Sahara On Main

Middle Eastern restaurant · Downtown

Sahara On Main

Middle Eastern restaurant · Downtown

1

629 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201

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Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null
Sahara On Main by null

Highlights

Al Amir serves up cozy, authentic Mediterranean comfort food with friendly service and generous portions in downtown's heart.  

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629 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201 Get directions

$10–20

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629 Main St, Columbia, SC 29201 Get directions

+1 803 722 4114
Saharaonmain

$10–20

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Last updated

Jul 30, 2025

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Nestled in the heart of downtown, Al Amir is celebrated by critics from The Post and Courier and Free Times for its authentic Mediterranean comfort food. Family-run and brimming with hospitality, this spot has been serving up Lebanese classics—think shawarma, grape leaves, and house-baked pita—since 1990. The vibrant, welcoming atmosphere and consistently high-quality dishes make it a favorite among locals seeking global flavors prepared with care.

Unveiling Columbia, SC: A Local’s Guide to Authentic Hidden Gems
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ABDUL NJ

Google
I tried the shawarma plate with yellow rice and it was outstanding! The meat was tender and full of flavor, and the rice was perfectly seasoned. Generous portion, great presentation, and friendly service. Highly recommended!

Andrew Newsome

Google
Great selection of food choices on this menu. Food: 4 stars due to good grape leaves and fresh greens but an average burger patty on too thick of a bun. You taste mostly bread in this situation. Service: 5 stars due to the staff being friendly and made recommendations on what to order. The chefs were also prompt with cooking the food. Atmosphere: 5 stars due to a clean and comfortable setting.

Muhammad Chaudhary

Google
This restaurant has always been our favorite spot in town. When we heard it was under new management, we weren’t sure what to expect in terms of food quality. However, our recent visit turned out to be a wonderful experience. The food was absolutely delicious, and the customer service was excellent. The owner is a very sweet and friendly lady who made us feel truly welcome. It was a great treat for the whole family, and we’re happy to say it remains one of the best places to dine in town!

Edwin O

Google
The food was basic nothing special. I ordered an Lamb Gyro and was shocked to see the lamb wasn't even on the vertical broiler. It was cubed and stored in a sauce pan and warmed on a flattop. It resembled ground beef. Mediterranean fast food. The meal was ready in under 5 minutes. Fast food Mediterranean no home cooked laborious vibes. It was ok. The staff were super friendly and fast.

Jenya

Google
We tried the chicken kabobs, the chicken curry and the Pasha Chicken. The owner brought over fresh and hot pita bread and hummus. Both of them were incredibly. All of the people in my party were blown away with the customer service and the food! The portions were large and enough to have leftovers! The Curry chicken had the option of spicy or mild. I tried the mild. There was a kick but definitely true to the description. Another added bonus is that they have a couple parking spots in front of the store front so you don’t have worry about finding parking in Columbia. Overall a great experience and would recommend trying it!

Lexi

Google
Absolutely delicious food, I ate until I had to loosen my belt. Really nice people, both the chef and the cashier were amazing. I only gave 4 stars for atmosphere because I went at around 5-5:30 which is early for dinner but the decorations are very nice. My new years resolution is to try new kinds of foods that I have never tried before and I'm so happy I chose to go here for my restaurant for february. I will be bringing my friends here and getting as many people to try it as possible

Revathy

Google
This is decent place with affordable meals. People generally get falafel wrap but their falafel platter is much better and filling. It's a go-to lunch place for me and many students. You get vegetarian and vegan options here.

Greta Sulejmani

Google
We really enjoyed our experience at Sahara this weekend! The food and atmosphere is amazing. The staff were very friendly and respectful with excellent service, my children love this place. They truly deserve more then 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️! Thank you so much Sahara, we will definitely be coming back.