New Bistro Opens on Main Street, Bringing Fresh Flavors to Columbia
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as a new eatery, 1624 Bistro, has just opened its doors on Main Street! Perfectly situated at 1624 Main St., right next to The Venue and across from The Nick, this cozy breakfast and lunch spot is a fantastic addition to the area. Owned by the friendly folks at LTC Hospitality Group, 1624 Bistro offers a delightful range of quick bites—both hot and cold—with a sprinkle of French and Italian flair.
Why 1624 Bistro?
So, what led to the creation of this charming bistro? According to David Turner, the vice president of marketing and events at LTC, they did a little recon on the dining options along Main Street and noticed an opportunity for a grab-and-go café. “We realized we needed something like this for the busy professionals in the Main Street District,” Turner shares. And with that, 1624 Bistro was born—offering friendly service and healthy options that are perfect for a lunch break.
This isn’t LTC’s first venture on Main Street—oh no! They’ve already set a culinary stage with venues like The Grand (think restaurant-bowling fun), Hanabi Hibachi and Sushi, and The Robinson Room for cocktails and tapas. With 1624 Bistro, LTC is now flexing their culinary muscles with six unique concepts all within just one mile!
A Culinary Journey with Chef Rogerson
Heading up the kitchen is Chef Josh Rogerson, who has crafted a menu that is both exciting and vibrant. Channeling memories from his childhood in Italy, Rogerson adds a fun twist on traditional recipes, bringing a warm, European feel to the quick-serve experience. “I wanted to inject some nostalgia into our choices, something fresh and different for our community,” Rogerson explained. The menu is designed not only to satisfy palates but to also accommodate the fast-paced lifestyle of their clientele.
One standout feature of this eatery is the grab-and-go menu that includes scrumptious pimento cheese, hearty grain salads, and a sock-it-to-me selection of rotating off-menu sandwiches. “It’s crafted for those on the go,” Rogerson assured, adding, “I want it to feel like a home-cooked meal you can dash in and out with!”
What to Try First
So, what should you order on your first visit to 1624 Bistro? If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the extensive menu, here are a couple of must-tries!
- Roasted Tomato Bisque ($6) – Just picture this: a cozy bowl of roasted goodness adorned with croutons and basil crema that warms the soul. Perfect for those cooler days!
- Antipasto Salad ($13) – If you’ve ever craved a charcuterie board for lunch, this salad is calling your name. Thick slices of prosciutto, tangy salami, and ultra-sharp parmesan all on a bed of fresh arugula, drizzled with the bistro’s red wine vinaigrette—simply divine!
Getting Through the Early Days
As the team at 1624 Bistro continues to navigate the intricacies of their soft opening, Turner expresses gratitude for their early customers. “We’re learning as we go, and the support we’ve received has been fantastic,” he noted. They appreciate everyone’s patience as they perfect their service and offerings.
Ready to Join the Fun?
If you’re in Columbia and looking for a delightful spot for a quick breakfast or lunch, 1624 Bistro is ready to serve you with open arms! Make sure to visit and give your taste buds a treat—who knows, this might just become your new favorite place on Main Street!
