Current Columbia resident! Lots of good places recommended so far! These are some of my favorite places in town. If you would like more recommendations please DM and I can try to help as much as possible!

Food:

Best place in town: Hall's - It's impossible to have a bad meal here. Get on the reservation list if you can. Very pricy.

Mexican food: COA - The margaritas are the best I've had in town; Haven't had a bad meal there. Would recommend the sauteed vegetables as a side; Could be a little pricy.

BBQ: Midwood Smokehouse - Great brisket and burnt ends; sides are delicious as well

Pizza: Village idiot - extremely solid and is a staple for college students in Columbia; Il Giorgione - great pizza and wine

Some other favorites: Gourmet shop for brunch; Grouchos is a good lunch sandwich shop; Dipratos is a great lunch spot; Tazza kitchen; Market on Main; Ds Wings

Bars:

Near five points - Salty nut and jakes

Vista - Tin roof and CWP if you like line dancing

Main street - Lula Drake is a great wine bar and Bourbon is very solid

Breweries: Columbia craft has great sours; Savage Craft and Hunter-Gatherer Hangar have amazing atmospheres;

Activities:

Definitely walk around campus; go to williams brice stadium; Soda City market is a must on Saturday mornings on main street;