Friendly Billiards in Columbia: Pool, Sandwiches, and a Neighborhood Hangout

What Friendly Billiards offers

Friendly Billiards is a pool hall and sandwich shop in Columbia that combines two things locals want in one place: a casual spot to play billiards and a counter where you can order a real sandwich. The venue sits in a working neighborhood rather than a tourist district, which shapes both the crowd and the vibe. You walk in, order at the counter, grab a table or a pool cue, and settle in for however long you want to stay.

The sandwich menu is straightforward—the kind of place where the owner knows what works and doesn't overcomplicate it. Pool tables fill most of the space, and the lighting and setup are built for actual play rather than Instagram photos. It's the kind of spot where regulars have their preferred table and the bartender knows their order.

Key Takeaways

• Friendly Billiards combines a full pool hall with a sandwich counter, so you can eat and play in the same room without leaving.
• The venue draws a neighborhood crowd rather than tourists, which means a more relaxed atmosphere and lower prices than upscale pool halls.
• Tables are available for hourly rental, and the space works for solo players, small groups, or larger gatherings.
• The sandwich menu keeps to basics—no fusion or trends—which appeals to people who know what they want to eat.

Pool tables and rental rates

Friendly Billiards operates on an hourly table rental system. You pay by the hour to use a pool table, and the rate is set by the venue. The exact cost varies depending on whether you're playing during peak hours or slower times, so calling ahead or checking their posted rates when you arrive gives you the clearest picture of what to expect.

The hall has multiple tables, so walk-ins can usually find an open one during off-peak times. Weekends and evenings draw more players, so if you want to may provide a table during those hours, arriving early or calling to reserve makes sense. The tables themselves are maintained for regular play—not tournament-grade, but solid enough for casual and intermediate players.

The sandwich counter

The sandwich menu at Friendly Billiards sticks to the fundamentals: roast beef, turkey, ham, and other deli standards built on bread that's fresh enough to matter. You order at the counter, and the sandwiches come made to order rather than pre-wrapped. Prices sit well below what you'd pay at a sit-down restaurant, which fits the venue's neighborhood character.

The sandwiches are sized to fill you up without being so massive that you can't hold a cue afterward. Most people order one sandwich and a drink, then settle in for a few hours. The counter also stocks basic drinks and snacks—nothing elaborate, but everything you need to stay comfortable while you play.

Who goes there and when

Friendly Billiards draws neighborhood regulars, after-work groups, and people who want to play pool without the noise and expense of a nightclub-style venue. You'll see solo players working on their game, coworkers taking a break together, and groups of friends who've made it a standing Friday night. The crowd skews toward people who actually play pool rather than people treating it as a photo backdrop.

Weekday afternoons are quieter, which suits players who want a calm table and fewer interruptions. Evenings and weekends pick up, especially Friday and Saturday nights. The venue doesn't have a strict dress code or cover charge—you show up, pay for your table and food, and play as long as you want.

Location and parking

Friendly Billiards sits in a residential and commercial mixed neighborhood in Columbia, not downtown or in a shopping center. Street parking is available in the area, and the venue itself typically has parking nearby. The neighborhood location means it's quieter than a downtown pool hall but also means you need to know where it is—it's not somewhere you stumble across by accident.

The address and directions are worth confirming before you go, especially if you're visiting Columbia for the first time. Once you know where it is, it becomes an easy stop on a neighborhood evening out or a regular hangout if you live or work nearby.

What to bring and what to expect

Bring cash or a card—most pool halls accept both, though calling ahead to confirm payment methods saves a trip back to the ATM. Bring your own cue if you have one and prefer it, though the house cues are available. If you're playing with friends, everyone doesn't need to arrive at the same time; you can reserve a table and people can join as they show up.

Expect a casual, no-frills environment. There's no table service—you order at the counter and carry your food to your table. The noise level is moderate; it's a pool hall, so there's the sound of balls and conversation, but not the blaring music of a bar. If you're looking for a quiet, upscale experience, this isn't it. If you want to play pool, eat a sandwich, and spend time with people without pretense, it works.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to call ahead to reserve a table?

Walk-ins are welcome, and you can usually find an open table during slower times. For weekends or evenings when the hall is busier, calling ahead to reserve a specific table guarantees you won't wait. The venue's phone number should be listed online or in local directories.

Can I bring my own food, or do I have to buy from the counter?

Most pool halls have a policy about outside food. Friendly Billiards' specific policy is worth confirming by phone, but typically venues allow you to bring your own drinks while requiring food purchases from the counter. Calling ahead takes the guesswork out.

What if I don't know how to play pool?

Pool halls are open to beginners. You can rent a table, learn the basics from friends or online videos, and practice. Some venues offer lessons or have experienced players who don't mind showing newcomers the fundamentals. The casual atmosphere at Friendly Billiards makes it a reasonable place to learn.

Are there tournaments or leagues?

Many pool halls host weekly leagues or monthly tournaments. Whether Friendly Billiards runs organized play is worth asking when you call. If they do, joining a league is a way to meet other players and play on a regular schedule.

What are the hours?

Pool hall hours vary by day and season. Calling the venue or checking their posted hours online gives you the current schedule. Most are open afternoons and evenings, with extended hours on weekends.