If you are visiting or passing through the lovely, laid-back city of West Columbia, you have plenty of options for places to get a serene night's sleep, enjoy memorable dining and sip cold libations in cool surroundings.
Wake Up Well Rested and Devour Tasty Fare in West Columbia
But first things first. You will need to secure lodgings that suit your budget and needs.
If you’re traveling through West Columbia and looking for a comfortable, budget-friendly hotel, try the Quality Inn West Columbia, Sleep Inn Airport or the Residence Inn by Marriott.
If you prefer to stay in downtown Columbia, want to splurge a little more on accommodations, and don't mind driving over the river to West Columbia for dining or recreational activities, Aloft Columbia Downtown, Hilton Columbia Center and Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel are all great choices, too.
Where to Go for Dining and Drinks
Want to jump-start your day during your visit? Wake up early, sign in and hit the bottomless coffee bar at Cafe Strudel. Located in a 1920s building on State Street, the popular West Columbia restaurant is the neighborhood meeting hub after Saturday football games and Sunday church. Known for its famous “hangover hash browns,” Cafe Strudel serves breakfast all day, as well as lunch and dinner. Try the fried green tomatoes and horseradish pimento cheese for a taste of the South.
For a special dinner, you'll want to make a reservation at the trendy Black Rooster. The self-described "Frenchish" restaurant boasts a local farm-to-table approach with French-inspired dishes. The vibe and menu, however, are decidely unfussy. For example, the Nashville hot chicken sandwich is as expertly executed at the Basque escargot. For a lively evening, head to their chic rooftop bar for a fine cocktail, glass of wine, or local brew that you can sip while enjoying the view.
Terra means "earth" or "land" in Latin and that’s exactly what the owner and executive chef showcase in their menu at Terra Restaurant. The establishment makes a conscious effort to support local farmers and use as many locally grown ingredients as possible. Opened in 2006, the restaurant has earned quite a few honors, including a Wine Spectator award every year and classification as a Distinguished Restaurant of North America—one of only six restaurants in the Palmetto State to receive the award.
Chef Mike Davis can also pat himself on the back for being named Best Chef in Columbia by the Free Times for five consecutive years since 2014. At this restaurant, you'll enjoy seasonal offerings, a curated wine list, a creative cocktail menu and one-of-a-kind Southern staples.
It's just one of many reasons to spend some time in wonderful West Columbia.
