Columbia’s BullStreet District just got tastier. Gather COLA, a long-anticipated food hall and community gathering space, has officially launched—and the buzz is real. Inspired by its wildly successful sister location, Gather Greenville, this Columbia edition is already drawing crowds and excitement.

At a special preview event, Lake Carolina Living had the chance to chat with key figures behind the project, as well as several of the future vendors.

“We wanted a home,” said Chef Stanley K. Livingston, owner of Smoke It Up BBQ. “Not just a place to serve food, but a place to connect. This isn’t just barbecue—it’s family, it’s culture.” For many vendors, this marks their first step into a more permanent, brick-and-mortar presence with longer hours and direct community access.

Joining the food lineup are vibrant local favorites like Los Chicanos and Spicy Voodoo. “We’ve been looking for a location for two years,” said Adrianna Favila of Los Chicanos. “Gather Cola felt like the perfect fit.” Meanwhile, New Orleans native Cedric Cole of Spicy Voodoo is bringing authentic Creole flavor to the Midlands. “I stepped out on faith,” he said. “Now it’s time for Columbia to taste the real deal.”

Janie Quinn, District Manager for the BullStreet District, emphasized the food hall’s long-term role in the area’s transformation: “This project has been ten years in the making. Gather Cola adds a much-needed nightlife and food scene to our growing community.”

City Councilman Tyler Bailey echoed the excitement. “This is a great day for Columbia. It brings people together, boosts local business, and strengthens our tax base. It’s a win all around.”

With 9 rotating vendors, live entertainment, and room to grow, Gather Cola is set to be a culinary and cultural landmark for years to come.

Read about Gather Cola and more in the latest issue of Lake Carolina Living Magazine!