Best of Carolina 2021

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Editor-in-Chief

Gracie Bryant

WRITERS

Caroline Hiel, Daniella Ramirez, Emily Neglia, Grace Farrar, Gracie Bryant, Maggie Holman, Suze Garcia-Stam, Torre Borowsky

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Brittany Harrelson, Chloe Caudill, Dorian Nungaray, Emily Neglia, Jatin Patel, Lindsey Stack, Maggie Holman, Suze Garcia-Stam, Torre Borowsky

COPY EDITORS

Daniella Ramirez, Grace Farrar

DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA

Sarah Scarborough

ASSt. DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA

Sydney Patterson

Art Director

Grace Steptoe

ADvertising Representatives

Catherine Ballard, Miles Dailey, Glennith Johnson, Laura Markarian, Kara Shelmire

CREATIVE SERVICES

Abby Gerwit, Julia Linthicum, Emiyl Schoonover

Best of On Campus

1. Chick-fil-A | p. 9

2. Patterson Hall | p. 15

3. Thomas Cooper Library | p. 12

4. Colloquium Cafe | p. 9

Best of Entertainment

5. AMC Harbison 14 | p. 18

6. Williams-Brice Stadium | p. 17

7. TLC Sports Bar & Grill | p. 17

8. Colonial Life Arena | p. 18

9. Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe | p. 49

10. The Moosehead Saloon | p. 24

11. Tin Roof | p. 24

12. Villiage Idiot Pizza | p. 23

13. The Horseshoe | p. 20

14. West Columbia Riverwalk | p. 20

Best of Retail

15. Trader Joe’s | p. 30

16. Soda City Market | p. 21

17. UofSC Barnes & Noble Bookstore | p. 33

18. Barefoot Campus Outfitter | p. 34

19. Urban Outfitters | p. 36

20. Goodwill | p. 37

21. Messie’s Closet | p. 36

22. Sid & Nancy | p. 37

Best of Food and Drink

23. Blue Marlin | p. 44

24. The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli | p. 40

25. Cantina 76 | p. 43

26. Tsunami Sushi Restaurant | p. 53

27. Hibachi House | p. 54

28. 2 Gingers | p. 54

29. Home Team BBQ | p. 68

30. Pawleys Front Porch | p. 57

31. Zoës Kitchen | p. 53

32. Cook Out | p. 47

33. Cool Beans Coffee Co. | p. 41

34. The Baked Bear | p. 50

35. Black Rooster | p. 51

36. River Rat Brewery | p. 50

37. Publico | p. 51

38. Big Bull’s Bang’n BBQ | p. 44

39. Eddie’s Calzones | p. 47

Best of Services

40. Hub at Columbia | p. 62

41. AutoZone Auto Parts | p. 61

42. Devine Nail Spa | p. 64

43. Studio 02 | p. 64

44. Strom Fitness Center | p. 65

45. Immaculate Body Piercing | p. 66

46. Insomnia Cookies | p. 62

47. Broad River Auto Repair | p. 61

48. Brickhouse Gym | p. 65

denotes Editor’s Pick

I love being a part of GMG because it has increased my confidence in myself and my craft. I’m surrounded by creatives who are eager for progress and don’t shy away from challenges. This has been one of the most impactful experiences in my college career thus far.

Taylor Jennings-Brown • Senior Managing Editor, Garnet & Black

First, thank you for taking time to pick up Best of Carolina 2021! While you may have just picked it up because the cover was beautiful and enticing (a completely valid reason, might I add) my hope is that as you read through, you will see why Columbia is such a great place to live.

For months, we collected votes from members of the UofSC and Columbia communities, and these businesses are who they consider to be the best of the best. So, whether you’re looking for the perfect date night location, where to watch the big game, or an auto repair place that will treat you fairly — Best of Carolina 2021 has you covered!

This year, as you read through, you’ll also find several “editor’s picks.” 2020 was a difficult year. In March, UofSC students were sent home and many businesses closed their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A city that’s typically filled with an abundance of college students, families and visitors was suddenly empty, and local businesses felt the impact. While the community’s top choices deserve to be recognized, I am striving to shop local as often as I can in 2021, and I wanted to share that with each of you. These editor’s picks are my personal opinion, a local alternative.

Last but certainly not least — if you have a go-to place in Columbia, nominate them to win Best of Carolina 2022 by scanning the QR code below! Follow Garnet Media Group on Instagram (@garnetmediagroup), Twitter and Facebook (@garnetmedia) to stay updated on nominations, voting and the rest of Garnet Media Group’s studentproduced work!

Nominate your favorites for Best of Carolina 2022 now!

Editor-in-Chief, Best of Carolina 2021 Marketing Director, Garnet Media Group

Be of On Campus

Best On-Campus Eats CHICK-FIL-A

By Caroline Hiel

Located on the first floor of Russell House, Chick-fil-A consistently draws in long lines of hungry students, making it one of the most popular restaurants on-campus. It’s really no surprise that Chick-fil-A has been voted as the best on-campus eats at the University of South Carolina. You really can’t go wrong with chicken nuggets, crispy waffle fries, and a refreshing lemonade or sweet tea ... right?

Although the Russell House location offers a more limited menu than other stand-alone Chick-fil-As around Columbia, you can still get all of the fan-favorites.

Breakfast meal swipe options include the chicken biscuit or 4-count Chick-n-Minis, with a side of hash browns and a small coffee, of course. For lunch and dinner, a single swipe can get you the classic Chick-fil-A sandwich or 8-count nuggets, complete with a side of delicious waffle fries and your choice of drink. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can opt for the Market Salad, which includes grilled chicken, fresh fruit, and a zesty apple cider vinegarette

Monday - Friday Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Google Money Rating With Meal Plan Options

dressing — again, all for a single meal swipe. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, Chick-fil-A’s handspun milkshakes topped with whipped cream and a bright red cherry are a go-to. The cookies & cream shake is by far my favorite, and I know it helped me get through some long nights of studying my freshman year!

Running late to your next class or too hungry to wait in line? You can order ahead for pickup by ordering through the Grubhub app. Grubhub allows you to pay with meal swipes or meal plan dollars if needed.

With fast, friendly service, there’s no better place to get some great chicken. So, treat yourself and grab your next on-campus meal at Chick-fil-A in Russell House. Unfortunately, you’ll have to venture out and try a different on-campus restaurant on Sundays though!

COLLOQUIUM CAFE & MARKET

My favorite part about being a freshman and living on campus was the meal plan. Simply swiping my Carolina Card at Chick-fil-A and not having to think about how much money was in my bank account was the best. However, having Chick-fil-A all the time can get old very quick. My favorite alternative? Colloquium Café. Colloquium Café is located just across the pedestrian bridge over Pickens Street, beside the Starbucks on the way to Capstone Residence Hall or Close-Hipp. Colloquium Café offers sandwiches, flatbread pizza, pasta

and Açaí bowls. Every station within Colloquium Café has meal swipe options, making it the perfect go-to meal between classes. The cafe also offers a “Made to Order” option at every station to accommodate personal preference and dietary restriction.

My go-to is the Chicken Bacon Melt flatbread at the sandwich station. I would get this sandwich at least once a week because it was so good and helped me feel somewhat healthier than normal! The Chicken Bacon Melt, like most other sandwiches, are a meal swipe and come with a drink and your choice of side (salad, chips, fruit or a fruit cup.)

Colloquium Café also has a patio grill Monday through Thursday that serves burgers, marinated portobello and beef franks.

If you’re looking for on-campus dining with plenty of options and the choice to customize your meal — Colloquium Café is the perfect choice!

Located on the first floor of Russell House

PHOTOS BY LINDSEY STACK

LINDSEY STACK

Best Sorority

ALPHA CHI OMEGA

By Emily Neglia

Greek Life is a huge aspect of college in the South and here at the University of South Carolina. Joining a sorority allows students to form new friendships, expand their networking and leadership skills, and provides them with opportunities to give back to the community

Alpha Chi Omega was founded in 1885 at DePauw University. A century later, in 1988, Alpha Chi Omega’s Theta Upsilon Chapter was founded here at UofSC. This sorority encourages members to “Seek the Heights” while emphasizing the importance of being “Real. Strong. Women.”

Every organization in the Panhellenic community has a specific philanthropy that they spend time raising money and holding events in support of. Alpha Chi Omega’s philanthropy is Domestic Violence Awareness. Every year, Alpha Chi hosts two major fundraising events to support Sistercare, a women’s community center in Columbia that helps women and children who have been affected by domestic violence.

The aspect that stands out the most about Alpha Chi Omega is their sisterhood.

“I love the sisterhood that AXO has brought me and the numerous bonds I have created and how everyone has made me feel like a real, strong woman,” said Nicole Pallay, a third-year criminology and criminal justice student and AXO member at UofSC. “From the beginning of the recruitment process, I felt a connection when I walked through the doors and saw all of the warm smiles. Everyone was so welcoming and genuine toward me that I felt like I could be my true self there.”

Alpha Chi Omega has made its mark here on campus for their outstanding achievements and involvement throughout the community, but the most important mark are the ones left on each sister uniting together for the rest of their lives.

Best Fraternity KAPPA SIGMA

By Suze Garcia-Stam

Going to college comes with a bundle of different emotions and expectations like trying to make friends, figuring out the future, and setting oneself up for success. At the University of South Carolina a lot of young men and women go into Greek life seeking solutions to these situations. Greek life means a lot to those involved, and Best of Carolina voters had a favorite when it came to fraternities: Kappa Sigma, also known as KappaSig.

The Chi Omega chapter of Kappa Sigma at the University of South Carolina is just one chapter of the biggest college social fraternity in the world. The fraternity started at the University of Virginia in 1869 and now has over 200,000 living members across the United States and Canada.

Kappa Sigma’s objective “to foster benevolence through perpetual effort to improve the world we live in” is supported by the four pillars the brothers strive to use everyday: leadership, fellowship, scholarship, and service. The fraternity’s goal is to have brothers come out of their

college experience as selfless members of society that are motivated to take responsibility, be honest, and generate goodwill. During their selection process they look for men that have characteristics of a selfless leader.

Kappa Sigma members have involved themselves in a variety of different organizations and are encouraged to involve themselves in student organizations, local charities and any other notable causes. This chapter’s recent philanthropy events had a personal touch when they helped one of their member’s youngest brothers live out their ultimate sports dream through DreamOn3, a nonprofit that helps children with life-altering disabilities. Kappa Sigma held a virtual 5K where they raised $9,096 and gave him a dream weekend filled with Gamecock football (Spurs Up!), gifts and exciting experiences.

With Kappa Sigma’s dedication to charity and commitment to cultivating successful men, it’s not hard to see why they were voted the Best Fraternity here at UofSC!

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ALPHA CHI OMEGA

PHOTOS BY PROVIDED BY KAPPA SIGMA

Best Professional Fraternity

By Grace Farrar

Professional fraternities provide opportunities for professional development, academic growth and networking for students of all majors. This year, the Beta Upsilon chapter of Alpha Kappa Psi fraternity was voted as the best professional fraternity at UofSC. Alpha Kappa Psi, also known as AKPsi, is a highly selective organization with 104 members and an average chapter GPA of 3.7 as of Spring 2020.

Originally founded on South Carolina’s campus in 1958, AKPsi was rechartered in 2007. The organization is open to all majors and promotes the core values of “brotherhood, integrity, service, unity and knowledge,” according to their website.

“AKPsi is open to all majors and we are constantly growing. This past year brought our chapter together more than ever,” said Caroline Swenson, the President of Alpha Kappa Psi. “We were able to take a step back and see where we could improve and make this the best experience for our brothers.”

Best Student Organization

ALPHA KAPPA PSI DANCE MARATHON

By Torre Borowsky

Dance Marathon has been voted as the best student organization at the University of South Carolina for six years in a row! UofSC’s Dance Marathon is a student-run philanthropy organization focused on raising funds and awareness for the Child Life Program at Prisma Health Children’s Hospital.

AKPsi currently holds professionalism and networking workshops, weekly chapter meetings, a Diversity and Inclusion Summit, service events, and more. Rush takes place each semester and is followed by an 8-week potential new member process. For social events, the chapter holds a brotherhood retreat, Brooklyn Bridge formal, Yellow Rose semiformal and various business fraternity mixers. Alumni of the chapter have gone on to work for major companies including Amazon, Boeing and IBM. They are encouraged to remain active in chapter life through events like the Alumni Tailgate in the fall.

Overall, Alpha Kappa Psi is a prestigious organization that seeks to develop leaders and encourages them to the highest standards of excellence both on UofSC’s campus and in the professional sphere.

“While I was involved in other organizations I felt like something was missing because I did not want to have the average college student experience,” Swenson said. “I have gained a close group of friends, leadership experience, and the professional resources to get my full-time job and past internships.”

“I got started in USCDM as a freshman; I registered as a hero after hearing about it from many of my older sorority sisters and it sounded like a really fantastic way to get involved… My absolutely favorite part of this organization, year in and year out, is seeing the impact made on people — whether that is hearing from a local family impacted at the hospital or seeing a college student feel a part of something bigger than themselves or getting to witness a peer or friend put passion into this org and watch it pay off — the people connected with and through this USCDM are really something special.”

— Grace Lady, President of UofSC Dance Marathon

“I love the community of DM between staff, OTOD, and the heroes. Everyone is coming together under one cause and the friends I’ve made is my favorite part. My older brother was also once in a children’s miracle hospital, so the cause is close to my heart.”

— Lauren Bachinsky, Dance Marathon staff member

PROVIDED BY ALPHA KAPPA PSI

PROVIDED BY DANCE MARATHON

Best Study Spot THOMAS COOPER LIBRARY

By Maggie Holman

Let’sbe honest — living in a college dorm or apartment can be fun, but it’s hard to get some peace and quiet. Don’t worry though, because T-Coop has you covered! Whether you want complete silence or a little background noise, you will be able to find the perfect study spot on one of its many floors.

Floor 7

The seventh — topmost floor or the mezzanine level, features tall windows for natural light and study booths. The student success center is also on this floor and provides free academic support and tutoring to students.

Floor 6

Floor 6 is the main level of the library. Floor 6 houses the circulation desk, printers and desktops, and tables to study scattered in between the bookshelves. There is also a Starbucks which is the perfect pick-me-up during long study sessions! They offer a full menu and accept CarolinaCash and meal swipes. However,

sometimes the line can get long so I recommend ordering ahead on Grubhub!

Floor 5

The fifth floor is home to the technology lounge which offers desktop computers, printers and charging stations. The technology lounge also includes a rental desk that has laptops, calculators, and an assortment of different chargers. The Career Center is also located on this floor and offers students help with writing their resume, choosing a major, preparing for interviews, searching for jobs or internships and more.

Floor 4

This floor has been recently renovated and offers individual cubicles as well as tables for multiple people and study rooms.

Floor 3-1

These are the quietest areas of the library and are perfect for intense study cram sessions.

Monday-Thursday: 7:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday: 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. - 11 p.m.

PHOTOS BY MAGGIE HOLMAN

Best On-Campus Residence PATTERSON HALL

Oneof the most exciting parts of freshman year of college is move-in day. For the second year in a row, Patterson Hall, commonly referred to as “Patty Shack” by residents, has been voted the best on-campus residence hall at the University of South Carolina.

Conveniently located in the middle of campus on Bull Street, Patterson Hall is just a short walk to Russell House, Thomas Cooper Library, and most academic buildings. It stands 9 stories tall and houses

almost 600 coed students, allowing for plenty of social interaction and new friends to be made. Rooms are suite-style, with two beds in each room and a shared bathroom among four residents. The beds can also be lofted to varying heights, offering extra space if needed and making it one of the residence halls with the most spacious rooms.

Though originally built in the 1960s, Patterson was completely renovated in the early 2010s and now features many modern

and updated amenities. Amenities include full kitchens and study lounges on each floor, as well as a laundry room and unique “cyber lounge” on the first floor. Having a kitchen right down the hall is perfect for baking cookies with your roommates during latenight study sessions! Study lounges are perfect for when you need to study for a big test or get on a Zoom call for an 8 a.m. class.

One of the unique and noticeable features of Patterson that differentiates it from

By Caroline Hiel

other nearby dorms are its windows, which stretch the entire back wall of each room. Not only do residents get amazing views of the sunrises and sunsets on campus and the rest of Columbia, but these windows also contribute to Patterson’s LEED Gold certification as a sustainable and environmentally-friendly building.

Patterson typically houses the Galen Health Fellows Living and Learning Community, which is for students pursuing a health-

related major, or simply just interested in a future career in health care. As of the 2020-2021 school year, rates for Patterson Hall were $3,980 per semester, or $7,960 for the full academic year. From its location, to its amenities, to its sense of community, you won’t regret listing Patterson as your top-choice residence hall.

WILLIAMS–BRICE STADIUM

By Emily Neglia

The marching band is playing and Cocky is hyping up the crowd. Rally towels fill the sky as “Sandstorm” plays. Yells of “GAME” and “COCKS” echo from one side of the stadium to another. Fireworks light up the sky as a rooster crows over the loudspeakers in celebration of every touchdown.

Regardless of whether it’s your first or 100th time walking into the Williams-Brice Stadium for a Carolina football game, there are no words to accurately describe the joyous sensation Willy-B holds. If you haven’t experienced a game day inside of Willy-B, you need to get your hands on tickets!

When Williams-Brice Stadium was first built in 1934 only 17,600 fans could be seated inside. Now on a fall Saturday over 80,000 fans are packed inside to cheer on their Carolina Gamecocks. Whether the sun is scorching down at 90 degrees or there is a torrential downpour, students, alumni and die-hard Gamecock fans will fill the stadium!

UofSC students can request football tickets through the Gamecock Rewards app. Families, alumni, and fans can all find more information on obtaining football tickets at gamecocksonline.com

Best Sports Venue Best Sports Bar

Monday-Thursday, Saturday Friday 3:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. 2:30 p.m. - 11 p.m.

2.6 miles, 10-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Google Money Rating

TLC (THE LOOSE COCKABOOSE)

By Caroline Hiel

Located right down the street from Williams-Brice Stadium, TLC Sports Bar & Grill (also known as The Loose Cockaboose) has been voted as the best sports bar in Columbia.

Although open year-round, TLC draws in its biggest crowds during football season, especially on Saturdays when the Gamecocks are playing! It has quickly become a popular tailgate spot for UofSC students and local Gamecock fans looking for some fun before heading over to Willy-B. It’s not a rare sight to see hundreds of fans lined up to get into TLC on any given Saturday.

TLC is available to be rented for events and is especially popular among UofSC sororities and fraternities for social functions and game day tailgates. With both an indoor and outdoor area for your guests to move freely between, two large bars, and friendly bartenders and staff, the venue makes for the perfect event spot.

The atmosphere is fun, the music is upbeat, the drinks are great and you’re always guaranteed to have a good time — making it clear why voters solidified TLC as the best sports bar in Columbia!

PHOTOS BY EMILY NEGLIA

DORIAN NUNGARAY

Best Concert Venue

COLONIAL LIFE ARENA

By Caroline Hiel

Colonial Life Arena

doubles as the home of Gamecock basketball and a great concert venue for internationally recognized performers. Located just off campus near Greek Village and 650 Lincoln apartment complex, Colonial Life is the perfect place to see your favorite artists live.

Colonial Life Arena is known for attracting wellknown artists including Post Malone, KISS, and Jason Aldean in early 2020.

I was able to see Ariana Grande at Colonial Life Arena in December

Best Movie Theater AMC THEATRES

By Daniella Ramirez

Just last year, movie theaters across the country began temporarily shutting down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic began, munching on buttery popcorn, sipping ice cold sodas and sharing sweet treats with friends in a cold, dimmed theater began to feel like a fever dream.

However, AMC Theatres have made it possible

to watch your favorite anticipated movies while staying safe.

The theater offers a selection of AMC signature style recliners for you to sit back and enjoy the show, including the “Dine and Recline,” allowing you to enjoy a scrumptious meal off a swiveling table, or the “Full Recliners,” a double seater with an adjustable arm rest allowing you to cozy up next to a date.

2019 and Gamecock

Entertainment’s “Cockstock” event with A$AP Ferg earlier that semester, and both experiences were amazing! The helpful staff made it easy to get tickets and find my seats. Even though I had the cheapest possible seats for the Ariana Grande concert, I still had a good view of the stage and was able to hear everything loud and clear.

Since Colonial Life is a University of South Carolina building, UofSC Student Ticketing Services occasionally gives way tickets through their

0.6 miles, 4-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Instagram and Twitter (@ uofsctickets)! Madeline Shea, a sophomore at UofSC, attended the Ariana Grande concert in 2019 after winning tickets from UofSC Student Ticketing. Shea’s not-so-great seats were upgraded by one of Colonial Life’s staff members, allowing her to get a floor seat up close to the stage!

Tickets for events are typically sold online at TicketMaster and at the arena box office, so keep a lookout for when your favorite artists are coming to Colonial Life Arena!

Apart from hosting a selection of nostalgic throwback movies such as “Remember The Titans” and “Groundhog Day,” AMC also shows highly anticipated titles.

If you’re wanting a more private experience, you can rent out an entire AMC auditorium for one or a private party of up to 20 total guests! Prices will depend on the movie and theater location.

To find out what movies AMC theaters are playing in real time, check out the AMC Theatres website. Remember — silence your cell phones and enjoy the show!

JATIN PATEL

DORIAN NUNGARAY

11 miles, 18-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Best Place for Fresh Air THE HORSESHOE

By Caroline Hiel

If you know anything about the University of South Carolina, you’ve definitely heard about the Horseshoe. On any given day, you can expect to see students enjoying the fresh air and the beautiful scenery. It is the perfect place to have a picnic or study session with friends, no matter the time of year. If you own a hammock, there are plenty of trees to hang around in. Another plus: there are always dogs!

Officially on the National Register of Historic Places, the Horseshoe is filled with history. Existing over two centuries; withstanding fires, earthquakes, and the Civil War; and even being visited by President William

Howard Taft and Pope John Paul II, a simple walk around the U could teach you more than a history class. Also, in the very center of the Horseshoe stands the Maxcy Monument, which commemorates the first president of the college and was designed by the same architect who worked on the Washington Monument in D.C.

The Horseshoe also includes the South Caroliniana Library, which was originally constructed in 1840 and is the oldest freestanding academic library in the whole country. It served as the university’s main library for over 100 years, way before T-Coop was built! The

historic McCutchen House, completely managed as a “hands-on classroom” by students of the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism is a great spot to check out for lunch or a private event as well. The historic Rutledge Chapel is even available to be booked for special events like weddings with a capacity of 200. How cool would it be to get married on the Horseshoe!?

Whether you need a nice place to study, take a walk, or want to learn a little bit about the history of South Carolina and the university, the Horseshoe is a great place to visit. Just be careful not to trip on the bricks!

CAYCE/WEST COLA RIVERWALK

physical fitness.

2020

shook all of us up and made us realize the important things in life. It was unsafe to go places, so I often felt trapped in my room and tied to my computer, looking at the outside with longing eyes. However, I knew that it wasn’t unsafe to go for a walk. Some days a walk was all that was saving

my sanity, one of the main things I looked forward to. I looked away from my screens, took in what was around me and breathed in the fresh air.

My favorite place to go on a walk in Columbia was the Cayce/West Columbia Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is an easy, 8-mile trail beside the Congaree River. The entire trail is either paved or boardwalk, making it conducive to wheelchairs, bicycles and all levels of

My favorite part about walking on The Riverwalk is that there are always a multitude of different people there simply enjoying nature. Some are fishing, some are jogging and others are strolling along, taking in the scenery. Walks became an important part of my day in 2020, but I’ll be soaking in Columbia’s beauty on the Riverwalk in 2021, as well.

TORRE BOROWSKY

BRITTANY HARRELSON

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

0.7 miles, 4-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Best Local Festival SODA CITY MARKET

By Caroline Hiel

It’s Saturday in South Carolina … looking for something to do before the Gamecock football game? Or maybe it’s not even football season and just a regular Saturday. No matter the time of year, Soda City Market is the perfect place to spend your Saturday mornings!

Soda City happens every single Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., rain or shine, and stretches down Main Street. It got its start back in 2005 with only six vendors, with the name based off Columbia’s nickname, “Cola.” The festival quickly became popular and became what we know it as today: a market with an average of 150 vendors and up to 5,000 visitors walking, laughing and enjoying some great food each week.

My personal favorite food vendors include Street Thai Food, Los Chicanos Mexican quesadillas, the Belgian Waffle Truck, and Indah Coffee. There are so many different food options, there’s no way you’ll go home hungry.

If you’re more interested in shopping than eating, Cobble & Vine Candle Co. has amazing smelling candles; and Susan’s Succulents has the cutest plants to decorate your dorm room or apartment. Everything sold at Soda City is unique and handcrafted right here in South Carolina, so there’s really no better place to go support small businesses!

Aside from shopping and eating, you can also always enjoy the music from local performers set up along the street or pet one of the many, many dogs that are out walking with their owners.

Soda City Market is just a short walk from campus, and parking in metered spots is always free on Saturdays if you’d rather drive.

Soda City really is one of the most fun festivals in Cola, so if you haven’t checked it out yet, you need to! Once you do, I can guarantee you’ll be counting down the days until the next Saturday so you can go again.

Best Place to Buy Produce

By Gracie Bryant

EverySaturday the noise of music, families, students and locals fill the air on Main Street in Columbia. The smell of kettle corn, baked goods, and delicious food on a hot grill infiltrates the noses of everybody passing by. However, if you’re looking for something a bit healthier, farmers bring their produce and offer the best in-season fruits and vegetables. Both students and families alike flock to these produce stands for the affordable and quality alternatives to produce at the supermarket.

Soda City Market is a producer-only market which means all the vendors must make or grow what they are selling. This attracts a lot of small businesses and Columbia farmers. A popular produce stand offers a “$10 box” where all the produce you can fit into that box comes out to only $10. This explains why you may see people walking around with boxes of different vegetables and fruits. Other produce stands offer a large variety of produce and some will even throw in a free banana or something similar when you are checking out!

Produce stands at the market are some of the more popular vendors, as anyone can see from their ever-present long lines. Going every week to the Soda City Market will definitely change the way you look at the sad bagged broccoli at the grocery store!

PHOTOS BY SUZE GARCIA-STAM

VILLAGE IDIOT PIZZA

Best Place for Trivia Best Pizza

By Maggie Holman

Craving

By Emily Neglia

Village Idiot is a favorite among the people of Columbia for reasons other than their pizza. Their comfortable, laidback atmosphere has been bringing smiling faces in for 30 years!

This pizza joint was opened back in 1990 by three friends from New Jersey who called themselves “the village idiots.” The name was a big hit, and so was their pizza. Over the last three decades, they have expanded to three locations, their home spot in Five Points, one restaurant in the Olympia neighborhood and one in Forest Acres.

Crowds and customers are always packing out the restaurant, but Wednesday nights are the most popular. Every Wednesday at 8 p.m., Village Idiot holds a trivia night — the perfect opportunity to show off those random trivia facts you’ve picked up over the years and to have some friendly competition with your friends!

Wednesday nights at Village Idiot are definitely the place to go if you are looking for a fun time, but definitely plan to show up early to secure your seat before the rush!

Tuesday - Friday: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Google Price Rating

Pizza? Don’t be an idiot, go to Village Idiot!

Pick one of their 23 “idiot suggestions,” including “The Godfather” with italian sausage, onion and green peppers; “Zambini” a pesto base with tomato, onion, italian sausage and jalapeno; or, try my personal favorite: Buffalo Chicken, a buffalo sauce base with grilled chicken and topped with a swirl of hot sauce and either ranch or bleu cheese. If somehow none of those suggestions work for you, no worries, you can make your own pizza. First you start with either a 12” or 16” pizza then choose from their 37 toppings, and voila! You have your very own pizza!

They have Happy Hour every Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. which includes: $1.50 cheese pizza slices, $2.50 slice of the day, $3.50 garlic knots, $5 bud light pitchers, and $1 off all alcohol.

That’s not all! There are also day specials at the Olympia location. Tuesday is $3 pints and $7, 12-inch cheese or pepperoni pizza. Wednesday is $1 off all wine and buy one large pizza, get one free (my personal favorite deal). Thursday is $5 pitchers from 7 p.m. until closing and $10 large 3-topping pizzas. Friday is $3 PBR and $5 off any three large pizzas. Saturday is $7 Adios Pitchers and $3 PBR. Sunday is $3 PBR and their “Sunday Family Special” — a large 1-topping pizza, large idiot salad, garlic bread or garlic knots, and a 2-liter (delivery and pick up) or four fountain drinks (dine-in).

Village Idiot not only has the best pizza in the city, it also has the best deals so it’s a nobrainer! Good food on a budget, what could be better?

TORRE BOROWSKY

LAUREN BUSMAN

Best Vista Bar TIN ROOF

By Suze Garcia-Stam

Located between Main Street and the Congaree River, the Vista is a popular district of Columbia that has an energetic, diverse spirit. With dining, entertainment and art, it’s the perfect place to take the family when they come to visit or go for a nice night out.

Tin Roof is a shotgun bar with a shack vibe that serves American-style pub food. They offer live music and daily specials such as:

• Mondays: $8 cheesesteak & 16-ounce domestic drafts

• Taco Tuesdays: $1 off tacos, $4 margaritas and $3 Coronas

• Wednesdays: $3

Gatorade, Fireball, and Rumple, plus $8 hot chicken sandwiches and 16-ounce domestic drafts

• Thursdays: $3 wells, $4 Fireball, $6 domestic pitchers and $6 bombs

• Sunday Fundays: $8 mimosa pitchers, $4 Jager bombs and $3

Rumple

Happy Hour is Monday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and includes specials like $3 domestic drafts, $3

Best Five Points Bar

Sunday-Saturday: 4 p.m. until 11 p.m.

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wells, $1 off Tito’s, Captain and Jack and half-off appetizers. Students love the deals, and Columbia residents and visitors love the laidback vibe and live music. Tin Roof can be found full of people any night and especially during game days. Their website shows all the weekly activities they have planned like trivia nights, bingo, DJs and more.

With Tin Roof’s notable specials and enjoyable atmosphere for all, it’s no surprise they were voted the 2021 best Vista bar!

THE MOOSEHEAD SALOON

Monday-Wednesday: 8 p.m. until 11 p.m. Thursday- Saturday: 7 p.m. until 11 p.m.

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By Maggie Holman

Want to test your skills on a mechanical bull? Then head down to Moosehead Saloon and try not to get thrown off! Bull rides are free on Wednesdays and $5 on every other night, but if you bring a copy of Best of Carolina you can get a free ride any night of the week!

Moosehead Saloon is the main country bar in Five Points, but they play a diverse range of music so you will have something to dance to no matter your music taste.

Moosehead has the largest indoor capacity of all the bars in Five Points so expect to see many college students hanging out there with their friends on the weekends! However, the long bar means there is no need to shove your way through people to get a drink.

One of Moosehead’s specialty drinks is the “Shark Attack” bucket. This drink comes in a pitcher and is an electric blue; whether you want to share is up to you!

Regardless of whether you’re looking to test your skills on the bull, dance to country music or enjoy drinks with friends, Moosehead Saloon is the place to go in Five Points!

LINDSEY STACK

SUZE GARCIA-STAM

Best Local Musician HOOTIE AND THE BLOWFISH

By Maggie Holman

AlthoughHootie and the Blowfish is an internationally acclaimed band, they haven’t forgotten where it all started — right here on campus!

Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Jim Sonefeld and Dean Felber were all students at the University of South Carolina when they started Hootie and the Blowfish. They started performing in college bars in Columbia, but they didn’t stop there! The band went on to record a hit album that

skyrocketed them to fame. Having famous alumni has its perks, as Hootie and the Blowfish are still big fans and supporters of UofSC and occasionally stop by Columbia. Their 2020 reunion tour ended at Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, and in 2017, they performed a free concert for the students after the football team made it to the bowl game. In 1996, Hootie and the Blowfish made the Horseshoe their stage and performed a free

concert for the community! They have also donated to the School of Journalism and Mass Communications building. Hootie and the Blowfish have certainly not forgotten the people of Columbia and the people of Columbia have not forgotten them after voting them best local musician again for 2021!

MIA GREEN

Mia Green, a third-year student at the University of South Carolina, has been singing since she was little — simply singing along with friends for hours to a Wii game. This simple fun turned into a passion for Green, and she is now a well-known performer across Columbia and UofSC.

Green says performing is a way for her to express herself, but songwriting takes that self expression to the next level.

“I think songwriting and performing is a way to share deeper connections and relate to people,” said Green. “I feel most comfortable when I share my songs and have the audience respond.”

Since coming to UofSC, Green has taken to performing across Columbia. Her favorite place to perform thus far is White Mule in Five Points, which she played when they had just recently opened in 2019.

Her performances across Columbia have made their mark on the community, too. Green received many votes from the Columbia community, earning her second place for Best Local Musician, right behind Hootie and the Blowfish.

“I was really shocked when I got the email that I made the Best of Carolina 2021 list — even more shocked when I came in second place right behind Hootie & the Blowfish,” said Green. “Being a part of Best of Carolina is a huge honor because the selections were determined by the UofSC community. I have a lot of respect and love for UofSC, so it was really exciting to be voted on by my peers.”

In the future, Green would love to continue performing and songwriting. She is currently majoring in public relations with a minor in music industry studies, but says that COVID-19 and its impact on the music industry has made her more inclined to incorporate music into her career. However, she says, as long as she is still writing

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY MIA GREEN

Monday - Saturday: 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

4.2 miles, 11-minute drive from the Horseshoe

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By Maggie Holman

TRADER JOE’S

HIGHLIGHTS:

The frozen meal section! This is a busy college student’s best friend. They offer a large selection of delicious meals that take under 15 minutes to make. Some highlights are their shrimp stir fry, Mandarin orange chicken and their stuffed gnocchi, all between $2.99$4.99.

Fresh produce! Includes an array of exotic fruit such as mangoes, pomegranates, kiwi and much more.

Friendly staff! Although grocery shopping can be a tedious task, shopping at Trader Joe’s is made as painless as possible by their incredible employees. They are always there to point you in the right direction, give recommendations, or just to chat with. Their wonderful demeanor and great knowledge of the store and all it carries shows just how much the employees care about their job.

Two-buck chucks! CALLING ALL 21+ YEAR OLDS! Are you tired of overpaying for your wine? Look no further because Trader Joe’s sells arguably the best two-buck chucks (AKA $2.99 bottle of wine). Whether you drink red, white or pink, they have a full selection for each.

Best Grocery Store

TRADER JOE’S

My Top Four Favorite Items

Everything but the Bagel Seasoning Hashbrowns

Strawberry Mochi

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Sauce

PHOTOS BY MAGGIE HOLMAN

Best Soda City Vendor THE BELGIAN WAFFLE TRUCK

By Torre Borowsky

With the delicious unique take on the traditional waffle, it’s no surprise that the Belgian Waffle Truck has won the best Soda City vendor for the fourth year in a row!

Freshly baked and perfectly fluffy with the oh-so-satisfying crunch in every bite, these waffles will leave you wanting more every time. Their menu has options for whatever your heart may desire – sweet or savory; to share or to devour on your own.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

0.7 miles, 4-minute drive from the Horseshoe

PHOTOS BY SUZE GARCIA-STAM

The Belgian Waffle Truck’s signature, the “Strawbwaffle,” is a must have! Fresh strawberries and whipped cream (and nutella add-on if you’d like) on a warm waffle will make you want to savor every bite. Sweets aren’t your thing? No worries! The “Croque Monsieur” will be right up your ally. A waffle topped with ham, Dijon mustard and melted Swiss cheese on top will settle all your savory cravings. Don’t miss out on their newest item on the menu — the “peanut butter and jelly Belgian waffle.”

Sound too good to be true? It gets better. This sweet treat won’t break the bank because prices range from only $5 to $8, with the option to add on sweet toppings for only fifty cents!

If you find yourself at Soda City on a Saturday morning take a quick trip to Liege, Belgium, by stopping by the Belgian Waffle Truck — guaranteed to satisfy your cravings!

MARY’S AREPAS

Mary’s Arepas is a popular Latin American vendor present at Soda City Market on Saturdays. Maria Romero, the owner of Mary’s Arepas, opened the business in July 2014 as a way to make extra money while also getting to spend more time with their son and daughter.

Now, seven years later, Mary’s Arepas is a Soda City favorite known for bringing authentic Colombian arepas to the Columbia area.

Romero mentioned that they are planning to buy a food truck so that they can offer their delicious food daily. I know I would be thrilled to not have to wait until Saturday for an arepa!

For now, I will continue making my way to Soda City market every Saturday to enjoy the delicious food at Mary’s Arepas, and you should, too!

Monday – Friday: 7:45 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday: Noon - 5 p.m.

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By Torre Borowsky

Whetheryou’re a current student at UofSC, an alum or visiting campus, the UofSC Barnes & Noble Bookstore is your onestop-shop to get everything and anything you could need. Located in Russell House, the UofSC Bookstore has everything you could want, from water bottles and dog collars, to “UofSC Parent” stickers and textbooks.

Among all the clothing and souvenirs, you will find exactly what you need to prepare for this semester. School supplies, electronic gadgets and even an array of snacks makes the UofSC Bookstore every students’ saving grace during the semester. The reasonable prices are hard to beat, and you can use Carolina Cash for any purchase. It truly comes in handy when you forget a calculator and are already on your way to your first math exam!

The UofSC Bookstore is the most convenient way to get your textbooks for the semester. UofSC’s system is linked with the bookstore, allowing each student to have a personalized list of textbooks needed for the semester. With the option to buy or rent your textbooks and on-campus pick up, the UofSC Bookstore becomes the definition of convenience. We all know how stressful the start of the semester can get, and the UofSC Barnes & Noble Bookstore is happy to help get every student settled in.

Make sure you take advantage of this convenient, reliable bookstore option — you will thank yourself later!

Best Bookstore

UOFSC BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSTORE

KAYLA JEFFERS

Best Gamecock Gear

BAREFOOT CAMPUS OUTFITTER

By Maggie Holman

One of the best things about attending the University of South Carolina is filling your wardrobe with Gamecock gear. Barefoot Campus Outfitter is the place to go for anything UofSC-related. They have T-shirts, hats, stickers, jewelry, masks and just about anything else you can think of.

While there are many places around Columbia to buy Gamecock gear, Barefoot stands out because of their unique services. Any T-shirt you buy, they will transform into a top of your choosing. They can turn your ordinary T-shirt into a halter-top, tube-top, off-the-shoulder top or add fringe, ties, etc. This is a fun way to show your Gamecock pride and stand out in the garnet and black stands!

“I go before every home game,” said Payton Starmack, junior at UofSC. “I love their T-shirts and their temporary tattoos are perfect for tailgates.”

Barefoot is walking distance from campus and is located on Lincoln Street, right down the road from Greek Village. If you need a last minute gift for friends or relatives, Barefoot is guaranteed to have something for everyone.

Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 4 p.m.

PHOTOS BY TORRE BOROWSKY

By Emily Neglia

There is no better place to go shopping for the latest trends than Urban Outfitters (UO). UO is a retailer known for their unique products, creativity and trendy pieces. While routinely updating their collections and holding on to their staple pieces, Urban Outfitters is the place to go to find the perfect outfit.

Urban Outfitters is more than just another clothing store. They sell everything from jeans to dresses, sweaters to tank tops, and a multitude of accessories, but buyers are always

surprised with their other collections. UO has a successful line of home décor that fit the same trendy and creative vibe their clothes do. They also sell some beauty supplies and party games that work as great small gifts!

Although many believe that Urban Outfitters is a store for women and trendy teens, they actually have clothing and items for everyone. Their products are mainly targeted towards high schoolers and college students, but some of their basics are ageless and can be worn by anyone!

That sweater you have been eying through the window display for a week may have a higher price tag than anticipated, but UO is always having sales! Whether it’s on the sale rack, or just a sale on specific items, you can almost always find what you’re looking for at a discounted price.

Urban Outfitters is conveniently located in the Vista, so next time you are walking around popping in and out of stores, hop into Urban and see what cute outfit you will leave with!

Best Clothing Store URBAN OUTFITTERS MESSIE’S CLOSET

Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.

0.8 miles, 4-minute drive from the Horseshoe

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“Make a statement through fashion” is the phrase that first shows up when you click on Messie’s Closet’s website, and shopping there will help you do just that! Messie’s Closet is a fashion boutique located on Meeting Street that specializes in

both new and pre-owned merchandise.

If you need a dress for a special event, they also offer four-day dress rentals. Just find a dress you love either in-store or on their website, look outstanding at your event and return it by either shipping it back or dropping it off in-store.

According to their website, it’s simple and stress-free!

Messie’s Closet has everything from Free People dresses, Althletica workout

wear, Levi jeans, swimsuits and more. No matter what you purchase from Messie’s, you can rest assured that you look amazing, it was a great price and that you’re supporting a Columbia business owner!

Find out more about Messie’s Closet and their current items by visiting them in-store, scrolling through their Instagram (@messiescloset) or browsing their website (messiescloset.com).

Saturday: Noon - 5 p.m.

2.3 miles, 7-minute drive from the Horseshoe

EMILY NEGLIA

LINDSEY STACK

SID & NANCY

Monday - Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.

0.9 miles, 4 minutes from the Horseshoe

Sid & Nancy, downtown Columbia’s only buy-selltrade store since 2007, is the perfect place to shop. With high-quality clothing, jewelry, shoes and more, there is something everyone will enjoy!

If you’re cleaning out your closet and need to get rid of some things, Sid & Nancy is always accepting high-quality donations.

Best Consignment Shop

GOODWILL

Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday: 1:30 p.m. - 5 p.m.

By Gracie Bryant

Goodwill Industries is a nationally and globally recognized consignment shop. There are around 3,300 stores located across the United States, and Goodwill stretches to 12 other countries as well.

All Goodwill locations accept donations yearround, and donations range

from clothing to furniture and books.

If you are looking for a cheap alternative to shopping, Goodwill is the perfect option. You can also give back by donating items that are no longer in use. One of the local Goodwill locations is on Garners Ferry Road.

According to their website, they look for brands such as H&M, Urban Outfitters and Gap, and they accept up to 45 items at a time. Your donations can earn you either cash or store credit!

Be sure to support a local business owner by buying, selling and trading at Sid & Nancy!

PHOTOS BY DORIAN NUNGARAY

PHOTOS BY CHLOE CAUDILL

Be of Be of

Best Breakfast Brunch THE DEVINE CINNAMON ROLL DELI

Tuesday - Sunday: 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

1.7 miles, 6-minute drive from the

By Emily Neglia

The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli may be one of the best gems in Columbia. What looks to be a little house on Devine Street is actually home to some of the best cinnamon rolls in South Carolina!

This deli is like no other. Although the restaurant may be small in size, their breakfast menu is filled with goodies like grit bowls, bagels, specialty breakfast sandwiches and, of course, cinnamon rolls. The lunch menu includes NYC Pushcart dogs, grilled paninis, homemade soup, a variety of turkey sandwiches, Carolina slow-cooked chili and specialty sandwiches.

The best part of the menu, and the main reason the line goes out the door on Sunday mornings, are for their unique and creative flavors of cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon roll flavors include strawberry cheesecake, wildberry graham cracker, banana foster, apple cobbler, bacon maple, coconut cream and original cinnamon.

No matter what you order, a mini cinnamon roll comes with every dish! So, when you go and you are stuck deciding between a yummy breakfast sandwich or a sweet cinnamon roll, you can get the best of both worlds.

Since opening in 2016, The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli has been voted Best New Restaurant, Best Bakery in South Carolina, and People’s Magazine Best Breakfast in South Carolina. One of their most exciting achievements was being featured on Food Network for their Cinnamonster, a 12-pound cinnamon roll.

You have to head to The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli and see for yourself why it was voted best breakfast and brunch in Columbia!

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Horseshoe

PHOTOS BY TORRE BOROWSKY

Best Local Coffee Shop COOL BEANS COFFEE CO.

Monday-Friday: 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.

By Maggie Holman

Everwant to feel like you are in the show “Friends?” Cool Beans is the hangout spot for you! You can catch up on work or hang out with friends while enjoying a coffee and some great food in a cozy and cool environment.

Cool Beans is located right across the street from the Horseshoe, so it is the perfect place to do some studying and grab a coffee or a bite to eat in between classes. They offer free WiFi and a great studying environment, pair that with a coffee and you can get anything done!

No matter what kind of coffee you like, you will be sure to find it in Cool Beans’ extensive drink menu. They have everything from cappuccinos to espressos. My personal favorite drink is the “Perfect Woman,” which is a sweet latte topped with whip cream and a chocolate disk. Although Cool Beans is known for their coffee, their food is also notable. They offer an all-day brunch that is composed of a variety of breakfast sandwiches and bagels. They also have healthy options such as their Green Veggie breakfast Burrito, or a yogurt parfait. Their lunch special is only $9.50 and it comes with a sandwich, wrap, or panini with a side of your choice, a pickle and a coffee or tea. Their turkey provolone panini with pesto is a must-have and pairs great with their pasta salad.

One of the coolest parts about Cool Beans is the atmosphere. Cool Beans is located on the top floor of a revamped house and supports local artists by hanging up their artwork all along the walls and offering them for sale. The sitting area is composed of a variety of sitting options including comfortable arm chairs and benches.

Students are always welcome in Cool Beans and UofSC organizations often partner with Cool Beans to set up tabs and percent nights.

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PHOTOS BY MAGGIE HOLMAN

CANTINA 76

Best Lunch

By Maggie Holman

Ifyou are craving Mexican food, there is no place that can hit the spot quite like Cantina 76. It has a menu with options for everyone from spice lovers to picky eaters!

Unfortunately, this “hidden gem” is not so hidden anymore, so the wait can get long at dinner time. However, lunch is the perfect time to enjoy some top-notch Mexican cuisine without the wait!

Their tacos are the perfect thing to get for lunch and will only run you about $3 each. There are 10 different tacos to mix and match with, but my personal favorite is the chicken pesto taco.

Cantina has a great atmosphere and is a great place to get together and catch up with all your friends and share one of the amazing appetizers. The “Tres Hombres” sampler which includes queso, guacamole and salsa is a must, but you might have a hard time sharing it!

Monday - Wednesday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

2.0 miles, 7-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Best Mexican Food

By Emily Neglia

BetweenTaco Tuesday and Tequila Thursday, Cantina 76 knows how to satisfy all of your Mexican food cravings. Cantina 76 is a Mexican-inspired taqueria and bar with an upbeat atmosphere.

Cantina is a go-to for college students, families, the business community and tourists visiting Columbia. Their lively yet casual atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to hang out with your crew.

Everyone will find something of their liking on Cantina’s extensive menu: starters, numerous imaginative tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, nachos, salads and soups! To me, a perfect dining experience would start out with their trio appetizer, but I have to be careful not to fill up on the salsa, guac, and queso so I can still enjoy my meal. For my meal I would get their chicken teriyaki taco and their BBQ brisket taco. To make this meal complete I would get their strawberry basil margarita, or if I am in the mood to try something new, I would ask my server to bring me their favorite drink.

Cantina is always packed and there may even be a wait, but conveniently, there are two locations right here in Columbia. With one location on Main Street and the other on Devine, I recommend calling ahead and asking about the wait time so you can have a better chance of enjoying your food ASAP!

PHOTOS BY EMILY NEGLIA

Iam from small-town South Carolina, and sometimes I just need some Southern comfort food. Big Bull’s Bang’n BBQ is the perfect place to go for Southern food at a reasonable price that supports our community business owners!

Their menu includes far too many items to list, but some popular items include their barbecue and ribs with the choice of seven signature sauces. If those don’t fit your taste, they also offer burgers, chicken, wings and more! Plus, if you happen

Best Lunch

BIG BULL’S BANG’N BBQ

to be able to eat anything else after your meal, their dessert menu is to die for.

Not only is Big Bull’s Bang’n BBQ delicious, but the story of their opening is too precious to go eat anywhere else. According to their website, all of this started in 2013 when ‘Big Bull’ started making sandwiches for his coworkers. In November 2013, while on a date, ‘Mama Bull’ told ‘Big Bull’ he should open a restaurant to which he replied, “No, No … absolutely, no! That’s like

Google Price Rating

Monday - Friday: 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.; 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

0.8 miles, 5-minute drive from the Horseshoe

having multiple kids and five additional children!” Now, six years after opening, Mama Bull was clearly proven right, as Big Bull’s is a must-have in Columbia. I highly recommend going to get some barbecue and other Southern staples at Big Bull’s Bang’n BBQ. Supporting a local business has never tasted so good!

Wednesday - Friday: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Saturday: Noon - 8 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.

Best Place For a Fancy Dinner BLUE MARLIN

By Emily Neglia

Trying

to decide where to take your family when they visit, go on a date or go with your friends for a celebratory dinner? Blue Marlin was voted the best place for a fancy dinner, and their unique blend of African, West Indian and Caribbean flavors will leave you wanting more!

Blue Marlin is a classic Southern seafood restaurant in the heart of the Vista, just a short walk or drive from campus. This lowcountry-inspired Columbia restaurant is known for their hospitality and quality, and with extensive lunch and dinner menus, you will always find a dish of your liking.

Their entrées range from $17-$29 and starters are $6-$13, but the taste is worth every penny. Their award-winning shrimp and grits are a must and personal favorite! If you aren’t in the mood for seafood don’t worry — they have many other mouthwatering options such as their bacon wrapped filet mignon and portabella mushroom and spinach ravioli.

Blue Marlin offers more than just the classic dining experience. They offer delivery through Postmates, catering services so you can bring their spectacular cuisine to the office or a party and you can reserve the Vista Room for private dining.

Between the ambience of eating outside under the lit up walkway and delicious food that will satisfy all of your cravings, Blue Marlin is a high-quality experience and a must for your next night out!

LINDSEY STACK

DORIAN NUNGARAY

FREE WEIGHTS - CARDIO - CLASSES

VERSASPA PRO SUNLESS TANNING

CYCLING STUDIO - FUNCTIONAL TURF

TRAINING AREA - HYDRO MASSAGE

FIT3D BODY SCANS - STAND UP & LAY DOWN TANNING BEDS

10 MINUTES FROM CAMPUS!

Monday-Sunday: 11 a.m. - 4 a.m.

1.1 miles, 5-minute drive from the Horseshoe

By Caroline Hiel

Cook Out is a staple among students and party-goers in Five Points, especially since it is just a short walk away from campus and just up the street from many bars. Any weekend night, you can be sure to see long lines at the take-out windows and many students eating and laughing with friends. Cook Out’s location, paired with its insanely cheap and savory food, make it by far one of the best places to go to satisfy your late-night cravings.

The most popular menu item is the classic Cook Out Tray, in which you can choose a single entree, two sides and a drink. The best part of the Tray: it will only cost you about $6! Or, for just a dollar extra, you can substitute your drink for any one of their 40 fresh milkshakes! You might have trouble

EDDIE’S CALZONES

Are you up late studying or hanging out with friends and need a bite to eat? Eddie’s Calzones is just five minutes from campus and offers delivery across Columbia.

Eddie’s offers 60 options — from chicken to veggie — and every calzone is cooked to your specific wants, making it perfect for satisfying your cravings! Plus, if your party has run late into the night and people are hungry, pizza sheets are an option that feed a group of ten.

The founder of Eddie’s Calzones is a New York native and wanted to bring New York food to the south. The Columbia location is one of three locations; others are in Athens and Auburn.

Eddie’s Calzones prides itself on being “The Official Calzone of College,” so be sure to try it for yourself the next time you’re up late and need something other than frozen pizza!

Best Late-Night Eats COOKOUT

deciding which one to get, though! Other popular orders include cajun fries (with or without cheese), hushpuppies, corn dogs, the “Big Double” burger, chili cheese dogs and so much more.

Personally, the chicken quesadilla tray with double chicken quesadilla sides and an Oreo shake just hits differently when I’m craving a late-night snack.

The cheap prices and large portions of food are what really makes Cook Out so unique compared to other fast-food and late-night restaurants. If you’re craving a late-night snack (or maybe a whole meal) and don’t want to break the bank, Cook Out is, for sure, the place to go.

Sunday-Thursday: 10 a.m. - 4 a.m.

Friday-Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 a.m.

1101 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205

Google Price Rating

DORIAN NUNGARAY

PHOTOS BY CHLOE CAUDILL

KAMINSKY’S DESSERT CAFE

By Maggie Holman

Havingcake on your birthday is tradition, but the people of Columbia have deemed Kaminsky’s the best place to do that!

This dimly lit cafe is the perfect place to have an intimate gathering with friends and enjoy fresh, homemade desserts. Their notorious cake case holds a mouthwatering selection of cakes, cookies, pies and cobblers that change daily. There is no way to go wrong no matter what you choose!

Best Place to Celebrate a Birthday Best Dessert

If you’re looking to celebrate your 21st birthday in a more low-key way, Kaminsky’s offers alcoholic options as well. The “Hot Spirited Drinks” menu section includes many options such as Irish coffee (Irish whiskey and turbinado sugar), Snow Cap (cappuccino and Irish cream liquor), Kioki Kaminsky (coffee, chocolate and Kahlua, brandy) and many more.

Treat yourself right this birthday season and celebrate at Kaminsky’s with a delicious dessert!

Sunday - Thursday: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: 5 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Saturday: 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.

By Emily Neglia

Just hearing someone mention Kaminsky’s makes my mouth water! Their extensive menu and cake case provides a variety of options to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. Their menu includes so many fun flavors of specialty coffees and teas, milkshakes, floats, and sundaes. At the front of the store is a dessert case that is prepared fresh daily and rotates multiples times a day. Inside this case there is an assortment of cakes, cheesecakes, pies, cobblers and some seasonal specials.

A personal favorite, and very popular dessert, is the Toll House Pie. This pie tastes just like a half-baked, warm, gooey cookie, topped with melted chocolate chips, walnuts and whipped cream. Another must try item would be their Mountain of Chocolate cake. The richness of this three-layer cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Kaminsky’s fun dessert cocktails make it even better and stand out from all of the other dessert shops around! From adult milkshakes to their signature dessert martinis, Kaminsky’s makes dessert just as fun and exciting for adults as it is for kids.

As you pass Kaminsky’s in the Vista, you will always see it packed. Its upscale and pleasant atmosphere is the perfect place to kickback with a group of friends and reward yourself with a slice of cake and a specialty cocktail.

I promise you when you head to Kaminsky’s, you will leave already planning your next visit!

Google Price Rating

PHOTOS BY MAGGIE HOLMAN

Monday-Sunday: 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Google Price Rating

Best Ice Cream THE BAKED BEAR

By Maggie Holman

TheBaked Bear was started in San Diego by childhood friends Rob Robbins and Shane Stanger, but fortunately for us, it made its way all the way across the country to Columbia!

The Baked Bear is a great place to get a late-night reward after long hours of studying, or to go on a fun, casual date. But be warned — it can get messy!

The Baked Bear distinguishes itself from other ice cream shops with their custom ice cream sandwiches. There are four steps to create your very own ice cream sandwich at The Baked Bear. Step 1: Choose two cookies to serve as the top and bottom of your sandwich (mixing and matching is encouraged!) Step 2: Choose your ice cream. Step 3: Choose any toppings you want. Step 4: Choose if you want to get your sandwich hot pressed (I would highly recommend you do!)

Although The Baked Bear is known for ice cream sandwiches, they also offer ice cream scoops and pints, cookies and brownies, a hot fudge sundae, or a Bear Bowl, which is a warm chocolate chip cookie or brownie bowl with your choice of any scoop of ice cream.

With a wide variety of choices and personal customization, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Best Brewery RIVER RAT BREWERY

By Emily Neglia

River Rat Brewery is more than just a place to grab a beer — it’s a place to relax after a long day of work, a place to laugh with friends and even a place for your dog to meet other furry friends. In 2013, River Rat was created to honor the history of Columbia and the importance of the three rivers that run through our city.

The best thing about this brewery is that there are always new flavors to try. Throughout the year, they release seasonal beers such as Kerry’s Peanut Butter Porter and their award-winning Bohemian Pilsner. In addition to their seasonal beers, they sell “core beers” all year round. Just when you thought those beers were enough, there are even more! River Rat has a tap room always offering new and fun flavors to satisfy any taste.

Although some may think the beer is more than enough, River Rat offers a menu including items such as nachos, wings, burgers and even a pulled pork sandwich. A kid’s

menu is also offered to keep the kids happy while the adults enjoy their evening!

To add to all of the excitement, River Rat Brewery typically offers a special to make your experience even better. On Wednesdays, wings are $2 off, Thursday is Trivia Night and Friday is Burger Night. Plus, every Saturday and Sunday there are Happy Hour specials!

Wednesday: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Thursday: 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday - Saturday: Noon - 10 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 8 p.m.

TORRE BOROWSKY

Best New Restaurant

Tuesday-Sunday: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Yelp Price Rating

By Emily Neglia

In late 2019, Columbia welcomed Black Rooster, a “Frenchish” American Bistro. Between the views, the food and the cocktails, Black Rooster is a new hot spot!

The first thing you will see after crossing the bridge into West Columbia is this corner restaurant with a lit-up rooftop bar. Black Rooster is unlike any restaurant in Columbia. It is unique for their Frenchinfluenced dishes and cocktails.

The food has a price range from $9 to $34. Some of the menu’s popular items include Le Cheese Plate, Filet Mignon au Poivre, Vietnamese Mussels and

their Tarte Tatin. Their cocktails include a variety of French spirits and wines.

Kristian Niemi, chef and owner of Black Rooster, has other very popular restaurants and bars in Columbia. If you have enjoyed Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Café, Gervais and Wine, Solstice Kitchen and Wine Bar, Rosso Trattoria and Bourbon, you will most definitely be pleased with Black Rooster!

As of now, Black Rooster is only open for dinner, but they hope to open for brunch soon. Reservations and orders can be made online, but walk-ins are always more than welcome.

Between the delicious cuisine, fancy cocktails, and stunning views at sunset from the rooftop bar, Black Rooster is a must-go for your next night out.

Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Sunday: 10:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

0.9 mile, 4-minute drive from the Horseshoe

BLACK ROOSTER PUBLICO

Best Outdoor Dining

By Gracie Bryant

Publico brings Lat-Asian cuisine into Five Points. With vast menu options, 45 craft beers and regular happy hours — it’s the perfect place to hang out and eat good food!

Their Lat-Asian food spans from nontraditional tacos and signature Ramen bowls, to burgers, salads

and sandwiches. According to their website, everything prepared is fresh and local, grown organically or raised on a humane farm.

The bar includes local and craft beers, hand crafted cocktails and made-fromscratch signature drinks. There are 54 tap options, 45 of which are craft beers.

However, they won Best Outdoor Dining, and it was voted the best for a reason! The spacious patio is perfect for large groups, and they have Igloos available for special reservations.

PHOTOS BY DORIAN NUNGARAY

TORRE BOROWSKY

Best Vegan/Vegetarian Menu Options

ZOE’S KITCHEN

By Daniella Ramirez

Making smart food choices and choosing to eat healthy isn’t out of reach at Zoe’s Kitchen. The “fresh-made” Mediterranean restaurant is one of the top places to head to in Columbia for a guilt-free meal after class or work.

Start off your lunch break with some avocado smash dip; containing just a hint of lemon and sprinkle of sea salt, coated with some creamy feta and a side of toasty pita chips, hands are bound to reach across the table for this one. Before you devour the main course, order a cup or bowl of Mediterranean

lentil soup; this staple dish contains a list of fresh and nutritious ingredients like green lentils, carrots and tomato.

Afterwards, select from a variety of main course options such as savory plates, pitas, sandwiches, salads or bowls. You can keep it simple with the falafel and salad plate, featuring a Greek salad with rice, falafel, hummus and an extra side of pita bread.

Plus, their hot meals and sides are not just guilt-free for your healthy lifestyle goals but guilt-free for your

Best Chinese Food

wallet as well! Whether you’re on a lunch date or studying with friends, Zoe’s Kitchen is committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment for anyone to

Monday-Sunday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Google Price Rating

enjoy their delicious meals. Currently, the restaurant is offering several ways to cater and deliver your food including digital order pickup, contactless curbside pick-up and contactless delivery at select locations.

Regardless of how you get ahold of it, Zoe’s Kitchen is a great option for healthy food and meatless meals!

TSUNAMI SUSHI RESTAURANT

By Torre Borowsky

If you’re looking for a nice place to take a date, go out with friends or bring the parents when they visit, Tsunami Sushi is the place to go. Located in the Vista, Tsunami Sushi has an excellent atmosphere that matches the detail and care put into their sushi dishes and entrées.

Tsunami provides a very extensive menu including soups and salads, sushi, specialty sushi rolls, hibachi, noodles and

a variety of different Asian entrees, incuding traditionally Chinese dishes. No matter what you or your group is craving, you’ll be able to find a dish you’ll love somewhere on the menu. As a bonus, Happy Hour runs every day from 4 to 8 p.m. and includes halfoff appetizers and sushi, and hibachi specials!

Take-out and order online options are available to make it easy for those on-the-go but still wanting a nice meal. With high-

quality food prepared by experienced chefs at a reasonable price, Tsunami Sushi is definitely a restaurant you want to add to your bucket-list of places to go in Columbia!

Monday-Sunday: 4 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Google Price Rating

DORIAN NUNGARAY

TORRE BOROWSKY

Best Japanese Food

Monday–Saturday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 9 p.m.

Google Price Rating:

Best Indian Food

By Grace Farrar

Whenthe meal plan starts to get repetitive, students often look off-campus for variety. Columbia has many eateries that showcase the diversity of the city’s community, including Best of Carolina’s 2021 Winner for Best Indian Food, 2 Gingers Indian. Located just 10 minutes from campus, 2 Gingers is an authentic Indian restaurant that offers classic dishes with high quality ingredients and modern twists.

Popular dishes include tandoori, chicken and lamb samosas and chaat. They also offer a taste of fusion with Indochinese dishes like chilli-garlic fried rice. The extensive menu includes everything from butter chicken to dessert, so even those new to Indian cuisine are sure to find something to enjoy. Vegetarian options are available and are prepared separately from any dishes with meat.

If you’re looking to enjoy Indian food from the comfort of your couch, 2 Gingers delivers via Grubhub, Bite Squad, DoorDash and Uber Eats.

2 Gingers is a great place to add variety to your diet and their buffet is guaranteed to give you a bang for your buck!

By Victoria Borowsky

HIBACHI HOUSE 2 GINGERS

Ifyou’re looking for the perfect take-out meal for movie night or the comfort food to get you through hours of studying — Hibachi House should be at the top of your list! There’s a reason Hibachi House remains the winner for the best Japanese food. With a wide variety of delicious food that comes in such large portions, how can you go wrong?

Located just a few blocks down from the Horseshoe, Hibachi House is easily accessible to students regardless of whether they’re living on or off campus, and the low prices make Hibachi House the saving grace for students’ wallets and stomachs.

Each dish is served with a side of rice, a salad and vegetables, giving you a well-balanced meal. One of their most popular items is the rice bowls, where you choose the type of meat you want like hibachi chicken, shrimp or steak. Each dish comes with white sauce, and their signature “yum-yum sauce” will have you saying yum for sure!

They offer the best comfort food you can find in Columbia when you are craving Japanese cuisine. Next time you find yourself asking where to get dinner, do yourself a favor and take a walk or drive to Hibachi House — you will not be disappointed!

Monday-Thursday: 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Friday: 11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday-Sunday: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., 5 p.m.- 10 p.m.

245 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC 29210

Google Price Rating

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Best On-Campus Eats

State-of-the-art

Mini golf & life-size foot billiards

Columbia’s biggest & best pool

Bocce, shuffleboard, tennis, indoor/outdoor basketball & sand volleyball

courts

Shuttle, walk, or bike to USC campus & stadiums

Dog “bark park” & much more!

Best Burgers PAWLEY’S FRONT PORCH

Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

By Caroline Hiel

Witha menu featuring over 10 specialty burgers made from scratch and grilled to perfection, Pawleys Front Porch easily wins best burger in the Columbia area. Conveniently located right in the heart of Five Points, Pawleys is loved by many students and Columbia residents alike!

Pawleys Fripp Island burger is among the most popular and includes Southern salsa, Boursin cheese, and a fried green tomato. This burger was actually featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” with Guy Fieri in 2010, so you know it’s really good! If somehow none of the burger options sound good to you, you always have the option to build your own!

Not a beef fan? Don’t worry, you can substitute grilled chicken in any of the burgers on the menu or try one of their other menu offerings including wraps, salads and even tacos. The fried buttermilk ranch chicken tender wrap and the fried chicken sandwich are two of my personal favorites when I’m not in the mood for a burger! Their hand-cut french fries, which are even better with a side of cheese dip, and fried pickles are absolutely amazing sides to pair with your meal.

If you’re extra hungry and feeling up for a challenge,

Pawley’s offers the “Low Country Challenge” where you’re given 30 minutes to eat a burger packed with three patties, pimento cheese, applewood bacon, jalapeno pimento cheese and bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion AND a side dish. If you succeed in quickly clearing your plate, you’ll win a free Pawley’s T-shirt or a gift card, and get to decorate your own knife to hang up in the restaurant so everyone will know you won!

Weekly specials are typically announced on Pawleys’ Instagram and Facebook accounts, so be sure to check those out before you go. They also offer recurring specials to make it affordable for everyone, such as:

• Happy Hour on Taco Tuesday

• Service Industry Night on Mondays, where service industry employees can receive 25% off their meal with the presentation of a valid paystub

• 20% student discount on Sundays with a valid student ID

• USC alumni can get 20% off most menu items with the presentation of their alumni card any day

Obviously, as mentioned in its name, the restaurant also has a front porch, which is a great spot to enjoy your meal on a warm summer day. If you’d rather eat at home, delivery is available through BiteSquad or you can call ahead for pick-up.

With so many great options and flavorful, juicy burgers, everyone will surely be satisfied when eating at Pawleys Front Porch.

Google Price Rating

827 Harden St., Columbia, SC 29205

PHOTOS BY TORRE BOROWSKY

Monday-Sunday: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Best Barbecue / Ribs HOME TEAM BBQ

By Caroline Hiel

HomeTeam BBQ has been chosen by Best of Carolina voters as having the best barbecue and ribs in the Columbia area.

Located in the middle of Five Points at the corner of Devine and Harden streets, Home Team BBQ is walking distance or just a short drive from the University of South Carolina campus. It was originally founded in the Charleston area in 2006 by owner Aaron Siegel. In the 15 years since its establishment, it has expanded to four more locations, with the Columbia location being the most recent and opening in Spring 2019.

Some popular menu items include the pulled chicken or pork sandwiches and the delicious mac and cheese, which I’m definitely a big fan of. If you’re going out to eat with a big group of friends or bringing your family for Family Weekend, try out “The Board,” which includes your choice of meat, three large sides, and tasty bread! It’s served family-style and can feed four to six people, so it’s sure to be tasty and fun! Can’t decide what to get yourself? You can even order a combo plate of your choice of two or three different meats.

The menu also includes a very extensive beer, cocktail and wine list. Paired with Home Team’s rustic interior and big screen TVs, it is the perfect location to watch weekend football games or grab drinks with friends. Live entertainment and trivia are occasionally offered some nights and are definitely a fun time. Home Team also offers an extensive catering menu featuring items such as tacos, nachos, barbecue pork, chicken, and brisket, which are guaranteed to be a hit at your tailgates or house parties. Plus, their loyalty program, “Pig Points,” allows you to earn points with every purchase, and accumulating enough points will earn you money off your next meal!

Don’t feel like going out and sitting in a restaurant?

You can order Home Team for pick-up online or delivery through Postmates. They also offer five signature barbecue sauces that you can purchase by the pint or quart to take home, just in case you can’t get enough of Home Team and need something to spice up your own cooking.

As a chain, Home Team has won numerous awards over the years, including being named as having the “Most Life-Changing Ribs in America” by Esquire Magazine back in 2012. Adding to their national recognition, the original Home Team BBQ in Charleston was actually featured on the Food Network show, “Heat Seekers,” back in 2011. Since it has won so many awards and been featured on multiple national TV outlets, there’s really no doubt it’s good. If you’re interested in good vibes and great barbeque, Home Team is definitely the place to go!

Google Price Rating

700 Harden St, Columbia, SC 29205

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY HOME TEAM BBQ

Be of Be of

Best Auto Repair AUTOZONE

By Gracie Bryant

Goingto get your car fixed can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. AutoZone is a nationally recognized and highly accredited automotive repair store with over 6,000 stores across America and four continents. If you aren’t sure what is wrong with your vehicle, AutoZone offers free instore diagnostic tests to

help determine the issue and best way to fix it. As a bonus for being unlucky and ending up in an AutoZone often, they also have a rewards program — make five purchases of $20 or more and get a $20 reward! Regardless of your knowledge about auto repair, AutoZone offers advice, products and service to ensure that your vehicle

Monday - Saturday: 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Sunday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

3.0 miles from the Horseshoe, 10-minute drive

BROAD RIVER AUTO REPAIR

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

8.4 miles, 14 minutes from the Horseshoe

If you’re like me and get overwhelmed going to get your car fixed, a locally owned shop can ease some of that anxiety. Broad River Auto Repair is a Columbia, ASE-certified business. They offer a number of different services, including oil changes, engine services, tire checks and more. A major concern when getting my vehicle looked at is being overcharged. However, at Broad River Auto Repair, all employees follow a Code of Ethics,

which includes “performing a high-quality repair at a fair and just price,” and “having a sense of personal obligation to each customer.” According to their website, the company goal is to “offer the best services available at affordable prices to get you back on the road in no time.”

When I have car trouble I know to trust Broad River Auto Repair, and highly recommend it to anyone in the Columbia area.

is safe to drive. The Auto Zone is located on North Main Street, just 10 minutes from campus.

DORIAN NUNGARAY

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Best Off-Campus Living THE HUB AT COLUMBIA

By Suze Garcia-Stam

Afterfreshman year, students have the option to live off campus, which most students choose to do. Finding a lease last minute is like finding a golden ticket in your chocolate bar, but instead of getting to meet Willy Wonka, a last-minute lease gets you a house outside of Columbia right next to the train tracks. The prime time to look for a lease is about 8 months before that school year starts. One hot-ticket lease is at the Hub at Columbia because of its central location in the heart of Columbia and its plethora of amenities.

With 21 floors, The Hub is the second tallest building in Columbia which encompasses a variety of different floor plans,

ranging from 1-bedroom to 5-bedroom apartments. The location is perfect because it’s right on Main Street — only a 15-20 minute walk to campus. Being on Main Street means that you’ll be able to walk out of your door and quickly arrive at many restaurants and, most notably, Columbia’s famous Soda City Market.

These fully-furnished apartments have woodstyle floors and full-size in-unit washers and dryers. Bathrooms can be private or shared depending on your floor plan and can even include a spa shower. But they didn’t stop there — some of the top floor units have hot tubs as well! All that is just in your personal apartment, but there are also a ton

of building amenities like a fitness center, tanning salon, yoga studio, study rooms, resort-style pool and sun deck, sand volleyball court and tons more.

When signing a lease students can choose to sign with friends and decide their own roommates or The Hub can assign them at random. Prices can range from $815 to $1,300 depending on number of bedrooms and which room is selected, as prices change room to room.

With custom living options and high-quality amenities in the perfect location, it’s not hard to understand why residents love living here and why it was voted the best off-campus living!

Delivery Hours:

Monday - Wednesday: Noon - 1 a.m.

Thursday and Friday: Noon - 3 a.m.

Saturday: 1 p.m. - 3 a.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. - 1 a.m.

Whenyou’re in a groove studying, cuddled up in bed or hanging out with friends, delivery seems like the best idea ever — especially when you’re getting cookies delivered. Insomnia Cookies, located in the center of Five Points, is the perfect late-night snack and can

Best Delivery INSOMNIA COOKIES

By Gracie Bryant

be delivered right to your door or dorm parking lot! Their menu includes cookies, cakes, “wiches” and ice cream.

The best part is that you can order a “Classic Combo” of two cookies and milk for yourself, or you can order cookie boxes

of six, 12, 24 and even 50 or 100 cookies to share with friends! My personal favorite are their “wiches” — two of your favorite cookies joined together as an ice cream sandwich with your favorite ice cream.

After you place a delivery order you can also use

their cookie tracker to find out exactly when your order is going to arrive. Their delivery services were always so quick and the cookies so delicious that it gave me and my roommates an excuse to “treat ourselves” every weekend to a pack of

assorted cookies. I swear it’s where all of my money went freshman year!

With 10 different cookie options, there is something for everyone in your group to enjoy, or just extras for yourself!

SUZE GARCIA-STAM

Best Hair Salon STUDIO O2

By Grace Farrar

Wheneveryou’re looking to change your look, a new haircut, color or blowout is a fun way to spice things up. To avoid any at-home mishaps, it’s often best to look for the professionals. Studio O2 has been voted the best hair salon by our readers because of its wide range of professional services and commitment to healthy hair.

Described as “Columbia’s urban oasis spa salon” by its website, Studio O2 is dedicated to providing the highest quality styling. Twelve licensed stylists and makeup artists provide

clients with a variety of different services. Popular services include modern and classic haircuts, hair coloring and color correction, extensions and keratin smoothing treatments. Outside of haircare, they offer waxing, lash enhancements, skin care and oxygen treatments. The studio offers a wide selection of products as well, such as Oribe hair care and Kevin Murphy products. They offer something for everyone, with specialty services like men’s grooming and bridal hair and make-up. Bridal services are a specialty of theirs,

and they work with brides to offer custom services, including formal hairstyling, nails, custom spray tans and airbrush tattoo coverup.

Pricing is competitive for the area, and you are definitely paying for quality. The salon boasts several certifications in extensions and a 4.8 rating on Google reviews. Whether you are looking for a simple haircut or a makeover for formal, Studio O2 has you covered. For more information or to make reservations, call the salon directly.

Best Nail/Waxing Salon DEVINE NAIL SPA

Monday - Friday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

0.8 miles, 3-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Tuesday - Saturday: 9:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.

2 miles, 7-minute drive from the Horseshoe

By Gracie Bryant

Devine Nail Spa is a popular place for students at UofSC to go pamper themselves and relax after a long week of class, assignments and exams. Their list of services are vast, giving everyone the opportunity to choose the most affordable option for pampering.

If you’re looking to get your nails done, they offer acrylics, gel powder, SNS dip powder, and a basic

manicure. These services range from $25 to $55 depending on which option you choose to go with.

They also offer full body waxing that ranges from $7 for a lip wax to $60 for full leg waxing.

If you are looking to get pampered without breaking the bank, Devine Nail Spa is the place to go!

PHOTOS BY DORIAN NUNGARAY

SUZE GARCIA-STAM

Best Gym STROM THURMOND WELLNESS CENTER

By Caroline Hiel

TheStrom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness

Center has been chosen as the best gym by Best of Carolina voters. Free for all USC students with their CarolinaCard and available to faculty and staff with a membership purchase, Strom is the perfect place to get your daily workout in and leave you feeling fit and refreshed.

Built in the early 2000s, Strom is spacious and bright, and includes many modern and updated amenities such as a weight room; a cardio deck full of treadmills, ellipticals, and stair climbers; a 1/7-mile track and more. There are also basketball courts, sand

volleyball courts and indoor activity rooms perfect for a fun game of pick-up dodgeball with friends. There are also three large recreational fields around Strom, which are great for outdoor exercises or intramural sport practices. Strom also features both an indoor pool and outdoor pool, which are perfect for those hot Columbia summer days. Although there aren’t mountains in Columbia, you can still climb the rock wall, which stretches from the bottom floor to the ceiling of the second!

One of the best parts of Strom is the Group X fitness classes which are offered almost every

hour between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays, with some classes offered on Saturdays, as well. With the purchase of a semesterlong $20 Group X pass you can attend as many classes as you want. Group X classes include everything from cardio, Zumba and cycling, to barre and yoga. My personal favorite class is yoga because it is so refreshing and calming after a long and hard day of classes!

Whether you’re looking to build muscle, run a few miles, beat your friends in a game of basketball, or relax with yoga, Strom is the best place to go!

BRICKHOUSE GYM

If you’re anything like me, going to the gym can be intimidating and overwhelming. However, Brickhouse Gym does what they can do to reduce that feeling and make you excited to come work out!

First, you can have a free, five-day pass to try the gym out and see if it’s a good fit for you. During this time, you have access to

the weight room, turf room, cardio and classes for free. After your five days are up, you can officially sign up to be a member of Brickhouse Gym.

With a membership you not only have access to the gym, but also to classes such as total body fitness and yoga. These classes are available to nonmembers for only $10 per class.

Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday: 11 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Monday - Friday: 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

1.4 miles, 5-minute drive from the Horseshoe

Brickhouse Gym also offers personal training to those that need guidance to get more fit.

Brickhouse Gym is staffed with helpful and experienced employees, high-quality equipment and is highly recommended for those looking to get fit in Columbia! Signing up is easy via their website, brickhousegym.com.

SUZE GARCIA-STAM

Best Tattoo/Piercing Shop

IMMACULATE BODY PIERCING

Monday - Sunday: Noon - 8 p.m.

By Daniella Ramirez

After13 years of the best customer service, pristine jewelry and high-quality piercing, Immaculate Piercing continues to set the bar high for piercing shops in Columbia.

Before you come dashing in, the studio’s top priority is the safety of its clients. They recommend first timers book a $15 consultation. This allows for you to get a feel of the environment and consult one-on-one with a skilled piercer before making any further decisions.

Whether you’re on a budget or ready to spoil yourself, the studio also offers a selection of gemstones, nickel-free titanium, platinum, synthetic stones,14 and 18K gold. It’s important to let your piercer know of any allergies you may have before selecting from their list of jewels. This studio wants you to have an enjoyable experience and keeping your own health and safety in mind is important to them.

If you’re having a hard time finding new jewelry once your piercing has healed, you can come back to the studio or order from their website and select from a variety of dazzling jewels.

Immaculate Body Piercing continues to exceed standards in Columbia with its highquality safety and customer service.

Members, Association of Professional Piercers

WHERE GAMECOCKS FIND THEIR ROOST