Columbia, South Carolina, boasts a vibrant culinary scene, providing an exciting palette of flavors from all around the world. Among them, the sun-kissed Mediterranean hues of Greek cuisine hold a special place.
Be it a classic Gyro you crave, a crisp Greek salad, a cheese-filled pizza, or a flaky, sweet Baklava, the city has you covered. With the rich variety of Greek restaurants in Columbia, you can practically have a gastronomical odyssey without stepping out of the city.
Let’s walk you through seven of the best Greek eateries that promise an authentic Hellenic experience, right here in Columbia, SC.
1. Zorba’s Greek Restaurant: A Legacy of Delectable Greek Dishes
At Zorba’s Greek Restaurant, the love for Greek food has been nurtured and passed down through generations. This family-owned gem has been serving locals since 1989, leaving a trail of satisfied customers behind. Zorba’s offers an expansive menu, with dishes ranging from classic pizza and pasta to refreshing salads and sandwiches.
However, the showstopper here is undoubtedly their Gyros. You can pick from a selection of lamb, chicken, beef, or veggie gyros. Each one comes wrapped in a warm pita bread and adorned with tangy tzatziki sauce, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions.
The smorgasbord of flavors they offer is amplified by their buffet option, where you can sample a variety of Greek dishes for a fixed price. Zorba’s opens its doors seven days a week and also provides catering services, ready to elevate your occasions with a touch of Greece.
π 6169 Saint Andrews Rd, Columbia, SC 29212
π (803) 772-4617
2. Nick’s Gyros & Phillys: Satiating Late-Night Cravings
Looking for a quick Greek fix late at night? Look no further than Nick’s Gyros & Phillys. This casual, fast-service restaurant is a perfect spot to satiate your late-night cravings, serving Greek and American fare till 2 am on weekdays and 24 hours on weekends.
Their menu features an array of gyros and philly cheesesteaks in various sizes and flavors. You can also order burgers, wings, salads, wraps, subs, and more. With a drive-thru window, getting your fix of Greek food has never been more convenient. It is truly one of the top greek restaurants in Columbia sc.
π 1931 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29210-7004
π (803) 798-5000
3. Mediterranean Tea Room: The Cozy Greek Hideaway
The Mediterranean Tea Room offers you a chance to escape the everyday bustle and step into a cozy and elegant environment, serving Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. Their menu features mouth-watering appetizers like hummus, baba ghanoush, dolmades, and spanakopita.
On the entree side, the options are just as enticing. Be it the succulent lamb shank, the comforting moussaka, or the flavorful kabobs, there is something for everyone.
Their dessert offerings, like baklava, rice pudding, and tiramisu, provide a sweet ending to your meal. In addition, the Tea Room offers an assortment of teas from around the world, the perfect accompaniment to your Greek feast.
The Mediterranean Tea Room opens its doors for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday and also offers catering services.
π 2601 Devine St., Columbia SC 29205
π (803) 799-3118
4. Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe – Columbia: Fresh, Healthy, and Delicious
Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe, a favorite among locals, serves fresh and healthy Mediterranean food, customized to your preference. Their menu is brimming with salads, sandwiches, wraps, gyros, bowls, platters, and more. You can choose your protein, sauce, and sides, making each meal unique.
Some of the crowd-favorites include the grilled chicken gyro, the vibrant Mediterranean salad with grilled salmon, and the hearty roasted pork loin feast. Taziki’s is also conscious about dietary requirements, offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
You can enjoy their delicious offerings at their Columbia location or order online for dine-in or takeout.
π 702 Cross Hill Rd Suite 300A Columbia SC 29205
π (803) 386-0302
5. Ariana’s Greek Restaurant: A Family’s Love for Greek Food
Ariana’s Greek Restaurant is a charming, family-owned restaurant where the love for Greek food is evident in every dish they serve.
The warm and welcoming environment pairs well with their menu, featuring appetizers like saganaki, calamari, and tzatziki dip. For mains, you can enjoy the hearty pastitsio, juicy souvlaki, and tender lamb chops.
Don’t miss out on their desserts β the loukoumades (Greek honey dumplings), creamy galaktoboureko, and the unique baklava cheesecake are a sweet lover’s dream.
The menu is kept fresh and exciting with daily specials that change according to the season and availability of ingredients. Ariana’s is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Saturday and also provides catering services for parties.
π 1720 Sunset Blvd West Columbia SC 29169
π (803) 796-4430
6. Grecian Gardens: Greek Meets Italian
Grecian Gardens is where the vivacious flavors of Greece meet the hearty comfort of Italian food. This family-owned restaurant has been delighting guests with their unique offerings since 1982.
On their menu, you’ll find appetizers like fried cheese, stuffed grape leaves, and shrimp cocktail, alongside classics like lasagna, chicken parmesan, and a loaded gyro platter.
For dessert, you can choose between classics like cheesecake, tiramisu, and baklava. They cater to all, offering a kids’ menu, a gluten-free menu, and a well-curated wine list.
Grecian Gardens welcomes guests for lunch and dinner from Monday to Saturday, with the added convenience of delivery and catering services.
π 2312 Sunset Blvd West Columbia SC 29169
π (803) 794-7552
7. Ambrosia Taverna: A New Greek Haven
Though it opened only in 2021, Ambrosia Taverna has quickly become a favorite among locals. Specializing in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, their menu is a testament to the rich and vibrant flavors of the region.
From falafel and keftedes (Greek meatballs) to lamb burgers and grilled octopus, each dish transports you to the sunny coasts of Greece.
Their dessert offerings, including baklava and Greek yogurt, are equally enticing. Accompany your meal with their excellent selection of wines and beers, and you’ve got a full Greek experience.
Located near the Riverbanks Zoo, it’s an excellent spot to replenish after a day of exploring.
π 1736 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201
π (803) 834-6068
Conclusion
No matter which Greek restaurant you choose to dine at in Columbia, the vibrant flavors of Greek cuisine will not disappoint. In addition to the array of sumptuous Greek dishes, you may also want to explore other local flavors.
So, after your Greek food adventure, why not sample the local bakeries for a sweet treat or hit the best breweries for some unique local craft beer?
Should you wish to mix it up a little, you can always take a break at one of the charming lunch restaurants in Columbia. And, if you’re up for an exciting day out with family and friends, you can’t miss visiting the Riverbanks Zoo, one of the most beloved attractions in Columbia.
Remember, Columbia is not just a city, it’s an experience β a culinary journey that promises to take you to different parts of the world without ever leaving the city. Your Greek food journey in Columbia, SC, is just the beginning. Kali Orexi! (Bon AppΓ©tit!)
Meet Christopher Jenkins, a passionate traveler and blogger exploring the charms of North Carolina and South Carolina. With his adventurous spirit and love for discovery, Christopher shares his travel tips and insights through captivating storytelling.
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