Where to Brunch in Columbia, SC

If you’ve ever seen my Instagram, it’s no secret that brunch is my favorite meal. Since our move to Cola two years ago, we’ve explored the local Columbia brunch scene thoroughly and it would be selfish not to share our findings. Thankfully for us all, boozy brunching just keeps getting more popular and we can’t wait to see what new additions will join the scene. Here are our recommendations for the best brunch in Columbia.

“brunch”

{{ brunch without booze is just a sad breakfast }}

Where to Brunch in Columbia, SC

Hours & options may be limited due to COVID-19.

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Tazza Kitchen | Saturday 11:30- 2:30 & Sunday 10:30-3:00 | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating

Tazza Kitchen is a local favorite for brunch with an extensive menu, incredible seasonal cocktails, and the coolest vibe on the block. Pictured below you’ll find some of our go-to menu items like the crab cake benedict, huevos rancheros, and the burritos. Other favorites include their burger and French toast. While every restaurant on this list deserves its spotlight, Tazza has been our most frequented and loved place for brunch in Columbia.

Hampton Street Vineyard | Saturday & Sunday 11-3 | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating (Pup Friendly) | Live music Saturdays

I’m pleased to announce we have a new heavy hitter in town to join the brunch scene. HSV is under new management from NYC and brought all the city goodness to this adorable spot on Hampton Street. This has always been one of my favorite blocks downtown, and they are finally giving this space new life. We tried the Croque Madame and the Crepe Cake and both were absolutely delicious and perfect for sharing. I thought $8 for a mimosa was a bit steep for Columbia, but the food & patio vibes were worth it!

Publico Kitchen & Tap | Sunday 10:30-3:00 | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating (Pup Friendly)

Craving a Sunday Funday brunch? Head to Publico for buy one get on free brunch cocktails and a killer food lineup. The jalapeño corn biscuits will absolutely change your life. Everything about Publico’s brunch is incredibly unique, even the cocktails! Bring your pup if you want, but don’t leave your appetite at home.

Il Giorgione | Saturday Only 11-2 | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating

From breakfast pizzas to eggs in purgatory and ricotta pancakes, this little slice of Italy is the perfect way to kick off your Saturday. It is an incredibly affordable spot with espresso martinis and mimosa pitchers & Italian spritzes.

Za’s on Devine | Saturday & Sunday 11-2 | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating (Pup Friendly)

If you brunch for the mimosas as much as for the food, Za’s is the perfect spot for you. Their “Mimosa Bucket” is just $12 and comes with a whole bottle of champagne and your choice of juice. Thankfully the food is amazing too. Pictured below is the avocado open faced sandwich, but my favorite is the breakfast bowl. Whoever thought to put spinach artichoke dip with hash browns is a genius.

The Grand | Saturday & Sunday 9:00-2:00 | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating (pup friendly)

I have four words for you… Cinnamon- Toast- Crunch- Waffle!!! I saw it on their Instagram, and I had to have it and every bite was as good as I’d hoped for. This is the place you want when you want variety and large portions. The egg scramble and shrimp & grits (pictured) were also very good.

smallSUGAR | Daily 7-3 | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating

This casual, counter-serve bakery and cafe is the perfect spot for grabbing a pastry and coffee to go, or enjoying a fresh & delicious meal on the patio. While the menu is more breakfast & lunch, you can still fulfill your brunch craving. Some of my favorites are the sweet potato bowl, avocado tartine, and the turkey melt is out of this world.

Liberty Taproom Vista | Sunday 10-2 | MENU | No Reservations | Valet Parking

With a menu full of brunch classics, bloody Mary’s and brunch cocktails, Liberty has something for everyone. Plus we can all appreciate free valet parking in the Vista am I right?! Be sure to ask for an order of their warm blueberry muffins to start!

Cafe Strudel | Saturday & Sunday All Day | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating

Cafe Strudel has been on top of the brunch game since day one. Not only do they have all day breakfast, but their food is delicious and affordable. Go early or expect a wait almost any day of the week because people are always lining up to get in.

The Gourmet Shop | Saturday & Sunday All Day | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating (Pup Friendly)

A local favorite none the less, The Gourmet Shop in Five Points has always been a recommended spot for brunch and lunch alike. You can peruse the aisles of the shop inside while waiting for a table, or grab some local favorites before you head home. The cafe menu is heavy on breakfast and lunch options but less brunch than others.

Twisted Spur Brewing | Saturday & Sunday 10-2 | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating (Pup Friendly)

This is a true local gem owned by a Cola native and USC grad. With it being a brewery as well, we skipped the mimosas and tried a few beers with brunch. The SC shaped beer flight was a nice surprise and only $8! All the food was delicious, but the showstopper here was their fries. If you are like me and enjoy ranch with your fries, you’ll be here every week.

BLD Diner | Saturday & Sunday 7am-9pm | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating

My only regret is waiting so long to try BLD Diner. Being one of the few restaurants in Columbia that offers weekday AND weekend brunch, I’m shocked it took so long to try. Pictured below is the Breakfast Burrito, Grandma’s Biscuits, a BLT, and the Chicken & Waffles. The burrito is my favorite, but they only serve it on special.

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Honorable Mentions

Here are a few more popular Columbia brunch spots that we have yet to try, but have heard great things! We’ll update this post as we continue to eat our way through the brunch scene and these are the next on our list.

Henry’s Bar & Grill | Sunday 10-2 | Devine St MENU | Cayce MENU | No Reservations

Di Pratos Deli | Saturday & Sunday 10-2 | MENU | No Reservations

1801 Grille | Sunday 11:30-3:30 Buffet | MENU | No Reservations | Outdoor Seating

Motor Supply Co | Sunday 10:30-2:30 | MENU | Reservations

Market on Main | Saturday & Sunday 10:30-3 | MENU | Reservations | Outdoor Seating

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Thanks so much for reading today’s post. I hope you found some drool worthy inspiration for your next weekend brunch in Columbia, SC! You can always see all the food goodness first by following me on Instagram @mattisonheatherly. Don’t forget to save this post to your Pinterest to have for later reference.

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