Each year, Restaurant Week South Carolina brings a thrilling opportunity to explore new dining spots at discounted prices. This year, Arroyo Tacos + Tequila, a newcomer that opened its doors last August, is joining in on the festivities and aims to draw in fresh patrons with their special offerings for the event.
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From enjoying a steak at Hall's to indulging in pizza at Village Idiot, diners in South Carolina can explore a variety of culinary experiences at reduced prices from January 9 to 19 during Restaurant Week South Carolina. This year, the lineup includes the newly opened Arroyo Tacos + Tequila, adding to the excitement.
Every year since 2010, a group of Columbia restaurants come together to participate in the city’s edition of Restaurant Week South Carolina, a statewide event held in October and January meant to highlight South Carolina’s culinary scene. Restaurants provide promotional menus with a selection of their signature dishes to allow locals to sample new experiences at discounted prices, with 42 establishments being featured this year.
The event is organized by the South Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association, or SCRLA. Lenza Jolley, who serves as Vice President of Membership and Development for the organization, works to bring new restaurants into the fold each year.
“We operate as a membership-driven organization,” Jolley explained. “This event acts as a recruitment initiative for our members. Therefore, if you belong to the association, participating in Restaurant Week South Carolina is complimentary for member restaurants.”
Introducing Arroyo Tacos + Tequila, the latest creation from the team behind the acclaimed fine dining establishment, Saluda’s Restaurant. Situated in Five Points, Arroyo welcomed its first guests this past July. Andrew Thompson, who has served as the general manager of Saluda’s for many years and is now a co-owner of Arroyo, expressed that the goal of this new eatery is to offer vibrant, top-notch Mexican cuisine at reasonable prices.
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Thompson remarked, "We believed there was a demand in the neighborhood for a unique, trendy yet genuine Mexican-style establishment. Our aim was to create a space that offered delicious food at an affordable price while providing an exceptional experience."
Arroyo offers a spin on classic dishes, such as chori-pollo, chile relleno and enchiladas, a wide selection of different tacos from chipotle chicken to beef barbacoa as well as an extensive drink menu.
During restaurant week, Arroyo is featuring a special three-course meal priced at $19. Diners can select a dip to start, followed by an entrée from a select menu that includes choices like any two tacos, chile relleno, quesadilla, or enchiladas, and finish off with delicious cinnamon durros for dessert.
The bar is currently featuring $7 craft margaritas and frozen margaritas, along with $5 beers.
Charlie Flowers, a manager and bartender with connections to Saluda's, expressed that Restaurant Week presents a great chance to promote Arroyo and attract local patrons.
"While I’m confident in the quality of our offerings, the most significant hurdle has been raising our visibility," Flowers remarked. "However, once we managed to welcome customers and they enjoyed their time with us, it felt incredibly rewarding."
Thompson said Restaurant Week has a positive impact on all the Columbia restaurants that take part.
“You offer a small incentive to (say), 'Hey, instead of staying home tonight, go out to a restaurant and try somewhere new,'” Thompson said. “I’m sure we’re not the only ones that gain new customers.”
Thompson mentioned that launching a new restaurant offered numerous chances for growth and learning, despite his previous experience in the field.
"Having managed Saluda's for a considerable period, I've gained a wealth of experience and insights," Thompson remarked. "However, launching a new restaurant and building it from the ground up proved to be a significant challenge."
Flowers mentioned that Arroyo's position in Five Points is a significant advantage, offering a place for individuals to enjoy food and drinks before heading out to downtown.
According to Thompson, Arroyo distinguishes itself from competitors like Monterrey's and Cantina 76 due to its elevated standards.
“Over the past few years, it appears that Mexican restaurants have been emerging everywhere, but at Saluda's, we remain committed to the high standards we've always maintained—offering delicious food, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere,” Thompson remarked. “Our goal is that when you finish your meal with us, you leave with a desire to return.”
More information on Arroyo Tacos + Tequila along with the full menu can be found here on its website. Arroyo’s promotional menu, along with the menus for every restaurant participating in Restaurant Week, which is running from January 9 to 19, can be found here.
