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University of South Carolina: Best Late Night Food Spots

sc university south carolina late night food

Bars aren’t the only places hopping late at night near the University of South Carolina. Being in the capital city of Columbia, there’s an abundance of late-night food spots open to fuel your study sessions and insomnia. There are plenty of high-quality restaurants within walking distance or just a short drive from campus to keep night owls’ appetites at bay. You can’t live off dorm room ramen noodles forever. When hunger strikes, head to one of these 8 best late night college food spots near the University of South Carolina! 


Carolina Ale House, Columbia, SC

Situated in the Vista, Carolina Ale House is dishing out all your favorites until 2 a.m. nightly. Though known for their burgers and beer selection, you can find budget-friendly bar bites, tacos, and other handheld favorites. It also helps that they have a full bar to complement your meal.

Liberty Tap Room, Columbia, SC

This popular bar choice shouldn’t be overlooked as a nighttime eating spot. A beer lover’s haven, Liberty Tap Room’s food menu is brimming with deliciousness, including pizza, burgers, apps, and tacos. There’s enough on their menu for you to order something different every time you pull an all-nighter.

Come in for Restaurant Week and enjoy Maple-brown sugar cured duck leg over sweet corn and okra succotash! 😋

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Pearlz Oyster Bar, Columbia, SC

When you think late night fare, oysters probably aren’t the first thing to pop to mind—but maybe they should be! Pearlz is open until midnight or later every night of the week. They’ve got some of the freshest oysters in the state, rivaling even the best seafood restaurants on the coast, along with a gluten-free menu.

Thirsty Fellow, Columbia, SC

As the city’s only late night hot spot that’s also dog friendly, you and your best furry friend can enjoy an evening dining adventure together. Pizza and pub grub are the headliners here. Even better? It’s within walking distance from the campus!

Fried eggplant is the pizza topping you didn't know you needed in your life.

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Menkoi Ramen House, Columbia, SC

Too lazy to make your own ramen? Menkoi can do it for you (but expect it to taste way better!). Located just a block from the State House, Menkoi is dishing up its delicious noodle soups and other favorites until 2:30 a.m. on the weekends. If you love good ramen, you need to try this place!

Hickory Tavern, Columbia, SC

There’s never a bad time to visit Hickory Tavern. People flock to this place for game days, date nights, and lunch dates. But it’s also a prime spot for college night owls who need to refuel after a long day of school. Open until midnight or later, you’ll discover one of the most diverse menus in the city.

Bourbon, Columbia, SC

The kitchen closes at midnight Tuesday through Saturday, so you can’t wait too late to place your order. In addition to amazing Cajun Creole cuisine, they also feature the largest whiskey selection in the state.

Ribs and Whiskey - St. Louis Ribs with LowCo BBQ with @EvanWilliams Bourbon...TONIGHT! @widespreadpanichq

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Henry’s Restaurant & Bar, Columbia, SC

With two location in Cola, Henry’s is a must-try for every USC student. Along with college budget-friendly drink specials, the food here is among the best in town. You get generous portions at reasonable prices, perfect for hungry, money-conscious college students.

More like Fry-yay, amirite? 🥂

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