On Main Street of South Carolina's capital city of Columbia sits an award-winning, upscale farm-to-table style restaurant known as Smoked. Open only since 2021, this spot offers weekend brunch, an oyster bar, live music at times, and as of August 2023, now also a speakeasy in South Carolina. It's called the Burnline, and it's the perfect place for your next date night.

The Burnline is found underneath Smoked in a space that used to be a secret, accessible only to those "in the know." It opened to the public in August 2023.

If you'd like to add a bit more of a mysterious feel to your experience, you can send a direct message via the Smokedsc Facebook page to request a password to provide upon arrival. It's not required for entry but is just a fun option for those interested in a speakeasy experience that feels a little more like it did during the older days. Personally, I think this would make it much more fun, especially as a date night activity.

Fun fact: The Burnline got its name from the "burn lines" left by Sherman's March on Columbia in 1865.

Once you enter, the atmosphere feels exactly as you'd imagine for a speakeasy with a noticeable ambiance of mystery and allure.

Along with the best collection of rare and allocated spirits available, the Burnline experience has grown into something more.

This incredible speakeasy in South Carolina has its own cocktail menu, with both upscale classics and original ideas, including seasonal options such as these fresh flavors of spring with 8+ new cocktails and 3 mocktails. It's unlike anything you've experienced if you've eaten at Smoked before.

There have also been cocktail classes held at The Burnline in Columbia, SC, where guests learn about the way different ingredients interact in cocktails, why it's so important to balance flavors, how to craft classics including Old Fashioned, Daquiri, and Gin Sour, while understanding the techniques behind shaking, stirring, and the role of ice.

You'll want to book a room just down the street at The Sheraton to retire to after enjoying those drinks! And for breakfast the next morning, don't miss The Toasty Hot Spot for some of the best biscuits and gravy in South Carolina.

Be sure to check the official website for The Burnline for hours of operation as it's not open every night. Enjoy!