Farm-to-Table · Columbia, SC

Where Fire Meets Flavor

Wood-fired dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, served in a warm, inviting space in the heart of Columbia. Every plate tells the story of our farmers, our fire, and our passion.

Mon – Thu
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Fri – Sat
5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Our Story

Built Around the Table

Ember & Oak started in 2018 with a simple belief: the best meals happen when great ingredients meet real fire and genuine hospitality. Every dish on our menu is built from scratch using produce from local Midlands farms, proteins from regional ranchers, and bread from our own kitchen.

We're not fancy for fancy's sake. We're a neighborhood spot where you can bring a date or your whole family, enjoy a thoughtfully made cocktail, and eat food that tastes like someone actually cared about it — because we do.

— Chef Marcus Alleyne
Founder & Executive Chef
Good food is honest food. We let the fire and the ingredients do the talking.
— Columbia Free Times, "Best New Restaurant 2019"
The Experience

More Than Just Dinner

Everything about Ember & Oak is designed to make you feel at home — from the moment you walk in to the last sip.

🪵

Live Fire Kitchen

An open kitchen centered around our custom wood-burning hearth — watch your meal come to life.

🍸

Craft Cocktails

Seasonal cocktails built with house-made syrups, local spirits, and fresh-pressed juices.

🎵

Live Music Fridays

Local artists every Friday evening. Acoustic sets that set the mood without overwhelming conversation.

🎉

Private Events

Our back room seats up to 40 guests. Perfect for rehearsal dinners, birthdays, and corporate gatherings.

Guest Reviews

What People Are Saying

Rated 4.8 stars on Google with over 400 reviews.

★★★★★
"This is hands down the best restaurant in Columbia. The ribeye was the best steak I've ever had, and the cocktails are incredible. We go at least once a month."
AL
Amanda L.
Google Review
★★★★★
"We hosted our rehearsal dinner in the private room. The staff went above and beyond — custom menu, beautiful setup, and every guest was blown away by the food."
CM
Chris M.
Google Review
★★★★★
"Finally, a place in Columbia that cares about where the food comes from. You can taste the quality. The Sunday brunch is an absolute must."
TP
Theresa P.
Google Review
Make a Reservation

Your Table Is Waiting

Call us or book online. Walk-ins always welcome, but reservations are recommended on weekends.

📞 (803) 555-7890 Book a Reservation →