Lula Drake Wine Parlour

Best Restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina | Eater Carolinas

"Though progressive dinners are a common dining method on the 1600 block of Main Street, it is worth dedicating an entire evening to Lula Drake. This winner of the 2024 James Beard Outstanding Wine goes beyond a great bottle selection. The wine menu is pure entertainment, making even the most novice sipper confident in their selection. As for food, there are no bad choices, but if you skip the cacio e pepe with jamon, you’ll be making a mistake. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so show up early or be prepared to wait." - Helen Harrison

Columbia Food & Wine Festival Showcases Several James Beard Award Finalists | Eater Carolinas

"A downtown wine bar nominated for a James Beard Award in the Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program category; it will represent the city at the Petals and Picnics event on Saturday, April 27 as part of the weeklong culinary celebration." - Erin Perkins

Best Cocktail Bars in Columbia, South Carolina | Eater Carolinas

"Main Street wine bar Lula Drake, under the direction of sommelier and owner Tim Gardner, has quietly added spirits and fortified sips. He designed the curatives menu to be enjoyed before or after wine, composed of classic cocktails, spritzes, vermouth, and a list of vintage D’Oliveira madeira. Small plates are meant to complement drinking, like a house cacio e pepe made with ricotta gnudi and topped with sliced Iberico." - Stephanie Burnette

Carolinas Food Writers and Photographers Name Their Best Restaurant Meal of 2021 - Eater Carolinas

"The cacio e pepe topped with jamon at Lula Drake wine bar in Columbia with a little Chasselas picked by owner and som Tim Gardner." - Eater Staff

Columbia’s intimate wine parlour earned national stature with a 2024 James Beard Award for Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program. Expect esoteric bottles, thoughtful pairings, and a small menu that regulars swear by. Featured by Eater Carolinas and praised by local critics.