
Pearlz Oyster Bar
A vibrant oyster bar and seafood eatery offering fresh catches, unique preparations, and a lively atmosphere in downtown Columbia.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Pearlz Oyster Bar

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant oyster bar and seafood eatery offering fresh catches, unique preparations, and a lively atmosphere in downtown Columbia.
"Enjoy fresh, top-quality oysters and unique seafood creations in a modern, casual setting!"
Sunday Wine Special
Enjoy half off select bottles of wine every Sunday.
Saturday Lunch Treat
Try the steamed oysters and the famous stacked salad on Saturdays.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
Mid-range
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oyster Paradise
Freshly shucked oysters, from raw to unique preparations like New Orleans style grilled oysters.

Unique Seafood Creations
Don't miss inventive bites like triggerfish bites and the standout stacked salad.

Vibrant Atmosphere
A modern yet casual dining spot with outdoor seating and a lively bar area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Sunday Wine Special
Enjoy half off select bottles of wine every Sunday.
Saturday Lunch Treat
Try the steamed oysters and the famous stacked salad on Saturdays.
Avoid Peak Times
For a quieter experience, steer clear of busy hours due to a loud bar area.
Staff Recommendations
Ask about specials and get knowledgeable advice on menu selections.
Tips
from all over the internet
Sunday Wine Special
Enjoy half off select bottles of wine every Sunday.
Saturday Lunch Treat
Try the steamed oysters and the famous stacked salad on Saturdays.
Avoid Peak Times
For a quieter experience, steer clear of busy hours due to a loud bar area.
Staff Recommendations
Ask about specials and get knowledgeable advice on menu selections.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Pearlz Oyster Bar garners praise for its fresh oysters and unique seafood preparations, often complemented by friendly and knowledgeable service. While many enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, some diners have found certain dishes to be average for the price, and service can occasionally be inconsistent during peak times.
"My waiter was absolutely incredible, and as you can see, the food put a big smile on my face. It was my first time at Pearls... and my first time trying oysters, too!"
YaYas “Monkey” Prudent
"Came here with my family for my sister's birthday. I will say that if you can find street parking, please do it. The nearest paid parking lot was a rip off. lol. Our waitress was amazing. She provided amazing service and we appreciated that. The food was decent but the prices weren't fitting. If the prices weren't up there and the food was more flavorful, I would've given it a higher rating. Kinda borderline over rated because we've had way better food at Red Lobster but whatever. My sister enjoyed her food, and we were given great service so that's what matters to me. If you decide to try them out,"
Maurice M.
"Stopped in for a quick bite. The oysters were clean and delicious. We also got corn fritters and crab cakes. The fritters were amazing, I’ve never had a corn fritter like that. So light, almost like a Chinese donut with corn in it, and it came with a maple butter that really elevated it. The crab cakes were good as well, I would just like a bit more crab and a bit more of the mustard aioli that came with it. Definitely will go back next time we’re in the area."
Brooklyn Fox
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
People rave about the fresh oysters, especially the New Orleans style grilled ones. Don't miss the unique triggerfish bites and the stacked salad with shrimp and crab.
Yes, Pearlz Oyster Bar offers half off select bottles of wine on Sundays. Happy hour also features specials on drinks and some food items.
The bar area can get loud, especially during peak hours. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during off-peak times.
Absolutely! Pearlz serves a variety of classic seafood dishes, raw bar items, burgers, and has been noted for its Shrimp and Grits and Seafood Gumbo.
Street parking is available, but be aware that nearby paid parking lots can be expensive.
Yes, Pearlz Oyster Bar is committed to serving fresh and sustainable seafood as part of the Sustainable Seafood Initiative.
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Must-Try Restaurants In Columbia, South Carolina
For some of the freshest seafood and best atmosphere around, try Pearlz Oyster Bar. This rustic restaurant serves up a mix of shellfish and local seafood, and is part of the Sustainable Seafood Initiative. The raw bar offers a range of oyster varieties, including Low country and Gulf oysters, while the rest of the menu consists of all manner of seafood concoctions, including tuna tartar, steamed mussels and oyster sliders.
Best Restaurants Near the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina, United States
Located in the beautiful Congaree Vista district of downtown Columbia, SC, Pearlz Oyster and Raw Bar is a fun, eclectic restaurant serving only the freshest seafood in a casual dining atmosphere. Pearlz Oyster Bar is a fun, eclectic restaurant serving the very best in fresh seafood, including an assorted mix of raw shellfish, local seafood, Lowcountry recipes and regional favorites.
11 Salads You Have To Eat This Summer In #RealColumbiaSC
You can argue that this isn't technically a salad, but we will stand behind our decision until the end of time. This cylinder-shaped salad is piled high with fresh shrimp, crab meat, tomato, bacon, egg, asparagus and shredded lettuce, then topped with a house-made green goddess dressing. It has lettuce, dressing and is under the salad portion of Pearlz's menu so...case closed.
The most romantic places in Columbia
He’ll be playing in the What’s Love house band tonight at 701 Whaley, and he’ll be at Pearlz Oyster Bar Friday and Saturday night. His choice: Saluda’s, the Five Points restaurant with a balcony that overlooks Five Points. “I recently had an amazing dinner date at Saluda’s,” said Rapp, who will debut what he calls the Psycho Jazz Contingency at 9 p.m.
14 Best Things To Do In Columbia SC You Shouldn't Miss
Located on the popular Gervais Street, the Pearlz Oyster Bar is one of the best things to do in Columbia SC for adults. Raw bites, classic seafood, and other delicious dishes are waiting for you at Pearlz Oyster Bar!. The menu is expansive so whatever southern delicacy you have a hankering for, you can be sure to find it.
Area Restaurants
Pearlz Oyster Bar is a fun, eclectic restaurant serving the very best in fresh seafood, including an assorted mix of raw shellfish, local seafood, Lowcountry recipes and regional favorites. The raw bar offers a variety of Lowcountry and Gulf oysters as well as specialty oysters, in addition to fresh seasonal shellfish.
10 Casual Restaurants In Columbia, South Carolina
Pearlz Oyster Bar is a casual eatery that is known for its delicious seafood and oyster bar. This raw bar has some specialty oysters including Gulf oysters, Lowcountry oysters, and seasonal shellfish. To top it all off, what’s better than delicious martinis and specialty oysters in an ambient setting?
Columbia, SC Restaurant Guide
.facebook.com/PearlzOysterBarColumbia/ Pearlz specializes in fresh oysters, regional seafood and Lowcountry recipes. Oyster bars may be a concept from yesteryear, but Pearlz’ hip, trendy ambience and signature martinis make it a hotspot for Columbia’s young, urban professional crowd.
Columbia SC Nightlife, Live Music, Entertainment & Culture
Two of the most unique venues are Chayze Lounge in Nonnah’s and the Upstairz Lounge at Pearlz Oyster Bar, both of which showcase local jazz talent in a jazz club-like atmosphere. Many fine-dining restaurants offer live entertainment as well, often without requiring a cover charge.
Where to Eat in Columbia, SC
Growing up in west Texas, the only time we ever ate seafood was on vacation to the beach. Now that I live on the east coast, I have found a love for raw oysters and fresh seafood more & more. Shane and I both love it and we were so excited to find Pearlz in the heart of our city.
20 Best Restaurants in Columbia, SC for 2025 (Top Eats!)
936 Gervais StColumbia, SC 29201(803) 661-7741 Visit Website See Menu Open in Google Maps. Pearlz Oyster Bar features low-country flavors and a wide range of fresh seafood classics. It forms part of the long strip of eateries located in the Congaree Vista district set downtown.
Where to find the best oysters in Columbia
🐚 Saluda’s | Raw oysters (market price) + Fried Buffalo Oysters ($13) | Fried Gulf oysters with buffalo sauce, blue cheese crumbles, celery + bacon crumbles | Buffalo Chicken step aside, there’s a delicious new sheriff in town, and his name is Buffalo Oyster.
The Vista In Columbia, SC: Your Complete Guide
Pearlz Oyster Bar: A popular Charleston restaurant, Pearlz Oyster Bar has a Columbia location in the Vista. They specialize in raw oysters and low-country cooking. Also, check them out as a bar- Pearlz is open late with a late-night food menu.
Highest-rated Seafood Restaurants in Columbia by Diners
- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (367 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (4.5/5), Value (4.0/5), Atmosphere (4.0/5)- Type of cuisine: American, Bar- Price: $$ - $$$- Address: 936 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201-3128- Read more on Tripadvisor
23+ Romantic Date Night Restaurants: Columbia, SC
Pearlz Oyster Bar is the perfect place to spend a relaxed but romantic date night out. Their menu is full of delicious seafood options, soups, salads, and steak. Address: 936 Gervais Street, Columbia Pearlz Oyster Bar
Columbia, SC Trip - Fun things to do
I like Menkoi Ramen House, Pearlz Oyster Bar, Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe, Mellow Mushroom, and Thirsty Fellow. You’ll find lots of good options in that area in all price points.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit