Columbia Braces for Winter with Comfort Food Favorites
As chilly wind sweeps through Columbia, South Carolina, it’s that time of year when we all start dreaming about warm, hearty meals. The temperatures chasing us indoors naturally lead to cravings for delicious comfort food. Think about it – meatloaf, pulled pork, or even the perfect plate of chicken and waffles. With winter knocking at the door, who wouldn’t want to indulge in some cozy culinary delights?
Why Do We Crave Comfort Food?
Well, it turns out there’s some fascinating science behind those cravings. According to Emma Laing, a professor and dietetics director at the University of Georgia, “Cold weather can create biological changes that make us want to eat more.” That’s right! When those temperatures dip, it’s totally natural to crave foods that provide warmth. She points out that our bodies experience increased dehydration, hormonal shifts, and fewer sunlight hours during winter, which can all lead to a heightened appetite.
But wait, there’s more! Dr. Rachel Herz, an expert in our culinary choices, shares that foods classified as comfort food can give us a momentary mood lift. “Foods high in carbs and fats trigger a release of dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin,” she explains, bringing some serious brain chemistry into our winter eating habits. So, if you find yourself hungrier with each drop in temperature, why not treat yourself to some scrumptious comfort food? Let’s dive into some popular spots in the city that are perfect for satisfying those winter cravings.
Top Comfort Food Restaurants in Columbia
Columbia is overflowing with fantastic places where you can savor quality soul food. Here are some of the hottest recommendations based on reviews and popularity:
- Mr. Friendly’s: This charming eatery started out way back in the 1980s as a simple sandwich shop, but now it’s a destination for new Southern cuisine. You can expect a rotating menu with the freshest fish, alongside delightful meat and poultry dishes. A must-try includes their buttermilk-fried flounder.
- Big Bone Take Out: Self-proclaimed as a soul food favorite, Big Bone serves up staples like fried chicken, collard greens, and even yams. One Yelp reviewer raved about how it tastes like Grandma’s cooking. Need we say more?
- Bertha’s Kitchen: Founded by Albertha Grant, this genuine soul food restaurant has been around since 1979. Dive into dishes such as fried chicken and red rice with sausage, while the creamy macaroni and cheese is a heavenly side you wouldn’t want to miss.
- Hannibal’s: This restaurant focuses on quality southerner comfort food, and you can bet their crab and shrimp rice will knock your socks off. No meal here is complete without a serving of lima beans or collard greens!
- Stax’s Original Restaurant: A beloved Southern institution since the 1970s, Stax’s menu includes hearty sandwiches, fried ham, and mouthwatering Sunday specials like their famous “meat and three”. Comfort food dreams do come true!
- Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar: Found downtown, this eatery serves made-from-scratch dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Whether you fancy fried chicken or shrimp po’ boys, they have it all!
- Victoria’s Country Cookin’: With a daily-changing menu, you can enjoy classic options like BBQ ribs and fried chicken, topped off with homemade desserts like blueberry cobbler – talk about heavenly!
- Simply Southern Smokehouse: Buffet style, this spot has all your favorite Southern BBQ between pulled pork, fried chicken, and sweet potato casserole, all served with a side of peach cobbler!
Conclusion
There you have it! Columbia is bursting with fabulous options for comforting meals that are certain to warm you up from the inside out. So this winter, as the temperatures plummet, make sure to hit one of these amazing restaurants and indulge in some delightful comfort food that will have you feeling cozy and satisfied. Happy feasting!
