Focus on five points

Beat the heat in this South Carolina neighborhood.

Columbia's Five Points has the coolest shops and tastiest eateries of any place in the capital city. This shopping village, named after the five-pronged convergence of Santee Avenue and Harden and Devine Streets, is located next to the University of South Carolina. Everything lies within easy walking distance, so park the car, and check out this happening area.

"Five Points is slightly Bohemian, and there's a great mix of students, professionals, and people who just like to shop and eat here," says Linda Hiltner, who runs The Gourmet Shop on Saluda Avenue.

Her place serves as a gathering spot for this delightful mix. You could spend hours looking at the goodies here, from flavored olive oils and gourmet coffees to great desserts, freshly made salads, and other to-go items. Try the Italian Rosemary Ham sandwich ($6.95). 724 Saluda Avenue, (803) 799-3705.

Thus fortified, you'll have lots of energy for bargain hunting. You might get lucky and find a steal like I did-a fully lined wool blazer for only $5 at Gentleman's Closet, a men's consignment shop on Saluda. Similar deals on women's clothing can be found at Lallie's Legacies & Labels for Less and Revente, both on Saluda as well. Other shops include Montage, which carries home furnishings and accessories; Blue Sky Gallery, with fine original artwork; and Creative Kids, with cool toys and games for young children.

With the money I saved shopping, I splurged on a fine dinner at Saluda's Capital City Grill. Try their 751 Filet Mignon (pricey at $24.99, but one of the best I've ever had). 751 Saluda Avenue, (803) 799-9500.

Another delicious option for dinner is Garibaldi Cafe. Fresh seafood and Italian fare get high marks here, especially the almond-crusted tilapia ($19.95) and lasagna ($11.95). 2013 Greene Street; (803) 771-8888.

When it's time to rest, Claussen's Inn, a bed-and-breakfast on Greene Street, has comfortable rooms for $119 a night. "This used to be Claussen's Bakery," says innkeeper Ron Jones. "The space has lots of character and just lent itself well to converting to a bed-and-breakfast." 2003 Greene Street, 1-800-622-3382. Loads of character seems to be the inviting theme for all of Five Points.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Aug 2003
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