We enjoyed a great lunch at Blue Marlin while visiting my daughter at USC. Our waiter "Slim Tim" was personable and fun. We never had an empty water glass. Service was quick and the food was good. We had everything from salad to burgers to seafood. Good portions, prices and good. No room left for dessert and we definitely return! read more

Quick to be seated. Nice atmosphere. Restaurant was a little busy so the volume was a little increased as expected. Lots of dinner chatter. Bar was full of drinking and dining patrons. I was thinking a little lighter fair so I just ordered two appetizers. They were delicious hot and tasty. I was pleased and filled. Brooklyn was very attentive and pleasant. Would dine here again and bring friends. read more

Blue Marlin - Shrimp & Grits appetizer. - Seafood Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

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Hailey our server was amazing! She will graduate from The University of South Carolina soon! Go Cocks! Anyway she was great. She wasn't an over talkative waitress. She engaged us just enough to make us feel special. Best of luck to her! The restaurant is nice. Plenty of space in the booths. It's not a huge restaurant. If you go on the weekend I suggest planning ahead and making reservations. It apparently gets pretty busy. Also, parking is a beast! It cost until after 6pm. No validation. So go for dinner not for lunch! Haha. The food is top notch. Fried green tomato appetizer was on point and so were the Blue Marlin platter and Gulf shrimp platter. For some reason my 10 year old likes salad and she got the classic Caesar. The She crab soup could have had a little more crab meat but all in all a great restaurant and great experience. read more

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I was a little concerned after reading the most recent reviews, so I wasn't sure what to expect. However, my wife and I had a wonderful meal and excellent service. We started with the crab cake appetizer, and then each had a steak for our main course. My wife enjoyed her filet, and my ribeye was excellent. We ended the meal with two desserts. My wife had the chocolate cake, and I had the homemade key lime pie. The restaurant was busy and the seafood dinners that I saw delivered to other tables looked great! Thanks for a great time! read more

My girlfriend and I went to Blue Marlin on Thursday, October 9th 2025, to celebrate our two-year anniversary, and it turned out to be one of the most disappointing dining experiences we've ever had. I was told by several people that this was supposed to be the best seafood restaurant in Columbia, but what we experienced was completely the opposite. First, the restaurant was practically empty, yet our food still took 38 minutes to arrive after ordering. In that time, we were "entertained" by the chaos coming from the kitchen. The cooks were yelling across the room, blasting vulgar rap music, and--most shockingly--we could clearly hear them using racial slurs and profanity. Not only was it unprofessional, it ruined any sense of atmosphere. We ordered the spinach fondue with pita chips as an appetizer, but the chips were so stale they were like eating cardboard. For a restaurant with this reputation, I expected much better quality and care for the food. The entire environment was loud, obnoxious, and unwelcoming, which is the last thing anyone wants when they're celebrating something special. What should have been a memorable evening turned into nothing but frustration. Overall, Blue Marlin was a complete letdown. For a place that's hyped as a Columbia staple, it felt more like a fast-food joint with a broken sound system than a fine seafood restaurant. Sadly, this was the biggest disappointment I've had dining out in a long time, and I would not recommend it to anyone looking for a quality experience in Columbia. read more

This past Saturday evening was the first time I have visited Blue Marlin since before the Pandemic. Well to be honest, I'm not missing anything. Upon entering you are greeted by the loud environment. The hostess was very nice. Had a welcoming smile and tone which I really appreciate. We were seated in bar area, last booth before the waitress station, which was a little quieter than the actual dining area. My only issue was where I sat the air condition condensation was dripping on me. I like the openness of the restaurant. You can see/watch the kitchen area from any seat in the restaurant. Our waiter, think his name as Dustin ( I could be wrong!) was phenomenal. He is very knowledgeable about the different dishes and drinks . I asked for a drink selection, due to my allergies, he gave the best option and it was splendid ! Throughout the entire time he would check on us, refill our drinks and make sure we were ok. The bread, served best, was good and hot. The salmon pontchartrain cooked medium was good. The sauce made it 50% better than having it plain. The green beans and mash potatoes were lukewarm. I'm sure if it was hot I would've enjoyed it more. Overall, it was a nice restaurant. I couldn't rate it 5 stars because my food was cold. They have a wonderful and friendly staff. It's worth a try!! read more

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Definitely a solid place. The food is great and it has awesome service. There is indoor and outdoor seating. There is usually a wait, so I'd recommend getting reservations. read more

Had a great lunch experience today at the Blue Marlin. From the compliementary bread and collard greens (best I've eaten) to the crab cake salads and gumbo, everything was DELICIOIUS and at a good price. Generous portions and friendly service are also plusses as is the former train station surroundings. Will stop there anytime I'm near Columbia, SC. read more

I always enjoy going to the Blue Marlin. The food and ambience is always good. Service is good.

Standard seafood fare in a busy part of Columbia. We came in with a big party but there wasn't a long wait time. The place was super busy at the moment too so this was a good sign. The table had fried green tomatoes and calamari for apps in which everyone enjoyed. For my dinner I got a seafood platter and it was honestly ok. I will advise I did not eat the fish as I traded it to sample another item from one of my cohorts. The crab cake was missing crab, majority breading and the shrimp were good. The piece of steak I tried was the best thing to me and I wish I would have gotten that. Drinks came out made great. Would return if in the area but would try something different. read more

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Food and service was very good everytime I come here. They closed early the last 2 times I tried to eat here. I showed up 45 minutes before closing time. read more

Really nice night out at blue Marlin. Our dinner wasn't planned, we just walked in. They were able to seat us within 30 mns and we had the best seats in the house. If you want to see something interesting, the only way the bar tenders can get in and out of the bar is with a 1/2 wall. It's rather entertaining to see tall folks try to navigate this space. It's not on the menu--- FIRST tip: ask for the app sampler. It is excellent! Mini crab cakes, pimento cheese, shrimp (spicy!) and fried green tomatoes. So yummy. Our server was super lovely. Attentive, proactive, a real professional. She did a great job explaining the menu and taking care of my picky SO who can be difficult to take care of. For dinner we had the oyster boiville and the salmon dinner. They have fancy names and they were wildly delicious. I think the real star of the night was the undercover manager. He brought our food out so I wasn't initially sure if his role but we learned- by the end of dinner- he was actually in charge. I love to see a humble working manager and so that part made my day. He skillfully and delicately handled an obnoxious drunk guest who was making unwelcoming conversation with other guests. I felt safe and the professional way he handled the situation was admirable. We will absolutely be back. Not just because the food was wonderful but the service feels pre-covid level!!! Lovely time. read more

This place is not for the faint hearted, the service is superb, atmosphere is on point and the food is fantastic! Is it expensive, yes is it worth it also yes! read more

The drinks were excellent, and the service was decent. However the food was incredibly salty. Everyone that I had dinner with also expressed similar sentiments about how over salted the dishes were. It made it difficult to enjoy the seafood that would have otherwise been great. It was an unfortunate coincidence. If I did come back, I think I will only do so for the drinks. read more

This is the SEAFOOD place that you're searching for. My wife absolutely loves the she-crab soup. We're from NY & never had it or even heard of it before. Now after trying others this is the only place she will eat it. I like the gumbo but there are so many great entree's to choose from I don't going back for my wife's she-crab soup because I get to try all of my favorite foods & Blue Marlin has them & a chef that knows hai business. read more

After living here for 2.5 years, I finally got to try Blue Marlin and they did not disappoint. When you first walk into the restaurant it looks really elegant with a mix of beachy vibe with the big blue swordfish hanging up. For a Saturday evening, we were lucky to get a table because we needed dinner before the Price is Right Live show. Our waiter, Josh was so nice and was able to provide the specials and accommodated changes we wanted to our meal. I got the salmon Pontchartrain and it was absolutely delicious. I got it with green beans and lashed sweet potatoes and everything paired perfectly together. First the salmon was cooked medium (which is perfect) and the flavor was great and seasoned well. The shrimp and scallops were slightly overcooked but not unbearable. I don't know what mornay is but that was the sauce on top and it was so creamy like an Alfredo kind of, and it meshed the seafood so well. The green beans were seasoned nicely, not salty and it was cooked perfectly with a slight crunch. It's actually just the way I like my green beans. The mash sweet potatoes were also really good. It seems they mashed it enough where you still got some chunks of potato which I like because it gives a different texture. I wasn't sure how it would be with the seafood, but honestly everything gave the perfect balance of sweet and savory but not an overpowering sweet taste. I think I'll definitely add this to my list of go to places downtown, especially for a date night. read more

Blue Marlin - Salmon Pontchartrain - Seafood Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

Blackened tilapia- awesome. Hot juicy and flaky. Succotash was nice. Salmon - same. Collard greens also nice. Shrimp and grits. Okay. I wouldn't say it's an award winner. She crab and gumbo soups were good. Not much crab though. Tuna appetizer- terrific. Loved the wasabi eggs and dipping sauce. Service was quick and friendly. read more

Koala love the ambience and the service and the bread, I'm listening Thursday about the actual seafood. But they've always treated me well and getting a table I like and getting me served on time to make a special event later. I believe their food was overall better a few years ago, but there's nothing wrong with it today. My opinion, it's just that it could be better. read more

For this review, I'll start with the end of the meal. Server, " Would you like coffee?" Diners, "no, I don't think so... well okay." After a few minutes three steaming cups of coffee were put down in front of us. We were hoping to savor a good cup on that cold evening. So after we put in our sugars, and cream, according to individual taste, we sipped. "Ugh", we said in unison, "this coffee is terrible. " And truly it was. It reminded me a bit like Sanka--two day old Sanka! So, when our server returned, we told her about the coffee. She agreed it was bad and they were looking for better coffee (apparently the bad coffee had nothing to do with the machine or how it was prepared). So when I casually asked for a discount, she abruptly said "I can't do that!" Now if I wasn't with a couple we had never met before, I would've asked for the manager and discussed the situation. What do you think Yelp community? When you are served something that is not palatable, something you can neither eat or drink because it's so bad, shouldn't the restaurant make it "right?" In my opinion, the coffee charge should've been taken off our bill. Let's move on to the meal: based on our servers recommendation, we enjoyed an appetizer of pimento cheese, mini crabcakes, fried shrimp, and fried green tomatoes. Except for a piece of fried green tomato that had the texture of a firm apple slice, this is a good appetizer choice to share. On to the meals: my wife and one of our new friends got the $38 special, a selection of "build your own" three course meals, including dessert. My wife's entree' consisted of the Southern candied pecan salad, and the spinach ravioli, with a pesto sauce. I tasted her ravioli, and it was delicious! The pasta was light, and very tender.--second best to the ravioli we had in Italy. My entrée, the crispy Gulf oysters were nothing to write home about. I had an expectation of something a little more succulent and juicy, and these turned out to be way too crispy, and with the primary flavor of batter. The oysters were served with a fresh slaw salad, which I enjoyed. Our friends sampled the she crab soup, and had a fried fish and a blackened, salmon entrée. They were pleased with both of their choices. For dessert, we sampled the key lime pie, and an ice cream and cookie concoction. Both were good. The Blue Marlin is a Columbia landmark with a nice selection of starter salads and entrées. The booths are comfortable and the wood paneled ceiling and general ambiance is warm and inviting. There's something for everyone on the menu and as a rule the food is very good; we do recommend it; however, on this particular evening, I can only give it a three because of my disappointment with the oysters and the unfortunate coffee experience. read more

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Made reservations for a Friday night before a concert and I'm so.glad I did. Arrived right at the reservation time of 630 amd there were people waiting for a table but we got right in thanks to the reservations. Tried the firecracker shrimp for the first time amd really enjoyed them. They have some kick so be sure to use the side dressing it comes with. I ordered the seafood platter and was surprised at how big the portions were. I couldn't eat it all and had to take some dor.the next day. Great spot for Lowcountry and seafood cuisine. Highly recommend it and don't forget to make reservations! read more

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Enjoyed lunch here today . Food quality was excellent with the exception of the extra cooked chips for enjoying the crab and spinach fondue. Bread was excellent as was the she crab soup , chicken pasta, and the pecan chicken salad. Wife also enjoyed her complimentary dessert. Great service was provided by Bailey. He was very helpful and courteous and we wish him well with his future endeavors. We may return another time. read more

The food is tasty and service was good. However, I've tried their shrmp and grits a few times now and I have been underwhelmed. The grits were loose on the verge of runny. On the flip side, they have a nice chill vibe and situated in the heart of the Vista. read more

This place has gone downhill. App wasn't good. Shrimp and grits was bland. No shredded cheese to add. Wine offering is very small. The staple restaurant in Columbia shouldn't be this bad. The service was good once we finally got a server but overall - won't be back. Too many other food options in town now. Bourbon. Hal's. Motor Supply Co or Colas. read more

Beautiful building in a convenient spot. It was packed after the game and we were sat for our reservation quickly. Staff were friendly but maybe just not trained? We ordered a bottle of white wine and it was delivered at room temp to the table. Calamari was good but most dishes were mediocre at best. My wife ordered the oysters bienville. They tasted like low tide and she had violent food poisoning the entire next day. The restaurant didn't bother to reply to her private message so be warned. read more

Sat outside for lunch on my visit. This was my 3rd visit. They had an industrial fan blowing outside, but it was still hot. Not a deal breaker as we chose to sit outside. Our waiter seemed newer. He was attentive, but forgetful. It wasn't busy and so I'm not sure what the case was...again, not a deal breaker. We ordered. I had the bang bang shrimp as an appetizer and the salt and pepper catfish for dinner. The shrimp was great! Very well seasoned and a good bit of spice to it. The salt and pepper fish...ahh, let's just say this just wasn't enough. Not seasoned at all which is why I guess it is called salt and pepper. Bland! Blah! Forgettable to say the least. Everything else was pretty good. I'll return if I'm in the area and looking for food. read more

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This is the second time my husband and I have eaten here and both times we were floored with how wonderful the food was. Normally I take pictures of all of our food but I was too busy this time shoving my face. We started with the ahi tuna and it was spectacular! My hubby ordered the shrimp and grits and he said they did not disappoint, I had the salmon and it was fantastic. Melt in your mouth. The service was great, our server was on top of it. The restaurant itself was busy when we arrived but had great atmosphere and the staff was welcoming. We waited for approximately 30 minutes and were able to have drinks at the bar. It was a great evening. read more

Blue Marlin - Ahi Tuna - Seafood Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

Food was acceptable, service was above average but it really wasn't that special.Yawn, but clearly had a lot of business crowd diners

The food was outstanding! I love the Blue Marlin. Shrimp and grits with collards cannot be beat! The service was decent.

Everything was superb. Very nice well-kept facility. Superb staff and did not feel rushed to finish dinner to move along for the next patron. Will be going back on my next visit to Columbia. read more

This restaurant has excellent food at reasonable prices.Highly recommend GUMBO!!! Service is always excellent, all staff has been trained very well At the professional level 10/10. Restaurant always busy, casual atmosphere,friendly and fast service. Have visited several times, highly recommend 9/10. read more

One of the best Restaurants in Columbia food is consistent and Service is great and it's a great place for special occasions.

This is a nicer restaurant in downtown Columbia's Vista District. It's locally owned and operated in full 5 star style. Food is so good. Lunch busy as SC capital is a block away and the courts all around. Business class. Evening is nice date night for adults. Cobblestone streets read more

The food can improve. Soup was the best though! Drinks were great! Atmosphere was great! Service was great! We ordered 2 different types of steak and it was awful! Undercooked and not good quality meat at all. And we are meat eaters. Green beans had no flavor at all, very bland. We will come back but only for soup. Not worth the money. read more

Always good food. Doesn't disappoint. Especially if you want some good Southern food. I chose my hotel to be close to this place for a late dinner. Got right in. Chose the pineapple martini. Then a crab Cake. So good! I couldn't decide between the filet and the shrimp and grits. I kinda think I chose wrong. The shrimp and grits had no sauce. Odd! Just plain. My server was nowhere to be found to ask. But I ate most of it anyway. I'm back in a week. I'll come back and try the filet. Server said it's very good. read more

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Service was very good, no complaints there. Food was cooked perfectly but everything needed a little more seasoning, from the fish to the sides. For the price you're paying, this should be a meal that you remember fondly, not one that leaves you shrugging your shoulders. 3.5/5 stars really, but I'll round up read more

Have to go to Blue Marlin! The staff is very friendly and efficient! The Food is Delicious and the environment is perfect!

We received a high recommendation of the place when visiting town. We were not disappointed. The Ahi Tuna and calamari were terrific. The shrimp and grits were flavorful and spot on. The salmon and the cucumber lime martinis hit the spot. Ethan our server was knowledgeable and pleasant and our drinks never went empty. Terriffic! read more

Blue Marlin - Seafood Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

The Blue Marlin. Wedge salad and crab cakes were delicious. Great service, atmospheres, and clean environment. Highly recommend.

They were busy but we got quickly which was good. Wife got She crab soup and shrimp and grits. The crab soup was very good. She thought grits were not that great. Lacked flavor was how she put it. I got the Mahi Orleans blacken with shrimp and crab, garlic mash and green beans. Fish was cooked just right and crab was tasty but I could have done with the shell parts. Didn't crack a tooth but one was like a little razor had to think about that coming out. The mash was ok not too much garlic. The green beans were undercooked and tasted terrible. For my wife to spit it out is sayings something. I know locals really like the place, but I have mixed feelings and don't think we will be back. read more

Blue Marlin - Crab shells in my crabmeat that was top of the fish. Kitchen isn't doing a very good job. - Seafood Near Me - Columbia, South Carolina

Great service and ambiance. Our group thought it was really overpriced for the quality of the food. The shrimp salad, the grilled salmon, and greets were ok. The old fashioned was good but not the best you can find in Columbia, SC. read more