6 Best Restaurants in The Midlands and Upstate, South Carolina

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We've compiled the best of the best in The Midlands and Upstate - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

Gather GVL

$ | Downtown

Stacks of colorful shipping containers house mini-kitchens circling a central courtyard at this outdoor food hall. Grab an acai bowl, a signature sushi roll, or a basket of fried chicken, and find a spot to kick back and enjoy the live bands on weekends.

The Gourmet Shop

$ | Five Points

Mirrors and art adorn the walls at this French-inspired bakery and café serving coffee, sandwiches, soups, and cheese plates. Next door, the retail shop sells wine, kitchen gadgets, French table linens, and fancy food items.

The Hoot

$ | East Columbia

Tucked into a nearly subterranean ground floor space, this new vegan go-to helps to fill the void left behind by the closing of The Whig—a former owner of that dive bar is behind The Hoot's dim garden bar vibes. Order a seitan-based Philly Sando, a bowl of shroom "mac & cheez," or a baked tofu sandwich with chili-ginger spread, then stick around for a chai margarita and a game of pinball.

Recommended Fodor's Video

Immaculate Consumption

$ | Main Street Area

This coffee shop roasts its own beans, and from its location immediately next to the State House, it's helped to fuel many a legislative session for more than two decades.

933 Main St., Columbia, SC, 29201, USA
803-799–9053
Known For
  • Generously portioned sandwiches and salads
  • "concentration coffee" with coconut oil and grass-fed butter
  • Comfortable interior suitable for working
Restaurant Details
Closed weekends

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New Moon Café

$

This funky café pairs Aiken's best coffee (the coffee beans are roasted right next door) with freshly baked muffins and sweet rolls, panini sandwiches and salads, and homemade soups. The crab bisque is particularly good.

116 Laurens St. NW, Aiken, SC, 29801, USA
803-643–7088
Known For
  • Healthy food made with heart
  • Smoothies and milkshakes
  • Quick, friendly service
Restaurant Details
No dinner

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Southern Pressed Juicery

$ | Downtown
Cold-pressed juices, energy bowls, and salads in a high-ceilinged, bright room make this an obvious spot for a pick-me-up when you're hoofing it around town.