Columbia Restaurants

Maurice's is as well-known for its owner as it is for its barbecue. Maurice is a throwback. He's a guy who isn't afraid to state what he believes, and for that, I have to give him credit. The guy certainly isn't afraid of a little controversy. As soon as you walk in his joint, which is part of a regional chain, you'll notice the Confederate flag and the brochures proclaiming what Maurice proclaims as its true meaning.

Favorite Dish: Politics aside, I came here to try the Q (barbecue, southern style which means pulled pork; barbecue served in a simple bun). Maurice has a few varieties, but Nat and I tried the original, which is a unique mustard-based concoction that mildly impressed me. I enjoyed its originality, but I wasn't blown away by its taste or by the hush puppies and slaw that accompanied the meal.

This place is huge and the beer selection matches the size of the restaurant. It's located within walking distance from the State House on Gervais street. Just head down the hill and it will be on your left. The only other competition in terms of selection is the chain, Flying Saucer. Liberty has a long bar when you walk in to the left and this is where Nat and I settled in for a short visit. The bartender, Candace was really pleasant and made us feel welcome immediately.

Hours:
11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday (kitchen closes at 11 p.m.)

Favorite Dish: The beer is brewed fresh in Charleston, South Carolina only an hour and a half away and is trucked in daily. I had a pilsner, which wasn't bad. They also have a full menu, including everything from steaks to crab cakes.

Relatively quiet but nevertheless popular restaurant which offers a wide variety of Oriental dishes. Unusual for an Oriental restaurant in that none of the staff which actually interfaces with the public seems to be Oriental. The food is good and the service was very efficient and cordial.

Favorite Dish: This seems a bit like a cop-out for me but I have not had anything there which was not very good. Take your pick.

I asked and asked and asked for help but received none. So out of desperation, I ate at Wendy's and was food poisoned. I ended up in the hospital for a day with severe stomach pains because some idiot probably didn't wash his hands before returning to work.

While they do offer heart smart and dietary concious menu selections, I would suggest anything fried and/or smothered in gravy. Mmmmm. A great place to check out the local crowd--Old Columbia, young Columbia, and USC. GREAT for a hangover. And they deliver! What more can you ask for?

Favorite Dish: Favorites include the Planter's Special, Arkansas Traveler, Chicken Finger Dinner, El Nachoman, Meat Loaf, ... I really could list the whole menu, plus regular specials.

Good. Healthy. Cheap. w/vegetarian options if you're into that
Pails of beer. PBR by the can.
Friendly staff/managers...
Friendly locals...
Live music on the patio on Thursday nights.
and, oh yeah, cool t-shirts.

Favorite Dish: PBR, Spinach Queso, Chicken Burrito Deluxe HOT with Guac

Great place to people watch, especially from the booths by the bar. If you can't get a table, don't be afraid to sit at the bar--you'll quickly make friends! It's not an inexpensive restaurant, but the food is terrific.

Favorite Dish: anything, from the pasta to the pizza to the flounder to the strip to the veal. and the fried artichoke hearts. Mmmmmmm. Great wines too.

Not your average Chinese Restaurant. The Miyo's/M Cafe experience is more PF Chang than Panda Garden. Miyo's offers more traditional fare, while M Cafe has a more gourmet menu (and will soon finish expansion/renovation). Locally owned and operated, owner Michelle Wang can always be found at one of the restaurants. Delish!

Favorite Dish: Sauteed Chicken and String Beans in Garlic, General Tso's Chicken, Aromatic Pork Chop (M Cafe)