I'm not sure whether to be disgusted or indulged. It was a lot. A lot of meats and cheeses and bacon and bun. And sauce. The sauce. So much sauce! I got the Andy's special, which is turkey and roast beef, two layers of swiss cheese and bacon sprinkled on top. The people have spoken, and they are correct. The bun is awesome! And the special sauce, which I'm guessing is a thousand island, was good. But I definitely did not need a full two scoops that I was given. Plopped right down on the plate in the middle of everything. Just sitting there in a pool. And I'm even an extra sauce kinda gal! Throw in some potato chips and a pickle and this is a full meal here. Not a healthy meal. But a hearty meal. I guess the pickle was my "vegetable"?? I was also excited to see cream soda as an option. I love me some cream soda, but was surprised to see it came with a Styrofoam cup full of shaved ice. I guess that's how they roll down here. The more time passes, the more I'm not sure just how good it was. I think because it had a bunch of delicious stuff piled inside with melty cheese it was delicious at that moment. Not so much now.
(3)
Adam B. J.
If you are in a bad mood, go eat Andy's for lunch. The friendliness of Andy will brighten your day. "Hello My Friend/My Dear. I've been eating at Andy's since before I could reach the counter. Any time I'd go to work with my father we'd eat at Andy's. When I was young I cared more about dipping my Wise chips in the Andy's special sauce than the sandwich. He use to have the BEST house made chicken salad ever too. Now I either get a My Dear Salad (when I'm trying to lose weight) dressing on the side, an astronaut, or the best ANDY'S SPECIAL! I love Andy's. Groucho's can take a hike in my opinion!
(5)
brad h.
This is a classic place... a joint worth visiting, full of nostalgia. The sandwiches are really good. The Andy's Special is roast beef, turkey, and bacon on a warm soft bun. It's a large-ish sandwich so you won't feel cheated. You get a large amount of sauce, and OK I admit it's pretty much just Thousand Island dressing - but its good and it makes a nice combination though and I personally just think it's a great meal. I see a few reviews mentioning this as "Historic", etc. That is going to date me I suppose, since I have eaten here since it was new. My wife was a student at USC and lived in Columbia so we ate here a good bit. Andy is still there, although with grey hair, and still says "Hello My Dear" to all the female customers. I would have given it a 5 back in the day. Honestly the sandwiches are still just right for me, so the food is fine. I might give the place another star if Andy would replace those, "historic" tables and that "historic" carpet... but I suppose that's part of the ambiance of the place. This, in my book, is comfort food at it's best. If you are nearby and have not had an Andy's Special - you should stop by and try one.
(4)
Jaymie M.
From a historical perspective, the old posters and memorabilia on the walls are interesting. If you're a local with a deep and abiding loyalty to this joint, that's understandable. But just meat and cheese on a bun with a side of thousand island dressing (that's the 'special sauce') for dipping isn't my idea of a what a great deli offers. Prices are a little high and there's a clear disparity in the service you get if you're a regular versus a first timer. I'm all about supporting locally owned establishments, but I didn't see anything here that I couldn't get at a chain for cheaper with the same or better quality and service. I haven't tried Groucho's and don't see them as a point for comparison, but I'm quite sure neither place needs to be in my good graces to stay in business!
(3)
Ryan C.
A real Jewish delicatessen, and the best in Columbia. I can rarely pass by here without stopping for a pastrami and swiss on seeded rye. They also have numerous special dipper sandwiches, motzah balls, liverwurst, pates, all the old school delicatessen traditions. This place has been here for decades and I'd hands down my favorite deli in the south, period. -Ryan C.
(5)
Alicia W.
Home of a great sandwich. So many to choose from...I can't pick a favorite! Good atmosphere. Good prices.
(4)
Bill S.
Nice people but nothing special compared to northern delis. Bread is ordinary and soup is bland.
(2)
Greg W.
I got the Andy's Special today and it's like I found a piece of my soul that I'd never realized had been missing for so long. Man, what a sandwich! To look at it on paper nothing stands out. It's just roast beef, turkey, cheese and bacon bits. That first bite tells a completely different story. The warm bread was most certainly an outstanding compliment to the right combination of such simple components. My wife has a thing for ice and said this is now her favorite ice ever. I agree, the way it's shaved seems to sort of compress between your teeth for a neat texture and experience. The tea was just a bit weak but I can't think of anything else to complain about.
(5)
Lindsey V.
Hello there my friend! This is how you will be greeted when walking in to this little gem of a sandwich shop nestled in the heart of Five Points. You are treated like you have been going there for years, just one of the reasons why Andy's is such a great place. It is decorated with tons of old and new pictures of teams/newspapers at USC. It makes you appreciate how long that place has been enjoyed by the people of Columbia and the students at USC. Very yummy sandwiches, the astronaut is my personal favorite. The sandwiches are served up warm, on super soft bread, sided with a sauce that will be a treat for your taste buds. Many people compare the sauce to the sauce at Groucho's. They are definitely similar but, Andy's sauce takes a notch down on the zest which makes it a perfect combo for the sandwich. This is a must try for the Five Points area!
(4)
Amanda R.
Andy's is a staple in Five Points, particularly for those of us who grew up in Columbia and went to college there. The service is always good. Andy himself takes your order and greets you with a friendly, "Hello my dear" or "Hello my friend." If you dine there regularly, Andy will remember you and your order. I haven't lived in Columbia for eight years, but Andy always remembers my order! The food is amazing. Some may complain that it's over-priced; however, Andy's is a cheap lunch spot by Five Points standards. All of the meats and cheeses are fresh. The restaurant itself is a bit shabby and could potentially turn people off. Keep in mind that the building is over 30 years old. And although its not the fanciest decor in town, its clean and the service is great. What more could you want in a restaurant?
(4)
Stephanie D.
I simply couldn't find a legitimate reason to give it 4 stars. Andy's deli features sandwiches made from freshly cut cheeses and meats. Every sandwich, accompanied by his secret sauce, has been hot and delicious. My favorite thus far is the Andy's Special. The place is probably not for everyone. The size of the sandwich relative to it's price makes me feel ripped off sometimes. A lunch for two, including drinks, can cost over $13. I don't complain though. The quality of the sandwiches are consistent and the employees are always friendly, and that keeps me coming back. I guess the quality of service depends on time of day since they get really busy at certain hours. When it was slow, Andy's son (who's name I've forgot) came to our table and refilled our drinks during a nice conversation. The place is worth a try unless you're a Clemson fan.
(5)
Geoff B.
Can't really say much different then what's been posted. One of my favorite "comfort" delis. Food is awesome, atmosphere is good and prices are good.
(5)
Michael W.
Long-time Columbia tradition. Great sandwiches, friendly service.
(4)
Jonathan M.
Awesome place to eat! Very similar to grouchos deli. Andy is very nice and so is the rest of the staff.
(5)
Lindsey B.
For a deli, it is 4 star for food, not atmosphere. But you go there for food, most likely, not decor. I haven't ever been disappointed, and staff is friendly.
(4)
Christine M.
The Andy's Special. This is the one thing I miss about being a meat eater. Ah, the warm bread, the bacon bits, the delectable dipping sauce, the... STOP IT! Stop it right this minute! I am a VEGETARIAN! Seriousuly, mouth, stop watering! Stupid Andy's.
(5)
David B.
Andy's deli sandwiches are great. Open-faced sub sandwiches with bacon on top and a special sauce for dipping...how could you go wrong? If you're really hungry, step it up a notch and get three meats (turkey, roast beef and ham) even though its not on the menu (but is at the Decker location named "Alberts Deli"). You won't be disappointed! Side Note: If you go to Groucho's instead of Andy's then you're obviously from out of town or a Republican that wears popped collar Polo's and boat shoes. In either case you're misinformed...and your deli choice verifies this fact.
(5)
Patrick F.
My favorite place to eat in Columbia by far! When my parents went to school here, they used to eat here and I grew up eating Andy's every time we visited Columbia. Andy is always there and he is so friendly. If you are a repeat visited he usually remembers you and knows what you usually order. The Andy's Special is a must, but all the sandwiches are amazing. His secret sauce you dip your sandwich in is incredible. Groucho's has got nothing on Andy's!
(5)
John David Johnston G.
I have been going to Andy's since i was a youngster. This is by far the best sandwich place i have ever been too. I go there every month, and it is by far the best food day of that month. Whether i get a salad or a sub or even a sandwich, I am always impressed. I honestly cannot stand Groucho's and wish Andy had another shop in Forest Acres. Andy's beats Groucho's any day of the week. If you are looking for a good lunch, this is the best way to go.
(5)
Kacee G.
Andy's and Grouchos are very similar in almost every way. But Andy's is better. It's the small things. Ample parking at any time is always a bonus. The atmosphere is much better, with the crowd way more diverse than the saturated frat crowd that Groucho's attracts.Most importantly, the SAUCE is so much better. Like a tweaked 1000 Island it is slightly better than Groucho's - and that slightly is enough! The sandwiches are chewy and delicious, while Groucho's tend to be on the squishier side. And of course, Andy's Deli has Andy. Yeah, all he is doing you is serving you some food. But he makes it so personal! Unlike Groucho's, they don't expect tips for their friendly tableside service. Go for the Andy's Special and try out the honey bbq chips they have on the side - I haven't seen those anywhere else and they are strangely good.
(4)
jane s.
Andy's Deli is a staple establishment in Columbia. It's tucked in the heart of Five Points, just across the street from Papa Jazz with its very own parking lot (very helpful during the lunch hour). Andy's proudly shows USC posters, flyers and photos that go as far back as the 70's if I remember right. It's just a little sandwich shop....but WOW....those sandwiches...they have the best sauce, and the bread is superb. Andy works the register every day, and could not be a friendlier guy...calling all the ladies "my dear". I love it. I miss it. I need to go back.
(4)
Jennifer M.
Ahh, MY DEAR Andy's Deli! Absolute fixture in Columbia. Great family owned deli with the most AMAZING greek salad. Seriously, you must visit this place. Friendly staff and all the GAMECOCK info you will see in one place!
(5)
Pete J.
I know all about the Groucho's Vs. Andy's rivalry, but honestly? I prefer Andy's. The food is JUST AS GOOD, & it was never crawling with frat boys trying to nurse a hangover. All that aside, Andy is an awesome dude.
(5)
Anna V.
Andy's deli is a must visit for anyone going to Five Point in Columbia, SC!
(5)
Annie A.
The best college deli is in Gamecock Country! Check out Greene Street and the giant sign. You must try the Andy's Special, it is superior! And don't miss meeting Andy himself, his "my dears" are to be treasured.
(5)
Brandon D.
Decided to try this place one day as something different. Overall, it was just okay. The service was above average. The Andy's special was nothing spectacular and the sauce wasn't that good either. I felt like they skimp on the cheese and bacon. Overall, service 4/5, food 2/5. The price was a bit high too. I think I will stick with Groucho's for now on.
(3)
Will C.
Nice history, decent sandwich, great service. Being from the North, I'm a big critic of sandwiches and this deli didn't leave me wowed based on their bread, or meats but everyone that works there is friendly and treats you like you're there every day. That was the part that made this place worth going. The sandwich quality is similar to Groucho's but I was MUCH happier with the delivery here. So far, in the search for the best sandwich - particularly pastrami - the best place is Hampton's Place. If you don't want to make the hike over there and you're in Five Points - Andy's over Groucho's.
(4)
Woody C.
Groucho's Deli down the street has all the hotties for servers, but Andy is MY FRIEND. He says so every time I see him...Bros before ho's. I get the Andy's Special, because I have never ordered anything else - in 18 years.
(5)
Michael D.
I love this place. I Recently have moved to Charleston and I miss Andy and his deli so much, this place is truly one of a kind. If you have never been try the Andy's Special or the Dip Supreme if your not a fan of roast beef. I have tried nearly everything on the menu and haven't found a thing I did not enjoy. Andy is the Nicest Restaurant Owner in the town of Columbia by far. You feel like you are family every time you walk in to eat. If I could give it 6 stars I would. TRY THIS PLACE and you will not be disappointed.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Rachel C.
I'm not sure whether to be disgusted or indulged. It was a lot. A lot of meats and cheeses and bacon and bun. And sauce. The sauce. So much sauce! I got the Andy's special, which is turkey and roast beef, two layers of swiss cheese and bacon sprinkled on top. The people have spoken, and they are correct. The bun is awesome! And the special sauce, which I'm guessing is a thousand island, was good. But I definitely did not need a full two scoops that I was given. Plopped right down on the plate in the middle of everything. Just sitting there in a pool. And I'm even an extra sauce kinda gal! Throw in some potato chips and a pickle and this is a full meal here. Not a healthy meal. But a hearty meal. I guess the pickle was my "vegetable"?? I was also excited to see cream soda as an option. I love me some cream soda, but was surprised to see it came with a Styrofoam cup full of shaved ice. I guess that's how they roll down here. The more time passes, the more I'm not sure just how good it was. I think because it had a bunch of delicious stuff piled inside with melty cheese it was delicious at that moment. Not so much now.
(3)Adam B. J.
If you are in a bad mood, go eat Andy's for lunch. The friendliness of Andy will brighten your day. "Hello My Friend/My Dear. I've been eating at Andy's since before I could reach the counter. Any time I'd go to work with my father we'd eat at Andy's. When I was young I cared more about dipping my Wise chips in the Andy's special sauce than the sandwich. He use to have the BEST house made chicken salad ever too. Now I either get a My Dear Salad (when I'm trying to lose weight) dressing on the side, an astronaut, or the best ANDY'S SPECIAL! I love Andy's. Groucho's can take a hike in my opinion!
(5)brad h.
This is a classic place... a joint worth visiting, full of nostalgia. The sandwiches are really good. The Andy's Special is roast beef, turkey, and bacon on a warm soft bun. It's a large-ish sandwich so you won't feel cheated. You get a large amount of sauce, and OK I admit it's pretty much just Thousand Island dressing - but its good and it makes a nice combination though and I personally just think it's a great meal. I see a few reviews mentioning this as "Historic", etc. That is going to date me I suppose, since I have eaten here since it was new. My wife was a student at USC and lived in Columbia so we ate here a good bit. Andy is still there, although with grey hair, and still says "Hello My Dear" to all the female customers. I would have given it a 5 back in the day. Honestly the sandwiches are still just right for me, so the food is fine. I might give the place another star if Andy would replace those, "historic" tables and that "historic" carpet... but I suppose that's part of the ambiance of the place. This, in my book, is comfort food at it's best. If you are nearby and have not had an Andy's Special - you should stop by and try one.
(4)Jaymie M.
From a historical perspective, the old posters and memorabilia on the walls are interesting. If you're a local with a deep and abiding loyalty to this joint, that's understandable. But just meat and cheese on a bun with a side of thousand island dressing (that's the 'special sauce') for dipping isn't my idea of a what a great deli offers. Prices are a little high and there's a clear disparity in the service you get if you're a regular versus a first timer. I'm all about supporting locally owned establishments, but I didn't see anything here that I couldn't get at a chain for cheaper with the same or better quality and service. I haven't tried Groucho's and don't see them as a point for comparison, but I'm quite sure neither place needs to be in my good graces to stay in business!
(3)Ryan C.
A real Jewish delicatessen, and the best in Columbia. I can rarely pass by here without stopping for a pastrami and swiss on seeded rye. They also have numerous special dipper sandwiches, motzah balls, liverwurst, pates, all the old school delicatessen traditions. This place has been here for decades and I'd hands down my favorite deli in the south, period. -Ryan C.
(5)Alicia W.
Home of a great sandwich. So many to choose from...I can't pick a favorite! Good atmosphere. Good prices.
(4)Bill S.
Nice people but nothing special compared to northern delis. Bread is ordinary and soup is bland.
(2)Greg W.
I got the Andy's Special today and it's like I found a piece of my soul that I'd never realized had been missing for so long. Man, what a sandwich! To look at it on paper nothing stands out. It's just roast beef, turkey, cheese and bacon bits. That first bite tells a completely different story. The warm bread was most certainly an outstanding compliment to the right combination of such simple components. My wife has a thing for ice and said this is now her favorite ice ever. I agree, the way it's shaved seems to sort of compress between your teeth for a neat texture and experience. The tea was just a bit weak but I can't think of anything else to complain about.
(5)Lindsey V.
Hello there my friend! This is how you will be greeted when walking in to this little gem of a sandwich shop nestled in the heart of Five Points. You are treated like you have been going there for years, just one of the reasons why Andy's is such a great place. It is decorated with tons of old and new pictures of teams/newspapers at USC. It makes you appreciate how long that place has been enjoyed by the people of Columbia and the students at USC. Very yummy sandwiches, the astronaut is my personal favorite. The sandwiches are served up warm, on super soft bread, sided with a sauce that will be a treat for your taste buds. Many people compare the sauce to the sauce at Groucho's. They are definitely similar but, Andy's sauce takes a notch down on the zest which makes it a perfect combo for the sandwich. This is a must try for the Five Points area!
(4)Amanda R.
Andy's is a staple in Five Points, particularly for those of us who grew up in Columbia and went to college there. The service is always good. Andy himself takes your order and greets you with a friendly, "Hello my dear" or "Hello my friend." If you dine there regularly, Andy will remember you and your order. I haven't lived in Columbia for eight years, but Andy always remembers my order! The food is amazing. Some may complain that it's over-priced; however, Andy's is a cheap lunch spot by Five Points standards. All of the meats and cheeses are fresh. The restaurant itself is a bit shabby and could potentially turn people off. Keep in mind that the building is over 30 years old. And although its not the fanciest decor in town, its clean and the service is great. What more could you want in a restaurant?
(4)Stephanie D.
I simply couldn't find a legitimate reason to give it 4 stars. Andy's deli features sandwiches made from freshly cut cheeses and meats. Every sandwich, accompanied by his secret sauce, has been hot and delicious. My favorite thus far is the Andy's Special. The place is probably not for everyone. The size of the sandwich relative to it's price makes me feel ripped off sometimes. A lunch for two, including drinks, can cost over $13. I don't complain though. The quality of the sandwiches are consistent and the employees are always friendly, and that keeps me coming back. I guess the quality of service depends on time of day since they get really busy at certain hours. When it was slow, Andy's son (who's name I've forgot) came to our table and refilled our drinks during a nice conversation. The place is worth a try unless you're a Clemson fan.
(5)Geoff B.
Can't really say much different then what's been posted. One of my favorite "comfort" delis. Food is awesome, atmosphere is good and prices are good.
(5)Michael W.
Long-time Columbia tradition. Great sandwiches, friendly service.
(4)Jonathan M.
Awesome place to eat! Very similar to grouchos deli. Andy is very nice and so is the rest of the staff.
(5)Lindsey B.
For a deli, it is 4 star for food, not atmosphere. But you go there for food, most likely, not decor. I haven't ever been disappointed, and staff is friendly.
(4)Christine M.
The Andy's Special. This is the one thing I miss about being a meat eater. Ah, the warm bread, the bacon bits, the delectable dipping sauce, the... STOP IT! Stop it right this minute! I am a VEGETARIAN! Seriousuly, mouth, stop watering! Stupid Andy's.
(5)David B.
Andy's deli sandwiches are great. Open-faced sub sandwiches with bacon on top and a special sauce for dipping...how could you go wrong? If you're really hungry, step it up a notch and get three meats (turkey, roast beef and ham) even though its not on the menu (but is at the Decker location named "Alberts Deli"). You won't be disappointed! Side Note: If you go to Groucho's instead of Andy's then you're obviously from out of town or a Republican that wears popped collar Polo's and boat shoes. In either case you're misinformed...and your deli choice verifies this fact.
(5)Patrick F.
My favorite place to eat in Columbia by far! When my parents went to school here, they used to eat here and I grew up eating Andy's every time we visited Columbia. Andy is always there and he is so friendly. If you are a repeat visited he usually remembers you and knows what you usually order. The Andy's Special is a must, but all the sandwiches are amazing. His secret sauce you dip your sandwich in is incredible. Groucho's has got nothing on Andy's!
(5)John David Johnston G.
I have been going to Andy's since i was a youngster. This is by far the best sandwich place i have ever been too. I go there every month, and it is by far the best food day of that month. Whether i get a salad or a sub or even a sandwich, I am always impressed. I honestly cannot stand Groucho's and wish Andy had another shop in Forest Acres. Andy's beats Groucho's any day of the week. If you are looking for a good lunch, this is the best way to go.
(5)Kacee G.
Andy's and Grouchos are very similar in almost every way. But Andy's is better. It's the small things. Ample parking at any time is always a bonus. The atmosphere is much better, with the crowd way more diverse than the saturated frat crowd that Groucho's attracts.Most importantly, the SAUCE is so much better. Like a tweaked 1000 Island it is slightly better than Groucho's - and that slightly is enough! The sandwiches are chewy and delicious, while Groucho's tend to be on the squishier side. And of course, Andy's Deli has Andy. Yeah, all he is doing you is serving you some food. But he makes it so personal! Unlike Groucho's, they don't expect tips for their friendly tableside service. Go for the Andy's Special and try out the honey bbq chips they have on the side - I haven't seen those anywhere else and they are strangely good.
(4)jane s.
Andy's Deli is a staple establishment in Columbia. It's tucked in the heart of Five Points, just across the street from Papa Jazz with its very own parking lot (very helpful during the lunch hour). Andy's proudly shows USC posters, flyers and photos that go as far back as the 70's if I remember right. It's just a little sandwich shop....but WOW....those sandwiches...they have the best sauce, and the bread is superb. Andy works the register every day, and could not be a friendlier guy...calling all the ladies "my dear". I love it. I miss it. I need to go back.
(4)Jennifer M.
Ahh, MY DEAR Andy's Deli! Absolute fixture in Columbia. Great family owned deli with the most AMAZING greek salad. Seriously, you must visit this place. Friendly staff and all the GAMECOCK info you will see in one place!
(5)Pete J.
I know all about the Groucho's Vs. Andy's rivalry, but honestly? I prefer Andy's. The food is JUST AS GOOD, & it was never crawling with frat boys trying to nurse a hangover. All that aside, Andy is an awesome dude.
(5)Anna V.
Andy's deli is a must visit for anyone going to Five Point in Columbia, SC!
(5)Annie A.
The best college deli is in Gamecock Country! Check out Greene Street and the giant sign. You must try the Andy's Special, it is superior! And don't miss meeting Andy himself, his "my dears" are to be treasured.
(5)Brandon D.
Decided to try this place one day as something different. Overall, it was just okay. The service was above average. The Andy's special was nothing spectacular and the sauce wasn't that good either. I felt like they skimp on the cheese and bacon. Overall, service 4/5, food 2/5. The price was a bit high too. I think I will stick with Groucho's for now on.
(3)Will C.
Nice history, decent sandwich, great service. Being from the North, I'm a big critic of sandwiches and this deli didn't leave me wowed based on their bread, or meats but everyone that works there is friendly and treats you like you're there every day. That was the part that made this place worth going. The sandwich quality is similar to Groucho's but I was MUCH happier with the delivery here. So far, in the search for the best sandwich - particularly pastrami - the best place is Hampton's Place. If you don't want to make the hike over there and you're in Five Points - Andy's over Groucho's.
(4)Woody C.
Groucho's Deli down the street has all the hotties for servers, but Andy is MY FRIEND. He says so every time I see him...Bros before ho's. I get the Andy's Special, because I have never ordered anything else - in 18 years.
(5)Michael D.
I love this place. I Recently have moved to Charleston and I miss Andy and his deli so much, this place is truly one of a kind. If you have never been try the Andy's Special or the Dip Supreme if your not a fan of roast beef. I have tried nearly everything on the menu and haven't found a thing I did not enjoy. Andy is the Nicest Restaurant Owner in the town of Columbia by far. You feel like you are family every time you walk in to eat. If I could give it 6 stars I would. TRY THIS PLACE and you will not be disappointed.
(5)