Menu of Ray's Diner in Columbia, South Carolina, USA

Menu Overview

Ray’s Diner, nestled at 3110 Two Notch Rd in Columbia, SC, stands as a genuine homage to classic Southern comfort food. This unpretentious spot offers a sincere diner experience, where every dish feels crafted with care and tradition. From the moment you step inside, the warm ambiance and attentive staff invite you to linger and savor each bite.

The menu at Ray’s Diner presents a rich variety of Southern staples, but it’s the standout items that truly define its charm. The Bacon Omelette with Pancakes combines hearty, crispy bacon with fluffy eggs and soft, golden pancakes. The balance between salty and sweet here elevates a simple breakfast to something memorable. If you’re seeking something more unique, the Grits Liver Pudding and Eggs is a daring Southern classic, offering rich, creamy grits paired with tender liver pudding and fresh eggs—a perfect reflection of true Southern roots.

Dessert lovers will appreciate the house-special Blue Velvet Cake and the Hummingbird Cake, both crafted with moist textures and just the right sweetness. These cakes are excellent accompaniments to the Liver Pudding Toast and Jelly Coffee, a distinctive combination that resonates with those who appreciate nostalgic diner flavors.

The all-day menu sandwiches, like the Fried Chicken Sandwich and Fried Fish Sandwich, are crafted with crisp, hand-battered coatings and balanced toppings—lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and mayonnaise—that deliver classic, satisfying bites. Served with your choice of side, they reflect the diner’s commitment to hearty, well-executed meals at a reasonable price.

If you're craving soul-food baskets, selections like the Gizzards Basket and the Livers & Gizzards Basket offer a true taste of Southern comfort, served with traditional sides that complement the rich, fried delicacies without overwhelming the palate.

What truly sets Ray’s Diner apart is its consistency and authenticity. Longtime patrons, like Stacie Hall, praise the “breakfast just like grandma used to make," highlighting the familiarity and comforting nature of the food. Newcomers consistently note the freshness and the fact that “food never sits around,” reinforcing the diner’s fresh preparation ethos. The staff’s kindness and the accommodating atmosphere create a place where you feel as welcomed as you would be in a friend’s kitchen.

Personally, the crispy bacon atop the Bacon Omelette and the creamy, lump-free grits left a lasting impression—a harmony of texture and flavor that’s often hard to find outside of traditional Southern kitchens. The Blue Velvet and Hummingbird cakes serve as an excellent sweet finish, revealing the diner’s depth beyond breakfast and lunch staples.

Ray’s Diner doesn’t just serve food; it serves a slice of Southern heritage in a relaxed, unhurried setting where genuine hospitality meets hearty, soulful cuisine. For anyone seeking an authentic Southern dining experience in Columbia, Ray’s stands out as a hidden gem well worth your visit.