Press
“When sommelier Tim Gardner and his team members in Columbia, South Carolina, choose your next sip, it could be the wine of your dreams-the best ever. And it’s likely one you’ve never heard of, since this spot sources from vineyards tucked away in crannies around the globe. That’s the delight when the Lula Drake experts start pouring. With a keen palate that leaps beyond expected oaky chardonnays and big cabs, Gardner loves that moment of connection, when your taste buds dance with surprise. ‘The attention to detail is impeccable,’ says one reader from the area. ‘This is a safe space to be curious and ask food and wine questions with no judgement while having a fancy night out’.”
Southern Living’ Magazine’s “The Friendliest Places in the South" 2024
“At first, there is little that feels South Carolinian about this bar: an Iberico ham leg behind the counter waiting to be shaved for appetizers, which complement the heavily international wine list. It’s mostly biodynamic and organic and carefully curated; a particular stand-out is the small but intentional collection of Eastern European orange wines. Still, there are Southern touches, the most striking of which is a photo of Lula Drake, the 19th-century dame for whom this bar was named. The wood paneling is cozy, and there’s a sort of antique-inspired feel to the place. It’s the perfect place to duck into on a fall day and nibble on slivers of Iberico ham, its musty funk the perfect complement to a Brut Chenin Blanc.”
Food & Wine
“...the highlight of the trip. It really captures the charm that is Columbia. We sat with the owner as we sipped on organic, carefully curated wines and he explained the history of the place. We had some late night bites. The truffled pasta dish with crème fraîche, black pepper, and lemon zest was out of this world. Yum! I still think about that meal!”
Ashley Wilson - @beausandashley
Garden & Gun Magazine
“But most importantly, do not leave town without planning a trip to Lula Drake, a cozy wine bar rich in history. (It has a blue cheese tasting plate on the menu, too, if you’re into that kind of thing.)”
purewow.com
“Lula Drake is owned by Tim Gardner, an oenophile whose by-the-glass list shifts monthly, if not weekly. Inspired small plates include house-made pasta, gnudi, braised local meats, and a not-to-be-missed gourmet grilled cheese night on Wednesdays.”