11 Places to Find the Best Brunch in Columbia, SC

Columbia is the capital of South Carolina, and it also just so happens to be the second largest city in the state. And as such, it can be a little overwhelming to figure out which of the hundreds of restaurants in the city are right for you. So today I think I have something that can help. This post will include a list of the 8 best breakfast and brunch places you can find in the city. I’ll give you each restaurant's address, a link to their website so you can check out their menu yourself, a quick review of what makes them stand out, and even a review from another customer so you can see what other people have had to say about them. And on top of that, I will also throw you a link anytime one of these great brunch places in Columbia accept our convenient digital GiftYa gift cards.

If you haven’t used a GiftYa before, they are completely digital gift cards that are accepted at thousands of restaurants, stores, and attractions around the country. I personally find them to be really convenient whenever I am trying to keep track of my budget. It’s nice that you can compartmentalize some of your expenses by having certain expenditures pre-allocated onto a digital gift card. And since they are all digital, and kept right on your phone, you never have to worry about leaving them behind or forgetting about the remaining balance on the card.

But that’s enough with the introduction, let’s get right to that list of great brunch restaurants you can find in Columbia, South Carolina that brought you here in the first place!

1 - The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli

Voted Best New Restaurant In Columbia When It Opened in 2017!

2617 Devine St | Columbia | thecinnamonrolldeli.com

The Devine Cinnamon Roll comes in at number one on my list of great brunch places in Columbia for a few different reasons. First of all, they have an outstanding rating from their customers with hundreds of reviews in. Which is probably why they were voted the best new restaurant in Columbia the year they opened. And on top of that, they also strive to support the local community. They do this in a variety of ways such as supporting various charities around the area and displaying the artwork of local students at USC. 

But most importantly they support local businesses and farms by using locally sourced ingredients in their food. So not only are you going to get a great brunch at a great price, you are also going to be able to feel good about supporting a business like this one. Nothing makes a great meal better than knowing that the dollar you spend is going on to support local farmers and businesses. 

“The food, atmosphere, and people are the best! Don't leave without getting a cinnamon roll... honestly the best one I've ever eaten!” - Yelp Review

2 - Eggs Up Grill

One of the Fastest Growing Breakfast Chains In the Country Now With A Location in Columbia!

2930 Devine St | Columbia | eggsupgrill.com

Eggs Up Grill is a breakfast restaurant chain that has quickly become the fastest growing chain of breakfast restaurants in the country. And now they have a location in Columbia. And you know when a business becomes the fastest growing of their kind in the country that they are doing something right. And obviously you are going to be able to get great eggs here. I mean it would be crazy if they named themselves “Eggs Up Grill” and couldn’t deliver on the eggs right? 

But on top of that you can also get all kinds of other breakfast and brunch classics like hash browns, french toast, waffles, and of course, bacon. So the next time you are looking for a great brunch in Columbia be sure to check out Eggs Up Grill and find out why they are the country’s fastest growing breakfast chain!

“Was visiting Columbia and looking for a good brunch spot. We really enjoyed every bit of this meal including the mimosas. Service was fantastic as well. Will definitely go back if in town again.” - Yelp Review 

3 - Original Pancake House

Every Meal Made From Scratch!

Buy an Original Pancake House gift card

4840 Forest Dr | Columbia | originalpancakehousencsc.com

At the Original Pancake House you can enjoy some of the best breakfast food in the area. And you know it has to be good because they’ve been one of the most popular breakfast and brunch spots in Columbia for over 20 years now. And it’s easy to see why. They use only the freshest ingredients in everything that they cook. They are famous for their bacon, and of course, their made-from-scratch pancakes. But no matter what you get, they have made it their mission to offer the best service around. So you know you are going to get a great breakfast/lunch accompanied by a friendly server and a relaxing atmosphere! 

Buy an Original Pancake House gift card today! 

“I Love the Food, The Service, and the Atmosphere!” - Yelp Review 

4 - smallSUGAR

An All-Day Cafe With Great Breakfast & Brunch Options!

709 Gervais St | Columbia | smallsugarsc.com

smallSUGAR is a great coffee and tea cafe that has plenty of great breakfast and brunch options as well. On top of their incredible baked goods they also have some great breakfast options like oatmeal made with almond milk and coconut milk. A yogurt parfait that is made with granola, sweetened yogurt, and then a seasonal preserve. And their smallSugar Breakfast that includes a soft-boiled egg, ricotta, avocado, an herb salad, seasonal vegetables, and fresh whole wheat flatbread as well. 

Overall, I think smallSUGAR makes a great brunch choice when you are looking for something light and tasty along with some excellent coffee or tea. But if you’re looking for your more traditional brunch spread, you’re probably better off checking out one of the restaurants further up the list.

“What a lovely little spot! A little pricey but totally worth it. The portion of this breakfast was perfect and it was so flavorful  their pastries and also their friendly staff make this place such a gem.” - Yelp Review 

5 - Another Broken Egg Cafe

Free Delivery On Orders Over $25!

4600 Devine St | Columbia | anotherbrokenegg.com

If you are hoping to get an amazing breakfast or brunch, but you don’t really feel like sitting down at a restaurant (or cooking it yourself) then be sure to check out Another Broken Egg Cafe. They have all the breakfast classics you could want, along with some incredible dishes they specialize in. In particular their lobster and brie omelet and their cinnamon roll french toast are popular. And you can get these great breakfast dishes, along with all the classics, delivered right to your house. So if you want to enjoy a great restaurant style brunch without having to leave the house when you are in Columbia, then definitely check out Another Broken Egg Cafe.

“What an amazing breakfast! Pancakes, bacon and beignets are simply delicious.  I was visiting the area and ordered via delivery.  The breakfast was so amazing, I went to the restaurant the next day too.  Great service as well.” - Yelp Review 

6 - The Toasty Hot Spot

Enjoy a one-of-a-kind brunch in North Main

1305 Lady St | Columbia

If you’re looking for a brunch that’s bursting with flavor and creativity, The Toasty Hot Spot in the North Main district is a must-visit. This quirky little joint specializes in gourmet toasts, and each one is like a work of art. Whether you’re craving something savory like their avocado toast topped with a perfectly poached egg and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or something sweet like their decadent Nutella and strawberry toast, every bite is a flavor explosion. Their vibe is super laid-back, and the staff is always welcoming, making it the perfect place to chill out on a weekend morning. They also whip up some killer lattes, so grab a seat on their cozy patio, sip your coffee, and enjoy the cool, relaxed atmosphere.

“The food is great and the environment is small but friendly. The menu is filled with delightfully seasoned simple meals with a kick! Come try it!” - Yelp Review 

7 - Breakfast at Ruiz

Enjoy A Delicious Sunday Style Brunch Any Day of the Week!

Refreshing drinks available all summer at Breakfast at Ruiz! Image courtesy of Google. 

116 State St | West Columbia | breakfastatruiz.com

Breakfast at Ruiz is another popular breakfast/brunch restaurant you can find around Columbia. If you are just looking to get some of your favorites like french toast, Belgian waffles, or omelets served in an upscale environment then Breakfast at Ruiz is going to be the spot for you. I highly recommend checking out their website to get a view of how amazingly decadent their dining room is. If you are hoping to have a great brunch to celebrate a special occasion then Breakfast at Ruiz seems like the best place in Columbia to me!

“I rarely give a 5- but this place is EVERYTHING! The food delicious & the service was friendly and welcoming . The menu has so many delicious options with drinks also. Small, quaint space; so coming during the week will cut down the wait..... but if it's the weekend ITS WORTH THE WAIT!” - Yelp Review 

8 - Ihop (International House of Pancakes)

One of the Country’s Most Popular Breakfast Chains!

Buy an Ihop gift card

7719 Two Notch Rd | Columbia | ihop.com

If you don’t want to take a risk on one of the local breakfast places for your lunch, then be sure to check out the Ihop in town. Ihop is one of the country’s most popular breakfast restaurant chains and one of the country’s largest breakfast chains so you can be sure that they have all of the classics. Everything from pancakes and french toast to breakfast platters and scramblers are an option here. 

So if you are having brunch in a big group, I think Ihop makes a good choice. They may not be the best at anything, but they are very good at everything. And because of that, I think anybody will be able to find something great for brunch when you stop in at the Ihop in Columbia!

“the service was great. First time I had a server where I didn't have to keep asking for refills. She thought of everything. Food was good. Really enjoyed the atmosphere” - Yelp Review 

Buy an Ihop gift card

9 - Ruby Sunshine

Get a taste of New Orleans at Ruby Sunshine

2030 Devine St Suite 101 | Columbia | rubybrunch.com 

Ruby Sunshine in the Vista is a brunch lover’s paradise, bringing a bit of New Orleans flair to Columbia. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a vibrant, lively atmosphere that makes you feel right at home. Their menu is packed with Southern-inspired dishes that will have you coming back for more, but the star of the show has to be their Eggs Benedict. Whether you go classic with the "Chicken St. Charles" or adventurous with the "Bayou Shrimp," every version is creamy, tangy, and downright delicious. 

And let’s not forget their cocktails—Ruby Sunshine knows how to do brunch drinks right. Their Ruby Mimosa, with a splash of pomegranate juice, is the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Located in the heart of the Vista, it’s the perfect spot to kick off a day of exploring downtown Columbia.

“Got treated to Mother's Day brunch here, and it was amazing. I always have anxiety about going out after church on holidays because of the crowds, but I was so pleased. The staff were super nice, and we were able to join a wait list early so it was only about 10 minutes before we got seated. Our server, Josiah was fantastic.” - Yelp Review 

10 - The Gourmet Shop

Peruse gourmet products before you sit down for a delicious meal!

724 Saluda Ave | Columbia | thegourmetshop.net

Located in the heart of Five Points, The Gourmet Shop has been a Columbia staple for decades. It’s the kind of place where you can brunch, shop, and sip all in one go. Their outdoor seating area is perfect for a sunny day, and their menu is a delightful blend of breakfast classics and French-inspired dishes. The smoked salmon bagel is a crowd favorite, but you can’t leave without trying their croissant sandwiches—light, flaky, and filled with deliciousness. If you’re into mimosas, you’re in luck; they serve them by the carafe, and they're as refreshing as they come. After your meal, wander inside to browse their extensive selection of gourmet foods and kitchenware, making it a brunch experience like no other.

“The food here is so tasty and the ambiance is adorable! I have to confess, I dined here twice this week. My son got the egg, cheese, and bacon croissant with a side of chips. He finished his meal in just 5 minutes. I opted for the chicken salad on croissant with a side of tomato bisque soup. Every bite was absolutely scrumptious!” - Yelp Review 

11 - Cafe Strudel

Perfect for a late Sunday morning brunch in Columbia, SC

300 State St | Columbia | cafestrudel.com 

Nestled in the historic West Columbia area, just across the river, Cafe Strudel is the kind of place you go when you want a laid-back, homey brunch that still feels special. The "Hangover Hashbrowns" are legendary—crispy potatoes topped with cheese, onions, tomatoes, and their secret spicy sauce, with a perfectly poached egg on top. It’s the ultimate comfort food. Their coffee bar is another highlight, offering everything from classic brews to rich lattes, perfect for sipping on their charming patio. Cafe Strudel’s casual, artsy vibe makes it a favorite among locals, and it’s easy to see why once you’ve experienced the welcoming atmosphere and mouthwatering food.

“Awesome food. Biscuits and gravy amazing as was the hash brown. The charcuterie board was tasty as was the chicken and waffles. Great vibe - local art up on the walls and the staff is so nice especially Alaric. I would tell everyone this is a must for breakfast or lunch.” - Yelp Review 

These are our favorite brunch spots in Columbia, SC!

And that concludes my list of some of the best brunch places you can find in Columbia, South Carolina. It’s not easy to get a ton of variety on a list that just includes restaurants of one style, so I tried to just find the best brunch restaurants I could. Hopefully something on the list works for what you and your dining party are looking for. And if you are in Columbia visiting be sure to check out our other great posts on fun things to do in Columbia and the best restaurants you can find in the area!