Columbia’s Culinary Scene: A Flavorful Journey Through Global Barbecue Innovations

COLUMBIA — A Taste Adventure in Barbecue

On a sunny day here in Columbia, with the temperature reaching a warm 83°F, it’s the perfect moment to dive into the flavorful world of barbecue. With clear skies and a gentle breeze blowing, the city is buzzing with excitement over various food options to satisfy those cravings. It’s not just about sticking to traditional Southern barbecue; it’s about exploring international flavors that local chefs and food truck owners have introduced to our beloved town.

Bringing a Taste of Korea

One such culinary innovator is Sean Kim, who opened the first location of MOA Korean BBQ and Bar back in 2019 in Charlotte, with a second spot popping up in Columbia just a year ago. Kim has definitely redefined how we perceive barbecue by blending traditional Southern flavors with rich Korean cuisine. “People have cows around here, but we don’t have massive cattle ranches like Texas. Carolina barbecue features beans, chicken, and pork because that’s what was readily available,” he says. Kim noted that Korean barbecue, with its sweet and tangy sauces, shares similarities with the flavorful experience of Southern barbecue. This unique fusion allows diners to enjoy a taste of home while discovering the wonders of Korean fare.

Delicious Dishes from the Truck Scene

La Cochinita, a food truck specializing in cochinita pibil, truly deserves a shout-out. Co-owners Alba Cavazos and Erika Barbosa have brought the authenticity of this Yucatan dish to our city. The pork is marinated, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked for hours, creating an explosion of flavors in every bite. “Cochinita pibil is one of the most delicious Mexican dishes. It’s a very old, traditional recipe, and it’s so flavorful,” Barbosa explains. The tacos they serve are drizzled with crema and finished off with thick-cut pickled onions, making them a crowd favorite!

Their journey wasn’t always smooth sailing. Initially, they had difficulty getting locals to try their mouthwatering tacos until they adapted their menu descriptions to include “Mayan BBQ,” which helped spark interest. Barbosa mentions, “For us, it’s more important to share the culture and the history about these dishes than just put out something that’s going to be a quick sale.” After receiving accolades such as the award for the Best Food Truck, La Cochinita has certainly won hearts and appetites in Columbia.

A Caribbean Twist at Trini Lime

Not to be overlooked is the delightful Trini Lime Caribbean Café, led by Sullange Solomon. Known for bringing the exotic flavors of the Caribbean to the Midlands, Solomon specializes in Trinbagonian barbecue, which takes a whole new spin on the traditional grill-out. Here, meats like chicken and shrimp are boiled first before being smothered in a sweet ketchup-based sauce and finished off on the grill. “Barbecue sales are what people do to raise funds for building houses or donating to charity,” says Solomon, highlighting the cultural importance of barbecue in Trinidad and Tobago.

The response to her barbecue dishes, which include a variety of side dishes like potato salad and fried rice, has been overwhelmingly positive. “When the customers keep asking for the barbecue again, I feel the love,” she shares. Solomon aims to provide nostalgic flavors to the Trinbagonian community while also introducing Columbia to the exciting world of Caribbean meals.

Barbecue is an Adventure

With a plethora of options, Columbia stands as a melting pot of barbecue varieties, from traditional Carolina pork to the tantalizing flavors of Mexican and Caribbean cuisine. Each eatery, whether it’s a beloved sit-down restaurant or a food truck parked on a busy street corner, brings something special to the table. It’s exciting to see how local chefs are embracing these diverse culinary backgrounds, intertwining them with the Southern tradition of barbecue.

As we stand here, basking in this beautiful weather and surrounded by the delicious aromas wafting from every corner, it’s clear that Columbia isn’t just a spot for good food; it’s a vibrant community celebrating flavors that transcend borders. Dining here isn’t just about filling the stomach; it’s about embarking on a delightful adventure that showcases love, tradition, and innovation in every bite!