Exciting New Dining Trends Coming to West Columbia!
Hey there, West Columbia! If you love dining out and trying new places, you’re in for a treat. A familiar face in the local restaurant scene is gearing up to launch not one but two fresh concepts that are sure to make your taste buds dance.
Meet Matt Catchpole
Remember Matt Catchpole? He’s the guy who was the general manager at Terra, a fine-dining spot that many locals adore. Well, he’s back and ready to shake things up! Matt and his family are on a mission to start their own local hospitality group right here in West Columbia, and they see a ton of potential in the area. “I’m very excited about West Columbia’s potential,” he said. He even considered other cities like Aiken, Atlanta, and some places down on the coast before deciding this was the place to be.
A Sneak Peek into the Concepts
First up on the menu is a semi-private cocktail bar and supper club. They’re already doing some renovations on a hidden spot along Sunset Boulevard, near the River District. The opening could be as soon as January! How cool is that? There are a few names on the drawing board, but one that stands out is “Ikie Lu,” a tribute to Matt’s grandma.
What’s the vibe, you ask? Think of a mix of elegance and relaxed fun. Imagine enjoying classic cocktails or trying out some unique concoctions, all while diner-style hot dogs are on the menu! That’s right—“champagne and hot dogs” could be on your table. There’s a trendy place in Tybee Island that serves similar delights, and Matt wants to bring that flavor here, blending upscale and approachable.
But Wait, There’s More!
The second concept is still in the works, but it aims to create a cozy environment that combines alcohol retail with a chill wine bar and kitchen experience. The location for this one will be at 1051 Meeting St., and it might take a little longer to launch because it’s still waiting for approvals. But get this: it’s inspired by Matt’s own family history, and it has a touching name: Leonard’s Peach. It’s named after his grandfather, who influenced Matt’s love for good food and drinks.
What can you expect at Leonard’s Peach? Imagine a two-story building where you can grab a bottle of wine to go and kick back in a courtyard, surrounded by friends and some delicious bites. It’s reminiscent of a spot in New Orleans called Bacchanal, which has a casual vibe where people just want to unwind and enjoy great company.
Community-Centric Goals
As Matt dives into these exciting projects, his heart is set on developing the community. “We decided that we would make an effort to help the community along, and kind of help it develop,” he explained. This is not just about the food; it’s about creating spaces where people can gather, enjoy life, and foster connections.
With everything happening along that stretch, Matt believes the area is ready for this kind of development. “I think in five years, that area will look a lot more like a Main Street with more commercial storefronts, more walkability, and more pedestrian traffic.” So, mark your calendars and get ready, folks! There’s a lot to look forward to in West Columbia, and it feels like the perfect time for these new adventures.
Let’s Get Ready to Eat!
West Columbia is about to get a fresh splash of dining excitement, and we can’t wait to see what these two new spots will bring to the table. From a unique cocktail experience with hot dogs to a relaxed vibe where you can sip wine with friends, it sounds like the dining scene is getting an awesome makeover. Keep your eyes peeled for updates because this is just the beginning!
