WHETHER YOU’RE TALKING TO captains like Jack Edwards and Lilly Zellner or any other rugby player at USC, there’s one thing you’ll always hear: these teams care about each other just as much they love the sport.
“We’re very welcoming, and I think that’s what makes us one of the best club sports,” Zellner said. “It’s something you could come and do to stay active, to have that team environment, to make new friends.”
Edwards, who’s played for 10 years, said the growth of Gamecock Rugby has been fueled by a culture defined by inclusivity.
“For us, it’s not about tryouts, it’s about welcoming and being a place where people can belong,” Edwards said. “They can be accepted for who they are, and that’s something we’re very proud of.”
For many South Carolinians, rugby has been unfamiliar, but both across the state and country, that’s been changing. In 2024, the U.S. women’s rugby team earned bronze medals at the Paris Olympics; it was a major moment for the sport’s growth.
Third-year doctoral student Annabelle Reese, known to her players as AB, initially came to the team simply wanting to play before being asked to take on a coaching role, which she’s held ever since. Reese said watching players learn
the sport together has been one of her favorite aspects of coaching.
“Everybody comes from a really diverse background athletically,” Reese said. “It’s really interesting to see people that were rowers and basketball players and tackle football players find their way to rugby.”
Under fourth-year coach John Roberts, Men’s Gamecock Rugby has already won three conference titles and picked up a few wins over Clemson. Roberts has also overseen the establishment of a Hall of Fame, paying tribute to Gamecock Rugby’s 58-year history.
Roberts said the strong support of and relationships with alumni and families have been key in achieving Gamecock Rugby’s goals. Edwards said philanthropy and community engagement are top priorities for Gamecock Rugby. On March 28, the team will hold the Big E Memorial Invitational, in honor of their teammate and friend Erik Elken, who battled a rare form of cancer called Sarcoma. All proceeds from the tournament will go towards Sarcoma research in Elken’s name.
Kayla Thompson, who serves as team president and match secretary, said her favorite memory came at the end of a tournament that initially didn’t seem like one to remember.
“We played Coastal Carolina and we lost to them in the morning but ended up
having to play them at the end of the day,” Thompson said. “Me and some of our other exec, we’re like, ‘Guys, this is our last chance, we need to get hype, who cares about our standings from the rest of the day?’ And we ended up beating them.”
Thompson emphasized the club welcomes anyone who wants to get involved.
“There is a spot or position for everybody,” Thompson said. Anybody can play rugby, don’t be afraid.”
Edwards said he hopes rugby only becomes more popular at USC after he graduates, and that the current group is leaving a strong foundation behind.
“I think the biggest differentiation between any other club sport is the community,” Edwards said. “We want to pass that on to the next generation of Rugby players and the next generation of students.”
Courtesy of USC Men’s Rugby
Best New Student Org
By Miles Shea
KAT O’BRIEN KNEW SHE was struggling with her mental health, but wasn’t sure what she could do about it. When she went with her friend Julia Haelsen to a Mental Health Ambassadors meeting, that instantly changed.
“I never really had an outlet or place to talk about it before, I never imagined myself verbalizing it before,” O’Brien said. “I just went to the first meeting, and saw how normal and accepted it is to talk about things like that.”
O’Brien now serves as the club social media and events chair alongside Haelsen, who is president.
Haelsen said the club aims to provide a supportive space to discuss mental health and actively heal.
“Mental Health Ambassadors is an organization that is centered around storytelling of people with lived experience of mental health struggles,” Haelsen said. “Sharing stories of hope and recovery with other groups on campus in hopes to sort of break the stigma around mental health and encourage other people to seek help.”
Along with discussion, the club also practices self-care activities, tables and hosts giveaways around campus, visits other organizations and partners with many that share their goals. O’Brien’s favorite activity involved showcasing positive messages they’d collected that day. “We made a mural inside of the health and wellbeing center,” O’Brien said. “It’s this big butterfly mural of all these people’s messages.”
One of MHS’s larger events is run in partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. During the event, the club hosts walks through campus and through the city to discuss and destigmatize suicide prevention. Though MHS has only recently become a student organization, they’ve actually been around since 2019. The group was previously an affiliate organization, with leaders like Haelsen and O’Brien being considered student employees of the health center.
Haelsen said some passion in the organization had dissipated in its last couple years as an affiliate, but that the club has been reinvigorated by the switch.
“I’ve just noticed so much more willingness and participation,” Haelsen said. “I’m extremely grateful we did make that transition, because I think it’s set us in a wonderful place to thrive from here on out.”
Haelsen said no matter what you’re carrying, great benefits can come from both opening up and listening to others.
“Storytelling is very proven to help break the stigma around mental health,” Haelsen said. “Even though we might not have a parallel experience to another individual, there’s still so much that they can take away from our stories and relate to.”
Courtesy of Mental Health Ambassadors
Courtesy of Mental Health Ambassadors
Mccausland college of arts and sciences
David Weaver
DARLA MOORE SCHOOL of BUSINESS
Daniel Ostergaard
COLLEGE OF EDUCATION
Lauren LeJeune
MOLINAROLI College of Engineering and Computing
Juan Caicedo
College of Hospitality, Retail and Sport Management
Stephanie Taylor College of Information and Communications
Kelly Davis
SCHOOL OF JOURNALISM AND MASS COMMUNICATIONS
Kristin Walker
JOSEPH F. RICE SCHOOL OF LAW
Trey Harrison
SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
Dr. Cameron McCarthy
SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Jay Jacobs
COLLEGE OF NURSING
Sabra Custer
College of Pharmacy
Dr. Raeann Carrier
ARNOLD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
Liz Anderson College of Social Work
Janay Price
HONORS COLLEGE
Tamara Sheldon
Best Student Org
By Kathleen Burbage
ALPHA KAPPA PSI WAS first established at the University of South Carolina in 1958 and rechartered in 2007. Since then, the co-ed organization has grown into a powerhouse of career preparation, boasting a 100 percent job placement rate for its graduates.
“While it is a professional business fraternity, membership is open to students of all majors who are interested in refining their professional skills and expanding their networks,” chapter president Rishi Patel said.
The chapter focuses on five core values: brotherhood, integrity, service, unity and knowledge. These principles are integrated into a rigorous schedule of workshops and events designed to prepare students for the competitive global job market.
”Our members participate in resumebuilding sessions, LinkedIn workshops and mock interviews with alumni,” Patel said.
The results of this training are evident in the chapter’s track record. Members have secured internships and full-time roles at prestigious global firms including
BlackRock, Goldman Sachs, PwC and Microsoft. Additionally the fraternity operates its own student-run consulting firm, giving members hands-on experience in solving real-world business challenges.
“Our members really know one another and are creating genuine connections,” Patel said. “Everyone is quick to help others and willing to pitch in when extra effort is needed.”
Professionalism is only one side of the Beta Upsilon chapter. The organization is deeply involved in the Columbia community through service initiatives. Members regularly volunteer with local organizations such as Ezekiel Ministries and Palmetto Place and participate in campus-wide philanthropy events like Dance Marathon and Relay for Life.
The chapter’s social calendar, which features events like the Brooklyn Bridge Formal and the Yellow Rose SemiFormal, fosters a sense of community that many members say is the highlight of their college experience.
“Joining AKPsi isn’t just about networking,” said a recent recruitment
announcement. “It’s about surrounding yourself with people who push, challenge, and celebrate you.”
AKPsi offers students the chance to join a network of over 100 active members and 240,000 alumni worldwide.
“One thing that makes me proud is how often, and how many of our members and alumni continue to give back,” Patel said.
AKPsi’s recognition as Best of Carolina’s best student organization is yet another distinction that reflects its long-standing commitment to developing principled business leaders.
Courtesy of Alpha Kappa Psi
The Sonoco International Business Department and the Darla Moore School of Business offer our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Daniel Ostergaard for being named Best Professor by the Best of Carolina awards!
Congratulations, Daniel Ostergaard!
SEMPER PARATUS , DAN!
Dan’s dedication and insights are an inspiration to us all, and the genuine care for his students in the classroom and in the community have impacted an entire generation. Providing much more than a classroom education, Dan ensures that every student feels connected through his many IB Engage activities. Whether it’s community service, tailgating at the symphony, or a weekend camping, these student experiences are one of the many reasons he’s such an integral part of the No. 1 International Business Undergraduate Program* in the U.S. for 27 consecutive years!
*Ranked by U.S. News and World Report
Best Black-Owned Business
By Marley Bassett
ORIGINALLY OPENED IN 2012, Kiki’s Chicken and Waffles has been nominated for a multitude of awards for their amazing soul food, especially their famous chicken and waffles.
The restaurant is co-owned by husband and wife chefs Kitwanda “Kiki” and Tyrone Cyrus, the restaurant first opened their doors in their location off of Parklane Road. The couple then opened two more locations, one on Bower Parkway in the Harbison district and one in North Charleston, South Carolina. While they are most known for their chicken and waffles, Kiki’s serves up a
wide array of down-home Southern soul food, including fried okra, macaroni and cheese bites, smothered pork chops, shrimp and grits and fried apple pie. The restaurant also hosts events, including live jazz and open mic nights.
The original restaurant has been visited by many celebrities including Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, both of whom came while they were campaigning for president.
Kiki was named a S.C. Chef Ambassador in 2018, and last year she and her husband advanced to the semi-finalist
round for the prestigious James Beard Awards. Both were nominated for James Beard Best Chef: Southeast.
You can head to their website www.kikischickenandwaffles.com to find out more about this amazing restaurant!
Jada Mack
By Kathleen Burbage
IN THE HEART OF COLUMBIA, where the humidity often matches the ambition of the USC students, a local legend was born: Breakfast Jawn.
Breakfast Jawn is a student-run food truck that offers customizable breakfast options for students and the USC community, including pancakes with a variety of options and tasty build-yourown bowls, burritos, and sandwiches with various protein and topping choices. Operated by owners Elijah Rohloff and Dean Stack, the truck serves breakfast on weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters in front of the Russell House.
It didn’t start in a fancy kitchen but as a bold, student-run venture that quickly “cracked the code” for the perfect morning meal. Nestled right in front of the Russell House, this spot has become the go-to fuel station for anyone facing a 9 a.m. lecture or a long day in the chemistry lab.
Rohloff was the first employee of Breakfast Jawn, hired in February of 2023 by the founders. In early 2025, the owners were looking to move and offered Rohloff the chance to take over.
“I knew it was a great opportunity that I didn’t want to let go,” Rohloff said. “I figured good things can happen when you take risks. I called my mom and asked her about the idea, and she said, ‘Go for it!’”
Best Student-Run Business
The air around their stand always carries the savory scent of their signature BYO Breakfast Bowls, loaded with crispy potatoes, peppers, and Monterey Jack cheese. But the real star of the story is the “Jawn” itself—a Philly-inspired powerhouse featuring a mix of chorizo and sirloin, topped with Cheez Whiz and Cholula mayo on a toasted brioche bun.
From humble beginnings to a campus sensation, Breakfast Jawn has redefined the morning routine for students at the University of South Carolina. Launched on Feb. 21, 2023, the venture began in a repurposed hot dog stand on the south side of campus, gifted to the student founders by Carolina Food Co.
The stand’s success was immediate; within weeks, the team realized they had already outgrown the small space. Six months later, Breakfast Jawn leveled up by launching a full-scale food truck, allowing them to expand their reach and serve a growing fan base of hungry Gamecocks.
By its first year, the community spoke loud and clear, voting it the Best Student-Run Business in 2024. They won the title again in 2025 and this year’s victory makes
it three in a row. Today, the business continues to thrive under the leadership of Rohloff and Stack.
When asked about the challenges they face as new owners, Rohloff spoke about enhancing and creating an image for Breakfast Jawn.
“This semester we’ve added the Jawn sauce, and salsa Verde, and we’ve added coffee. We really want to build the brand. We’re hopefully making it recognizable as its own concept of restaurant or food truck.”
Today, it stands as a celebrated member of Carolina Food Co.’s Local Restaurant Row, proving that in Columbia, a great breakfast isn’t just a meal—it’s a movement.
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Best bookstore
By
Alyssa Culver-Draper
SINCE OPENING IN 2023, All Good Books has risen in popularity for readers and non-readers alike, who voted it the Best Bookstore of 2026. Offering various genres of books, a wide array of café items, and a full agenda of events, the historical building on Harden Street has quickly become a staple in the lives of Columbia locals.
If there is a book you are looking for, you can probably find it at this local bookshop. The store is organized into two main rooms, with small nooks in the front and shelf-lined walls in the back, all labeled by genre. The helpful staff is always ready to assist customers, with each member of the team having their own area of expertise alongside their wide breadth of bookselling knowledge. The website also serves as a comprehensive tool, consistently updated with new releases, staff picks, search tools and an online ordering portal.
All good books (pun intended) go well with a cup of coffee, which can be found at the shop’s in-store café. Here, they offer various warm and cold drinks, including their own black tea blend, as well as local pastries on the weekend. The menu does not end at the typical offerings, with the store also selling assorted types of wine and beer to the 21+ crowd.
The store also maintains a well-scheduled calendar of community gatherings, ranging from book club meetings to author events. Creative director and bookseller Julie Hansard has recently been working on putting together a bookclub of her own at the store.
“I am actually about to start my new book club, ‘The Women in Art’ book club that’s starting on Feb. 10,” Hansard said. “And so we are just a book club where we’re going to read books that kind of promote the women who have been overlooked across all time in art history.”
There is an option for everybody, as All Good Books incorporates film, art, crafts, and more topics of interest into their programs. They also ensure accessibility, organizing events in Spanish and
offering discounts for their book clubs to guarantee affordability for all.
Bookworms that are more interested in studying and solo-reading also have plenty of options for comfort at the store, with plenty of flexible seating options and quiet nooks that are perfect for cozying up. From the outside garden patio to the spacious community table to the front window bench, there is room for everyone at All Good Books.
This store means a lot to me,” shared regular customer Titus Barber, “This is my favorite bookstore and I’ve lived multiple different places. It’s the most comfortable I’ve ever been; even if I’m not planning on buying a book, I’ll come and hang out, because it’s a nice atmosphere.”
Nick Hill/The Daily Gamecock
Best Soda City Market Vendor
By Tara McGee
IMAGINE WALKING THROUGH what
USA Today calls the number one farmers market in America, Soda City, smack dab in the middle of July. The sun is beating down on your face, the ground starts to feel like hot coals, and your lukewarm water just won’t do the trick.
And then, like a beacon of hope on that beautiful, bright morning, you see a lovely handpainted sign: Sonnie’s Lemonade. You’re greeted by a smiling face and a tub of lemonade, and all is right in the world, or at least for as long as it takes you to savor your freshlysqueezed beverage.
Whether you’re looking for a gamedaythemed drink, a holiday favorite or simply a classic on a hot summer’s day, Sonnie’s Lemonade is always just the right pick to
quench your thirst. That’s why they have been awarded the title of this year’s Best Soda City Market Vendor.
Allie Burke, the co-owner of Sonnie’s alongside her husband, Ken, began this business as a side venture to raise money for her mission trip to Ireland. Even before creating a business, Burke knew how to make it special.
“I got my recipe from my brother,” Allie said. “I deconstructed his recipe and made it my own because I wanted to be able to serve diet. As a diabetic, I want to be able to enjoy lemonade too!”
Immediately, the drinks were a success, but the Burkes weren’t sure where to start.
“Person after person kept saying, ‘you need to take this to Soda City’...and being recently moved here at the time, I said ‘What’s a Soda City?’” Allie said.
Not too long after, the Burkes visited one fateful Saturday morning and decided to apply for the market. Two weeks later, they had a spot on Main Street. Now, nine years later, their refreshments are a key part of many locals’ traditions.
In addition to their regular appearances at Soda City, Sonnie’s has been stopping by Greene Street during the university’s Tuesday farmers markets for almost four years now. Although Soda City Market was the start of their business, the Burkes believe the heart of their community is painted garnet and black.
“Our favorite part of it is really the USC community,” Allie said. “We get so many special students that come, and they get excited when we’re on Greene Street because they can get lemonade twice a year.”
Courtesy of Sonnie’s Lemonade
Courtesy of Sonnie’s Lemonade
Courtesy of Sonnie’s Lemonade
BEST PIZZA
By Marley Bassett
VILLAGE IDIOT PIZZA has been spinning out pizzas to the Columbia community for over 30 years. With food this good and an atmosphere to match, it’s no wonder this pizza place is beloved by USC students and the city alike.
Originally opened in 1990, Village Idiot serves the community in two locations: in Five Points and at the Olympia Mills.
The restaurant serves up a variety of New York-style pizzas, including specialties
and other traditional pizza fare like wings, mozzarella sticks and cannolis.
Village Idiot not only serves delicious food to the surrounding areas, but it also serves the community through its Pizza for Preemies program. This program started in 2018 to support the March of Dimes during Prematurity Awareness Month in November and was launched a year after current owners Kelly and Brian Glynn brought home their premature twins, who spent 71 days in the NICU.
During the month of November, a portion of sales from both Columbia locations will go to the March of Dimes, and those who dine in on World Prematurity Day can buy their Pesto Preemievera to win free pizza.
Village Idiot Pizza serves up smiles for the Columbia area through its food and charitable efforts, so it is no surprise that it has once again won Best Pizza.
Brewery Sweet Tea
Congratulations to Lauren LeJeune on being named Best Professor in the Best of Carolina awards!
Your work in the field of special education has advanced opportunities and understanding for future educators and practitioners throughout our state and beyond.
sc.edu/education
Best Asian Cuisine
By Alyssa Culver-Draper
BRINGING AUTHENTIC EAST ASIAN dishes to Columbia, JJ Tea House has been voted the Best Asian Cuisine of 2026. The store, located on the corner of Main and Blossom, is a popular spot to eat for college students, locals and visitors alike.
Since the store’s establishment in 2017, the restaurant has become a consistent staple, opening every day at 11 a.m. and closing at 9 p.m. Throughout these hours, diners consistently flow through the locally-owned eatery, sampling items off of their extensive menu.
The Tea House makes itself unique in that it combines Taiwanese, Chinese, Japanese, and Asian-American fusion dishes to curate an entirely unique menu. Various types of noodle soups, fried and white rice dishes, wontons, bao, tempura shrimp – if there is an item you are craving, JJ Tea House has their
own delicious rendition of it. One regular customer named Jah talked of their typical order:
“I like to eat the bourbon chicken,” Jah said. “That’s really good. It’s really spicy, I like it.”
Jah also enjoys the restaurant’s milk boba tea, which has become one of the main attractions of the restaurant — after all, it is a tea house. Offering a variety of flavors, blends, and add-ins, customers are able to fix their drink exactly to their tastebuds’ liking. The bubble tea is especially popular since the store carries “popping pearls”, fruit-flavored capsules typically used in bubble tea, in addition to the typical tapioca-based boba.
Not only do their foods and drinks satisfy hunger, they also bring together the community. In the Honors Residence Hall, boba drinks from JJ Tea House are often supplied at dorm events. This alone is a major draw for those events, and the drinks are so popular that Honors residents know to stop by the JJ stand first and get their drink before they run out.
But fret not if you did not beat the crowds, because JJ Tea House maintains their welcoming atmosphere all day and night in their dining room. With a cozy array of booths, tables, and barlike seating, there is plenty of space for friends and families to gather for
a flavorful meal. USC students and roommates Caroline Seawell and Morgan Havers can attest to this, as they regularly come to the Tea House to bond over boba.
“Our boba dates are really special to me and it’s a really big event that I look forward to,” said Seawell. “We’re roommates, but we’re in separate majors, so it’s hard for us to make time for each other.”
“So like, our boba dates are really special to our heart,” Havers added. “JJs brings us together.”
JJ’s brings Asian cuisine to Columbia while also bringing the local community together to connect through shared meals. Creating both delightful food and experiences, every day JJ Tea House exemplifies why it was voted Best of Carolina 2026.
Olivia McLucas/The Daily Gamecock
Ethan Lam/The Daily Gamecock
A fancy dinner
Best sushi vegan/ Best place for vegetarian
Best BBQ/Ribs
By Brynn Burke & Isabella Sepe
HOME TEAM BBQ, initially founded in Charleston, South Carolina, opened its fifth location in Columbia in May 2019. Since then, it has been voted Best of Carolina’s Best BBQ/Ribs multiple years in a row. The restaurant combines vintage decor with a modern twist on barbecue.
The menu features barbecue favorites like pulled pork, brisket and wings. They’re known for their signature rub and variety of sauces sitting right on the table. Tried and true Southern favorites are available every day in the center of
Five Points, featuring classics like pulled pork sandwiches, sliced or chopped brisket and smoked turkey. The menu goes beyond just barbecue and includes tacos, nachos and salads.
If you’re looking for a drink to pair with your meal, try the famous Gamechanger, a frozen rum drink guaranteed to blow you away with its refreshing flavor.
Home Team is more than a barbecue joint. Its ambiance is unmatched, with its eclectic decor covering the walls and plenty of TVs for watching the game.
The restaurant even has a late-night menu for the bustling nightlife scene of Five Points. Find the southern comfort Columbia is raving about at Home Team BBQ.
Best Best dessert
ice cream
Courtesy of Home Team BBQ
Best coffee shop
By Tara McGee
SINCE 1997, COOL BEANS has been brewing lattes and warming hearts. Their cozy atmosphere has been beloved for decades by students, professors and locals alike.
Filled with nostalgic 2000s coffee decor and original artwork from resident creatives, you can hear laughter in each nook and whispers from espresso machines as soon as you walk in the door.
The smell of fresh ground coffee and decadent pastries hits your nose and guides you right towards a smiling face, ready to take your order and make your day a little bit brighter.
Kitty Marasovich, the owner and manager of Cool Beans, describes that same feeling the best.
“I feel like Cool Beans is home away from home,” Marasovich said. “It’s very welcoming, very comforting when people walk in.”
The charm, friendly staff and delicious drinks and food bring people back time after time, especially when it comes to important gatherings.
The coffeehouse has been the start of friendships, business partnerships and even marriages. The relaxing atmosphere can take the edge off of any nerve wracking event. It can sometimes even bring a little bit of luck.
Robin Hoffman, manager of 10 years, has seen how Cool Beans has had a hand in making a difference in people’s lives and how far that good energy can really go. “I think that we’ve helped arrange, I think two at least, maybe three separate proposals here, because it was their first date.”
That energy also has to do with the cafe’s neighbor. Being a less than two minute walk to campus has made it easy for USC students, faculty and alumni to fall in love with the coffeehouse.
Brayden Baker, a senior sport and entertainment management student at the University of South Carolina, was a longtime fan before eventually
becoming a barista.
“Before I started working here, I used to come here every day,” Baker said. “It’s just a good, welcoming place. Great place to study, great place to get coffee.”
Marasovich added, “It’s such a great opportunity for students to feel comfortable outside of a regular classroom setting or get a chance to get out of their dorms or apartments and kind of come together.”
Cool Beans isn’t just a coffee shop. For most, it’s a place they call home and will continue to call home for years to come. So if you’re looking for your next meeting spot, first date venue, a safe space to breathe, or just a great cup of coffee, Cool Beans is your best bet.
Fabian Bellamy
Fabian Bellamy
Best Mexican Food
By Marley Bassett
HOME TO SOME OF the best Mexican food in Columbia, Cantina 76 has become well-known among USC students for its tasty and affordable meals, amazing drinks and a great atmosphere to hang out with friends and family.
Owned by friends Jeb Babcock, Chad Elsey, Rob Ward and Craig Wyatt, they opened their first location on Devine Street in 2009 before expanding to a second location in Columbia on Main Street in 2013, with further locations opening up in Greenville, Mount Pleasant and Kiawah Island, South Carolina.
The restaurant is well-known for its variety of tacos, including barbecue brisket, fried chicken, jalapeño shrimp and surf ‘n’ turf. It also offers other Mexican-style foods, such as queso, enchiladas, chimichangas, nachos and chips and salsa. In addition to having fivestar food, Cantina 76 also has top-notch drinks that are the perfect complement to their food.
They are best known for their tequila cocktails like The Cantina, Prickly Pear, Strawberry Basil or The Devine. Guests
can also order the Margaritas Muy Bueno by the glass or by the pitcher on the rocks. With everything excellent that Cantina 76 has to offer, it’s no wonder that USC students and the surrounding community flock to it.
| Open evenings and weekends | Appointments or walk-ins welcome | Most insurances accepted | Student discount available*
We handle what college throws at you: Flu, colds
Two locations near campus:
Shandon | 2601 Rosewood Drive
Forest Acres | 4500 Forest Drive
Walk in or book now at NovantHealthUrgentCare.org
Fabian Bellamy
BEST LUNCH
By Alyssa Culver-Draper
Celebrating 85 years of business, Groucho’s Deli has been awarded Best Lunch for 2026! Groucho’s was founded in 1941 with the philosophy, “Quality is the most important ingredient in a sandwich,” and these words still ring true as Columbians gather at the shop for a delicious bite to eat.
Starting out as a small shop in the state capital with limited seating and humble beginnings, Groucho’s has since grown into a Southeastern deli staple, boasting franchise locations in both of
the Carolinas and Georgia. Despite this growth, however, the store — originally known as “Miller’s Delicatessen and Sandwich Shop” — never lost its original charm, retaining that retro deli feel that patrons adore.
Whether you’re a regular customer or trying the food for the first time, everyone has to try one of their iconic “Dipper” sandwiches, complete with the signature Formula 45 sauce. Sub rolls filled with quality sliced meats and topped with melted cheese, what’s not to love?
Sandwiches may not be everyone’s style though, so there are plenty of fresh large salads to choose from – twenty-one to be exact!
Groucho’s community impact cannot be overstated and remains an essential part of the gastronomic history in Columbia. So, if you’re ever looking for a hearty lunch spot, trust the Best of Carolina 2026 voters and check out Groucho’s Deli!
Best burgers night eats
CONGRATULATIONS, DR. JAY JACOBS
VOTED BEST PROFESSOR IN THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Dr. Jay Jacobs is Associate Director of Bands and Associate Professor of Music at the University of South Carolina, where he is the director of The Carolina Band, conducts the Symphonic Winds and teaches courses within the School of Music. Under his direction, The Carolina Band was selected to perform in the 2024 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the 2026 London Band Week and was recently named the grand-prize winner in the Division 1 category of the 3rd Annual Metallica Marching Band Competition – Collegiate Edition. The win brings the Carolina Band the opportunity to record both a Metallica song and the “Campus Clash” opening scene theme song for an upcoming edition of the EA Sports College Football video game. The band will also receive $50,000.
BEST SPORTS VENUE
By Isabella Sepe
THE PHRASE “SATURDAYS DOWN SOUTH” takes on a meaning bigger than most people can imagine in the city of Columbia, South Carolina.
As crowds pile into Williams-Brice Stadium, excitement brews when the crowd hears the tune “Hold My Hand” by Hootie & the Blowfish play over the speaker system. From the Carolina Band’s pregame playing of the fight song to thousands of rally towels swinging in the air, Williams-Brice Stadium makes everyone feel like they are home.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, fans can expect an enhanced experience at Williams-Brice Stadium with the first phase of renovations already underway. According to reporting from The Daily Gamecock, renovations will include adding additional premium areas, student section upgrades, renovations to locker rooms, improvements to restrooms, concessions and behind-the-scenes additions. The student experience at Willy-B, as it is affectionately known, is one of excitement and energy.
While renovations will not be fully completed until the 2028 season, each
BEST CONCERT VENUE
Compiled By Staff
COLONIAL LIFE ARENA continues its success as Columbia’s premier live entertainment center, being voted Best Concert Venue for the sixth year in a row!
Colonial Life is versatile, regularly hosting major national musical and comedic acts. The arena has brought big names such as the Hootie and the Blowfish, the Jonas Brothers and Stevie Nicks to the heart of Columbia.
Fans routinely fill the arena with electrifying energy each winter to support the men’s and women’s basketball teams that call Colonial Life home. Those seeking a thrill in the offseason of college basketball won’t be disappointed, as events from Cinch World’s Toughest Rodeo to Monster Jam come to the venue throughout the year.
phase is planned in order to accommodate the 2026 and 2027 football season, as well as fan experiences.
Williams-Brice Stadium brings people together for the love of the Gamecocks, the love of the university and the love of football.
Owned by the University of South Carolina, the concert venue also plays a crucial role in student life. Colonial Life hosts student events ranging from Cockstock, USC Homecoming’s signature concert, to commencement each semester.
Coming up this year, Colonial Life Arena will welcome artists like Treaty Oak Revival and Cody Johnson in February, as well as Monster Jam on April 18-19. Keep an eye out for their special events, like Journey’s Final Frontier Tour coming to Colonial Life on May 18.
Jatin Patel
Tyler Sprague
BEST LOCAL MUSICIAN
By Isabella Sepe
ONCE AGAIN, THE THIRD FLOOR of the University of South Carolina’s Capstone Residence Hall is the namesake of 2026’s Best Local Musician, The Third Floor. The group of friends who lived in the same dorm hall have quickly become one of Columbia’s favorite homegrown bands.
Ryan Pellatt (vocals, guitar, harmonica), Neal Goldberg (bass), Nick Guzman (vocals, drums) and Carter Vogt (lead guitar) have been together for about five years, first playing as a group at the Koger Center for the Arts in a battle of the bands. Each member developed a passion for music from a very young age.
The band members, now all alumni of USC, managed busy schedules as students — performing at shows at night
CONGRATS
Raeann Carrier, Ph.D.
Congratulations to Dr. Carrier, clinical associate professor in Drug Discovery & Biomedical Sciences, on your 2025 Best of Carolina recognition!
and going to class during the day — and brought their music to Charleston following graduation. This lifelong journey has led to great things for The Third Floor, who has notably opened for COIN at USC’s Cockstock concert in October 2023 and performed at the Jam Room Music Festival in November 2023. More recently, they have performed at multiple live music hotspots around downtown Charleston.
Their setlist includes original songs, “Not Worth The Time” and “Marlboro Blues,” as well as a variety of covers. Listeners should watch for their next release, which the band hopes to have out soon. Check out The Third Floor at a Columbia concert venue near you and on Instagram @thethirdfloorband!
Alicia Caracciolo / The Daily Gamecock
BEST SOCIAL OUTING
By Tara McGee
SODA CITY MARKET is a staple in South Carolina’s capital city, so it’s no surprise that it has been awarded this year’s Best Social Outing in Columbia. Stretching across a majority of Main Street, smells of global cuisine and fresh cut flowers fill the air, no matter the weather.
The market had a humble beginning much different than today. It started as the “All Local Farmers Market” in November 2005 with six vendors housed at the restaurant, Gervais & Vine. Now, it
has grown into a weekly occurrence in the heart of the city that thousands of people go to every single Saturday.
Strolling passersby aren’t the only people coming back week after week. David Hicks and Katie Roberts, the owners of Pannerpete Vintage, took a chance on the market almost a decade ago, and are still reaping the benefits today.
each Saturday. Olivia Pope, the business director of the market for almost a decade, believes the key to its success starts with stability. “The reason why Soda City market is one to return to is because we really make it a point to be as consistent as possible and the vendors are our top priorities.”
CONGRATS!
“My first Soda City was eight years ago,” said Roberts. “And then the next few years were so good that we ended up having a conversation, and I quit my full time job ... So now we’re both doing this full time, because of Soda City.”
Congratulations from the College of Social Work to Janay Price on being voted Best Professor! sc.edu/socialwork
Many local businesses make the majority of their profits off of the market and make up its heart and soul as well as its individuality. Whether it’s handmade bouquets, eclectic vintage pieces or authentic Mexican street corn, there is something for everyone
Lindsay Hammer, the owner of local business Hammered Daisy, as well as a fellow longtime vendor, agrees that the stability of the market is what keeps many small businesses successful.
“It gives you a guaranteed day to get your items out in front of customers,” Hammer said. “A lot of us don’t have a store, so it helps knowing that every single Saturday, rain or shine, people will be out here year-round.”
Whether you’re a local of Columbia or just passing through on a random Saturday, Soda City market will always be there.
Tyler Sprague
BEST LOCAL FESTIVAL
By Isabella Sepe
ST. PAT’S IN FIVE POINTS is a combination of music, culture and community hosted by the Five Points Association to bring people together for an energetic holiday. Tens of thousands of people come to see a lineup of musicians, try local foods and snap a picture with the green fountain.
The day kicks off with the Get to the Green 5K on Devine Street, followed by the St. Pat’s Parade, which highlights local businesses and organizations. Then, the festival begins! Bands from all over perform throughout the day, and the family-friendly event includes VIP areas,
BEST SPORTS BAR/ Trivia Night
a playground for kids and fun activities throughout Five Points.
The festival celebrates St. Patrick’s Day, but it also works to benefit local charities in Columbia. It has raised over a million dollars over the past 42 years and contributes more than $12 million annually to the local economy.
This spring, the festival will be taking place on March 14 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This year’s set features performers and bands such as Grace Porter, Congress the Band, Silk Road and more. There will also be a parade starting at 10 a.m.
This jack-of-all-trades festival caters to everyone. From a 5K to live music performance and everything in between, it’s hard not to have fun at South Carolina’s biggest one-day festival.
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BEST FIVE POINTS BAR
JAKE’S ON DEVINE is a Five Points staple for students, Columbia natives, dog lovers and others. This unique bar offers a community within the district. While the crowd varies depending on the
By Brynn Burke & Isabella Sepe
day, students take over during the school year, especially on Wednesdays.
“I have no idea where ‘Wednesday Night Jake’s’ stems from, but it’s a tradition that you can ask any USC student about. On Wednesday night, everyone’s going to Jake’s,” Abrianna Reaves, a recent alumna of USC, said. “It’s worth it to wait in line because sometimes it goes to the end of the street.”
They offer live music, late-night food and over 30 craft beers for energetic Five Points bar-goers. Create core memories with live music on the deck or play trivia on Tuesdays. The atmosphere and community are unmatched at Jake’s.
“It’s very versatile because you can have a lot of fun with your friends when it’s
GAMECOCKS TAKE CARE OF THE R HEALTH. CARE OF THEIR HEALTH.
a big event like game day or the Santa Bar Crawl,” Reaves said. “But there’s also nights like trivia nights where it’s a little slower or more intimate and you can have fun with a smaller group of friends.”
Jake’s is also known for its “Yappy Hour” and is the most dog-friendly bar in Five Points. Dog owners can register their dog ahead of time and get a signature Jake’s bandana for their dog. Yappy Hour is on Tuesdays and Thursdays. They even offer an annual Halloween Dog Costume Competition, where all proceeds go to local animal shelters.
Next time you’re in the mood for a fun night on the town, check out Jake’s on Devine to see for yourself why it was voted the Best Five Points Bar for Best of Carolina 2026.
BEST VISTA BAR
By Tara McGee
LOCATED IN ONE OF COLUMBIA’S most popular districts, The Vista, Republic Biergarten is a must for anyone looking for a good drink and a good time. With southern dishes and 40+ cold beers on tap, there is no better place to take a night off!
Biergarten is the first and only location to hit Columbia, which means a traditional, outdoor German experience has gotten a southern twist. Not only is the building in the heart of the Vista, it’s also walking distance from Colonial Life Arena,
making it the ideal place for an after-concert cocktail.
If you’re looking for an experience and dining all in one, Biergarten hosts trivias, private rentals, and is equipped with pool tables and flat screens perfect for sports viewing. No matter what you’re hoping for in a night out, stopping by the voter-picked Best Vista Bar is guaranteed to have something for you. No need to buy a plane ticket when you can get a feel for the European lifestyle right in the heart of downtown Columbia!
Fabian Bellamy
WHERE CREATIVITY MEETS IMPACT
BEST HAIR SALON
FIVE POINTS’ BELOVED shop Vivid! Cut, Color, Style has been voted the Best Hair Salon for 2026. Offering both a vivacious atmosphere and vibrant hair dyes, the
By Alyssa Culver-Draper
store has quickly turned into the most fashionable spot on Harden Street.
Upon entering the building, you are instantly transported into a world of fun and alternative style. The brick interior and open floorplan holds its own sense of community, decorated with local flyers, art and zines.
This communal connection does not stop at the door, with the seven-person stylist team making every customer feel at-home. They offer services that cater to every person’s wants and needs, from blonding to vivids, gender affirming haircuts to hair tinsel installation. They
are even prepared for those who are not sure what they’re looking for, offering free consultations and in-depth descriptions of each appointment type on their website.
Regardless of who you book with, you’re guaranteed to have a great experience. Not only are all of the stylists well-versed in different hair types, textures, and styles, they are all experienced, creative professionals. Each member of the team embraces their own talents and passions to form a collaborative environment where clients are able to feel more confident than ever, demonstrating why they were voted Best of Carolina 2026.
CAROLINA
Fabian Bellamy
BEST OFF-CAMPUS LIVING
By Isabella Sepe
SINCE OPENING ITS DOORS to students in August 2025, Gateway 737 has quickly become one of the most sought after off-campus housing options for those attending the University of South Carolina. Located just minutes from campus on Gadsden Street, residents are steps from campus hotspots such as Colonial Life Arena, the Darla Moore School of Business, the Horseshoe, and Greek Village. Its central location has made it especially popular among students who want the convenience of walking to class, grabbing food between lectures, or hosting meetings.
If there is an amenity you’re looking for, chances are Gateway 737 has it. The building offers 10 residential floors, each including shared study lounges, meeting rooms, entertainment spaces, and quiet corners designed to make student life feel both productive and social. These spaces stay active throughout the day, with students gathering for group projects, late-night study sessions or casual hangouts. Apartments come fully furnished, with layouts ranging from studios to spacious four-bedroom units, each equipped with modern appliances, in-unit laundry, and thoughtfully designed storage. For many residents, the move-in-ready setup is one of the biggest perks, allowing them to settle in quickly and focus on school, friends, and campus life.
Life at Gateway 737 also comes with perks that go beyond the basics. The complex
features a large outdoor courtyard with a tanning deck and pool, as well as plenty of lounge seating for sunny afternoons. The two-story fitness center is another major draw, offering cardio machines, weight equipment, and dedicated spaces for stretching or yoga. Residents can take advantage of the game room, complete with TVs and comfortable seating, or the tech lounge, which provides a quiet, modern environment for studying. The rooftop terrace is a hotspot during the warmer months, offering views of downtown Columbia and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for unwinding after class.
Gateway 737 also brings convenience to a new level with several on-site retail options. Knowledge Perk provides a go-to spot for coffee runs and study breaks, while Chick-fil-A and Domino’s
offer quick meals without leaving the building. Roxanne’s Market adds even more ease, giving residents access to snacks, groceries and essentials right downstairs. These additions make Gateway a place where everything students may need is within reach.
Whether you’re looking for a collaborative environment or a peaceful retreat, the space at Gateway can be adapted to your needs. Quiet study areas, lively common rooms, and comfortable outdoor spaces offer something for every type of student. For many USC students, Gateway 737 has become more than just a place to sleep; it’s a community that supports their academic life, social life and everything in between, creating a home where they can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Gabriel Blackwell/Daily Gamecock
GARNET CROSSING
SPACIOUS FLOOR PLANS
PRIVATE BED & BATHROOMS
FURNISHED & UNFURNISHED FULL-SIZED WASHER & DRYER
GOURMET KITCHENS
HIGH-SPEED WIFI & CABLE PET FRIENDLY* ELECTRONIC LOCKS
SHUTTLE TO CAMPUS 2 RESORT-STYLE POOLS 24-HOUR FITNESS CENTER RESIDENT EVENTS & MORE!
BEST GYM
Compiled By Staff
RIGHT OFF BLOSSOM STREET sits the Wellness and Fitness Center, USC’s student hub for all things fitness. The spacious gym has equipment and machines for nearly every exercise imaginable, a 52-foot rock wall and even an outdoor pool. From getting your heart rate up to relaxing in the South Carolina sun, it truly has something for everyone.
The gym first opened its doors in 2003, providing a large space for students to unwind from a busy academic routine. Now, the three-story gym remains a bustling community and a versatile place
for every individual’s needs.
From workout classes to pick-up basketball games, students can enjoy many activities during their free time. The fitness center has intramural sports leagues, weights for every lifting ability,
sports equipment and dedicated spaces for racquetball, handball and table tennis. Yet, its amenities go beyond the building itself, as its Outdoor Recreation program takes students outside the bounds of campus. Opportunities include kayaking along the Congaree River and skiing at Snowshoe Mountain.
On campus, activities such as table tennis and other organized games are available on site. Students can enjoy these amenities and explore what the Wellness and Fitness Center has to offer with just the swipe of their CarolinaCard.
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Congratulations to Kristin Walker
Advertising Faculty Member
We could not be more proud of Kristin Walker! It comes as no surprise that students would choose her for inclusion in the 'Best of Carolina' list. Her genuine enthusiasm for student engagement shines through every semester.
-Dean Tom Reichert, College of Information and Communications
