A downtown Columbia restaurant is closing. What owners say led to the decision.

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – Restaurant chain Hickory Tavern is closing its location in downtown Columbia.

Artistry Restaurants, who acquired Hickory Tavern in 2025, announced that the location on Senate Street was permanently closed on Aug. 23.

The Columbia location shuttered alongside three other Hickory Tavern locations in North Carolina.

“While never an easy decision, it is important that we regularly evaluate where we can operate more efficiently so our resources and future investments are directed toward the priorities that will best serve our teams and guests,” said Bryan Lockwood, CEO, Artistry Restaurants. “These changes, along with other efficiencies, will support Hickory Tavern’s long-term plan and strength as a brand.”

The company noted that Columbia’s other Hickory Tavern location on Pelham Drive will remain open.

Regarding all four closures, Artistry Restaurants said the “proximity of the restaurants to other Hickory Tavern locations was an important factor in the decision allowing the brand to better support its teams, guests, and future.”

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