Exciting Changes Coming to Downtown Columbia’s Restaurant Scene

Exciting Changes Coming to Downtown Columbia’s Restaurant Scene

Downtown Columbia, just a hop, skip, and a jump from the University of South Carolina’s lively basketball arena, is in the midst of a culinary transformation. The popular Angell Bros. 1801 Grille, which has been a local favorite, has officially closed its doors, but don’t panic just yet! School officials are already hinting at a fresh restaurant concept that will fill the void.

A Fond Farewell to Angell Bros. 1801 Grille

Located in the bustling 700 Lincoln development, Angell Bros. 1801 Grille was a go-to spot for students, faculty, and locals alike. With its diverse menu that included scrumptious stone-fired pizzas, sizzling steaks, and fresh seafood, it quickly became a favored dining spot since it opened in early 2017. Its recent closure, occurring just shy of two years after being revamped by the Angell Bros. hospitality group in February 2023, has left many wondering what will come next.

On Tuesday afternoon, as curious passersby initially approached the front door, they were greeted by a heartfelt sign announcing the closure and expressing gratitude for loyal customers. The message hinted at something exciting on the horizon, stating, “A new and exciting restaurant concept will be opening soon.” For those eager for updates, the sign even pointed folks to USC’s dining website.

What’s Next for the Space?

USC spokesperson Jeff Stensland shared that there may be a new eatery opening its doors by November. Although details are still being hashed out, there’s a buzz of excitement that the upcoming restaurant might take cues from the Golden Spur, a brand-new spot that launched recently in USC’s Campus Village. This mention alone has made many wonder just what kind of flavors and experiences the new venue could offer.

For those unfamiliar, the 700 Lincoln development is nestled in a vibrant area filled with students, shops, and eateries. It’s ideally situated right across from the front entrance of Colonial Life Arena, a prime location for attracting hungry NCAA basketball fans and students after classes. Neighboring spots like Tropical Smoothie Cafe, Jersey Mike’s Subs, Crazy Wings, Starbucks, and Thirsty Fellow have created an inviting dining atmosphere that promises to satisfy any craving.

A Taste of the Past and Future

The original 1801 Grille operated under Burke Hospitality Group until late 2022, establishing a strong foundation in the local scene. After a brief hiatus, the Angell Bros. group revved up the excitement again with an array of dishes that appealed to a wide audience. And while it may be the end of that chapter, Columbia’s dining scene is ever-evolving.

With the closure of Angell Bros. 1801 Grille, it seems that downtown Columbia is gearing up for something special. As community members eagerly await updates, the hope is that the new restaurant will bring fresh flavors and vibrant energy to this already bustling district. The transition period may be bittersweet, but at the heart of it all is the anticipation of a new eatery that could quickly become another local gem.

To stay in the loop and ensure you don’t miss a beat on the upcoming developments, keep an eye on USC’s dining website. After all, this is just the beginning of what’s sure to be a delicious new chapter in downtown Columbia!