The Daily Gamecock

Review: Historic, USC-themed 1801 Grille

One of the many things the University of South Carolina is proud of is its rich history. Every student has a favorite USC tradition, can recite the alma mater, or can at least point in the direction of the historic Horseshoe. Over 200 years of traditions make USC a historic landmark of the South. 1801 Grille, named after the year South Carolina College opened, encompasses much of USC’s history in one classy restaurant. The grille opened its doors at the beginning of the month.

The atmosphere of 1801 Grille combines antique accents with a tavern feel. In the entrance of the restaurant, the aged brick wall was originally a part of the historic Horseshoe. Throughout the interior walls of the restaurant are photos from USC Archives that give customers a glimpse of campus life through the years. The hallway leading to the restrooms features a more complete gallery. Some legendary photos include President Ronald Reagan on the Horseshoe, Pope John Paul II’s visit in 1987, and John F. Kennedy shaking hands with USC’s then-president, Donald S. Russell. Also, there is the first known photograph of the Carolina-Clemson game of 1909. Readers of The Daily Gamecock  might want to check out the photo of the student newspaper being printed in the 1940s.

The restaurant also includes an enclosed room that is used for potential recruits. Future Gamecocks can enjoy a meal while admiring the sports memorabilia on the shelves, providing another reason to call USC home.

Another important feature of 1801 Grille is the patio walls can be opened up during Carolina spring days or closed when the weather is not just right. Also, 1801 Grille is the first on-campus restaurant in the SEC to have a full bar.

The cuisine features a combination of Southern comfort food and American favorites. Executive Chef Jason Bruner has gained culinary experience from across the world in China, Spain, Italy, Hawaii and Australia. He is dedicated in providing food with fresh ingredients and a unique taste.

One of the appetizers, the skillet-baked smoked gouda, is a tomato sauce with melted gouda and is served with zeppole, which are similar to pizza dough balls. Entrees include a wide variety of burgers and sandwiches, flatbreads, steak and fish — suitable for any mood. One of the flatbreads includes the house made duck sausage flatbread with gorgonzola, arugula and pickled onions. The duck sausage in the flatbread added a unique flavor that made it different from traditional flatbreads.  While it’s easy to settle for fries as a side, don’t count out the Szechuan green beans or crispy Brussels sprouts; they aren’t your typical green vegetables. The Brussels sprouts were chopped up and also had bacon mixed in. The Szechuan green beans were seasoned with pepper flakes and other flavors. Overall, the food was prepared nicely and each plate had a distinctive taste that was different from the others. 1801 Grille provides a menu where both picky eaters and foodies can enjoy a meal.

Located across from Colonial Life Arena, 1801 Grille can be the destination for a pre-concert meal or a post-USC-victory celebration. Students can enjoy a night with friends or take their family out to dinner and show them the history that makes USC special. Be one of the first to experience the atmosphere and cuisine of 1801 Grille.


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