Columbia’s first open-air food hall is on the horizon. GATHER COLA, modeled after Greenville’s Gather GVL — ranked No. 5 on USA Today’s 10Best food halls — promises to bring a fresh mix of dining, shopping, and gathering spaces to The BullStreet District.

Here’s what to expect:

• Nine food vendors offering local + international flavors
•Two bars — one on the ground floor and one on the rooftop with city views
• Pop-up retail spaces featuring local micro-retailers
• 8,500 sqft of flexible office space over two floors
• Outdoor gathering area with seating, live entertainment, and seasonal events
• 32,286 sqft of total space across multiple levels

A view of the GATHER COLA site with downtown Columbia in the backdrop. | Photo by COLAtoday

Located at the corner of Sabal and Freed streets, directly across from REI, GATHER COLA will sit adjacent to The Lawn, BullStreet’s central hub for recreation and cultural events.

“This project will bring a diversity of food offerings and a vibrant energy to the already active BullStreet project,” said Frank Cason, president of Cason Development Group. Mack Cross, co-founder of Four Oaks Property Group, added, “It’s truly a full-circle moment to contribute the GATHER concept to this transformative district and dynamic city.”

Construction begins this month, with an opening slated for late 2025.