Columbia’s Culinary Revolution: The Rise of LTC Hospitality
Ah, Columbia! The city has certainly come a long way from the days when “tumbleweeds rolled down Main Street”. For those who don’t know, Columbia, South Carolina is undergoing a gastronomical transformation that’s making it quite the hot spot. And a big part of that evolution comes thanks to LTC Hospitality, headed by none other than Sara Middleton-Styles and her family.
The Fruits of Hard Work
Over the past decade, LTC Hospitality has turned into something of a local legend. They didn’t just open a restaurant or two; they founded seven unique dining experiences and even established a beer distribution center! Plus, they’ve breathed new life into a private golf club and social space. It’s been a whirlwind journey and, while it has delighted many, it has also raised a few eyebrows.
Middleton-Styles, a health care attorney by trade, embarked on this culinary adventure with a vision. She recalled how quiet and uneventful Main Street felt just a few years back. “It was as if the city was just waiting for some magic to happen,” she stated. And magic it was! LTC’s journey began in 2016 with the debut of The Grand, a funky spot with a bowling alley and even a tiki bar, set in a historic 20th-century theater. That was just the spark that ignited a roaring fire of culinary offerings on Main Street.
A Gourmet Playground
Today, LTC Hospitality boasts a diverse array of culinary delights. Whether you’re craving fresh oysters at the Smoked oyster bar or some mouth-watering hibachi at Hanabi, there’s something for everyone. Middleton-Styles has kept her foot on the gas, opening even more dining establishments while also supporting the revitalization of Main Street.
And it’s not just about food. LTC is all about creating a community atmosphere. They’ve organized events like their beloved New Year’s Eve Party while also enhancing the aesthetic of downtown with cute string lights adorning the streets.
But Not Without Challenges
Of course, such rapid growth is bound to stir the pot a little. Some locals have raised eyebrows at the ever-expanding footprint of LTC in Columbia’s dining scene. Community leaders and avid residents have noted that while it’s exciting, it sometimes feels like a lot for a town to absorb at once. But the feedback hasn’t deterred LTC; instead, they embrace it. Middleton-Styles expressed her gratitude for constructive criticism, citing improvements made to food quality and even menu spelling mistakes based on diner feedback.
Hopes for the Future
LTC is currently piloting new concepts and dreaming big! Initially, they had plans to open a brewery called Peak Drift in North Columbia. But due to a little thing called the pandemic and some zoning complications, they’re pivoting to turning part of an existing restaurant, Smoked, into a microbrewery for their craft beers. “It’s a change of plans, but we’re excited to shape it into something that still benefits the community,” Middleton-Styles shared, though she admitted feeling a twinge of disappointment.
Community Matters
Despite some bumps in the road, LTC remains committed to fostering a supportive community. The notion of “third places”—spaces outside of home and work where folks can gather—continues to resonate within their goals. As David Turner, the group’s VP of Marketing and Events, expressed, “Our goal is to facilitate something that the community needs and loves.”
As Columbia embraces these changes, it’s clear that the culinary scene is experiencing a renaissance, largely thanks to the hard work and tenacity of LTC Hospitality. With dedicated locals raising a glass to new possibilities, it looks like this journey is just getting warmed up!
So next time you’re in town, remember; Columbia isn’t just about history and Southern charms. It’s a dining destination that’s constantly evolving, thanks to pioneers like Sara Middleton-Styles and her LTC family!
