What’s Good Here? The Cock ‘N Bull

Want to enjoy British fare without the expense of air fare?

The Cock N’ Bull is as authentic as it gets in an area known more for shrimp and grits and sweet tea than bangers and mash – a dish at The Cock N’ Bull made with pork sausages and caramelized onion gravy.

Other hearty items at this Rosewood Drive eatery include the Bull Burger – with bacon, Red Dragon Beer Cheese, and an over-easy egg – and Scottish Nachos, which are thick-sliced potatoes, bacon, grilled onions and cheddar.

Fish and chips are served every Friday night, and burger night is Wednesday.

Southern favorites such as pecan-fried chicken and shrimp po’boys are also on the menu. The pan-fried shrimp burger – a house-made seasoned patty served on a bun with lettuce, tomato and remoulade – is another popular item.

Salads, wings, pita wraps and more sandwiches (including a roasted duck quesadilla) round out the restaurant’s regular menu.

The Cock N’ Bull has more than 20 domestic and imported beers on tap. The menu and the website outline the types and flavors of the individual beers.

How did Cock N’ Bull get its start?

It opened in its current location close to three years ago and is owned by Steve McLaughlin and Scott Scheno, his business partner of two years.

Eight years ago, McLaughlin, a native of Glasgow, Scotland, opened the business specifically for soccer fans in Columbia after recognizing such a venue was lacking. He is told often by those who visited or lived in the United Kingdom that the Cock N’ Bull is indeed a true soccer pub.

Scheno is a University of South Carolina graduate with many years of experience in the restaurant industry.

What does the place look like?

Located in a renovated old home in Rosewood, this restaurant is a soccer fan’s haven.

There are framed soccer jerseys – some signed, including Olympian Mia Hamm’s.

International flags grace the walls and ceilings, and televisions are strategically placed. During games, the restaurant overflows with raucous celebration.

Sparkling white lights around the exterior add to the friendly, inviting, neighborhood-establishment atmosphere. Around 42 can be seated inside, while the patio holds 20.

Who eats here?

Regulars are a staple. The Cock N’ Bull has become a meeting place for friends, work colleagues and families.

Many in the neighborhood walk to the site. Some gather at the open bar, while others dine in the niche spots throughout the quaint interior.

When a soccer game is on, patrons come from all over to cheer on their teams.

Deena C. Bouknight, Special to Go Columbia

This story was originally published November 18, 2015 at 10:50 AM.