This list wasn’t born easily. We’ve debated over candlelit tables, argued about sauces in parking lots, and dreamed of menus haunting our sleep. Some might call us obsessive—we prefer dedicated. After tasting every forkful Columbia has to offer, we present the 20 best restaurants you need to visit now. Trust us: your taste buds will thank you.
Vecchia Sicilia Pizza Shop
$ | (717) 684-7515 | WEBSITE
Vecchia Sicilia Pizza Shop is a cozy spot with a pizza so good it’s become a beloved destination in the Columbia area. The classic parts of the pizza are excellent—a crust that’s never frozen or over processed with a sauce that’s a consistent hit. But it’s the made-from-scratch bread we love the most. It has a balance of crispy and airy that regular bread usually does not. Bonus: The French fries are perfect, so this thick pizza and all of its contents stays satisfying, bite after bite.
Dairy Queen
$ | (717) 684-3874 | WEBSITE
When something is as classic as Dairy Queen, it’s tempting to dismiss it as outdated. After all, people love novelty, and Dairy Queen certainly isn’t—at this point, it’s in timeless territory. Ignore the skeptics (and the occasional line) and recognize perfection when it’s staring you in the face. Or, in this case, when it’s creamy soft-serve with that signature curl, served with a genuine smile, begging to enter your mouth.
Prospect Diner
$ | (717) 684-0469 | WEBSITE
There used to be some restrictions regarding the scrapple at Prospect Diner: You could only order it during breakfast hours, or on the weekend when they’re extra busy. But now you can get it whenever they’re open. Well, sort of—the cut-off to order is 11am when breakfast service ends. Still, we’re eternally grateful for that fact. Not only is the scrapple perfectly cooked, but the additions of crispy edges and that savory seasoning make it something worth scheduling your morning around.
Columbia Pizza Restaurant
$ | (717) 684-7910 | WEBSITE
Columbia Pizza Restaurant has delicious $3 cheese slices, a cozy atmosphere, and a friendly owner-run vibe that feels like the result of many family recipes. You shouldn’t need more reasons to like this spot, but here’s another: the incredible $12 Joe’s Special Cheesesteak. Yes, $12 gets you a generously filled sub with steak, cheese, peppers, and onions on their housemade bread.
It’s the perfect size for a satisfying takeout meal, and if you brought the whole family with you, get the $28 combo special.
Rocky’s BBQ
$ | (717) 420-7405 | WEBSITE
Rocky’s BBQ has long been celebrated for its exceptional barbecue, but their recent burnt ends and Carolina sauce prove they aren’t a one-style wonder. Their brisket sandwich is a loaded masterpiece—tender smoked meat with vinegary Carolina sauce, hearty baked beans packed with hamburger and onions, and that famously cheesy mac and cheese.
Each component fuses into a balanced flavor bomb of smokiness, tang, sweetness, and spice, all served by a staff that makes you feel like an old friend in their warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mr Joe’s Steak House & Restaurant
$ | (717) 684-5738 | WEBSITE
Mr Joe’s Steak House & Restaurant in Columbia is the kind of casual, delicious spot that you need in your steakhouse rotation. And while the cheesesteak with cheese sauce from the fries is the flashy move, it’s not the best one. Instead, direct your attention toward either the flavorful wings (though note they’re not whole wings and come with an additional charge for ranch or blue cheese) or the delicious milkshakes that perfectly complement the meal.
Be warned, these dishes are tasty but straightforward, so plan on enjoying them without too much fuss.
Trio Bar And Grill
$ | (717) 285-0888 | WEBSITE
Much like how Trio Bar And Grill holds a steady spot on our Columbia restaurant guide, this place is primarily here for reliable comfort. This bar and grill has been serving the neighborhood for years, and any establishment that remembers the old sports seasons and still draws crowds deserves our appreciation.
The food isn’t particularly groundbreaking, but it is delicious, and there’s undeniable evidence that eating those bomb bomb shrimp tacos with a side of onion rings while watching a game on a perfectly angled TV can automatically boost your mood by at least 50%. Our regular order is the turkey with avocado on toasted sourdough and a house salad, which comes with fresh ingredients and that cheerful, attentive service from the owners themselves.
Starview Brews
$$ | (717) 681-8987 | WEBSITE
In a world filled with craft beer flights, nothing is quite as satisfying as a straightforward beer you can drink in one hand that costs less than $10 and comes with brats. That’s what you’ll find at Starview Brews, which is located on Locust Street in Columbia. This rustic spot has a short menu of mostly pub classics, and what you want to get is the brats and sauerkraut. It’s juicy sausage, tangy kraut, and a soft bun that practically melts in your mouth.
And those crispy nachos will beg you to order a hazy IPA to wash them down, and you should listen.
Coffee and Cream
$ | (717) 449-5488 | WEBSITE
Tucked among the quiches, baked oatmeal, and avocado toast at Coffee and Cream in Columbia is an incredible hot latte. And while it doesn’t sound complicated—just honey, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper—we promise it’s a must-order. What makes the killer bee latte at this charming coffee shop so special (besides the delicious Harney & Sons tea selection) is that it’s a marvel of careful balancing. From the first sip to the last it goes: sweet honey, warm cinnamon, spicy cayenne, and rich espresso.
And apparently, that’s the secret formula you use to create a perfectly crafted latte.
Creekside Cafe
$ | (717) 653-9655 | WEBSITE
Creekside Cafe’s prime rib is straightforward, no frills, and so satisfying we could order seconds (which we have). The filet from this local gem is tender excellence paired with rich flavor and buttery texture. Plus, the crab cake has a wonderful crispy exterior. Just know that parking can be tight and accessibility may be tricky due to stairs and limited handicap options.
Parma Pizza & Grill Of Columbia
$ | (717) 992-4153 | WEBSITE
You might not consider a “Buffalo-style wing” to be eligible for this list, and we respect that. But it’s our guide, and the char BBQ wings at Parma Pizza & Grill are wonderfully messy, delicious bites. They’re a play on the Buffalo wing—an iconic saucy creation perfected decades ago in New York. And the combo of crispy skin, tangy barbecue sauce, and tender meat makes us want to sign a petition to replace future chicken tenders with these wings, instead.
The cheesesteak pizza is equally addictive, with its melty cheese and savory steak bits on a perfectly baked crust. While the Buffalo Chicken Pizza missed the mark with unexpected sauce, the stuffed pizza and pretzel-wrapped dog special from 11-2 are out of this world. Fair prices and tasty food create a welcoming atmosphere where you’ll come hungry and leave planning your next visit.
Prince Street Cafe, Columbia
$ | (717) 482-5330 | WEBSITE
While primarily a breakfast and lunch cafe, Prince Street Cafe is a treasure trove of baked goods. The Columbia spot has excellent home fries seasoned with oregano, but the real standout is the blueberry scone. The texture of this flaky, buttery pastry is so satisfying, muffin lovers won’t miss their usual morning treat.
Blueberry lemonade and vegan chocolate chip banana muffins complement the experience, and with the addition of that welcoming atmosphere it might be one of the best cafes you’ll visit this season.
Turkey Hill Experience
$ | (717) 684-0134 | WEBSITE
This is a family-friendly spot in Columbia from the team behind the popular Turkey Hill brand. The ice cream sampling is fantastic, but it turns out the ice cream-making experience might be even better, mainly because it comes with the help of personable and experienced instructors. And those instructors are perfect guides for creating your own flavor, designing a custom label, and making a fun video clip to remember it all.
The unlimited access to refreshing ice tea and lemonade keeps everyone hydrated while exploring the historical exhibits and playing games. The layout is easy to navigate, with the gift shop and tasting lab conveniently on the first floor and the kids’ area with unlimited samples upstairs. While some premium experiences like creating your own flavor cost extra, the overall value is great for families looking for an engaging day out.
The attraction works well for couples, kids, and groups alike, though those with dairy restrictions should note there aren’t dairy-free ice cream options available.
Columbia Family Restaurant
$ | (717) 285-0780 | WEBSITE
Family restaurants have been a staple of American dining since the dawn of suburbia. Columbia Family Restaurant and strip malls are perhaps a less glamorous match-up, but it’s a combination that’s worth embracing in Columbia, PA. Hiding in a menu full of comfort classics like the Monte Cristo and gyros is an adorable clock, which just so happens to be the best thing here.
The foundation is simple: a welcoming atmosphere gently rests on friendly staff and fast service, tucked underneath a warm blanket of reasonable prices. But what takes this to the next level is the trifecta of ample free parking, wheelchair accessibility, and that charming clock that breaks apart and comes back together every 20 minutes beside the Giants Grocery store.
Griddles malt shoppe
$ | (717) 342-2408 | WEBSITE
The signature Darryl’s Twisted Cheesesteak from Griddles Malt Shoppe—the cozy 50s-style diner in Columbia—is, in fact, delicious, but don’t ignore the Chickie’s rock chicken cheese steak.
The savory, tender chicken is topped with layers of melty cheese, and comes on a toasted roll with the perfect amount of seasoning—aka “just right.” We like the classic version, but if you want something more comforting (and hearty), they also have made-from-scratch sausage gravy over English muffins with fried potatoes and scrapple if all that cheese wasn’t rich enough.
HomeGoodies & Coffee
$ | (717) 598-1702 | WEBSITE
Despite its modest storefront, HomeGoodies & Coffee is a powerhouse of fresh, made-to-order comfort. This Columbia spot crafts bagel sandwiches with fantastic morning appeal. But the jalapeno popper grilled cheese remains gooey at its core, fusing perfectly with the toasted bread and cozy atmosphere. The classic breakfast is great, but our go-to order at the outdoor seating or inside the surprisingly spacious interior is the custom PB chocolate latte.
It gets a rich depth from the peanut butter and sweetness from the chocolate, making it a delicious monthly highlight.
Dunkin’
$ | (717) 522-5613 | WEBSITE
This isn’t a fine dining destination, it’s a coffee and breakfast spot. Good thing, because the coffee at Dunkin’ can be a bit inconsistent. This is due to the occasional watered-down brew that needs extra customization to taste right. But it’s the staff that makes this place so special. They’re really friendly and hardworking (this style of service is popular in busy chain restaurants), so the operation stays smooth even during high-volume periods, but also somehow feels personal.
Get your order from the team that calls regulars by name. Consider coming here in the morning and enjoying it with the hot, fresh food.
Hinkle’s Restaurant
$ | (717) 684-2888 | WEBSITE
Some weekly traditions require a bit of scheduling: planning a family outing, catching up with friends, and enjoying the AYCE fish fry at Hinkle’s. This wonderful diner-style spot in Columbia only offers it on Fridays, and the bright, spacious dining room fills up quickly. But making room in your Friday evening is absolutely worth it for this generous portion of hot, crispy fish served with perfectly golden fries and creamy coleslaw.
It all comes with that friendly, efficient service that makes you feel right at home, plus a trip to the old-fashioned soda fountain for a sweet cherry phosphate afterward.
Yang’s Garden Restaurant
$ | (717) 684-4375 | WEBSITE
Yang’s Garden’s menu stays consistent, but within the routine lies one standout: the General Tso’s chicken. The crispy chicken pieces are surprisingly juicy, well-sauced, and have the perfect amount of crunch. The sweet and tangy sauce gives it a pleasant balance, and everything is served over steaming rice that feels like comfort food. Wait times? Sometimes. But you won’t mind.
Garth
$$ | (717) 847-1718 | WEBSITE
Garth’s warm, art-filled dining rooms create an intimate atmosphere perfect for special gatherings like baby showers and small weddings. And you should book one because their attention to detail is exceptional, with a team that takes great pride in ensuring every event runs smoothly. The personalized service shines through in every interaction, and it’s perfectly complemented by their on-site barista who grinds and serves delicious coffee selections.
Everything is thoughtfully arranged in these beautiful spaces, but don’t bother trying to resist the charm—this is a memorable one.