To the uninitiated, Soda City can sound like a quirky misfire of a nickname. But in Columbia, South Carolina—“Cola” in local parlance—the name fits like a well-worn barstool. And yet great spirits rival soda here in the capital of the Palmetto State.
That could be credited to any number of things. The city’s status as a rabid SEC football town means there’s a built-in audience always eager to raise a glass. Another is Columbia’s youthful energy, fueled by the University of South Carolina and a steady churn of students, creatives, and hospitality talent who’ve helped transform the city’s nightlife in recent years.
Then there’s the simple fact that Columbia knows how to have a good time. In a compact, walkable downtown stitched together by cozy neighborhood bars, stylish cocktail dens, and unfussy dives, nights here tend to unfold organically—one round leading naturally into the next. Whether it’s a perfectly balanced gin cocktail, a bourbon-heavy nightcap, or a frozen drink built for humid Southern evenings, Soda City has become one of the South’s best places to belly up to the bar.
The James Beard Foundation has certainly given its stamp of approval. Lula Drake Wine Parlour, located on Main Street and named for the shop owner of the hat store that previously occupied the building, took the organization’s Outstanding Wine and Other Beverages Program title in 2024. The charming low-lit space steps away from the capitol building is as beloved for its rotating selection of vintages as it is its creative menu, not limited to cheese plates. Instead, Lula Drake serves Yangnyeom “KFC,” a gluten-free Korean fried chicken dish, alongside fresh pastas and house-made desserts.
For cocktails that intrigue as much as they refresh, Main Street’s Kao Thai leans into the bright, aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia. The lychee mule arrives laced with mint and ginger, its namesake fruit lending a floral sweetness and blush-pink hue that feels tailor-made for a humid Columbia evening. Meanwhile, Lumpi Lotus takes a more transportive turn, layering unexpected flavors of jasmine tea, sweet cream, and homemade honey-ginger syrup into a conversation piece of a cocktail.
Of course, Columbia also knows that the best tailgate beverage is often something cold and canned. But why drink a generic domestic when you can support the home team—breweries, that is. Steel Hands Brewery and Distillery not only is a great source for six-packs of Juicy IPA and Pecan Brown Ale, but it also doubles as your source for exciting spirits. The maker has a whole suite of libations to choose from, including its own vodka, gin, and Pecan Flavored Rye Whiskey.
Columbia’s cocktail culture blends SEC swagger, neighborhood warmth, and a surprisingly sophisticated palate.
Plan your spirited Columbia visit at experiencecolumbiasc.com
