Exciting Developments on Columbia’s Main Street: A Culinary Transformation
Columbia, SC, has seen a whirlwind of activity lately, especially when it comes to the vibrant dining scene. If you’ve been strolling down Main Street, you probably noticed it’s bustling with life, thanks to the vision of a family-driven hospitality and health care group. Yes, the culinary landscape is no longer the sleepy stretch it once was, with the Middletons leading the charge!
A Glimpse into the Past
Just a decade ago, Sara Middleton-Styles reminisced about a time when “tumbleweeds were rolling down Main Street.” Fast forward to today, and you’ll find six thriving restaurants under her family-founded hospitality group, LTC—*an acronym for “Live, Teach and Create.”* Their journey started with a modest primary care physician group and evolved into a culinary empire.
It all kicked off in 2016 with the opening of The Grand, a unique restaurant that blends elevated bites with entertainment, including bowling lanes and a lively tiki bar. Middleton-Styles describes this venture as the springboard that opened her eyes to the rich potential of Main Street.
The Growth of LTC
Since that first leap into the world of hospitality, LTC has expanded dramatically. Currently, they boast six restaurant properties on Main Street alone! From the elegant oyster bar Smoked to the sushi haven Hanabi, LTC’s offerings cater to a wide array of tastes. But that’s not all; their reach stretches beyond downtown with gems like 518 Smokehouse in Chapin and the stylish Gregory’s at Solina Golf Club in West Columbia.
David Turner, LTC’s vice president of marketing and events, shares his enthusiasm about the company’s vibrant office culture. He notes, “Our whole team and our company are a bunch of visionaries—everybody’s creative. It’s always exciting to see what new ideas pop up on any given day!”
Community Engagement and the Future
With growth comes responsibility, and LTC has made it a point to strengthen their ties with the community. In a bid to further beautify Main Street and revitalize its heartbeat, they host annual events like a lively New Year’s Eve Party and have strung fairy lights across key areas. Middleton-Styles emphasized that the goal is to “help grow the city” and enhance the liveliness that residents and visitors have come to appreciate.
Interestingly, much of this growth converges around the 1600 block of Main Street—“our block,” as Turner affectionately calls it. Here, they rub shoulders with institutions like The Nickelodeon Theater and the award-winning Lula Drake. This synergy is seen as a collective strength that paves the way for even greater success within Columbia.
Peak Drift Brewing Co.: Navigating Challenges
In a recent twist, LTC projected plans for a 25,000-square-foot brewery called Peak Drift Brewing Co. However, due to unforeseen challenges during the pandemic and certain zoning issues, LTC has had to rethink its approach. Originally intended to be a bustling taproom, the concept has pivoted to a production facility that supports breweries across the state.
Turner encourages optimism through this transition, highlighting that businesses often adapt to survive. He stated, “Businesses pivot all the time. This is still about providing local jobs and keeping the economy robust.”
A Mixed Bag of Reactions
While many in the community are excited about the transformations and new dining options, others have expressed disappointment regarding the shift in Peak Drift’s concept. As Middleton-Styles thoughtfully shared, “I really wanted this to be a reality. It’s a disappointment for everyone involved.” With conversations continuing, there remains hope for future endeavors and development in the area.
As LTC presses forward, the focus remains clear—cultivating more than just restaurants but an entire dining culture that resonates with the community. With an average of 4.2 stars on Google Reviews and a dedication towards improving based on customer feedback, LTC is well-positioned to continue being a culinary force in Columbia.
What’s Next for Columbia’s Dining Scene?
As Columbia emerges into a new era of dining, one can only wonder what exciting developments lie around the corner. With the creative energy of the Middletons and their team, it’s safe to say that locals and visitors alike have much to look forward to!
