Here’s where foodies might want to spend the eclipse
If you’re looking for something special for your weekend eclipse dining, you’re in luck.
There are plenty of food options, from nibbles to sit-down meals. Call early to make a reservation, and then arrive early to make sure you have (1) a parking spot and (2) a prime table from which to dine and view the historic event.
Pre-eclipse dining Sunday night, Aug. 20, at Terra will get you in the mood for the eclipse on Monday, Aug. 21. Diners will get a great view of “Southern Lights,” the new laser light installation over the Congaree River. Call for reservations, (803) 791-3443. 100 State St., West Columbia. www.terrasc.com
Brookland Banquet and Conference Center’s lunch buffet begins at noon Monday, Aug. 21, and eclipse viewing begins at 2 p.m. Special concert by Brent Lundy, a native South Carolina singer-songwriter with a country, gospel, rock and soul sound. Buffet, $9.99; beverage, $1. Bring your own viewing glasses. 1066 Sunset Blvd., West Columbia. Call for reservations: (803) 744-7956
Cromer’s will have “cosmic treats” to snack on during a viewing party from 1-3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21, in the parking lot at 1700 Huger St. Free Sno-Cones and eclipse viewing glasses while they last. www.cromers.com
Mercer House Estate has a weekend of events planned. Check the winery’s website for availability of tickets for eclipse viewing packages. 397 Walter Rawl Road, Lexington. www.mercerhouseestatewinery.com
For those who want to view the eclipse out in the country, Old McCaskill’s Farm in Rembert will be serving lunch beginning at noon Monday, Aug. 21. Bring a blanket and a chair, but no picnics. Concessions will be available until the eclipse, around 2:30 p.m. Free parking, souvenir farm T-shirts, and eclipse viewing glasses available. www.oldmccaskillfarm.com
For those who just want to create something special, Christina Miles of Bruges Chocolaterie will show you how to create eclipse-themed truffles and French appetizers. Wear comfortable clothing, and feel free to bring your own apron – and a bottle of your favorite wine. 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 18, at Lakeview Empowerment Center, 1218 Batchelor St., West Columbia. $45 includes recipes and finished chocolates. www.brugeschocolaterie.com/product/solar-chocolate-class
Now open
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers opened its second location in West Columbia, at 2879 Sunset Blvd., near Lexington Medical Center. The chain is known for its signature Original Double – two steakburger patties topped with two slices of cheese, onions, pickle planks and mustard, all served on a toasted bun.
Sakura Japanese Restaurant opened at its new location at 4430 Rosewood Drive. The restaurant, formerly located in the Forest Lake Shopping Center on Forest Drive, was one of Columbia’s first sushi restaurants. The restaurant has been closed since its Forest Lake location was destroyed during the October 2015 flood.
Susan Ardis, sardis@thestate.com
This story was originally published August 16, 2017 at 6:28 PM with the headline "Here’s where foodies might want to spend the eclipse."