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"I visited the new whimsical walk-up counter that just opened out of Walrus Oyster & Ale House at The Mall in Columbia and found a nostalgic, car-culture–inspired roadside stand serving grab-and-go milkshakes (which can be spiked with Bailey’s, Kahlua, Gosling’s Rum or E.W. Bourbon), creamy floats, Coke slushies, soft-serve cones, ice cream sandwiches, foot-long churros, icy beers, build-your-own hot dogs, waffle fries, and candied bacon–topped burgers. Chef Enrique Limardo brings a Latin-leaning touch to American cookout classics—most items are under $10—and the signature “Mad Dog,” housed in a seasoned fried tortilla, pairs a Nathan’s Famous hot dog with creamy mac n’ cheese, candied bacon crumble, green onion, and crema Latina; toppings for all-beef or vegan dogs include onion rings, cotija, salsa verde, vegan chili, and sweet-and-sour pineapple barbecue. I also liked the playful La Jolla Cove Beyond burger with hearts-of-palm vegan mayo, green tomato, pineapple barbecue, tortilla chips and Tajín. Curbside cocktails (margarita, sangria, frozen strawberry mule) plus beer, wine, fruity lemonades and teas round out the menu; employees in “Hit the Road, Jack” tees call out takeout orders. The converted setup uses eight teal stools and picnic tables for about 20 on a sidewalk patio with an eight-foot chalkboard wall for kids, and hours are Tuesday–Friday 3 p.m.–9 p.m. and weekends noon–9 p.m." - Tierney Plumb