Sesame Burgers & Beer in Columbia: Craft Burgers and Local Brews

What Sesame Burgers & Beer Offers

Sesame Burgers & Beer is a casual restaurant in Columbia that builds its menu around hand-crafted burgers and a rotating selection of craft beers. The burger lineup changes seasonally, but the kitchen consistently works with fresh beef, house-made buns, and toppings that go beyond the standard fast-food approach. You'll find burgers topped with things like caramelized onions, house-made pickles, specialty cheeses, and locally-sourced ingredients when available.

The beer program is the other half of the draw. The restaurant stocks a mix of South Carolina craft beers alongside selections from across the Southeast and beyond. The tap list rotates, so what's available changes week to week. Staff can walk you through what's on draft and suggest pairings with whatever burger you're ordering.

The space itself is designed for lingering—wood tables, a bar area where you can watch the kitchen work, and a casual vibe that fits Columbia's neighborhood restaurant culture. It's the kind of place where you can spend an hour over a burger and a beer without feeling rushed.

Key Takeaways

• Sesame Burgers & Beer changes its burger menu seasonally, so the specific options vary depending on when you visit.
• The restaurant focuses on hand-crafted burgers made with fresh beef and house-made buns, not mass-produced patties.
• The beer selection emphasizes South Carolina craft breweries and regional producers, with taps that rotate regularly.
• The casual dining environment and bar seating make it a good spot for groups or solo diners who want to spend time over food and drink.

The Burger Menu and Seasonal Changes

The burger offerings shift with the seasons, which means regulars have a reason to return and try new combinations. Spring and summer might bring lighter toppings and seasonal produce, while fall and winter see richer additions like roasted mushrooms or heavier cheeses. The kitchen also runs specials and limited-time burgers that appear for a few weeks before rotating out.

Beyond the signature burgers, you can usually build your own by choosing your protein, bun type, and toppings from what's available. This flexibility matters if you have dietary preferences or want to avoid certain ingredients. The staff can tell you what's in each burger and what substitutions are possible.

Beer Selection and Pairing

Sesame Burgers & Beer prioritizes South Carolina breweries, which means you'll regularly see taps from places like Palmetto Brewing Company, Westbrook Brewing, and other state producers. This focus supports the local beer community and gives you a chance to explore what's being made in your own state. The rotating taps mean you might discover a new favorite on any given visit.

If you're not sure what to order, the staff can suggest pairings based on your burger choice and beer preferences. A hoppy IPA might cut through a rich, cheese-heavy burger, while a lighter lager or cream ale pairs well with simpler toppings. The bar staff typically know the beers on draft well enough to guide you toward something you'll enjoy.

Location and Hours

Sesame Burgers & Beer is located in Columbia's midtown area, making it accessible whether you're coming from downtown, the Five Points neighborhood, or surrounding residential areas. Street parking is usually available, though the lot can fill during peak dinner hours on weekends.

Hours typically run from late morning through evening, with extended hours on weekends. It's worth checking their current schedule before you go, as restaurant hours can shift seasonally or for special events. The restaurant is closed on major holidays.

What to Expect When You Visit

Sesame Burgers & Beer operates as a casual counter-service or table-service hybrid depending on how busy it is. During slower times, you might order at the counter and have your food brought to your table. During peak hours, a server may take your order. Either way, the pace is relaxed—this isn't a fast-food experience, and burgers are made to order.

The restaurant welcomes groups and solo diners equally. If you're coming with friends, the communal table seating and bar area work well for conversation. If you're eating alone, the bar is a natural spot to sit and watch the kitchen work while you eat.

Price Range and Payment

Burgers typically fall in the mid-range for a craft burger restaurant—more than a chain burger, less than a high-end steakhouse. Individual burgers usually run between $12 and $18 depending on the toppings and protein choice. Beers are priced according to the brewery and style, with most pints in the $5 to $8 range. Sides like fries or onion rings add a few dollars to your bill.

The restaurant accepts both cash and card payments. If you're planning to spend time there over multiple beers, ask about any happy hour specials or beer discounts that might be running.

Why Sesame Burgers & Beer Matters to Columbia's Food Scene

Sesame Burgers & Beer represents a shift in how Columbia restaurants approach casual dining. Rather than defaulting to chains, the restaurant builds its identity around craft and local sourcing—both in the burgers and in the beer selection. This approach has become part of Columbia's broader food culture, where neighborhood restaurants compete on quality and creativity rather than just convenience.

The emphasis on South Carolina breweries also strengthens the connection between the restaurant and the state's growing craft beer community. When you order a beer at Sesame, you're often supporting a brewery that's within a few hours of where you're sitting, which matters to people who care about where their money goes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a burger without beef?

The menu focuses on beef burgers, but the kitchen can usually work with you on modifications. Ask your server or the person taking your order what protein options might be available—some locations offer chicken or plant-based alternatives, though these aren't always on the standard menu. Calling ahead to ask about non-beef options is the safest approach.

Do you need a reservation?

Sesame Burgers & Beer typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis without reservations. During peak dinner hours on weekends, there can be a wait, especially if you're part of a large group. Coming during off-peak times (early afternoon or weekday evenings) usually means shorter waits.

What if I don't drink beer?

The restaurant serves soft drinks, water, and sometimes other beverages alongside the beer selection. You can absolutely come for the burgers without ordering alcohol. The food stands on its own, and the casual atmosphere welcomes non-drinkers just as much as beer enthusiasts.

Are the burgers made fresh to order?

Yes. Burgers are cooked after you order, which is why there's a wait between ordering and eating. This approach means your burger arrives hot and the toppings are fresh, but it also means you should plan for 15 to 20 minutes from order to plate during busy times.

Can I find out what burgers are on the menu before I visit?

Since the menu changes seasonally, your best bet is to check the restaurant's social media or website, or call ahead. Staff can tell you what's currently available and describe the toppings and proteins on each burger so you can decide if it's what you're looking for.