18 Essential Restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina

"When Sakura’s Forest Acres location closed after the restaurant experienced extensive damage during the flood in 2015, Columbia diners wept. When it reopened on Rosewood Drive in 2017, loyal regulars breathed a sigh of relief, followed by a squeal of joy. Once again, they would be able to belly up to the bar for fresh, artfully prepared sushi. This is the sort of place where diners can let the chef drive the ship because everything is good. In addition to the sushi, sashimi, tempura, and teriyaki offerings, the soup with fried eel, okra, salmon, or shiitake is an absolute delight. If ordered to-go, the fried portion will be packaged separately so that the dish can be enjoyed at home with the same gusto." - Anne Wolfe Postic