The Daily Gamecock

Exotic cuisine can be found in Columbia

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Are you tired of eating at the same four places all the time? Don’t get me wrong, Chick-Fil-A is delicious and Cook Out is great for when you’re hungry at 3 a.m., but it is time for you to strengthen your taste buds and try something different from your typical, processed American cuisine. Your mouth is ready for something more exotic and your stomach is ready for real food.

Here in Columbia, there are tons of places to try to diversify your palette. You don’t have to go too far to explore new cultural cuisines from around the globe; they are sitting just right down the street.

Real Mexico Restaurant Y Tienda

Okay, so it is a bit of a fib. It is not really in Mexico, but it is about as close as you can get. With delicious fajitas, chimichangas and burritos, this could be the next best decision you've ever made in your life. Next time you are craving Mexican food, drive on over to 2421 Bush River Road to get a taste of the Real Mexico.

Sahara on Main

Formerly known as Al-Amir, Sahara on Main is a Mediterranean and Moroccan restaurant right across from university property. They serve original Greek dishes such as lamb, wraps and chicken, beef, and veggie hummus with damascus bread. To get your dose of Mediterranean food, visit 629 Main Street.

Spice Junction

Indian food isn’t something that South Carolinians get the opportunity to try very often. So Spice Junction is the perfect place to make sure you get the chance to dive into their dishes filled with bread, spicy curry and rice. They are never crowded and they are more than happy to help you navigate the menu and try something new. They are located at 2335 Augusta Road in West Columbia.

Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles

You haven’t lived until you’ve had fried chicken stacked on top of a golden, crispy waffle. It is a tradition that has long been celebrated in the South and still thrives here in Columbia. Not only can you order the perfectly fried chicken with a waffle, they have several other southern dishes such as fish and grits, macaroni and cheese and breakfast dishes. They also host event nights with live music and performances. Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles can be found just a short distance away at 110 Columbia Northeast Drive Suite A.

Mama’s J’s Kitchen

Mama’s J’s is small local restaurant that serves original Jamaican cooking. They have all the Jamaican favorites such as jerk chicken, oxtails and plantains. All of these delicacies can be enjoyed at 2205 Decker Blvd.

Kaminsky’s

Kaminsky’s is relatively new to Columbia and doesn’t serve entrees. But if you try some of the other cultural restaurants on the list and you still have a sweet tooth, go to Kaminsky’s. They have a variety of cakes and sweets and serve coffee and espresso. They don’t slack on the slice sizes and are quick to fill your coffee cup if you are running low, so drive on over to 930 Gervais St. to grab yourself a sweet treat.


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