Traveling through Columbia Airport of South Carolina offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary landscape surrounding this hub. Whether you’re a weary traveler seeking comfort food or an adventurous eater looking for local flavors, the area around the airport is a treasure trove of dining experiences.
This introduction invites readers on a culinary journey to discover the best places to eat near Columbia Airport. Emphasizing the blend of convenience and quality, it highlights how these eateries provide not just a meal, but an essential part of the travel experience.
From quick bites to leisurely dining, each restaurant near Columbia Airport serves as a gateway to the local culture and cuisine, promising to make every traveler’s journey more enjoyable and memorable. As we delve into the top dining spots, we aim to guide you through a selection that caters to every taste and preference, ensuring your travels are as satisfying to the palate as they are to the spirit.
Table of Contents
10 Best Restaurants Near Columbia Airport
Before you step out to have some delicious food, why don’t you have a look at the options available inside the airport, this way you could enjoy your food a bit longer than usual!
So the first thing Columbia Airport offers you is the runway food court-
Runway Food Court, managed by one of Columbia’s renowned caterers, transforms the pre-flight wait into an opportunity to savor familiar flavors one last time before jetting off to culinary capitals like New York City, Miami, or Chicago. Located beyond the security checkpoint, the food court features popular national brands such as Jimmy John’s, Samuel Adams Columbia Brewhouse, and Dunkin’, ensuring travelers can enjoy a variety of tastes right at the airport.
1. Jimmy John’s
Located in: Garage Parking
Address: 3250 Airport Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
Jimmy John’s stands out as a prominent sandwich shop celebrated for its commitment to freshness and quick service. Since its inception in 1983, it has captured the hearts of people all over the United States. The menu boasts an array of gourmet and club sandwiches, all crafted from freshly baked bread, premium meats, and vegetables sourced from local farms. The brand’s hallmark is its “Freaky Fast! Freaky Fresh!” service, ensuring that customers receive their delicious meals swiftly. This dedication to delivering both speed and quality has positioned Jimmy John’s as a go-to spot for those in search of a satisfying meal without the wait.
Also Read : Top 10 Restaurants Near Wilmington Airport
2. Samuel Adams Columbia Brewhouse
Located in: Columbia Airport
Address: Columbia Airport,3250 Airport Blvd., Suite 15
West Columbia.
stands out for its craft beer selection, making it a haven for beer enthusiasts. It’s not just any airport bar; it’s a place where you can enjoy a wide range of Samuel Adams brews, some of which are exclusive or seasonal, providing a unique tasting experience right at the airport.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: Beyond its impressive beer list, the Brewhouse offers a menu filled with American classics. From hearty burgers and sandwiches to salads and appetizers, the food is designed to pair perfectly with your beer. The emphasis is on quality ingredients and flavors that comfort and satisfy.
Also Read : 11 Best Coffee Shops Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
3. Dunkin
Located in: Fortune Square
Address: 9311 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, United States
Dunkin is renowned for its quick service and consistent quality, making it a go-to spot for travelers in a hurry. It’s the perfect place for those looking to grab a coffee and a quick bite before their flight. Known for its wide array of coffee drinks, Dunkin also offers a variety of donuts, pastries, and more.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: At Dunkin, you can expect to find a range of breakfast and snack options. From classic donuts and munchkins to bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and wraps, there’s something for every time of the day. The focus is on convenience, speed, and satisfying those early morning cravings or afternoon slumps.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely beer tasting or need a quick coffee fix, Columbia Airport has dining options that cater to your needs. Samuel Adams Columbia Brewhouse and Dunkin represent the best of what the airport has to offer, ensuring that your culinary needs are met with quality and convenience.
Also Read : Top 10 Biggest Airports in Colorado 2024
4. The Barbeque Pit – A Taste of Southern Comfort
Located in: Columbia Metropolitan Airport
Address: 3250 Airport Boulevard, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
For those craving the rich, smoky flavors of Southern barbeque, The Barbeque Pit is your go-to destination at Columbia Airport. Offering a selection of expertly prepared barbeque dishes, this spot prides itself on delivering authentic Southern cuisine that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: The Barbeque Pit serves up a variety of barbeque favorites, including tender brisket, juicy pulled pork, and succulent ribs, all accompanied by classic sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. It’s a culinary journey through the heart of Southern barbeque tradition, perfect for a pre-flight meal or a comforting reminder of home.
Also Read : 14 Best Restaurants near Sacramento Airport
5. Red Eye Express Coffee
Address: 2208 Airport Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
How far it is from the Columbia Airport:16 min (8.4 miles)
For travelers passing through Columbia Airport, Red Eye Express Coffee emerges as a beacon for coffee aficionados and those in search of a peaceful spot to relax before their flight. Located conveniently just past the TSA checkpoints, it caters to the rush-hour traveler needing a quick caffeine fix and the leisurely passenger looking for a spot to unwind.
Red Eye Express isn’t just another airport coffee shop. It prides itself on offering gourmet coffees that capture the essence of South Carolina’s local flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for a simple, robust coffee or an expertly crafted latte, Red Eye Express has you covered. Its commitment to the environment is noteworthy, with a policy of donating compostable waste materials, including coffee grinds, to Columbia’s Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, making every sip contribute to local sustainability efforts.
Also Read : 9 Best Golf Courses Near Myrtle Beach Airport
6. Waffle House
Address: 2208 Airport Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
How far it is from the Columbia Airport: 7 min (3.2 miles)
The Waffle House is a beloved chain known for its classic American diner fare, with a special emphasis on all-day breakfast options. Its signature waffles have earned a reputation for being irresistibly delicious, making it a must-visit spot for breakfast lovers. The simple, cozy atmosphere of Waffle House brings a comforting and familiar dining experience to the airport, providing a warm welcome or a fond farewell to travelers.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: The menu at Waffle House features a wide array of breakfast staples, from their famous waffles to eggs cooked to order, bacon, sausage, and more. It’s the place to indulge in the comforting flavors of traditional American breakfasts any time of the day.
7. Chance’s Bar and Grill
Address: 2308 Airport Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
How far it is from the Columbia Airport: 6 min (2.8 miles)
Chance’s Bar and Grill is the go-to spot for travelers looking for a relaxed atmosphere paired with a hearty meal. Known for its friendly service and comfortable setting, it’s perfect for unwinding before a flight or grabbing a satisfying meal upon arrival.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: The menu boasts a variety of classic American grill favorites, including burgers, steaks, salads, and sandwiches, all prepared with a touch of home-cooked goodness. It’s a place where quality ingredients and comforting flavors take center stage.
8. Bogarts Restaurant
Address: 2710 Emanuel Church Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
How far it is from the Columbia Airport: 4 min (1.8 miles)
Bogarts Restaurant offers a more upscale dining experience without leaving the airport. Its elegant ambiance and attentive service make it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a fine meal.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: Specializing in sophisticated American cuisine, Bogarts presents a menu that features gourmet dishes, expertly prepared and beautifully presented. From succulent seafood to premium cuts of meat, each dish is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence.
9. Shoney’s
Address: 2208 B Airport Blvd West, West Columbia, SC 29170, United States
How far it is from the Columbia Airport: 7 min (3.2 miles)
Shoney’s is a beloved chain known for its family-friendly atmosphere and an all-encompassing menu that caters to all ages and tastes. It’s a place where travelers can enjoy a comforting meal in a welcoming setting.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: The menu at Shoney’s is vast, offering everything from breakfast buffets to lunch and dinner options, including salads, burgers, sandwiches, and signature entrees. It’s known for providing hearty portions at great value, ensuring every traveler can find something to enjoy.
10. Nick’s House of Pizza Restaurant
Address: 1082 Sunset Blvd, West Columbia, SC 29169, USA
How far it is from the Columbia Airport – 13 min (6.3 miles)
For pizza lovers, Nick’s House of Pizza Restaurant is a must-visit. It offers a casual dining experience and is renowned for its authentic, flavorful pizzas and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Cuisines You Can Find Here: Beyond its famous pizzas, Nick’s menu includes a variety of Italian-American dishes, such as pasta, subs, and salads, all made with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, delicious meal that feels like a slice of home.
Wrap It Up!
In simple words, finding great food near Columbia Airport can make your usual travel much more exciting. We’ve picked out the top 10 places to eat around there, offering lots of different kinds of foods.
This means everyone can find something they like, whether it’s local dishes that show off what the area’s food is all about or meals from around the world that make travelers feel at home. These places are chosen for their good food, nice setting, and being close to the airport. So, whether you’re quickly grabbing a bite or have time to relax before your flight, these spots are convenient and serve delicious food. Next time you’re at Columbia Airport and looking for a good meal, remember this list to make your trip even better.