Columbia’s Sandwich Depot offers new twists on the classics

Sandwich Depot offers grilled, fried and smoked meats and cheeses artfully combined to create tasty versions of familiar sandwiches.

The grilled ham and cheddar, for example, has applewood-smoked ham, smoked cheddar cheese, and is served on jalapeno cornbread.

The fish sandwich is beer-battered cod lightly fried and served on a slightly grilled potato bun.

There are wraps and salads, as well as made-fresh-daily all-breast chicken salad, juicy burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches with Sweet Baby Ray’s barbecue sauce.

But this is not just a lunch spot – Sandwich Depot serves breakfast sandwiches and wraps all day.

The Irish wrap includes ham, onion, green pepper, scrambled egg, hash browns, provolone cheese, and a signature Hollandaise sauce. Plus, there are muffins: ginger green tea, apple cinnamon, blueberry, and double chocolate chunk, to name a few.

There is also fresh fruit, yogurt, house-cut fries, and local Adluh grits.

How did SD get its start?

Since February, Collin McDonald has been offering unique sandwiches for breakfast and lunch. He worked at other establishments for more than six years, serving in many roles – cooking, serving and managing. At the same time, he double majored in management and finance from USC-Aiken.

“I knew I always wanted to own a business. The location was right downtown for breakfast and lunch … grab and go.”

McDonald said he might expand the menu somewhat. He developed the sandwich bread-ingredients combinations by testing many.

What does the place look like?

Think downtown – floor-to-ceiling window front with textured shades, checkerboard tiled floors, and booths and tables.

The display case at the order counter features the fresh-baked muffins. The kitchen is open so customers can watch cooks preparing each made-to-order item.

Seating is for around 60.

Who eats here?

Employees who work at nearby shops and businesses are regulars at SD.

It is also a go-to place for an impromptu business meeting, a birthday lunch with friends and for USC students trudging back and forth between residences and classes.

Deena C. Bouknight, Special to Go Columbia