Restaurants/Food

USCA is preparing to kick off its new academic year with the return of a downtown party. The marketing arm of downtown Aiken businesses is providing an extra push, while students will soak up good times and good job opportunities. The second annual Downtown Takedown is set for August 22 from 5-9 p.m. Aug. 22 on Newberry Street in Downtown Aiken. The event is co-sponsored by USCA and the Aiken Downtown Development Association. “The hope was that our students, our faculty, our staff, along with our community, could come together

One restaurant on the Georgia side of the Savannah River and two on the SC side took home prestigious awards at a New York ceremony. Cork and Flame in Evans and The Restaurant at the Willcox in Aiken were honored with Wine Spectator’s 2026 Award of Excellence. Christine’s Farm to Fork Restaurant on Main Street in Edgefield was also recognized for the restaurant’s commitment to offering an exceptional wine program that complements its farm-to-table culinary experience. “This recognition is a tremendous honor for our entire team,” said Christine Smith, owner of

The rumors about a prime spot for Trader Joe’s supermarket development in Evans— are apparently false. Back in February, sources told ABD and radio host Austin Rhodes that Trader Joe’s would build upon a large tract of land directly behind the Columbia County Performing Arts Center.  Based on ABD’s conversation with Trader Joe’s marketing director and the fact that the land is being marketed now— it won’t happen there. “We have plans to open a Trader Joe’s store in Evans in the next couple of years. We do not yet

A husband and wife team with significant food service operations experience is close to opening the doors of an upscale Columbia County restaurant. ABD stopped by The Commons at West Lake on Furys Ferry Road yesterday and learned that the floors and bar are installed, and the tables and chairs are in place. The Steakhouse will be called Griffin’s, according to Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate. The company leased a large space (a roll-up garage seating area connected to the main part of the restaurant) between the Cucumber & Mint