Brunch in Columbia, SC punches far above its weight. Forget the brunch clichés. Here, you’ll find cinnamon rolls that could outshine your grandma’s, French-style crêpes that spark spontaneous smiles, and fluffy pancakes that feel like a Sunday hug. Whether you’re hunting a cozy nook for a slow morning or need a hearty fix before exploring Main Street, Columbia’s brunch scene delivers.
As someone who has chased good brunch from the Carolinas to the coast, I know when a city gets it right. Columbia surprises. The blend of classic Southern comfort and clever urban spots stands out. You’ll discover where locals go back week after week and why brunch is less of a meal and more of a miniature holiday across the city. If you crave variety, character, and a few hidden gems, you’re in the right place.
Where to find the best brunch in Columbia, SC
Here are some of the top spots to find the best brunch in Columbia, SC:
- The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
- DiPrato’s
- Blue Marlin
- Eggs Up Grill
- Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza
- Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant
- Gourmet Shop Cafe
- Liberty Tap Room
- The Original Pancake House
- Drip
1. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
Step inside The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli and it feels like Sunday morning any day of the week. The first thing you’ll notice is the aroma of cinnamon and freshly brewed coffee drifting across busy Devine Street. The place buzzes with regulars who take their breakfast seriously.
I still think about their signature cinnamon rolls—the size of small plates and impossibly soft. The classic roll is the star, smothered in icing and just the right touch of spice. But don’t sleep on their “Egg & Cheese Grits Bowl,” which captures Southern comfort in every bite.
Whether you eat plant-based or gluten-free, you’ll find satisfying options on their playful menu. This spot nails the balance of cozy, creative, and downright delicious, making it an essential stop for anyone chasing brunch in Columbia.
2. DiPrato’s
DiPrato’s feels like Columbia’s best-kept brunch secret, tucked just off the beating heart of campus life. Slide into a booth, and light filters through big windows—ideal for lazy mornings or catching up with friends. The vibe is easygoing but there’s real attention to detail behind the scenes.
I can never resist their crisp, golden pita chips paired with house-made pimento cheese. It’s the move every time. The Mediterranean Omelet and classic Challah French Toast stand out, blending comfort with a little creative flair. If you want to go light, their salads are fresh and filling.
DiPrato’s makes brunch feel like an event without any stuffiness. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners find plenty of thoughtful choices, all genuinely tasty. This is where locals go when they want to eat well and linger a little longer.
3. Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin brings a taste of the Southern Low Country right into Columbia’s lively Vista district. The space itself feels elegant yet relaxed, with high ceilings and pleasant chatter that hints you’re in the right place. It’s one of those spots where brunch lasts as long as you want it to.
When I visit, I go straight for the Cajun-inspired Shrimp & Grits. The grits are creamy, the shrimp have just the right kick, and the blend of local veggies adds a fresh note. There’s real skill hidden in these simple-seeming plates.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are crafted with care, not as afterthoughts. If you’re curious about Columbia’s coastal connections, Blue Marlin lets you savor it all with a fork and a smile. This is where Southern roots shine through every brunch bite.
4. Eggs Up Grill
Eggs Up Grill on Devine Street delivers all the classic brunch comforts without pretense. Sunlight pours through the windows, and the smell of sizzling potatoes says you’ve made the right choice. The staff always greets you like an old friend, making even early mornings feel brighter.
What keeps me coming back? Their Signature Home Fries and the Veggie Omelet, both packed with fresh flavor and perfectly cooked. The build-your-own breakfast allows you to pile on favorites, whether you lean light or hearty. Pancakes arrive fluffy, and the fruit is actually ripe.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options mean everyone finds something satisfying. If you’re after a steady, reliable brunch spot with a truly local feel, Eggs Up Grill hits the spot.
5. Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza
Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza turns a weekend brunch into something with a little sparkle. The whole space feels fresh—sunny, lively, and just modern enough. I like to come with a group so we can try a bit of everything and taste those wood-fired edges that make their dishes pop.
The real draw here? Their Avocado Toast, loaded with local greens and pickled onions, feels light but never skimpy. If you’re in the mood for something warm, the breakfast pizza is a twist you’ll want to share. It’s got a thin, chewy crust kissed by fire and topped with just the right mix of savory and bright flavors.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options round out the menu, making indulgence stress-free. For brunch with a twist and plenty of variety, this is the place to linger.
6. Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant
Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant is where brunch feels like a Southern family reunion. The moment you walk in, the friendly chatter and the smell of biscuits let you know you’re in for real comfort food. It’s the sort of spot where locals head for a relaxed meal that tastes like home.
I have a soft spot for their Vegetable Omelet and fresh grits. Both come piping hot, with the sort of flavors you only get from a kitchen that cooks with care. Their buttermilk biscuits are a must—flaky, golden, and too good to split.
Lizard’s Thicket keeps brunch simple, familiar, and satisfying. They cater to varied diets, so you’ll find vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options that don’t cut corners. For classic Southern brunch with real community spirit, this is the move.
7. Gourmet Shop Cafe
Gourmet Shop Cafe is a Five Points favorite, blending café charm with casual sophistication. Sun streams through the windows and shelves are stacked with gourmet treats, making it easy to lose track of time just browsing. On weekends, it’s full of locals who know where to find Columbia’s best bites.
I always gravitate to their Egg Salad Croissant or the Smoked Salmon Bagel (requesting vegetarian toppings of course). The eggs are always perfectly cooked and the croissant is impossibly tender. Their salads are crisp and fresh too, ideal for a lighter brunch.
The Gourmet Shop makes each dish feel thoughtful, not fussy. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, brunch here fits every mood. For something comforting, light, and a touch European, this is the spot.
8. Liberty Tap Room
Liberty Tap Room is the lively brunch hub in the middle of Columbia’s Vista, where big windows let in a cheerful bustle and you can settle in for people-watching or a lazy meal. There’s a laid-back energy here that makes it perfect for groups or when you’re just looking to treat yourself.
My go-to? Their Avocado Toast, loaded with bright tomatoes and a dash of fresh herbs. For a heartier bite, the Veggie Omelet delivers all the warm, savory notes you want late-morning. If you’re after something lighter, the salads are always generous and crisp.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are easy to spot on the menu. Liberty Tap Room’s brunch scene blends comfort, creativity, and a little sense of occasion, all in one spot.
9. The Original Pancake House
The Original Pancake House turns brunch into something of an art, specializing in pancakes but nailing all the details that make a meal memorable. The aroma of fresh batter and maple syrup wraps you up the second you walk in. Growing up, this was the spot for celebrating lazy weekend mornings.
The Dutch Baby and Apple Pancake steal the show. They’re fluffy, golden, and hit that sweet spot between breakfast and dessert. The weekday regulars also rave about the buttermilk pancakes for their light yet decadent texture.
Vegetarian and vegan options are on the menu, so nobody’s left out at the table. Friendly service and comfort, here, come stacked as high as their pancakes.
10. Drip
Drip feels like Columbia’s answer to the neighborhood coffee shop you wish you’d found sooner. Natural light pours in, each table humming with friendly conversation, and the scent of fresh coffee hangs in the air. The staff knows their beans and their regulars, so you never feel like a stranger.
On my last visit, I snagged a vegetarian breakfast sandwich with melty cheese and perfectly cooked eggs, plus a pour-over that could turn any morning around. Their house-made bread brings an extra bit of comfort to every bite.
Drip’s menu is short but memorable, focusing on quality rather than quantity. For brunch with bold flavors and a relaxed vibe, this is a spot that delivers, every single time.
More Things to Try in Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best brunch spots in Columbia, SC?
Favorites include The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli, DiPrato’s, Blue Marlin, Eggs Up Grill, and Tazza Kitchen Trenholm Plaza. Each offers unique menus and a welcoming vibe.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options available for brunch in Columbia?
Most top brunch places—like Gourmet Shop Cafe, Liberty Tap Room, and Lizard’s Thicket—have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly marked or available on request.
Is brunch in Columbia family-friendly?
Absolutely. Many brunch spots, including Lizard’s Thicket and The Original Pancake House, offer comfortable seating, friendly service, and menus that appeal to kids and adults.
Do Columbia brunch restaurants require reservations?
Some popular spots may get busy, especially on weekends. If you have your heart set, consider calling ahead, but many places welcome walk-ins.
Where can I find a cozy brunch in Columbia?
Drip and Gourmet Shop Cafe both serve up cozy atmospheres perfect for quiet conversation or catching up over a great meal.
What brunch dishes are Columbia known for?
Look for Southern classics like grits, fluffy biscuits, and creative omelets, along with bold, fresh options like avocado toast or seasonal pancakes.