Finding a dining spot that satisfies both a craving for exceptional comfort food and a desire for an immersive aesthetic experience is a rare treat. Tucked away on St. Andrews Road in Columbia, South Carolina, Luzianna Purchase manages to do exactly that. It is a vibrant, family-owned oasis where authentic, scratch-made Louisiana culinary traditions collide beautifully with local fine art and handcrafted gifts.
The Story Behind the Concept
Luzianna Purchase is the brilliant brainchild of co-owners Mary Katherine and Thomas. Their business model effortlessly bridges two distinct worlds: Thomas brings decades of culinary expertise rooted directly in his hometown of New Orleans, while Mary Katherine infuses the space with her passion for painting, jewelry, and interior design.
Thomas grew up learning the ropes of the restaurant business alongside his father in Metairie, Louisiana. After moving to South Carolina, he served as the Executive Chef at prestigious institutions like The Faculty House and The Palmetto Club. Mary Katherine, a former elementary and middle school art teacher, continues to paint, design, and host creative art gatherings. Together, they have curated a warm, welcoming space that functions as part neighborhood café and part boutique artisan market.
Legendary New Orleans Flavors
If you want legitimate, true-to-the-roots Louisiana cooking, Chef Thomas delivers the real deal. The lunch menu features classic staples that rely heavily on traditional spices, slow-simmered bases, and high-quality proteins.
- The Po’ Boys & Muffulettas: Guests rave about the fried crawfish and seasoned shrimp po’ boys, piled high on authentic, airy French bread with irresistible remoulade sauce. If you prefer a taste of the French Quarter, the house-made Muffuletta comes loaded with savory deli meats and a deeply flavorful, tangy olive salad.
- Signature Gumbo & Creole Favorites: The slow-cooked Chicken and Andouille Gumbo—topped with white rice and fresh scallions—offers a masterclass in building a complex, dark roux.
- Don’t Skip Dessert: No meal here is complete without a side of fresh, pillowy powdered sugar beignets or a warm portion of Nola’s Bread Pudding, which features a velvety caramel sauce that locals call “addictive.”
Cypress Corner: Art You Can Take Home
What sets Luzianna Purchase completely apart from any standard cafe in the Columbia area is Cypress Corner, a dedicated boutique gift and art market operating right inside the restaurant.
While waiting for your shrimp and grits or your favorite “What Dat Wrap,” you can browse a meticulously selected collection of unique paintings, seasonal home decor, jewelry, and handmade housewares—or sample an impressive array of artisanal meats, charcuterie, and gourmet cheeses. It turns a quick lunch date or a weekend outing into an engaging, inspirational afternoon of shopping small, supporting independent artists, and curating your next perfect tasting board.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you are planning a casual Tuesday lunch, looking for a spot to enjoy a mimosa-filled Saturday morning brunch, or trying to organize customized, bespoke catering for your next major corporate or family milestone, this hidden gem stands out.
- Location: 7011 St Andrews Rd, Suite C2, Columbia, SC 29212
- Service Highlights: Morning beignets and fresh coffee, traditional sit-down lunch options, specialized charcuterie boards to-go, and fully customizable event hosting.
By beautifully blending the rich heritage of Cajun culture with an inspiring visual atmosphere, Luzianna Purchase has quickly cemented its place as an absolute must-visit destination in the Midlands.