C&B Bar and Grill in Columbia: Low-Country Seafood and Southern Comfort

What C&B Bar and Grill Serves and Where to Find It

C&B Bar and Grill is a seafood-focused restaurant in Columbia that specializes in Low Country cooking—the coastal Southern tradition built around fresh catches, shrimp, crab, and locally sourced ingredients. The menu leans toward casual dining with an emphasis on fried and grilled seafood, alongside Southern comfort staples like fried chicken and collard greens. The atmosphere is relaxed and neighborhood-oriented, making it a straightforward spot for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal with friends.

The restaurant is located in the Five Points area of Columbia, a walkable neighborhood known for independent shops, galleries, and dining options. Parking is street-level and typically available, though it can fill during peak dinner hours on weekends. The space itself is unpretentious—wood accents, casual seating, and a bar that runs along one side of the dining room.

Key Takeaways

• C&B specializes in Low Country seafood, with fried shrimp, crab cakes, and grilled fish as menu anchors, plus Southern sides like mac and cheese and collard greens.
• The restaurant sits in Columbia's Five Points neighborhood, a central location with street parking and nearby galleries and shops.
• The bar serves beer, wine, and cocktails in a casual setting suited to both solo diners and groups.
• Hours and pricing are moderate for casual seafood dining in Columbia, with entrees typically in the mid-range for the market.

The Menu: Seafood and Southern Sides

The core of the menu centers on fried and grilled seafood. Fried shrimp baskets come with fries and coleslaw; crab cakes are a signature item; and the grilled fish selection rotates based on what's available. Fried oysters and fried scallops round out the fried seafood options. These are the dishes regulars order, and they reflect the Low Country tradition of simple preparation that lets the seafood speak.

Beyond seafood, the menu includes fried chicken, burgers, and sandwiches—entry points for diners who want something other than fish. Sides are where Southern tradition shows: mac and cheese, collard greens, fried okra, and hushpuppies are all present. The kitchen does not attempt haute cuisine; it aims for honest execution of familiar dishes.

The Bar and Drink Selection

The bar stocks beer (both local and national brands), wine by the glass and bottle, and cocktails. The drink list is not elaborate—this is not a craft cocktail destination—but it covers the basics well. Local breweries like Craft Hut and Conquest Brewing are usually on tap, reflecting Columbia's growing beer scene.

The bar itself is a social space. Regulars sit at the counter, and the bartenders know the neighborhood crowd. It's a place to grab a drink before dinner or to linger after eating, not a nightlife venue with a dance floor or late-night energy.

When to Go and What to Expect

Lunch is quieter and faster—good if you want to eat and leave. Dinner, especially Friday and Saturday nights, draws families, couples, and groups of friends. The restaurant fills but does not require a reservation; you may wait 15 to 20 minutes on a busy Saturday evening, but turnover is steady.

The noise level is moderate—you can have a conversation without shouting, but it's not silent. Service is friendly and unhurried, matching the casual tone of the space. The kitchen is not fast-casual; expect 20 to 30 minutes from order to plate during normal service.

Five Points Neighborhood Context

C&B sits within Five Points, one of Columbia's oldest and most walkable neighborhoods. The area has a mix of independent restaurants, coffee shops, vintage stores, and galleries. If you arrive early or stay late, you can browse nearby shops or visit the nearby Congaree River boardwalk, which is a short drive away.

Five Points is also home to other dining options—Thai, Italian, and vegetarian restaurants are within a few blocks—so if your group has mixed preferences, the neighborhood supports splitting up and meeting afterward. Street parking is free and usually available, though weekend evenings can be tight.

Price Range and Payment

Entrees at C&B typically range from the mid-teens to the low 30s, depending on what you order. A fried shrimp basket costs less than a grilled fish plate or crab cake entree. Sides are separate and modest in price. A meal for one, with a drink and tip, usually falls between $25 and $45.

The restaurant accepts cash and card. There is no cover charge or minimum, and no surcharge for splitting checks. Takeout is available if you prefer to eat at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does C&B take reservations?

No. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis. On busy weekend evenings, you may wait, but the line moves steadily. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times is reasonable, though they cannot hold a table for you.

Is there outdoor seating?

C&B has limited outdoor seating, weather permitting. The primary dining area is indoors. On mild evenings, a few tables may be available outside, but this is not may provide and depends on the season and day.

Can I bring a large group?

Yes, but large groups (eight or more) may want to call ahead to give the kitchen a heads-up. The restaurant can accommodate groups, but advance notice helps the kitchen manage timing and ensures a smoother experience for everyone.

What are the hours?

Hours vary by day and season. Lunch is typically 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner runs from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. or later, depending on the day. Checking their website or calling before visiting ensures you arrive during open hours.

Is the food spicy?

Most dishes are mild to moderate in heat. The kitchen does not emphasize spice; Low Country cooking is about the seafood itself. If you prefer extra seasoning or heat, ask your server—the kitchen can adjust.