Columbia Hosts Annual Restaurant Hall of Fame Dinner to Honor Culinary Legends

Columbia to Celebrate Local Culinary Legends at Annual Hall of Fame Dinner

Columbia, a city known for its vibrant food scene, is gearing up for a special night of recognition and celebration on Monday, November 25. The Greater Columbia Chapter of the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association will host the annual Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame and Benefit Dinner at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center. This much-anticipated event will honor two outstanding individuals and three beloved local restaurants, highlighting their significant contributions to the community.

Celebrating Culinary Excellence

The night will be marked by the presentation of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award to Carmella and Joe Roche, the hardworking owners of Villa Tronco. With a remarkable 85 years of service to the Midlands community, their restaurant has become a cherished institution, known for its delicious Italian dishes and warm family atmosphere. The Roche family credits their success to the strong family values and a solid work ethic instilled by earlier generations, particularly by their founder, Sadie Tronco.

But that’s not all! This year’s Hall of Fame inductees also include three standout restaurants that have delighted both locals and visitors alike.

A Taste of Columbia’s Best

First up is Saluda’s, nestled in the heart of Columbia’s lively Five Points neighborhood. Located just a stone’s throw from the University of South Carolina campus and close to the state capital, Saluda’s has been a go-to dining destination since its opening in 1996. Under the leadership of Steve Cook and his dedicated team, this restaurant has consistently impressed guests with its fresh, innovative dishes and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Then there’s TLC Enterprises LLC, owned by Larry Chandler, a trailblazer in the franchise world. Chandler holds the title of the nation’s largest franchise owner of Firehouse Subs, boasting an impressive 39 locations across North and South Carolina, including 15 in the Midlands area. Firehouse Subs is not just about hearty sandwiches; it’s a brand committed to community support. Through its Public Safety Foundation, TLC Enterprises has raised over $3.3 million to aid public safety organizations throughout South Carolina, showcasing a remarkable dedication to giving back.

Last but certainly not least, diners can look forward to the inclusion of Mill Pond Steakhouse in this year’s Hall of Fame. Situated just outside of Columbia in the historic town of Boykin, Mark Price and his team have crafted a unique dining experience since 2006. Known for its fine-dining flair, Mill Pond specializes in exquisite cuts of both dry- and wet-aged beef, accompanied by elevated side dishes, making it a delightful spot for steak lovers.

A Rich Legacy

Since its inception, the SCRLA has recognized over 50 restaurateurs for their achievements in the hospitality industry. This annual celebration not only acknowledges individual successes but also shines a light on the rich culinary landscape that makes Columbia a foodie’s paradise. With the upcoming event, it’s clear that Columbia is excited to honor those who have made significant contributions to its dining culture.

Join the Celebration

As the anticipation builds for this year’s Columbia Restaurant Hall of Fame and Benefit Dinner, it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the passion and hard work of some of Columbia’s finest culinary talents. Whether you’re a fan of Italian fare, scrumptious sandwiches, or mouth-watering steaks, this event is a testament to the vibrant restaurant scene essential to the community’s heartbeat.

Now’s the time to mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate a night of food, fun, and fellowship, honoring those who have not only filled our stomachs but also enriched our community’s spirit!