RyansColumbiaGuide

Welcome back to week three of exploring the best spots in Columbia, SC! Between classes, work, and the weather recently, sometimes you just need a little treat to brighten your day. That’s where Small Sugar comes in. Located at 709 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201, this cozy bakery specializes in handcrafted sweets. I stopped by Small Sugar recently and was immediately drawn in by the colorful display of pastries and desserts. I decided to try the avocado toast plate, it was a little pricey, but every bite made the splurge worth it. The space itself is welcoming, with a charming, cozy vibe that makes it easy to study with a friend or grab a snack on the go. Whether you’re a dessert lover looking for your next favorite spot or just need a small pick-me-up during a busy day, Small Sugar is worth the visit. From cookies to cupcakes to other delightful pastries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! SmallSugar Menu

If you’re looking for fresh, delicious sushi in Columbia, M Vista is a must-try. Located at 701 Lady St C, Columbia, SC 29201, this spot not only serves classic and creative rolls, but also has great lunch deals perfect for a college student on a budget. Walking distance from popular off-campus living spots (the Hub and the Standard), and many hotels on Main Street, M Vista has it all. I tried the lunch special (pictured below), which had tuna and salmon sashimi and nigiri, a spicy tuna roll, and seaweed salad all for $15. Compared to other sushi spots in town, I’d say this lunch special is the best deal I have seen yet. I was impressed by the quality and flavor; it was fresh and absolutely worth the money. Whether you’re grabbing lunch with friends or treating yourself after class, M Vista is an affordable and walkable option from most spots on campus. Make sure to check back next week for some more food and drink reviews!    M Vista Menu

Welcome back to week two of the best spots in Columbia, SC. As we dive into midterms and busy weeks, a little caffeine boost might be just what you need to keep your week moving. Lazy Daisy Coffee Co., located at 4615 Forest Dr., Suite 1, Columbia, SC 29206, is a family-owned business dedicated to bringing people together over coffee and pastries. Their menu ranges from coffees and teas to bagels and freshly made pastries, offering something for everyone. As an avid coffee drinker, I was very excited to try Lazy Daisy as I have heard so many great reviews of not only the drinks, but also the atmosphere. I tried one of their signature lattes, The Daisy, and absolutely loved it. It had the perfect balance of flavor - sweet but also strong. If you have time, I would absolutely recommend stopping by Lazy Daisy on Forest Drive. Whether you are in a rush and need a quick pick-me-up or have time to sit and study, this coffee shop has quickly become one of my favorite shops in town!   Lazy...

Starting off strong with the Crave Artisan Market located at 725 Meeting St in West Columbia. The market is a family-owned sandwich spot, offering take-out and eating options. With fresh ingredients and a menu with lots of variety, the market has a simple yet elevated approach. I ordered the Meadow vegan sandwich (pictured below), substituting the nutritional yeast for turkey, and absolutely loved it. The portions are large and made as ordered, promising freshness with every order. Beyond sandwiches, the menu offers house-made soups, salads, and paninis, also offering a grab-and-go section for people in a hurry. If you haven’t tried before, I would strongly suggest heading down to the Crave Artisan Market, whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a local spot with big flavor. This hidden gem on Meeting Street is definitely worth a visit. Menu

Hi everyone! My name is Ryan, and I'm a sophomore majoring in International Business and Finance with a minor in French. As an out-of-state student, I’ve had the chance to explore Columbia in a unique way — one meal at a time. Since the beginning of my freshman year, I’ve had the opportunity to try numerous restaurants, coffee shops, and small local stores in Columbia. From Soda City Market on Saturday mornings to the lively spots around Five Points, Columbia has no shortage of places to eat, drink, and hang out. This blog is a space where I will share new restaurants, provide food reviews, and discover new places to support. Whether you are new to Columbia, visiting, or just want to try new spots, I hope this blog helps you discover something you enjoy! #Columbiaeats #Foodrecommendations #DowntownColumbiaSC