Romantic restaurants in Columbia are where Southern hospitality meets intimate indulgence: soft lighting, seasonal flavors, and a calm, sophisticated atmosphere that invites you to linger. It’s where I share slow sips and sweet glances beneath the gentle hum of the capital city.
I’ve got pan-seared scallops with a peach glaze, a glass of South Carolina rosé, and the warm glow of Edison bulbs bouncing off exposed brick—right in the heart of historic and charming Columbia, SC. Who knew romance could feel so rooted and refined?
"Classic comfort, subtle elegance, and slow-cooked connection? This is Columbia’s romantic side, served with style."
This is Why I Keep Coming Back for More:
Unique Romantic Restaurants in Columbia, SC:
1. Dine in Southern Elegance at Halls Chophouse Columbia
Halls Chophouse Columbia is a premier destination for romantic dinners, elegant celebrations, and fine dining in the heart of South Carolina’s capital. This iconic family-owned steakhouse delivers a refined New American menu in a stylish space with beautiful views and a warm, welcoming ambiance.
Recommended For: Romantic date nights, upscale gatherings, and steak lovers seeking refined Southern hospitality and top-tier cuisine.
- Dine on expertly prepared dry-aged steaks, Wagyu, seafood, and game meats.
- Enjoy a curated wine list featuring global selections to elevate your meal.
- Listen to live music nightly, with classic jazz and a renowned Gospel Sunday Brunch.
- Celebrate special occasions in one of three elegant private dining rooms.
- Support a family-owned institution known for its service, sophistication, and soul.
1221 Main St #150, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-563-5066
2. Feast on Comfort with a Twist at Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe
Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe began as a humble sandwich and cookie shop and has evolved into one of Columbia’s most beloved upscale-casual restaurants. Known for its inventive takes on Southern cuisine, this sophisticated yet relaxed eatery offers a diverse menu featuring ocean-fresh seafood, prime meats, and poultry dishes made entirely from scratch with locally sourced ingredients.
Recommended For: Seafood lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone seeking modern Southern flavors in a stylish but approachable setting.
- Savor bold dishes like Low Country Grilled Pork Tenderloin and Togarashi Seared Tuna.
- Pair your meal with curated wines, small-batch Bourbon, or a local craft beer.
- Enjoy house-made specialties crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
- Relax in a casually elegant atmosphere perfect for date nights or dinners with friends.
- Support a Columbia original that blends Southern tradition with contemporary flair.
2001-A Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-254-7828
3. Savor Seasonal Cuisine at Motor Supply Company Bistro
Motor Supply Company Bistro is a standout dining destination in Columbia, SC, housed in a beautifully restored historic brick building that once supplied engine parts. Today, it’s known for its upscale, chef-driven New American cuisine and charming outdoor sculpture garden.
Recommended For: Foodies, brunch enthusiasts, and anyone seeking creative, locally sourced fare in a unique and historic setting.
- Dine on fresh, inventive dishes that change daily based on seasonal availability.
- Relax in the charming outdoor sculpture garden or cozy interior with historic flair.
- Sip craft cocktails, fine wines, and regional brews to complement your meal.
- Brunch in style on Sundays with one of Columbia’s most popular brunch menus.
- Support a locally loved eatery committed to sustainability and scratch-made excellence.
920 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-256-6687
Date Ideas:
4. Taste Global Flavors with Local Flair at Terra Restaurant
Terra Restaurant takes its name from the Latin word for “earth,” and it lives up to that ethos with a Southern-inspired, farm-to-table menu crafted from the freshest locally sourced ingredients. This chef-owned bistro offers breathtaking views of the Columbia skyline from both its refined dining room and picturesque outdoor patio.
Recommended For: Farm-to-table enthusiasts, skyline views, and anyone seeking fresh, seasonal cuisine in a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.
- Admire stunning views of the Columbia skyline from the dining room or patio.
- Enjoy a daily-changing menu built around fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients.
- Savor Southern-leaning dishes crafted with creativity and care.
- Pair your meal with curated wines, local craft beers, or signature cocktails.
- Support a chef-owned bistro committed to regional sourcing and culinary artistry.
100 State St, West Columbia, SC 29169
Phone: 803-791-3443
5. Share Wood-Fired Plates at Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza
Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza brings a refined yet relaxed dining experience to Columbia’s Forest Acres neighborhood. Located in Trenholm Plaza, this chic eatery offers a menu of Italian- and New American-inspired dishes, including wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, zesty tacos, and fresh salads.
Recommended For: Stylish weeknight dinners, weekend brunches, and anyone craving a mix of Italian flair and fresh, seasonal American fare.
- Enjoy wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, tacos, and fresh salads.
- Dine indoors or alfresco on the wraparound patio with lush landscaping.
- Relax with a handcrafted cocktail, specialty coffee, or glass of fine wine.
- Visit for lunch during the week, weekend brunch, or dinner any night.
- Support a locally loved restaurant that blends elegance with everyday appeal.
4840 Forest Dr #20, Columbia, SC 29206
Phone: 803-782-0760
6. Fuel Up with Creative Southern Fare at 1801 Grille
1801 Grille celebrates the spirit of the University of South Carolina with a warm, tavern-style atmosphere and a commitment to Southern hospitality and farm-to-table cuisine. Located near campus, this inviting restaurant features rustic interiors with cozy mahogany tables, iron chandeliers, and an ambiance rooted in Columbia’s rich history.
Recommended For: USC alumni and fans, casual diners, and anyone looking for fresh Southern fare in a welcoming, collegiate-inspired setting.
- Dig into wood-fired pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, sliders, and grilled burgers.
- Share small plates like calamari, pub chips, or seafood specials with friends.
- Dine in a cozy setting filled with rustic charm and university pride.
- Experience farm-to-table freshness from a locally focused kitchen.
- Support a community-rooted restaurant that honors Southern culinary traditions.
700 Lincoln St #200, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-777-1801
7. If You Love Craft Beer and Laid-Back Eats, Head to Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse
Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Alehouse is a welcoming Columbia brewpub with exposed brick walls, a laid-back vibe, and a focus on handcrafted food and beer. Located just behind the statehouse at College and Main Streets—across from City Roots farm—this local favorite serves up classic pub fare and seasonal specialties made with fresh, regional ingredients.
Recommended For: Craft beer lovers, casual foodies, and anyone seeking locally brewed beer with upscale pub fare in a relaxed setting.
- Savor a rotating selection of house-brewed ales and craft beers on tap.
- Dine on elevated pub fare like steaks, handmade pizzas, and seasonal specialties.
- Relax in a cozy space with exposed brick, warm lighting, and friendly vibes.
- Pair your meal with wines, rare vintages, or a handcrafted cocktail.
- Support a locally owned brewery with a passion for community and quality.
900 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-748-0540
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What types of romantic dining options are available in Columbia, South Carolina?
- The capital city of South Carolina is home to a variety of romantic restaurants that are perfect for quiet dinners and special celebrations.
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Where can you experience farm-to-table dining in Columbia?
- Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and welcoming southern hospitality at 1801 Grille.
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Where can you find Cajun-Creole food and whiskey in Columbia?
- Tuck into Cajun-Creole classics and a variety of bourbon and whiskey at Bourbon.
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Where can you enjoy Northern Italian cuisine in Columbia?
- Try traditional Northern Italian dishes with local twists at Ristorante Divino in the historic Congaree Vista area.
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Where can you find the best romantic dining spots in Columbia?
- Here are some of Columbia’s top spots for romantic dinners and special occasions.
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