If you're a twenty-something on a thug budget (like me), finding a decent place to get your grub on can be challenging. Thankfully, Columbia has all sorts of tasty treats to keep your mouth - and your wallet - happy.
In no particular order...
1. Tigi's Ethiopian Restaurant & Market
8459 Baltimore National Pike #14 (Rte 40)
Ellicott City, MD 21043
410-750-1500
(okay, technically this one's in Ellicott City). If you've never had Ethiopian food, you are truly missing out. It's a relatively new joint, but don't let the quite atmosphere fool you. They have a wonderful selection and the service there is phenomenal. And don't worry; if spicy's not for you, they have a delicious selection of milder fare.
2. Pub Dog Pizza and Draft House
8865 Stanford Boulevard
Columbia, MD 21045
410-872-0364
When most people think of Pub Dog, they tend to focus on the draft house aspect of the place. But really, the pizza is amazing. Some of the other food is a bit touch and go depending on the night, but the pizza is always great. If you are looking for something different, try the Baja Chihuahua pizza. Or get really crazy and go for the Smash Dog: two pizzas sandwiched together.
Side note: While the place is family friendly, it can get a little rowdy.
3. Cha Ya Asian Bistro
8874 McGaw Road,
Columbia, MD, 21045
410-381-887
Looking for a little Thai food in your life? Then Cha Ya is the place for you. It's also pretty great that they offer kid-friendly options. If you're feeling curry (but little mr or missus is only eating spaghetti), Cha Ya offers the Pasta Boat with or without chicken.
4. Jason's Deli
8874 McGaw Rd, Columbia, MD
410-309-5980
Jason's is two doors down from Cha Ya. If you've never been, Jason's is a cafeteria style joint with all the usuals: soup, salad, sandwiches and beyond. But what makes them SO great (especially if you've got allergies to consider) is that everything is labeled out, and they have an entire gluten-free section as well as a vegetarian menu.
5. Bean Hollow
8059 Main Street
Ellicott City, MD
410-465-0233
Okay, I know. Another Ellicott City one. But I can't help it. If you're in downtown EC and in need of some cheap eats, then it doesn't get better than Bean Hollow. While they might be best known for their coffee (yum), they also have a pretty rad assortment of sandwiches and breakfast goods.
So there you have it. So next time you're looking to go out on the town without dragging your wallet through the mud, don't feel like you've got to eat at the mall AGAIN. You can eat diverse, lovingly prepared, delicious food and STILL stay on your budget.
