Columbia Welcomes 1624 Bistro: A New Grab-and-Go Delight!
Columbia, it’s official! A new gem has just opened its doors on Main Street, and it’s sure to become a favorite for breakfast and lunch lovers alike. Say hello to 1624 Bistro, the latest culinary venture from the LTC Hospitality Group! Located at 1624 Main St., right next to The Venue and across from The Nick, this delightful eatery promises easy and light bites that are ideal for those on the go.
A Fresh Dining Option for Columbia
For all of you busy professionals out there, this bistro has your back! According to David Turner, the vice president of marketing and events at LTC, there was a noticeable gap in quick lunch options within walking distance on Main Street. “We realized that, of all of our concepts, we didn’t have something similar to this,” Turner shared. The focus here is on friendly, fast service and healthy food, which is precisely what folks working around the Main Street District need during their lunch breaks.
More Than Just Another Restaurant
This isn’t LTC’s first rodeo on Main Street; they already have several popular spots including The Grand, Hanabi Hibachi and Sushi, and Smoked, to name a few. With 1624 Bistro joining the lineup, LTC now boasts an impressive six dining concepts in just one mile! Talk about a tasty lineup!
Chef Josh Rogerson Brings His Vision
At the helm of the kitchen is Chef Josh Rogerson, who is excited about the new bistro’s pan-European menu. “I was feeling nostalgic about growing up in Italy,” Rogerson said, revealing that the menu’s Western European influences add a touch of fun to their culinary creations. It allows the kitchen team to explore different flavors while maintaining a familiar vibe. “We just change out some of the core ingredients,” he noted.
Grab-and-Go Goodness
One of the most appealing aspects of 1624 Bistro is the grab-and-go menu. This menu features items like pimento cheese, grain salads, and rotating off-menu sandwiches, addressing the need for quick yet satisfying meals. “It is exactly what I would want if I were in an office on Main Street or nearby,” Rogerson explained, emphasizing the convenience factor. Fast-paced days are made easier with the option to pop in, grab something delicious, and head back to the hustle and bustle.
Soft Opening: A Time for Patience
A First-Timer’s Guide to 1624 Bistro
If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the extensive menu, here are a couple of must-tries to kickstart your dining adventure:
- Tomato Bisque ($6): Perfect for those cooler days ahead. This roasted tomato bisque, enhanced with a slight char, has a cozy, autumnal warmth. Finished with croutons and basil crema, it strikes a lovely balance of thin and tart that warms the soul.
- Antipasto Salad ($13): If you’ve ever dreamed of devouring a charcuterie board at lunchtime, this hearty salad is your answer! Packed with thick slices of prosciutto, salami, grape tomatoes, and sharp shaved parmesan over a bed of arugula, this dish is best enjoyed with a drizzle of the bistro’s tangy red wine vinaigrette to soak into the greens and enhance those rich flavors.
Final Thoughts
1624 Bistro is poised to become a favorite among Columbia diners looking for something quick but delicious. The combination of quality ingredients, speedy service, and a welcoming atmosphere seems like a recipe for success. Keep an eye out as they shake off those soft-opening jitters and settle into their new groove!
So, the next time you’re on Main Street, swing by 1624 Bistro for a taste of their fantastic menu. You’ll be glad you did!