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BEST RATED COLUMBIA, SC AMERICAN RESTAURANTS

3 Best American Restaurants in Columbia, SC

Expert-recommended Top 3 American Restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina. All of our american cuisines actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes customer reviews, history, complaints, ratings, satisfaction, trust, cost and general excellence. You deserve only the best!

California Dreaming - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - Menu Image
California Dreaming - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - Restaurant Exterior Image
California Dreaming - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - collage image(highlights)
Best American Restaurants in Columbia SC - California Dreaming video
10+ YEARS ON TBR
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CALIFORNIA DREAMING

(4.9 Score)
401 South Main Street,
Columbia, SC 29201 Directions

Since 1984

Specialities:

✓Baked Potato Soup ✓She Crab Soup ✓Croissants (5) ✓Bbq Chicken Nachos ✓Seafood Nachos ✓Fried Crab Claws ✓Peel and Eat Shrimp (1/2 Lb) ✓Chicken Strips Appetizer ✓Nashville Hot Chicken Wings ✓House Salad ✓Caesar Salad ✓California Dreaming Salad ✓Broiled Chicken Caesar ✓Broiled Chicken Salad ✓Broiled Salmon Salad ✓Chicken Club Salad ✓Fried Oyster Caesar ✓Fried Shrimp Caesar ✓Extra Dressing ✓American Burger ✓Chicken Sandwich ✓Club Sandwich ✓Spicy Chicken Sandwich ✓Crispy Shrimp Taco ✓Steak Tacos ✓Chicken Tacos ✓Veggie Bean Burger ✓Knob Hill Chicken ✓Bbq Chicken ✓Chicken Tenders Platter ✓Blackened Chicken Pasta ✓Cali Bowl-tuna Poke

" 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.

2026 Highlights: California Dreaming is good for lunch and dinner with waiter service, and they provide reusable tableware."

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Menu:

Appetizers
Baked Potato Soup $7.95
She Crab Soup $9.95
Croissants (5) $6.95
Bbq Chicken Nachos $15.95
Seafood Nachos $17.95
Fried Crab Claws $16.95
Peel & Eat Shrimp (12 Lb) $10.95
Chicken Strips Appetizer $12.95
Nashville Hot Chicken Wings $15.95
Salad
House Salad $7.95
Caesar Salad $7.95
California Dreaming Salad $14.95
Broiled Chicken Caesar $14.95
Broiled Chicken Salad $15.95
Broiled Salmon Salad $16.95
Chicken Club Salad $15.95
Fried Oyster Caesar $17.95
Fried Shrimp Caesar $14.95
Extra Dressing $0.50
Sandwich
American Burger $12.95
Chicken Sandwich $14.95
Club Sandwich $13.95
Spicy Chicken Sandwich $14.95
Crispy Shrimp Taco $16.95
Steak Tacos $17.95
Chicken Tacos $15.95
Veggie Bean Burger $13.95
Entree
Knob Hill Chicken $18.95
Bbq Chicken $18.95

Discount:

$3 Off on Classic, Smoky Peach, La Fresa & Pineapple Jalapeño Margaritas daily

Contact:

(803) 254-6767

Mon-Thu & Sun: 11am - 9pm
Fri & Sat: 11am - 10pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

Saluda's - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - Menu Image
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Best American Restaurants in Columbia SC - Saluda's video
10+ YEARS ON TBR
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SALUDA'S

(4.9 Score)
751 Saluda Avenue,
Columbia, SC 29205 Directions

Since 1996

Specialities:

✓Raw Oysters ✓Shrimp Cocktail ✓Cheese Board ✓Lump Crab Cake ✓Steak Tartare ✓Grilled Pork Belly ✓Fried Green Tomatoes ✓Sweet and Spicy Fried Oysters ✓Lobster Bisque ✓Autumn Apple and Goat Cheese ✓Chopped Cobb Salad ✓Caesar Salad ✓Seafood Trio ✓Pasta Du Jour ✓Pan Seared Grouper ✓Grilled Mahi ✓14oz Cab Ribeye ✓Shrimp and Grits ✓Seared Sea Scallops ✓Apple Cider Brined Pork Chop ✓Stuffed Peppers ✓Bacon Gouda Mac N Cheese ✓Crispy Chipotle Brussels Sprouts ✓Grilled Asparagus ✓Parmesan and Shallot Mashed Potatoes ✓Truffle-parmesan Fingerling Potatoes ✓Carolina Gold Rice and S.i. Peas ✓Bacon and Brown Sugar Collards

“ 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 are 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.”

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Menu:

Appetizers
Raw Oysters $15.00
Shrimp Cocktail $16.00
Cheese Board $14.00
Lump Crab Cake $14.00
Steak Tartare $18.00
Grilled Pork Belly $14.00
Fried Green Tomatoes $12.00
Sweet & Spicy Fried Oysters $14.00
Soup & Salads
Lobster Bisque $10.00
Autumn Apple & Goat Cheese $11.00
Chopped Cobb Salad $12.00
Caesar Salad $10.00
Specials
Seafood Trio $29.00
Pasta Du Jour $30.00
Pan Seared Grouper $38.00
Grilled Mahi $34.00
14oz Cab Ribeye $45.00
Entrees
Shrimp & Grits $26.00
Seared Sea Scallops $36.00
Apple Cider Brined Pork Chop $31.00
Stuffed Peppers $24.00
For The Table
Bacon Gouda Mac N Cheese $11.00
Crispy Chipotle Brussels Sprouts $11.00
Grilled Asparagus $10.00
Parmesan & Shallot Mashed Potatoes $10.00
Truffle-Parmesan Fingerling Potatoes $11.00

Contact:

(803) 799-9500

Mon-Sun: 5:30pm - 9pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Columbia - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - Menu Image
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Columbia - Columbia, SC American Restaurants - Restaurant Exterior Image
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CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE COLUMBIA

(4.8 Score)
2208 Bush River Road,
Columbia, SC 29210 Directions

Since 1969

Specialities:

✓Southern Fried Chicken ✓Chicken Fried Chicken ✓Chicken and Dumplins ✓Homestyle Chicken ✓Campfire Chicken ✓Crispy Tender Dippers ✓Grilled Chicken Tenders ✓Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken ✓Extras ✓Silverware ✓Fried Apples ✓Peach Tea (half Gallon) ✓Meatloaf and Tenders Family Meal ✓Lemonade (half Gallon) ✓Freshly Brewed Premium Coffee (96 Oz.) ✓Hashbrown Casserole ✓Pot Roast Family Meal ✓Corn ✓100% Pure Florida Orange Juice (half Gallon) ✓Cole Slaw ✓Southern Half and Half (half Gallon) ✓Buttermilk Biscuits ✓Southern Fried Chicken Family Meal ✓Macaroni and Cheese

" 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.

2026 Highlights: Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Columbia provides reusable tableware with Private lot parking and the place is Good for kids."

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License #369919

Menu:

Chicken
Southern Fried Chicken $17.54
Chicken Fried Chicken $18.19
Chicken & Dumplins $12.99
Homestyle Chicken $18.19
Campfire Chicken $18.84
Crispy Tender Dippers $16.89
Grilled Chicken Tenders $16.89
Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken $17.54
Silverware N' Extras
Family Meals
Fried Apples $20.79
Peach Tea (Half Gallon) $11.04
Meatloaf & Tenders Family Meal $62.39
Lemonade (Half Gallon) $7.79
Freshly Brewed Premium Coffee (96 Oz.) $20.79
Hashbrown Casserole $20.79
Pot Roast Family Meal $97.49
Corn $20.79
100% Pure Florida Orange Juice (Half Gallon) $10.39
Cole Slaw $20.79
Southern Half & Half (Half Gallon) $7.79
Buttermilk Biscuits $10.39
Southern Fried Chicken Family Meal $57.19
Macaroni & Cheese $20.79
Corn Muffins $10.39
Mashed Potatoes $20.79

Discount:

10% Off for Members of the Military Community who join Cracker Barrel Rewards

Contact:

(803) 731-0672

Mon-Thu & Sun: 7am - 9pm
Fri & Sat: 7am - 10pm

TBR® Inspection Report:

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CALIFORNIA DREAMING REVIEWS

We stopped in for lunch today this our first time eating at this restaurant and let me tell you I had the crispy shrimp tacos and fries the shrimp tacos were the Best I've ever had and I've had plenty of them at different places my sister and my mom had club sandwiches and both said they were very good if we come back to Columbia we will definitely stop in to eat again.

My son and I were traveling and we chose this restaurant based on the great reviews and pictures. We were not disappointed. The atmosphere is impeccable. The wood work is beautiful and even though it was busy we got straight in with no wait. The food was delicious and our waiter was great.

Our Ki was amazing today! The service was immaculate and the recommendation to get the BBQ chicken nachos was an excellent choice. She really made the environment welcoming and comfortable! Definitely will be back.

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SALUDA'S REVIEWS

We celebrated my fiancées birthday on Sunday evening. We made a reservation online(kinda last minute). We got sat right away and were served by Nancy! We had wonderful drinks. Nancy made a great recommendation with the seafood trio. We enjoyed the shrimp cocktail, crab cake and fried oysters! We decided to share the filet (cooked PERFECT) with asparagus and roasted potato fingerlings. Finished with the crème brûlée! It was absolutely delicious. We enjoyed the atmosphere, food and overall dining experience! We will be back for all special occasions!.

My husband and I’s first time here and it was exceptional. From who we spoke to calling for a “last minute” reservation, to the service, to the food. Our server Parker was fantastic. Was awesome with great recommendations when asked. We got the trio appetizer. Fried oysters, lump crab cake, and shrimp cocktail. Everything we ate here had incredible flavor and seasoned to perfection. Compliments to the chef. Entrees were scallops and pork chop. Easily the best pork chop my husband and I both have ever had. Finished off with the crème brûlée. We will definitely be back again and making recommendations to friends and family.

Saluda is a favorite for me and my family, we’ve made good memories here. Their fried green tomatoes deserve a special mention in this review as it’s hands down the best we’ve had and we never skip this dish when we dine here. The ambiance is wonderful, the staff is friendly, and most importantly, the food never disappoints! It is always absolutely amazing!.

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE COLUMBIA REVIEWS

April went above and beyond to make our experience amazing! Everyone was pleasant and friendly! They worked with me for a custom meal with no complaints! Great meals and a quick overnight in our RV. Extreme kudos!.

Curtis was the sweetest soul ever! He was kind and precise. He went above and beyond to make sure we had incredible service. We will be back tomorrow and hope he is our server again.

Breakfast was absolutely delicious. Curtis exceeded in his service. He anticipated our needs before we could even ask. We will be back and request Curtis every time!.

TBR® Inspection Score Report

CALIFORNIA DREAMING Total Inspection Points: 118/120
Complete Info: 9
Contact Info: 9
Business Hours: 10
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Real Discounts: 10
Reviews Accuracy of 11.4K: 10
Variety of Menu: 10
Video: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

SALUDA'S Total Inspection Points: 117/120
Business Hours: 9
Complete Info: 9
Contact Info: 9
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Reviews Accuracy of 7.1K: 10
Variety of Menu: 10
Video: 10
Extensive Menu: 10

TBR® Inspection Score Report

CRACKER BARREL OLD COUNTRY STORE COLUMBIA Total Inspection Points: 116/120
Business Hours: 9
Complete Info: 9
Contact Info: 9
Extensive Menu: 9
Exact Services: 10
Experience: 10
Location Proximity: 10
Online Order: 10
Pricing: 10
Real Discounts: 10
Reviews Accuracy of 6.4K: 10
Variety of Menu: 10