A poignant reminder of the recent closures in the Midlands area.
The Midlands has witnessed a significant number of store and restaurant closures throughout 2024, creating a wave of nostalgia among residents. Established venues like Rockaway Athletic Club and Verde have closed, leaving behind cherished memories. The vibrant downtown area of Columbia has also lost iconic locations such as Hunter-Gatherer Brewery, alongside newer establishments that struggled to attract patrons. This transitioning landscape evokes sadness and reflection on the essential roles these local haunts played in the community’s culture.
This past year has seen a wave of store and restaurant closures hit the Midlands area, leaving residents feeling a mix of nostalgia and disappointment as beloved local haunts shut their doors. With so many familiar names leaving the scene, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of sadness while thinking about the cherished memories created within their walls.
Among the closures, perhaps one of the hardest hits is the Rockaway Athletic Club, a cherished bar and grill that served the community since 1982, officially closed its doors in January. Fans of the classic hangout will surely miss the lively atmosphere and tasty meals that became a part of many celebrations over the years.
Another noteworthy departure is Verde, a favorite spot for salads and wraps, which closed up shop on December 15. For those seeking a quick, healthy meal, this closure was definitely a blow.
Moving forward, downtown Columbia is also saying goodbye to the highly regarded Hunter-Gatherer Brewery & Ale House, which has been a fixture in the area for 29 years. The brewery is set to close its doors on December 28, although its Hangar location remains open for business. It’s hard to imagine the city without the warm, welcoming vibe and delicious brews that have graced the tables of many.
Some newer establishments also struggled to make their mark. Barrio Tacos + Tequila, which only operated for 10 months at its location on 4420 Devine St., closed its doors just before the holidays. And Uberrito, a fast-casual option at 275 Park Terrace Drive that had been around since 2021, followed suit with its closure in November, although there’s talk of an Asian restaurant called Bibimbox planned to open in 2025.
While some people may have flocked to Bart’s Crazy Good Coffee at 7949 Broad River Road in Irmo for their caffeine fix, the closure of this location didn’t stop the caffeine trend as their other spot at 1311 Dutch Fork Road remains open. On the food front, Good Life Cafe’s closure on Main Street and later Taylor Street in Columbia left many wondering where to go next for a wholesome bite to eat.
The retail landscape isn’t the only one affected. The Wells Fargo branch on 1441 Main St. in downtown Columbia also closed in October, sending customers to the assembly street location instead. It seems like no one is immune to the waves of change hitting the Midlands.
Looking back, JC’s Lexington Bowl, a treasured bowling alley since 1989, announced its closure in July, leaving a nostalgic void for many who enjoyed fun-filled evenings throwing strikes with friends. Hooters on Two Notch Road also joined the list of closures, bringing an end to another beloved gathering spot.
The larger chains aren’t immune either, with Red Lobster at 1270 Knox Abbott Drive in Cayce shutting down in August, leaving the area with just one remaining location. Zesto, the cherished ice cream spot with locations in Forest Acres and Chapin, closed as well, while others in West Columbia and North Main still serve up the sweetness we crave.
Other notable closures included Cracker Barrel in northeast Columbia, which closed in April, alongside social spaces like the Southern Kitchen at Forest Acres. As favorite hangouts make way for new ventures and some retirements, the Midlands community finds itself in a transition period — one that serves to underline the important role these establishments played in shaping our local culture.
We will continue to cherish the memories created at these beloved spots and hope for the best as new opportunities arise in the ever-changing landscape of the Midlands.
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