The Ultimate Student’s Guide to Columbia, MO Dining
September 28, 2022
Columbia is a college town at heart. Home to The University of Missouri, Columbia College, Stephens College, and of course, great restaurants and bars! There are so many places to kick back and study or start the party with friends. The interns of Savor Columbia are proud to present this exclusive student guide on the best restaurants to visit for any occasion.
Where we love to study in Columbia, MO
Shortwave on 9th Street
Shortwave Coffee is a charming little coffee shop with plenty of seating where you can sip on a latte and cram for the next exam! Whether you’d rather sit at a booth in the back of the building or sit at the long charging table, there’s always somewhere to relax and drink delicious coffee.
Lakota Coffee Company - Downtown
Lakota Coffee Company has served as a premium coffee roaster in Columbia, MO for nearly 30 years. Their downtown location has a warm and comforting atmosphere with brick walls, wooden chairs, and artwork throughout the shop. Enjoy a steaming cup of ethically-sourced coffee made from the finest Arabica coffee beans.
Aroma Coffee
Located on Providence Road, Aroma Coffeehouse is a cozy, family-operated coffee shop with lounge areas and big, spacious windows to look out while you work. Come in for seasonal drinks and pastries and start a study session with friends!
Fretboard Coffee
Fretboard Coffee is dedicated to providing Columbia, MO customers with authentic, chemical-free coffee in various brewing methods. Between French Presses, siphon pots, cold brew, and much more, Fretboard is sure to make a cup of coffee just the way you like it. There are plenty of outdoor tables for your morning moment of coffee and reading!
Where We Celebrate the Weekend In Columbia, MO
The Roof
Located atop The Broadway Hotel, The Roof is a chic, stylish rooftop bar with a gorgeous view and regular live music! The Roof is the perfect place to grab small plate appetizers and signature cocktails with friends on a chill Friday night.
The Social Room
If you’re looking for a place to go dance, sip on something refreshing, and enjoy comfort food in a vivacious environment, The Social Room is your next destination! This downtown nightclub is full of color and energy, serving some of the best mac and cheese in Columbia, MO.
Campus Bar & Grill
Conveniently within walking distance from the University of Missouri School of Journalism, Campus Bar & Grill is the classic casual sports bar you need to kick off any Friday evening. Split some nachos with your buddies, watch a game, and enjoy the lovely weather from their open rooftop patio!
Pressed
Pressed is a sophisticated rooftop bar featuring handcrafted cocktails, modern furniture, and many live events! Experience a Missouri bar from a New York designer’s eye and book Pressed for private parties like your 21st birthday.
Where We Take Our Family in Columbia, MO
Shiloh Bar & Grill
Take your family to Shiloh Bar & Grill for delicious steaks, ribs, wings, and more! What used to be the historic Katy Station is now a lively bar and grill for college students and families everywhere. Sit comfortably on their outdoor patio or dine in for burgers, pizzas, and sandwiches!
Sophia’s
Take your parents to Sophia’s for true upscale dining and a picturesque atmosphere in Columbia, MO. Serving a line of tasty tapas, fresh pasta, and other delightful entrees, Sophia’s masters the art of global cuisine under one roof. Come in with your loved ones for a healthy lunch or a relaxing dinner.
Ozark Mountain Biscuit Company
How about some southern hospitality and fresh biscuits for brunch? Since 2013, Ozark Mountain Biscuit Company has served Columbia, MO delicious comfort food, including biscuits made from scratch and classic sides like fried green tomatoes. The perfect family-friendly stay for mimosas and homemade cooking!
Ernie’s Cafe & Steakhouse
Is there anything better than breakfast served until 2 pm? Ernie’s Cafe & Steakhouse is the quintessential breakfast diner in downtown Columbia serving pancake platters and savory omelets at an affordable price! This is the place to be for friendly service, 50’s diner art, and a warm plate of breakfast or lunch.
Where We Treat Ourselves in Columbia, MO
Range-Free
Enjoying a baked good from Range-Free is a simple pleasure everyone should experience. Their delicious food caters to the food-allergic population with specialty and classic bakery items. Next time you walk around downtown Columbia, MO stop in for a sweet treat!
The Candy Factory
What better way to treat yourself than with sweet treats from The Candy Factory? These Columbia, MO chocolatiers provide candy in all shapes, sizes, and flavors. Whether you’re craving a box of truffles or chocolate-covered cookies, The Candy Factory is sure to have something for your sweet tooth.
Sparky’s Ice Cream
Sparky’s Ice Cream is not your typical ice cream parlor. But, it is a treasure to college students in Columbia, MO serving unique flavors and fun decor! Come in and see what new flavors are in store, or stick with the classics like vanilla and chocolate.
Günter Hans
Günter Hans in downtown Columbia, MO is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and their signature bretzels. Stop in to find something you love on the European-inspired menu inside or on the beautiful outdoor patio.
Geisha Sushi Bar
Want to try something special for dinner? Geisha Sushi Bar in downtown Columbia, MO is one of the top sushi restaurants in town! Try a menu full of bold Japanese flavors presented on gorgeous platters among sophisticated scenery.
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