Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Authentic Steaks & Burgers Since 1972 in Columbia
Since 1972, The Kingsman Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Columbia's dining scene, dedicated to serving high-quality, locally inspired cuisine. Founded by Steve and Aubrey King, our restaurant began as a transformation of Mamma Mias Pizza into a steakhouse that quickly became renowned for its hand-cut ribeyes priced at just $1.85. Over five decades, we've maintained our commitment to tradition while evolving with the expertise of chefs like Henry Griffin and Mike Deevey, who blend classic Southern flavors with innovative culinary techniques. Our menu showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients from regional farms, ensuring every dish reflects our dedication to quality and community. With daily specials ranging from homemade pot roast to jumbo wings, we cater to diverse tastes while preserving the warmth of a family-owned establishment.Our team's collective experience spans decades, with Chef Griffin's background at esteemed Columbia restaurants and Chef Deevey's prestigious tenure at the South Carolina Governor's Mansion. We pride ourselves on offering approachable pricing without compromising on flavor or portion size, making The Kingsman Restaurant a trusted destination for both casual meals and special occasions. Our operating hours are designed to accommodate both weekday diners and weekend crowds, with extended evening service Thursday through Saturday. Whether you're enjoying our famous pimento cheeseburger or sampling Henry's creative daily specials, every visit embodies our founders' vision of exceptional food and hospitality.
Services
Steaks
Burgers
Daily Lunch Specials
Catering
Private Dining
Details
- Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
- We've served premium hand-cut ribeyes since 1972 with consistent quality
- Our chefs source fresh ingredients directly from local farms
- Daily specials combine Southern tradition with modern culinary techniques
- Family-owned operation maintains personalized service standards
- Extensive menu options accommodate diverse dietary preferences
What people say
Amazing ribeyes
Generous portions
Friendly staff
Great daily specials
Cozy atmosphere
Services
Hand-Cut Ribeyes
Our signature hand-cut ribeyes have been the centerpiece of The Kingsman Restaurant's menu since 1972. Each steak is locally aged and grilled to perfection, offering consistent quality that made us Columbia's favorite steakhouse. The 40-year-old recipe maintains perfect marbling and flavor, served with house salad and Texas toast. This timeless dish continues to attract both longtime locals and new visitors seeking authentic Southern steakhouse experience.
Daily Lunch Specials
Monday through Friday lunch service features rotating daily specials that showcase Southern culinary traditions. From Salisbury Steak Mondays to Pork Chop Wednesdays, each offering maintains our commitment to quality ingredients and generous portions. The $1.85 original ribeye price has evolved with time but remains one of Columbia's best values for home-cooked meals. These specials continue to draw both regular patrons and first-time visitors seeking authentic Southern comfort food.
Creative Nightly Entrees
Evening menu combines classic Southern dishes with modern culinary innovations from chefs Henry Griffin and Mike Deevey. The Palmetto Burger with homemade pimento cheese and fried jalapenos exemplifies our approach to traditional flavors with contemporary twists. Nightly specials feature fresh, locally sourced ingredients that change with seasonal availability, ensuring every visit offers new culinary discoveries while maintaining The Kingsman Restaurant's signature hearty portions and approachable pricing.
Appetizer Selection
Our appetizer menu features shareable plates that highlight regional flavors and house-made preparations. Signature items include Fat Tire beer cheese with pretzels, hand-battered fried mozzarella, and our famous Taz's Taters. Each appetizer is crafted using the same quality standards as our main courses, with house-made sauces and locally sourced ingredients. These starters have become favorites for groups sharing meals and patrons enjoying drinks at our bar area.
Private Dining
The Kingsman Restaurant offers dedicated private dining spaces for special occasions and group events. Our banquet facilities maintain the same warm, family-friendly atmosphere as our main dining room while accommodating larger parties. The menu for private events features both our regular offerings and special group pricing options. This service continues the restaurant's tradition of personalized hospitality that began when Steve and Aubrey King first opened their doors in 1972.
People
Steve King
Co-Founder
Co-founded The Kingsman Restaurant in 1972 with his brother Aubrey. Established the restaurant's reputation for quality steaks at reasonable prices. His legacy continues through the family's ongoing ownership and operation of the business.
Kevin King
Current Owner
Took leadership of The Kingsman Restaurant in 2002 following Steve King's passing. Maintains the original vision while adapting to modern dining expectations. Ensures consistent quality across all menu offerings and customer service standards.
Henry Griffin
Executive Chef
Columbia native with extensive experience at local restaurants including Gervais & Vine and Vista Brewing Company. Focuses on fresh, local ingredients and creative daily specials that honor Southern culinary traditions while introducing modern interpretations.
Mike Deevey
Executive Chef
Trained at Johnson and Wales University with prestigious experience as Executive Chef at the South Carolina Governor's Mansion. Brings expertise in classic Southern dishes with innovative twists to The Kingsman Restaurant's menu offerings.
Questions
What makes The Kingsman's steaks special?
Our hand-cut ribeyes use a 40-year-old recipe with locally aged beef, grilled to perfection following Steve King's original preparation method.
Are there vegetarian options available?
While known for meat dishes, we offer multiple salad options, vegetable sides, and customizable entrees to accommodate vegetarian preferences.
Do you offer catering services?
Yes, we provide full catering services with both standard menu items and custom options for events of all sizes across Columbia.
What are the daily lunch specials?
Monday: Salisbury Steak, Tuesday: Pork Chops/Chicken Livers, Wednesday: Pot Roast, Thursday: Ribs/Lasagna, Friday: Pork Chops/Chicken Livers.
Can I host a private event at The Kingsman?
We have dedicated private dining spaces for special occasions with customized menus and group pricing options available for reservations.
