Start your day off right in Columbia, SC, with a mouthwatering breakfast that will leave you energized and ready to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Columbia, the capital city of South Carolina, presents a diverse array of breakfast offerings, from cozy cafes serving freshly baked goods to bustling diners dishing out hearty traditional breakfast fare.
If you have a hankering for something sweet like a cinnamon roll or something savory like a breakfast sandwich, or if you prefer the classic fluffy pancake or a healthy granola bowl, you’re in for a treat. Here are the top breakfast spots in Columbia, SC that are sure to kick-start your day.
1. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
Located at 2617 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205 and reachable via phone at (803) 465-4947, The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli is indeed divine. It’s not only the best place for breakfast downtown Columbia, SC, but it was also recognized as the Best Breakfast in South Carolina by People magazine. And for good reason!
The bakery offers a delicious selection of sweet cinnamon rolls in a variety of tantalizing flavors like caramel apple, blueberry cream cheese, and bacon maple. Beyond their heavenly cinnamon rolls, they also serve up robust breakfast sandwiches, bagels, and grit bowls filled with eggs, cheese, bacon, and more.
Wash it all down with their drip coffee, tea, or fountain drinks for a perfect start to your day.
If you’re in town for a visit, you might want to consider breakfast catering in Columbia, SC. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli has a comprehensive catering menu, perfect for group breakfasts or brunches.
2. smallSUGAR
Craving a gourmet breakfast with a laid-back vibe? Head over to smallSUGAR located in the Vista district at 709 Gervais St Suite A, Columbia, SC 29201 (phone: (803) 764-3512). This cafe provides an excellent array of beautiful pastries, tartines, and granola bowls. They also serve a sumptuous breakfast plate with a soft-boiled egg paired with ricotta and seasonal vegetables.
Coffee and espresso drinks at smallSUGAR are not to be missed, and they offer tea and house lemonade for those who prefer something other than coffee.
As an additional bonus, smallSUGAR ensures their staff receives a living wage, with tips included in the food price on the menu.
3. Cafe Strudel
If you find yourself in West Columbia, just across the river from downtown, make a beeline for Cafe Strudel, a popular west Columbia breakfast spot. Located at 300 State St, West Columbia, SC 29169, and reachable via phone at (803) 794-6634, Cafe Strudel serves American classics with a twist.
Their breakfast menu features traditional dishes like omelets, pancakes, waffles, and French toast. But, what sets Cafe Strudel apart are their unique concoctions like the hangover hashbrowns topped with cheese, onions, tomatoes, banana peppers, and ranch dressing, and the breakfast nachos loaded with eggs, cheese, salsa, sour cream, and jalapeños.
The cafe also has a full bar offering mimosas, bloody marys, and other cocktail delights that can make your breakfast a truly indulgent experience. it is truly one of the best breakfast in Columbia sc.
4. The Original Pancake House
The Original Pancake House, located at 4840 Forest Dr #12, Columbia, SC 29206, phone: (803) 782-6742, is the ultimate pancake paradise. This national chain, famous for pancakes in Columbia, SC, takes the breakfast staple to new levels.
With over 20 varieties of pancakes ranging from buttermilk and blueberry to chocolate chip and bacon, The Original Pancake House gives you the opportunity to try a new pancake each time you visit.
Their signature dishes include the Dutch baby, a large, fluffy pancake topped with lemon and powdered sugar, and the apple pancake, a thick and hearty pancake with cinnamon-glazed apples. You can also get eggs, bacon, sausage, ham, hash browns, and other breakfast staples here.
5. Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant
For a taste of Southern comfort food, Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant is the place to be. This family-owned business has been serving up delicious dishes since 1977 and has several locations in Columbia and nearby towns.
The one at 402 Beltline Blvd, Columbia, SC 29205, is a great place to start your breakfast adventure. You can reach them at (803) 738-0006.
Lizard’s Thicket Restaurant serves breakfast all day, every day, making it a haven for those who want their breakfast food at any time of the day.
Savor their country-fried steak, chicken and waffles, corned beef hash, grits, and biscuits at your leisure. They also offer a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, French toast, and muffins to ensure a satisfying and hearty breakfast.
6. Drip
With locations in both Five Points and on Main Street, Drip is a cozy coffee shop offering a diverse and creative menu that has something for everyone. Its breakfast offerings, served all day, are a unique mix of classics with a twist.
Try their avocado toast topped with local eggs, or a breakfast burrito loaded with cheddar cheese, eggs, and salsa. They also serve vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions, making it a great spot for a vegan breakfast in Columbia, SC.
The Five Points location is at 729 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC 29205 (phone: (803) 799-0067), and the Main Street location is at 1441 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201 (phone: (803) 799-8643).
To complement your meal, Drip offers an extensive coffee and tea menu featuring single-origin brews and espresso drinks. For more details about their offerings, check out their feature on Coffee Shops in Columbia, SC.
7. The Gourmet Shop
For a charming breakfast experience in Columbia’s Five Points neighborhood, visit The Gourmet Shop located at 724 Saluda Ave, Columbia, SC 29205 (phone: (803) 799-3705). This European-style café and market are known for their delectable baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and fine wines.
They serve breakfast until 11:30 am on weekdays and until 2 pm on weekends, which is perfect if you’re not an early riser.
The Gourmet Shop’s breakfast menu includes a variety of quiches, omelets, bagels, and pastries. Don’t miss out on their famous almond croissant or their quiche Lorraine, which are local favorites. To quench your thirst, they offer a selection of coffees, teas, and freshly squeezed juices.
8. Silver Spoon Bake Shop
For those with a sweet tooth, Silver Spoon Bake Shop is the ultimate destination. Situated at 2507 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205, and reachable via phone at (803) 673-6374, this bakery is one of the Best Bakeries in Columbia, SC. Known for its cupcakes, cookies, and pastries, Silver Spoon also offers a selection of breakfast items.
The menu includes muffins, scones, and biscuits, as well as their signature morning buns – a croissant dough rolled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a sweet glaze.
The bakery is open from Tuesday to Saturday, and they encourage pre-orders for popular items to avoid disappointment.
9. Good Life Café
Located in downtown Columbia, Good Life Café offers a variety of vegan and raw food dishes that are healthy and full of flavor. At 1614 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201, reachable via phone at (803) 726-2310, Good Life Café serves organic and locally sourced ingredients, making it the perfect spot for a vegan breakfast in Columbia, SC.
Try their avocado toast made with sprouted grain bread and topped with tomato, sprouts, and microgreens, or go for the acai bowl filled with fresh fruits, granola, coconut shreds, and agave nectar.
They also serve smoothies, juices, coffee, and tea to complete your meal.
10. Crepes et Croissants
Adding a decidedly European twist to breakfast downtown Columbia SC, Crepes et Croissants is a small gem nestled in the heart of the city. Bringing the finest of French culinary tradition to the table, the café, situated at 1465 Sumter St, Columbia, SC 29201, offers a delightful mix of both sweet and savory options.
The sweet crepes on offer, such as those filled with Nutella or various fruits, are a perfect pick for those with a sweet tooth. For a more savory experience, choose a filling of ham, cheese, and eggs.
Each crepe is prepared fresh, with careful attention paid to maintaining the authentic taste and texture that sets French crepes apart.
While the crepes are a star attraction, the croissants at this café deserve special mention as well. Freshly baked and incredibly flaky, these buttery delights can be enjoyed with a variety of fillings. You can contact them at (803) 462-4779 for breakfast catering options in Columbia SC.
11. Compton’s Kitchen
Just across the Congaree River, you’ll find one of the best West Columbia breakfast spots – Compton’s Kitchen. This family-owned establishment has been serving the community with delicious, homestyle cooking since 1977. Located at 1118 B Ave, West Columbia, SC 29169, Compton’s Kitchen has become a beloved institution in the area, known for its warm, welcoming ambiance and the hearty, satisfying meals.
From the classic southern biscuits and gravy to fluffy pancakes to the perfectly crispy bacon and eggs, the menu is a veritable celebration of classic American breakfast favorites. And their country-fried steak and chicken and waffles?
They’ve achieved somewhat of a legendary status among the locals. For breakfast catering in Columbia SC, you can contact them at (803) 791-0750.
12. Eggs Up Grill
If you’re searching for good breakfast Columbia SC, look no further than Eggs Up Grill. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and generous servings, Eggs Up Grill is a staple breakfast spot for both locals and tourists alike.
With two locations in Columbia at 2930 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205 (Phone: (803) 661-9174) and 4711 Forest Dr Suites 15 & 16, Columbia, SC 29206 (Phone: (803) 820-0742), this chain eatery is accessible no matter where you are in the city.
Eggs Up Grill takes pride in serving eggs just the way you like them, whether that’s scrambled, fried, poached, or benedict. But that’s not all!
Their extensive menu also features skillets, omelets, wraps, sandwiches, biscuits and gravy. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, their French toast, waffles, or pancakes could be just what you need.
13. Waffle House
When it comes to grabbing a quick and satisfying breakfast, nothing beats the good ol’ Waffle House. Known for serving up delicious and hearty breakfasts 24/7, Waffle House is a go-to choice for early birds and night owls alike.
The chain’s Columbia location, situated at 7428 Garners Ferry Rd, Columbia, SC 29209, Phone: (803) 776-9583, upholds the chain’s reputation for fast service and satisfying fare.
Waffle House’s signature waffles are a must-try. Served with butter and syrup, these waffles can be spruced up with additional toppings like pecans or chocolate chips.
The menu also offers a selection of breakfast staples like eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits, and gravy. Whether you’re stopping by for an early morning meal or satiating late-night cravings, Waffle House has got you covered.
Conclusion
These wonderful eateries have made it to the top of our list of the best breakfast spots in Columbia, SC. Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick bite or a leisurely brunch, there’s something for everyone in this bustling city.
Don’t forget to check out other fantastic dining options that Columbia has to offer, like the Best Lunch Restaurants in Columbia, SC, Greek Restaurants in Columbia, SC, Best Breweries in Columbia, and Mexican Restaurants in Columbia, SC.
After a satisfying breakfast, take some time to explore the city. One popular destination is the Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, South Carolina, where you can witness a diverse range of wildlife.
Enjoy your culinary journey in Columbia, SC, and remember, breakfast is the most important meal of the day!
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some popular breakfast catering options in Columbia, SC?Many of the breakfast places mentioned in the list offer catering services. Some popular options include Crepes et Croissants and Compton’s Kitchen. It’s always best to call ahead and discuss your needs with the restaurant.
- Are there vegan breakfast options in Columbia, SC?Yes, Columbia, SC has a growing number of restaurants offering vegan breakfast options. While the places listed above are not exclusively vegan, many of them do offer vegan or vegetarian-friendly dishes.
- Where can I find the best pancakes in Columbia, SC?The Original Pancake House is well-known for its variety of delicious pancakes. Eggs Up Grill and Compton’s Kitchen also serve up fluffy, delicious pancakes.
- What are some good breakfast places in West Columbia?West Columbia also has several great breakfast spots. Compton’s Kitchen is a beloved local institution known for its homestyle cooking.
- Are there any 24/7 breakfast places in Columbia, SC?Yes, the Waffle House in Columbia is open 24/7 and serves breakfast all day.
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