Motor Supply Company Bistro

One of our favorite date night splurge spots. We enjoy their cocktail selection and delicious entree items that change with the seasons. Located in a historic building that's listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, this is the place to go to treat yourself to something new and delicious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Loved the atmosphere here, and Marley made the experience even better with her amazing service! The food was good, just wish it had a little more seasoning, but the crème brûlée and desserts were absolutely delicious.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

My experience at Motor Supply Co. Bistro was nothing short of exceptional. Located in the heart of the historic Vista district, the atmosphere is both sophisticated and comfortably rustic, housed in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building. The menu changes daily, which is a testament to their commitment to fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. We started with the pimento cheese fritters, which were crispy on the outside and delightfully creamy inside. For my main, I had the grilled local trout with summer squash and a herb vinaigrette. The fish was flawlessly cooked, with a perfectly crisp skin, and the vegetables were fresh and vibrant. My partner had the braised short rib, which fell apart at the touch of a fork and was incredibly rich and flavorful. Our server was knowledgeable, expertly describing each dish and offering a perfect wine pairing suggestion. The entire evening felt special and thoughtfully curated. It’s clear why Motor Supply has been a cornerstone of Columbia's dining scene for so long. It’s perfect for a romantic date night or a celebratory dinner.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Great food. Had to wait 45 mins or so after ordering on a slow Friday afternoon

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 4

Came here for a quick lunch with family and although they were happy with the food, I was not as fortunate. My wife loved her meatloaf and the risotto. My daughter also loved her grilled cheese and soup. I am a self proclaimed burger connoisseur, so after I read a sign stating they have the “best burger in South Carolina” I was eager to try. The presentation of the burger was very good and I was off to a great start until I took a bite. The first thing I heard was my wife saying ewww as she watched blood squirt out of the burger. At that point I was done. I told the server and he asked if I wanted them to cook this burger up some more? Not would you like a new one, but would you like this one cooked longer. It really wouldn’t have mattered, because after I send something back I don’t trust you and don’t want anything else. On the other hand, he could’ve heard my concerns taken the food back and prior to us leaving brought out another one to go just for the inconvenience. That’s what good customer service looks like. Unfortunately, not only did I have to deal with a bloody burger but I had to deal with bad customer service as well.

Atmosphere: 3

Food: 2

Service: 3

If I had to critique it I would only say add one or two options for kids. Other than that everything was excellent.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

The place is very popular so reservations are a necessity. We were there on at Tuesday about 6:30 PM and without the reservation we wouldn't have been seated until much later.

The food is very good with a variety of choices. The bar does offer some house specialties.

Parking is next to the restaurant.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

A nice, laid back experience with delish food options!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

I am giving it 4 stars because the service and the atmosphere. The quail tasted over cooked and the rice tasted under cooked.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 4

Service: 5

Wonderful farm to table dining. Always fresh and delicious! The menu changes often so you never know what is being offered! Truly the best in town!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Absolutely a great choice! My wife and I are traveling through from South Florida. Great food and service. I had the Rib Eye that was cooked to perfection!

Creative menu that was delicious!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Cute little place, good service, nice ambiance and the food was pretty good too. Great place for date night.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 5

Great food and friendly staff. New chef has really stepped up the game here. Happy to see new life in a Columbia classic, while maintaining what made it special to begin with.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great food, drinks, and ambiance. Cocktails were on par with the best that I've had anywhere else. Doug was on point with the service. Food was cooked and prepared perfectly. Can't say enough good things about this place.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5