News Summary
Silver Moon Restaurant in Columbia, SC, has been revitalized by Mary Johnson after the loss of her husband. This charming eatery offers delicious made-to-order comfort food, like fried bologna sandwiches and homemade pound cake, at affordable prices. With a unique walk-up service model and a locally loved menu, it has quickly become a staple in the community. Open Monday to Friday for breakfast and lunch, and Saturday mornings, the restaurant captures the essence of home-cooked meals.
Revamped Comfort Food Haven in Columbia: Silver Moon Restaurant Shines Bright
Columbia, South Carolina, is home to a delightful gem that’s been bringing warmth and comfort to locals, even amidst the challenges of recent years. Mary Johnson, a determined and resilient woman, has taken the reins of Silver Moon Restaurant following the heartbreaking passing of her husband, Frederick Nathan Johnson, in 2021. Since then, Mary has poured her heart and soul into revamping this cherished eatery, transforming it into a hub of delicious made-to-order meals that embody the spirit of comfort food.
A Charming Walk-Up Stop
Located at 4612 Monticello Rd., Silver Moon stands out with its character-filled façade that greets visitors warmly. Handwritten menus and quirky sayings adorn the entrance, including a charming sign that proudly proclaims, “everyting cook when you order.” This touch of personality invites customers in for a truly unique culinary experience. With a takeout-only service model, patrons can easily walk up and pick up their meals, making it a convenient dining option for busy individuals and families.
Home-Cooked Comfort Food
Silver Moon has become a favorite among Columbia residents, widely recognized for its homemade comfort food served at budget-friendly prices. A standout item from their menu is the mouthwatering fried bologna sandwich, complete with onions and cheese, paired with crispy fries. And for dessert? You simply can’t leave without indulging in a slice of their heavenly homemade pound cake—the perfect sweet ending to a satisfying meal.
Operating Hours to Savor Your Favorites
For those eager to experience the charms of Silver Moon, the restaurant operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Whether you’re in need of a hearty breakfast or a comforting lunch, this hidden treasure is ready to serve you.
The Popularity of Walk-Up Eateries
Columbia’s culinary scene is thriving with a variety of walk-up eateries like Silver Moon, which have remained popular despite the trend towards fancy, Instagram-worthy dining experiences. Regulars flock to Silver Moon for classic comfort dishes, such as buttery biscuits, country ham, and good ol’ grits served with a smile. It’s these familiar tastes that keep customers returning again and again.
Other Local Favorites
In addition to Silver Moon, Columbia boasts other beloved walk-up establishments, such as the iconic Rosewood Dairy Bar. This nostalgic diner has been a staple in Columbia for over 80 years, attracting loyal patrons multiple times a week for its fresh offerings. Customers can conveniently grab their meals from 3003 Rosewood Dr., available Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Q’s Corner Cafe, located at 1900 Rosewood Dr., pairs New York flavors with Puerto Rican flair, serving up fresh bagels from The Bronx and delicious daily Latin lunch specials. Meanwhile, Anthony’s Dairy Bar at 2200 Two Notch Rd. delights guests with a nostalgic menu featuring hot dogs, fried chicken sandwiches, and cheeseburgers that are sure to hit the spot.
For those seeking a quick bite, B&S One Stop LLC offers a stellar chili dog with all the fixings for only $4.50, found at 1823 Superior St., making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious diners.
The Enduring Charm of Walk-Up Dining
With Columbia’s fantastic weather and friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder that walk-up style restaurants thrive in the city. Quincy Tirado, the owner of Q’s Corner Cafe, notes that many of these eateries prioritize food quality and quick service over fancy aesthetics. This straightforward approach has led to a community of loyal customers who simply want great food without the frills.
As Mary Johnson continues her journey with Silver Moon Restaurant, she is not just serving meals; she is nurturing a community and keeping memories alive through the power of great food. When in Columbia, don’t miss the chance to grab a bite at this heartfelt establishment that warmly welcomes everyone who walks through its doors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Five Walk-Up Window Restaurants in Columbia, SC
- Columbia Tribune: Restaurant Inspection Violations
- Augusta Chronicle: Restaurant Health Inspection Scores
- Columbia Tribune: Health Inspection Reports for McDonald’s
- Columbia Business Report: Restaurant Closing After 75 Years
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Google Search: Columbia restaurants
- Google Scholar: Columbia food culture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia
- Google News: Columbia restaurant news

Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.


