99 Bar & Grill in Columbia: Casual American Dining with Sports and Cocktails

What to expect at 99 Bar & Grill

99 Bar & Grill is a casual American restaurant in Columbia where you can order burgers, wings, and sandwiches while watching sports on multiple screens. The menu leans toward pub fare—fried appetizers, salads, and entrees in the $12 to $20 range—and the bar stocks a full selection of beer, wine, and cocktails. The atmosphere is relaxed and social, with a sports-bar energy that works well for groups, game days, or a weeknight dinner without formality.

The restaurant occupies a straightforward space designed for comfort rather than ambiance. Tables are spaced to accommodate conversation, and the bar itself is a natural gathering spot. Service is friendly and efficient, which matters when the place fills up during football season or local events. The noise level and casual dress code mean you can show up as you are—no need to plan an outfit or arrive early to secure a quiet corner.

Key Takeaways

• 99 Bar & Grill serves American pub food—burgers, wings, sandwiches, and appetizers—at moderate prices without requiring reservations for most visits.
• The restaurant has multiple televisions throughout, making it a reliable spot to watch college football, NFL games, and other sports events.
• The bar offers beer on tap, bottled selections, wine, and mixed drinks, with happy hour pricing available during certain hours.
• The space works for casual groups, families with older children, and solo diners at the bar, though it is not a quiet or intimate setting.

The menu and what to order

The kitchen focuses on items that pair well with beer and television. Burgers come with standard toppings and sides like fries or coleslaw. Wings are available in multiple sauces—buffalo, barbecue, and others—and arrive in portions meant for sharing or a substantial single meal. Sandwiches include chicken, fish, and beef options, most served on toasted bread with fries.

Appetizers are a strong point: fried pickles, mozzarella sticks, nachos, and loaded fries appear regularly on tables. Salads are available for those wanting something lighter, though they are not the restaurant's signature. Entrees like ribs, chicken tenders, and seafood round out the offerings. Prices are straightforward—nothing on the menu breaks $25 before sides.

The kitchen does not attempt fine dining or complex preparations. What it does is deliver consistent, familiar food quickly. That consistency matters when you are there for the game and hungry, not when you are seeking culinary surprise. Portions are generous, so plan accordingly if you are ordering multiple items to share.

Drinks and the bar scene

The bar is the social center of 99. It stocks a rotating selection of draft beers—local South Carolina breweries often appear alongside national brands—and bottled options for those with specific preferences. The bartenders mix standard cocktails and can handle requests, though the menu skews toward simple drinks rather than craft creations.

Happy hour runs at specific times (hours vary by day and season, so call ahead to confirm). During happy hour, beer prices drop and appetizers may be discounted. The bar itself is a good place to sit if you are dining alone or waiting for a table; you can watch the game, order food, and talk to other regulars without feeling out of place. The bartenders know regulars by name and keep the energy upbeat without being intrusive.

When to go and what to plan for

Game days—especially Gamecock football Saturdays and NFL Sundays—draw crowds. If you want a table rather than bar seating, arrive early or expect a wait. The noise level rises significantly during these times, which is part of the appeal for sports fans but not ideal if you want conversation.

Weekday evenings are quieter and easier to navigate. Lunch is steady but not packed. The restaurant does not take reservations for most groups, so larger parties should call ahead to ask about availability or timing. Private event space may be available for groups; the restaurant can provide details about capacity and pricing.

Location and parking

99 Bar & Grill is located in Columbia's midtown area, accessible from major roads and shopping districts. Parking is available on-site or in nearby lots, so you will not struggle to find a spot even during busy times. The location makes it convenient for a quick meal before or after other activities in the area.

The restaurant sits near other dining and retail options, so you can combine a visit with shopping or other errands. Public transit connections are available if you prefer not to drive, though having a car makes access easier during peak hours when parking lots fill quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation?

Most visits do not require a reservation, and walk-ins are welcome. During major sporting events or large group visits, calling ahead is smart. The staff can tell you wait times and may hold a table if you are coming with a large party.

Is 99 Bar & Grill good for families with kids?

Yes, families with children eat here regularly. The menu has items kids enjoy, and the casual atmosphere does not demand quiet behavior. The sports-bar environment means noise and activity are normal, which works for some families and not others.

What beers are on tap?

The draft selection rotates and includes both local South Carolina breweries and national brands. Call the restaurant or check their social media for the current lineup, especially if you have a specific preference.

Can I watch a specific game there?

Multiple televisions throughout the restaurant show different games and sports events. Call ahead if you want to confirm a particular game will be on, especially for less common sports or events.

What is the price range?

Most entrees fall between $12 and $20 before tax and tip. Appetizers are typically $8 to $12. Drinks vary by type—beer is usually $4 to $7, cocktails $6 to $9. Happy hour offers reduced prices on select items.