Columbia Food & Wine Festival

Grand Tasting
2024-04-28 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Robert Mills Estate & Hampton Preston Mansion
As the grand finale of the Columbia Food and Wine Festival, the Grand Tasting beckons you to indulge in the spirit of Columbia. Set against the backdrop of the stately Robert Mills Estate and Hampton Preston Mansion on Sunday, April 28th, this event promises an afternoon where the city’s culinary prowess takes center stage. Over 60 local restaurants, breweries, mixologists, and culinary artisans unite to offer a spread of creative and tasty samples that are a testament to all the Columbia region has to offer.
Amidst the grandeur of the historic gardens, your palate will embark on a journey through innovative dishes, an array of farm-to-table shaker cocktails, craft brewers, and more. The air will be filled with the sounds of live music as you weave through live chef demonstrations, engage with artisan pop-up shops, and immerse yourself in the vibrant tastes and tales of Columbia’s food scene.
For those with VIP and Early Access passes, the gates open at noon, granting an hour to savor the tranquility of the gardens and the first sips of what will be a memorable adventure into culinary delights.

Bovinoche: Butcher & Bourbon Sponsored by Big Dan's Car Wash
2024-04-27 18:00 - 21:00 | City Roots
Ignite your senses at ‘Bovinoche: Butcher & Bourbon,’ a fiery and flavorful event taking place at the rustic and charming City Roots Farm. Led by Chefs Kristian Niemi (Bourbon, Black Rooster, The Dragon Room) and Chef Wes Fulmer, this Saturday evening gathering celebrates the primal and captivating art of open flame cooking.
Bovinoche, a term that evokes the spirit of communal and elemental cooking, will be the centerpiece of this culinary spectacle. Witness a stellar lineup of chefs — a blend of local favorites and visiting talent — as they showcase their prowess in harnessing the power of fire. Each chef will be at the helm of the open flame pit, skillfully preparing a variety of meats that range from traditional cuts to innovative selections.
As the flames dance, you can indulge in fresh tastings straight from the fire. The experience is a journey through different flavors and techniques, each bite a testament to the chefs’ expertise in open-flame cooking.
Complementing the savory delights will be an assortment of cocktails courtesy of Heaven Hill Distillery and Luxco, each crafted to enhance the smoky and rich flavors of the food. Sip on these masterful creations with a backdrop of live music, setting the tone for an evening of relaxation and enjoyment.

Petals & a Picnic
2024-04-27 11:00 - 13:00 | Hampton Preston Gardens
Experience the enchantment of spring with “Petals & a Picnic,” a family-style brunch picnic nestled in the lush grounds of the historic Hampton Preston Mansion. The affair, taking place on Saturday, April 27, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., features a chef collaboration that celebrates culinary innovation and the blossoming beauty of the season.
James Beard-nominated restaurants Spotted Salamander and Lula Drake present their acclaimed chefs — Jessica Shillato and the dynamic duo of Rachael Harrison and Ashley Bundrick — to curate a brunch menu that’s as fresh and vibrant as the garden around you.
Sip on botanical-themed cocktails crafted with the delicate touch of The Botanist, or choose from a curated selection of wines and champagnes. As you dine and relax under the canopy of blooming florals, you can engage in a hands-on activity: creating your own flower arrangements to take a piece of the garden’s splendor home with you.

A Gourmet Soiree Sponsored by Sculpted by WH Aesthetics
2024-04-26 19:00 - 22:00 | Gourmet Shop
It’s an evening of refined taste and elegance with A Gourmet Soiree at The Gourmet Shop, a local Columbia gem. On Friday night, this beloved venue transforms into a haven of elevated French cuisine, offering an immersive culinary experience that encapsulates the essence of Parisian dining.
The night’s festivities are graced by the culinary artistry of Hendrix Chef Frank Bradley, renowned for his skill and creativity in the kitchen. Watch in delight as he masterfully roasts a variety of fresh oysters, each type bursting with unique flavors and expertly prepared to tantalize your taste buds.
To elevate your dining experience, indulge in a selection of champagne cocktails, each bubbling with effervescence and exquisitely paired with the evening’s offerings. A toast to the sophistication of French culture and warmth of Southern charm!

Mix, Mingle, & Glow Sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
2024-04-26 15:00 - 17:00 | The Skinhouse
Embark on a journey of relaxation and indulgence at ‘Mix, Mingle, & Glow,’ an exclusive event brought to you by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina and hosted at The Skinhouse. As the Columbia Food and Wine Festival unfolds, take a moment on Friday afternoon to unwind and immerse yourself in a world of beauty and bespoke cocktails. The Skinhouse, known for its exquisite ambiance and expertise in skincare, invites you to an afternoon where wellness meets luxury.
Step into The Skinhouse and be greeted by the skilled ‘Skintenders,’ experts in skincare and personalized facial cocktails. They will guide you through a dew-it-yourself mini facial and build a customized take-home beauty box with a curated selection of products. This 30-minute treatment will leave you feeling refreshed and radiant.
Tito’s Handmade Vodka bartenders will be on hand to elevate your relaxation with a range of personalized craft cocktails. Sip on these masterfully mixed drinks that delight your palate and soothe your soul. To complement your experience, indulge in the savory delights of an Abundant Graze charcuterie board laden with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and more. Balance it with the wholesome goodness of green juices from Good Life Café and hydrating fruit-infused Mom Water, ensuring you’re catered to both inside and out. Mix, Mingle & Glow is designed to rejuvenate your skin and spirit.

High Noon Food Truck Rodeo
2024-04-26 12:00 - 15:00 | WECO
Jumpstart your weekend festivities with an early escape to the High Noon Food Truck Rodeo at WECO Bottle and Biergarten. This Friday afternoon, transform your lunch hour into an extraordinary culinary adventure under the open skies of Columbia. As you arrive at the High Noon Rodeo, you’ll be greeted by an array of local food trucks – from sizzling street foods to gourmet delights, there’s a dish to satisfy every palate.
While your ticket may not cover the food, it unlocks other perks. Sure, you’ll quench your thirst with an array of local brews and the refreshing zing of High Noon beverages, perfect accompaniments to your food truck finds. But that’s not all – your ticket also grants you a coveted entry into a special raffle. The prize? Two VIP tickets to Sunday’s Grand Tasting event, offering an exclusive taste of Columbia’s finest culinary offerings.

Asian Night Market
2024-04-25 18:30 - 21:00 | Dragon Room
Embark on a culinary voyage at the Asian Night Market, a captivating evening dedicated to the diverse and vibrant flavors of Asia. This event, hosted by The Dragon Room on April 25, transforms its outdoor space into a bustling, authentic Asian market right in the heart of Columbia.
As you enter this immersive experience, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the aromas and lively atmosphere characteristic of a night market in Asia. With numerous participating local restaurants, each representing different Asian cuisines, you’ll have the opportunity to taste a variety of dishes, ranging from classic favorites to innovative creations.
Sip on traditional sake, refresh with Japanese beers, and indulge in a selection of Asian-themed cocktails, each crafted to complement the rich and varied food offerings. This is your chance to explore Columbia’s Asian culinary scene in one vibrant, festive evening.

Collaborative Kitchen: Steel Hands Brewing
2024-04-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Steel Shed at Steel Hands Brewing
Hosted at the Steel Shed at Steel Hands Brewing, this exclusive fusion event features the robust flavors of craft beer and the vibrant zest of Mexican cuisine. We’ll celebrate a partnership that blends the best of local brewing and Mexican-American street food.
Steel Hands Brewing, lauded as the 2023 Free Times Best Local Brewery in Columbia, collaborates with Los Chicanos, the much-loved food truck and two-time Best of Columbia awardee, to bring you a private dinner experience like no other.
This intimate event, led by Chef Nolan Cunningham, will feature a mouthwatering tasting menu of five beer-infused culinary creations, each paired with a selection of beers, wines, and craft cocktails. Among the stars of the night will be the newly released Tangerine Sour Ale, a tantalizing brew that promises to add a citrusy punch to the evening’s fare. From a zesty appetizer to a decadent dessert infused with beer, each course will showcase the harmonious blend of flavors that Steel Hands Brewing and Los Chicanos are celebrated for.

Collaborative Kitchen: Bodhi Thai & Ratio
2024-04-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Bodhi Thai
Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience as Bodhi Thai collaborates with Ratio for a unique blend of Thai and Peruvian flavors crafted by the hands of two decorated and celebrated chefs. At Bodhi Thai, Chef Nivit Tipvaree and Chef Javier Uriarte will unite their culinary abilities to present a four-course meal that is a testament to their rich cultural heritages and innovative culinary visions.
From the heart of Thailand, Chef Nivit, a graduate of the International Culinary School, brings a spectrum of expertise in Thai, sushi, and French cuisines, offering dishes that are a feast for the senses in taste, texture, and appearance. Meanwhile, Chef Javier, with his Peruvian roots, has crafted a tapas-style menu at Ratio that defies expectation, turning comfort foods into an exploration of flavor and emotion.
Together, they invite you to indulge in a menu where Eastern spices meet Western zest, and every course is a dialogue between tradition and modernity.

Kickoff Dinner at Private Property Sponsored by Certified SC
2024-04-24 18:00 - 21:00 | Private Property
Begin your Columbia Food and Wine Festival journey with an evening that sets the bar for culinary excellence through an intimate dining experience. We’re thrilled to host our traditional kickoff dinner at one of Lexington’s cherished gems: Private Property. This exclusive event, sponsored by Certified SC, promises a delightful immersion into the heart of local flavors and community spirit.
As the sun sets over Lexington’s vibrant Main Street, prepare to be whisked away on a gastronomic adventure expertly orchestrated by a trio of local culinary maestros. Trip Chalk of Private Property leads the charge and is known for his innovative approach and dedication to locally sourced ingredients. Joining him are two remarkable talents: Chris Williams of Roy’s Grille, celebrated for his soulful, Southern-inspired dishes, and Mike Ellis, the creative force behind some of Columbia’s most beloved establishments like Smoked, The Grand on Main, The Main Course, Good Life Cafe, The Players Club, and 518 Smokehouse.
Together, these chefs are set to present a menu that is not just a meal but a narrative of South Carolina’s rich culinary landscape. Expect a night filled with dishes that tell a story – from farm-fresh produce to coastal catches, each course is a tribute to the diverse flavors of the region.
This event isn’t just a dinner; it’s a celebration of the community, a nod to the artisans and growers, and a toast to the culinary craftsmanship that Certified SC proudly champions. Limited seats are available for this exclusive event, ensuring an intimate and immersive dining experience.
Join us for an evening where food, community, and passion converge, setting the stage for an unforgettable festival week.

Collaborative Kitchen: Hampton Street Vineyard, Farmers Xchange, Tom’s Creek Family Farm
2024-04-24 18:00 - 20:00 | HSV
Join us for an enchanting evening at Hampton Street Vineyard, where the farm’s bounty meets the chef’s imagination. This exclusive event is a collaboration that celebrates the union of local agriculture and culinary finesse, featuring Farmers Xchange and Tom’s Creek Family Farm.
As the evening unfolds at HSV, a venue renowned for its intimate ambiance and exquisite wine selection, you’ll be part of a unique dining experience. On the menu, the fresh produce of Farmers Xchange and Tom’s Creek Family Farm meets the quality, French-inspired techniques of HSV to produce a culinary masterpiece.
The menu for the night is a creative exploration of local flavors, crafted by HSV Chef Jamie Pyatt, a master at turning fresh, farm-grown ingredients into innovative and comforting dishes. Each course is paired thoughtfully with selections from HSV managing partner and advanced sommelier Jonathan Lopez, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on your palate.

Iconic Dishes of Columbia: Main Street Edition Sponsored by Main Street District
2024-04-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Arcade Mall
Embark on a flavorful journey at the heart of Columbia as we introduce Iconic Dishes of Columbia, sponsored by Main Street District. This new tasting event series will return to the festival schedule in future years. This new venture begins with a bang at the historic Arcade Building, a landmark that speaks to the city’s charm and heritage.
Indulge in a culinary showcase like no other. Your taste buds will be treated to an exclusive selection of iconic dishes handpicked from your favorite local restaurants. Each bite is a story, a piece of culinary artistry that defines the city’s vibrant food landscape.
Complementing these exquisite flavors will be an array of local brews and crafted cocktails, courtesy of premium spirit provider Diageo.
The Kickoff Tasting Event is more than just a sampling of food and drink; it’s a celebration of community, history, and the culinary flair that thrives in the Main Street District. This evening promises to delight, inspire, and kick off the festival week with an authentic taste of Columbia.

Columbia Food and Wine Festival
2024-02-15 08:00 - 17:00
Your Passport to Culinary Delight: Festival Week Tickets
Welcome to the heart of culinary exploration at the Columbia Food and Wine Festival! The five-day festival includes a mosaic of diverse events, each offering a unique taste of Columbia’s vibrant food and wine culture. This is your gateway to secure a spot at the table for an array of experiences that promise to tantalize your taste buds and enrich your culinary knowledge and skills.
From the intimate kickoff dinner to the grand tasting, classroom-style event, and more — each festival day unfolds new flavors and unforgettable experiences. The ticket menu is carefully curated to offer a variety of events catering to all preferences, whether you’re a connoisseur of local brews, a taste tester of fine wines, a lover of good eats, or a fan of lively culinary celebrations.

2023: Culinary Heights and Community Delights
2024-02-13 08:00 - 17:00
2023 saw the festival reach new heights in culinary innovation and com2023 saw the festival reach new heights in culinary innovation and community engagement. Visit the gallery to see how each dish and smile told a story.munity engagement. Visit the gallery to see how each dish and smile told a story.

2022: A Flavorful Event
2024-02-13 08:00 - 17:00
Each new festival brings new tastes and experiences, building on the success of the year prior. Dive into the gallery to relive these moments.
