A Culinary Journey Begins: Fine Dining in CoMo
Columbia, Missouri, nestled in the heart of the state, isn’t just a college town; it’s a burgeoning food lover’s paradise. Home to the University of Missouri – Mizzou – and a vibrant, growing community, Columbia’s culinary scene punches far above its weight class. From cozy cafes to upscale dining experiences, the city offers a delightful array of options to tantalize any taste bud. Forget the same old chains – Columbia is where creativity meets comfort, resulting in a food scene you won’t soon forget. We’re diving headfirst into the best restaurants and culinary experiences that Columbia, MO has to offer, ensuring a truly delicious adventure for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re craving a juicy burger, authentic ethnic cuisine, or a perfectly brewed craft beer, prepare to discover a food haven in the heart of Missouri. When the occasion calls for something a little special, Columbia boasts a selection of refined dining experiences. Forget the quick bites; this is where you savor, linger, and celebrate.
The Broadway Diner
Okay, hear me out, this might not be what you think of when you hear Fine Dining, but let me explain. The Broadway Diner is a late night staple in CoMo. Open until 3:00 AM, it’s a college kids fever dream. But, the quality is there. The food is always consistent and they have a wide variety to choose from. It might not be the first choice for a night out, but don’t sleep on it!
Chris McD’s Restaurant and Bar
A long-standing Columbia favorite, Chris McD’s provides a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner or a celebratory gathering. Their menu focuses on classic American cuisine with an elegant twist. The steaks are cooked to perfection and the seafood is incredibly fresh. Don’t miss their extensive wine list – the perfect complement to any meal. Chris McD’s is located on Forum Boulevard and is a must-try for any serious food enthusiast. Be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends, to secure your spot. Try the salmon, you won’t regret it.
Murry’s Restaurant
Housed in a renovated historic building downtown, Murry’s Restaurant is the quintessential Columbia experience. Known for its upscale-casual ambiance and delicious American fare, Murry’s has been a local hotspot for years. From perfectly cooked steaks to fresh seafood and creative pasta dishes, Murry’s offers something for everyone. The cozy bar area is a perfect place to grab a drink and an appetizer before dinner. Murry’s is located on Ninth Street, right in the heart of downtown Columbia.
Casual Comfort: Where Everyday Eats Shine
Sometimes, you just want a good, honest meal without all the fuss. Columbia excels in delivering satisfying, casual fare that hits the spot every time.
Shakespeare’s Pizza
No discussion of Columbia food is complete without mentioning Shakespeare’s Pizza. This legendary pizzeria is a Columbia institution, and for good reason. With multiple locations, Shakespeare’s offers a wide variety of pizzas, all made with fresh ingredients and a whole lot of love. Their signature Shakespeare’s Special is a must-try, but you can also create your own custom pizza. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth it. Shakespeare’s is a true Columbia experience.
G&D Pizzaria
Another solid choice for Pizza in CoMo! G&D serves up a great atmosphere and even better pizza. With their wide variety of speciality pizzas you won’t be disappointed. The “Mac Daddy” and “BBQ Chicken” are must haves!
Booches Billiards
Known for their famous sliders and old school feel, Booches is a must see. Their sliders are so good, you’ll be ordering multiple rounds. It’s no surprise they have been around for over a hundred years!
Dive Into Global Flavors: Columbia’s International Scene
Craving something a little more exotic? Columbia’s international food scene is surprisingly diverse, offering a delicious tour of global flavors.
Italian Delights: Sophia’s
For a taste of Italy, look no further than Sophia’s. This local favorite offers authentic Italian dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From classic pasta dishes to wood-fired pizzas, Sophia’s is a perfect place to enjoy a taste of Italy. Their cozy atmosphere and friendly service will make you feel right at home. Sophia’s is located downtown and is a must-try for any Italian food lover. Their lasagna is divine.
Mexican Fiesta: Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
If you’re looking for flavorful and authentic Mexican cuisine, Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant is a great choice. This popular restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas. Their margaritas are also legendary, and the perfect complement to any meal. Las Margaritas has several locations throughout Columbia. The staff is always friendly and the portions are generous.
Taste of Asia: U Knead Sweets
Serving up delicious Boba and authentic thai food, U Knead Sweets is a must try when in CoMo! Their thai noodles and boba flavors are to die for!
Burgers & Brews: Columbia’s Craft Beer and Burger Havens
Columbia’s craft beer scene is booming, and many breweries also offer delicious pub food.
Flat Branch Pub & Brewing
A Columbia institution, Flat Branch Pub & Brewing is a must-visit for any craft beer enthusiast. They brew a wide variety of beers on-site, from classic styles to innovative brews. Their pub food menu is also excellent, featuring burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. Flat Branch is located in a historic building downtown and offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss their happy hour specials.
Logboat Brewing Co.
Logboat Brewing Co. is a local brewery known for its high-quality craft beers and laid-back atmosphere. While they don’t have a full kitchen, they often have food trucks on-site, offering a variety of delicious options. Logboat is a perfect place to relax with friends and enjoy a cold beer. Check their website for the food truck schedule.
Morning Fuel: Breakfast and Brunch Hotspots
Start your day off right with a delicious breakfast or brunch in Columbia.
Ernie’s Cafe & Steakhouse
A Columbia classic that has been around for over 75 years. They serve up a breakfast of champions that will have you ready to take on anything!
The Rise
Known for their delicious and instagrammable breakfast and brunch options, The Rise is a newer establishment to CoMo, but has made a big splash!
Coffee & Pastries: A Sweet Start
Columbia has a plethora of coffee shops and bakeries.
Shortwave Coffee
A local favorite for coffee lovers, Shortwave Coffee offers a wide variety of specialty coffee drinks made with high-quality beans. They also have a selection of pastries and snacks. Shortwave Coffee has multiple locations throughout Columbia, each with its own unique atmosphere. Their baristas are knowledgeable and passionate about coffee.
Como Dough Co.
Known for their cronuts, cookies, and specialty doughs, Como Dough Co. is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth!
Sweet Endings: Dessert Destinations
Indulge your sweet tooth with a visit to one of Columbia’s many dessert destinations.
Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream
A Columbia institution, Sparky’s Homemade Ice Cream offers a wide variety of unique and delicious ice cream flavors. All of their ice cream is made in-house with fresh ingredients. Be prepared to wait in line, especially during peak hours, but it’s worth it. Sparky’s is a true Columbia experience. Try the Salted Crack Caramel.
Harold’s Donuts
A late night classic, Harold’s offers up some of the best donuts in CoMo! Made fresh every day, they are a must have for your sweet tooth!
Unearthing Hidden Treasures: Local Gems You Need to Know
Beyond the well-known establishments, Columbia hides some true culinary gems. These are the places locals swear by, offering unique flavors and unforgettable experiences.
Lutz’s BBQ
You wouldn’t expect a gas station to house some of the best barbecue in town, but Lutz’s BBQ defies expectations. This unassuming spot serves up smoked meats with flavorful sauces. It’s a true hole-in-the-wall find that will impress even the most discerning BBQ aficionado.
A Note on Columbia’s Food Scene
Finding restaurants in Columbia can be tricky when the college is in session. Check business hours to make sure the place is open before going.
Dining Tips for Columbia, MO
Navigating the Columbia food scene is generally easy, but here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
- Parking: Parking can be challenging, especially downtown. Plan ahead and allow extra time to find a spot. Street parking is available, but meters are enforced.
- Reservations: For upscale restaurants, especially on weekends, reservations are highly recommended. Call ahead or book online to secure your table.
- Dietary Restrictions: Many restaurants in Columbia are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. Call ahead to inquire about vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options.
- University Crowds: Be aware that Columbia can get crowded during University events, such as football games or graduation. Expect longer wait times at restaurants and make reservations well in advance.
Your Culinary Adventure Awaits
Columbia, Missouri, is a food lover’s dream come true. The diverse culinary landscape, from the comfort of Shakespeare’s pizza to the elegance of fine dining establishments, promises something for everyone. From a quick bite at Booches to the upscale settings of Chris McD’s, Columbia has it all. So, whether you’re a student, a local, or a visitor, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the flavors of Columbia, MO. Get out there, try something new, and discover your own favorite food experiences in this vibrant and delicious city! The Columbia, Missouri food scene is ever-evolving. So get out there and enjoy what Columbia food has to offer!
