Zesto

4001 N Main St, Columbia, SC 29203, United States
(803) 786-7968
$$$ American restaurant , Dessert shop , Fast food restaurant , Ice cream shop
(1,202 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

If you're searching for a delightful taste of American comfort food, look no further than Zesto, a cherished dining spot nestled at 4001 N Main St in Columbia, SC. Known for its homage to fast food and desserts, Zesto is more than just a place to grab a quick meal; it’s a local institution steeped in flavor and history. Whether you're after a hearty dinner or a sweet treat, this iconic restaurant has you covered.

Step inside, and you’re immediately greeted by a nostalgic vibe—a blend of old-school charm and a warm, inviting atmosphere that beckons you to savor every moment. The walls echo with laughter and the sizzling of fresh food, making it a perfect family-friendly destination. Customers often rave about the genuine service that adds an extra sprinkle of delight to their dining experience.

The menu is a treasure trove of American classics, with popular options that have garnered a devout following. The 4 Piece Chicken Dinner is a standout, served with a generous portion of crispy fries, refreshing coleslaw, and soft rolls for just $13.00—perfect for those craving something hearty. For those who are dedicated wing enthusiasts, the 6 Piece All Chicken Wings Dinner, accompanied by the same comforting sides, also makes for a fabulous meal at $13.00. And let's not forget the Zesto Burger, noted for its perfect blend of succulent flavors, much lauded by satisfied customers like Jory Katie LaRose, who claimed it was “AMAZING!!!!”

If a little heat is what you crave, don’t miss out on their famous chili-laden hot dogs, which Georgianna Sanders insists are unrivaled in taste. The French fries and coleslaw are the perfect sides, complementing your meal and rounding off the rich flavors that Zesto serves up to perfection.

And when it comes to desserts, the icy goodness from their ice cream shop is the cherry on top. With an array of flavors to choose from, it’s the ideal way to conclude your meal, be it a quick scoop or a decadent sundae.

Many visitors have fond recollections of Zesto's food being exactly how they remember it—a point made by Anissa Blackman, who treasured the authentic burger taste that stands leagues apart from fast-food chains. With each bite, you will understand the love and care that goes into preparing every dish. The authenticity is palpable, and it’s what keeps patrons returning time and time again.

Whether you're a long-time local or just passing through, Zesto isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a culinary landmark in Columbia, SC. From tender chicken dinners to nostalgic burgers, every bite offers a taste of comfort intertwined with rich community spirit. If you want comfort food done right, Zesto is practically a rite of passage—come by and create your own delicious memories today!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Historic
Quiet
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Doesn't accept reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Openings Hours

Monday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Tuesday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Wednesday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Thursday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Friday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Saturday

10:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sunday

Closed

1202 Reviews
Georgianna Sanders

05 Dec 2025

This place has been around forever and I absolutely love it They have some of the best chili on their hot dog and their chicken cannot be beat

Jory Katie LaRose

17 Oct 2025

Hands down this place is AMAZING!!!! We got the Zesto Burger and fries, chicken tenders and onion rings. First, that burger The onion rings were a perfect mix of onion and batter. Second, the tenders… I would eat them all the time!!!!! I feel sorry for the place across the street, that also serves chicken (no match, EVER). I hope others enjoy this meal as much as we did!

Anissa Blackman

04 Oct 2025

I give this landmark a five star because not much has changed. Burgers are just the way I remembered still tastes what I think a burger should taste like. Not a McDonald’s burger, yuck, but it’s okay if you like McDonald’s just not my thing. Chicken and fries a good.

bill thrailkill

16 Sep 2025

This was one of the best burgers I have had in some time. Fries were ok. They did not have soda. That is not cool. I did not try the fried chicken, I did see several order's of fried Chiken come out. I believe I will be back to give the chicken a try.

TALL GUY FOOD REVIEWS

11 Sep 2025

Zestos is the best for those that KNOW...GOOD...FOOD! Great atmosphere, great food, cool old school spot for those that KNOW THE CULTURE of SOUL FOOD from ROUND DA WAY.....Let's GET IT.... LOL! I got the chicken 4 piece dinner, 3 legs and a thigh with bun and "COLESLAW" with onion rings! This is the best COMBO I've had yet where everything was great! The chicken is hands down top 3 and the onion rings are the best I've had period the coleslaw is in a lane of its own! Definitely not putting on.....I dare you to challenge another spot as official and for the price and GRIT ATMOSPHERE LOL.....this place isnt for the weak!!!

Tisha Abson

05 Sep 2025

I have only tried the fried chicken. It is really good without being overly salty. The employees are very nice. The appearance of the restaurant will throw you off. It’s a real hole in the wall….

Bridget Brown

26 Aug 2025

I ordered a burger basket with cole slaw. My friend ordered a tender basket. The service was friendly and fast. The food was fresh and hot. The cole slaw was really good.

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