something was about to be celebrated. The service was warm, the space elegant without being stiff. I caught your hand across the white tablecloth and thought, this is exactly the kind of place where people fall in love all over again.
What I Loved Most: The live jazz on the weekends, the clink of crystal, and the unmistakable sense that the night was ours.
Our meal? A bone-in filet cooked to perfection, creamed spinach, and truffle fries on the side. For dessert, the whiskey bread pudding that we both said we’d share—though I definitely ate more.
Address: 1221 Main St #150, Columbia, SC 29201
Feast on Comfort with a Twist at Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe
There was something so comfortable about Mr. Friendly’s. Romantic in the way that made me feel at ease—not rushed or formal, just genuine and soulful. The walls were lined with local art, and I loved how the buzz of the room melted into the background once the food arrived.
What I Loved Most: The warmth—of the food, the staff, the space. It felt like being taken care of.
Our meal? Pecan-crusted catfish with hoppin’ John and collard greens, followed by a slice of chocolate pecan pie that I still think about.
Address: 2001-A Greene St, Columbia, SC 29205
Savor Seasonal Cuisine at Motor Supply Company Bistro
I love a place where the menu changes daily—it feels like every meal is a surprise. Motor Supply had that rustic-chic thing down perfectly: exposed brick, soft lighting, and a cocktail menu that made me want to stay past dessert.
What I Loved Most: Watching the chef’s specials come out of the kitchen, each one looking more beautiful than the last. I could’ve stayed for hours.
Our meal? House-smoked pork belly with heirloom grits and a rosemary demi-glace. We split a blood orange crème brûlée and left feeling like we’d just taken a little culinary vacation.
Address: 920 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
Taste Global Flavors with Local Flair at Terra Restaurant
Terra sat quietly across the river, but the moment I stepped inside, it felt like I’d discovered something. Candlelight flickered on wine glasses, and the open kitchen sent out slow waves of warmth and garlic and anticipation.
What I Loved Most: The wood-fired oven and the way it made the room smell like comfort and celebration at once.
Our meal? A fig and prosciutto flatbread to start, followed by duck confit with creamy polenta. We lingered over glasses of Cabernet long after the plates were cleared.
Address: 100 State St, West Columbia, SC 29169
Share Wood-Fired Plates at Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza
This was casual romance—unfussy but still full of spark. I liked that we didn’t need reservations, that the food felt as thoughtful as any white-tablecloth place. The patio lights glowed just enough to turn the evening into something quietly special.
What I Loved Most: The wood-fired flavors and how the wine list somehow knew exactly what I was in the mood for.
Our meal? Roasted cauliflower with romesco, followed by a wood-grilled hanger steak and the kind of whipped potatoes that make you close your eyes. We ended with salted caramel gelato and didn’t even look at the time.
Address: 4840 Forest Dr, Columbia, SC 29206
Fuel Up with Creative Southern Fare at 1801 Grille
Steps from the university, but with a grown-up kind of charm, 1801 Grille balanced sleek design with Southern flavor. The lighting was golden and soft, and we tucked into a booth like we’d found our own little world inside the city.
What I Loved Most: The way each course felt just a little more elevated than expected. It made the night feel curated, personal.
Our meal? Lobster mac and cheese, grilled salmon with lemon beurre blanc, and a warm skillet cookie that we pretended we couldn’t finish—then absolutely did.
Address: 700 Lincoln St, Columbia, SC 29201
Closing Thoughts
Columbia doesn’t need a skyline to feel romantic. Its restaurants bring it through wine lists and soft jazz, through warm bread baskets and menus written with heart. These spots reminded me that romance lives in moments—the quiet ones between courses, in a shared dessert, or the way your voice sounds in candlelight.