Ikie Lu Record Club
The Coolest Hangout in Columbia: Ikie Lu Record Club
If you’re looking for the pulse of Columbia’s social scene, it’s over at Ikie Lu Record Club. This isn't just a bar; it’s a vinyl listening lounge, a cocktail haunt, and a playful eatery all rolled into one.
The Vibe: High-Fidelity Hospitality
The interior is designed for hanging out, featuring everything from counter seating to a large communal table and cozy nooks for smaller groups. But the real magic happens outside on the massive patio. Whether you’re lounging in the sun or competitive-playing a round of pétanque (the French cousin to bocce ball), the atmosphere is effortlessly convivial.
It’s all counter service here, which keeps the energy casual and moving—perfect for a place that feels more like a friend’s very cool living room than a stuffy lounge.
On the Turntable (and the Table)
The menu is a mix of high-brow "finer things" and low-brow comfort, executed with a wink.
Caviar Dog: You haven't lived until you've had a hot dog topped with mustard crème fraîche, potato hay, and caviar. It’s the ultimate boujee comfort snack.
Sharable Classics: The pimento cheese and crab dip are staples, but the crawfish-loaded hushpuppies are the sleeper hit of the menu.
The Shrimp Roll: If you want something a bit more substantial, this is fresh, buttery, and hits every note.
Caviar Service: For the true epicureans, they offer full caviar service that pairs perfectly with their selection of sparkling wines. Served with Chives, Creme Fraiche, and Zapps Chips, you can choose between Kaluga Reserve, American Sturgeon, and Salmon Roe.
The Sips
The drink program is as curated as the record collection. They have a nice list of wines by the glass and even more extensive list of bottles (Red, White, and Bubbles). There’s absolutely something for everyone. And if you aren’t a wine drinker, no worries — the cocktails are also tasty.
The Turbo G&T: This was my absolute favorite—a high-voltage take on a classic that is dangerously refreshing.
The Verdict
Ikie Lu Record Club is a love letter to good music, better wine, and even better friends. Owner Matt Catchpole has managed to blend his fine-dining pedigree with a neighborhood bistro soul. Whether you’re there to listen to a rare press of a classic album or just to crush a caviar-topped hot dog on the patio, Ikie Lu is a mandatory stop in Columbia.
📍 601 N Lucas St, West Columbia, SC 29169