3 Best American Restaurants in Columbia, SC

“California Dreaming Restaurant is a casual and welcoming place to eat, offering tasty American food like steak, seafood, nachos, sandwiches, and pasta. The restaurant has a lively feel, and all the food is made fresh from scratch every day by a skilled kitchen team. Their popular items include the California Dreaming Salad, She Crab Soup, and Honey Butter Croissants. California Dreaming has been proudly serving the Columbia community for 40 years. They are open every day for lunch and dinner with online ordering, curbside pickup, and USC Carolina Card payments accepted. With 6 different locations, each one has its own unique style like a castle, waterfront fort, or old train station but all share a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. They also offer happy hour food and gift cards, perfect for treating someone special. To give every guest a great experience, they seat groups of up to 8 people together.”

“Saluda's serves creative takes on classic American and Southern dishes. The restaurant is located in the lively Five Points area of Columbia. The dining area features elegant white-linen tables and a beautiful antique mahogany bar, creating a refined and timeless atmosphere. Owner and head chef Steven along with his team is focused on offering a top-notch dining experience with delicious food, a wide selection of wine and cocktails and warm Southern-style service. They use the freshest ingredients to prepare seafood, hand-cut steaks, and poultry. Their popular dishes include the Grilled Pork Chop, Burrata Salad, and Shrimp and Grits. Saluda's also has a private room upstairs with big windows looking out over Greene Street, seating up to 50 people, great for events. Valet parking is also available. Saluda's also serves great cocktails. The entire main dining room which includes access to a spacious balcony with views of Five Points. The space can seat up to 125 guests, making it perfect for large gatherings or special events.”

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Columbia is a family-friendly spot that serves classic American comfort food. The restaurant also has a general store inside for a unique shopping experience. They are known for their warm welcomes, friendly service, and homestyle meals made with care, all at a fair price. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Columbia treats guests and staff like family. You can enjoy breakfast all day with favorites like fluffy buttermilk pancakes, or choose lunch and dinner options like crispy fried chicken or slow-cooked chicken and dumplings. Whether you dine in or order online for pickup or delivery, you will get a taste of true Southern cooking. Gift cards are available for your loved ones. They also serve vegetarian dishes. You can also order your favorite dishes from your home.”