Another One Bites the Dust: Verde Closes Its Doors in Forest Acres
Columbia, we’ve got some bittersweet news to share. The beloved restaurant Verde, a go-to spot for those delightful specialty salads, has closed its doors at the trendy Trenholm Plaza located at 4840 Forest Drive. As shoppers peruse the popular plaza, which is home to a slew of shops and restaurants, they will now find a simple sign on the door that reads, “Thank you for an amazing 5 years, Columbia.” The last day of service at this location will be Sunday, December 15.
The Salad Scene in Columbia
Verde first opened its Forest Acres location back in 2020 as part of a broader trend toward healthy eating and customizable food options. Known for its build-your-own salad concept, the restaurant quickly became a favorite for health-conscious diners looking for fresh, delicious meals. Who wouldn’t love picking out their own vibrant ingredients?
Some of the standout dishes on the menu included signature salads like the Carolina Cobb, featuring a mix of romaine, baby spinach, roasted turkey, hard-boiled egg, avocado, grape tomatoes, bleu cheese, and crispy bacon, all drizzled in an agave mustard dressing. Talk about a powerhouse of flavors!
A Look Back at the Sweet Memories
As we bid farewell to Verde, it’s important to remember that it wasn’t just about food; it was about community. The cozy atmosphere and friendly vibe drew diners in time and time again, creating a small haven for many. Unfortunately, it seems the challenges of running a restaurant in an ever-evolving market proved too difficult for the beloved salad spot.
Although the Trenholm Plaza location is now a chapter closed, Verde still holds a presence in the Lowcountry. With several other locations operating in areas like Mount Pleasant and across the Charleston area, fans of Verde can still get their fix of healthy meals. But for those who frequented the Forest Acres spot, this marks the end of an era.
What’s Next for Trenholm Plaza?
Trenholm Plaza, known for its enticing mix of shopping and dining options, still has plenty to offer. Shoppers can still find their favorite brands and eateries, including a Publix, Fresh Market, Tazza Kitchen, and Chicken Salad Chick. Plus, with an estimated 28,000 cars traveling down nearby Forest Drive each day, the plaza remains a bustling hub of activity.
This shakeup serves as a reminder of how the restaurant industry can be fickle, often dependent on varying customer preferences and economic factors. With increasing competition in the food scene, it takes adaptability and innovation to keep a restaurant thriving. Unfortunately, it seems Verde wasn’t able to navigate these waters effectively just yet.
Time to Say Goodbye
So, Columbia, as we gear up to say our goodbyes to Verde, let’s take a moment to remember the flavors, the friendly faces, and the good times shared over a crisp salad. Whether you were a fan of the build-your-own option or the signature selections, you’re not alone in feeling a pang of sadness about this closure.
Here’s hoping that the vibrant community in Forest Acres will continue to thrive and that new eateries will emerge to fill that gap. Until then, enjoy the bustling shops and variety of dining options that Trenholm Plaza still brings to our beloved city!
