The Hoot — Restaurant in Columbia

⭐️⭐️⭐️ Honest Review – Room for Improvement

I was looking for a brunch spot with family in Columbia, SC, and found The Hoot online. It seemed like a cozy place with vegan options and mimosas, so we decided to check it out on a Sunday.

However, when we arrived, someone at the door abruptly said, “No, don’t come in.” That was confusing because, based on their online hours, they were open. I stepped aside to check the sign and realized there was a drag show happening inside. I completely respect that, and I understand not wanting guests to disrupt the performance. However, the way it was handled felt unorganized and unwelcoming.

A few things could have made this experience smoother: ✅ Clear signage at the door explaining that entry is restricted during performances. ✅ A designated entrance or waiting area for guests wanting to dine without interrupting the show. ✅ A staff member at the door to kindly explain the situation and offer guidance (e.g., waiting time, alternative entrance, etc.). ✅ A visible phone number for inquiries—unfortunately, I couldn’t find one online.

I also want to mention that while the restaurant advertises vegan options, they are very limited. It’s important to note that there are different types of vegans, and I’ve noticed that many places confuse veganism with vegetarianism. If you’re strictly vegan, I’d recommend calling ahead (if you can find a number) to confirm if they have options that truly align with your dietary needs.

I wasn’t trying to walk through the performance, but there was no direction on what to do next. Was I supposed to wait outside? Would someone notify me when I could enter? There was no communication, making the experience feel uninviting—and no one wants to dine where they don’t feel welcome.

Again, I’m not writing this to discredit the establishment; the atmosphere seemed great, and I would have loved to try the food. But small improvements in organization, communication, and guest experience could make a huge difference.

I’d love to return under better circumstances, and I hope these...

Easily one of the best in Columbia.

I'm reading negative reviews and I swear these people went to a different place than me. Completely different experiences. Hopefully the staff can figure out what went wrong those nights, because when I went it was amazing.

I have eaten at many vegan restaurants around the US, mostly in California. The food I had at The Hoot rivals some of my favorite spots across the country and is absolutely worth trying. I had the cheese fries, hush puppies, the chikn sandwich, and tried a few things my friends ordered.

The hush puppies were to die for, and I absolutely loved the cheese fries (I love me some terribly unhealthy food haha).

The veg-fil-a sandwich was very good and not soggy like other people are reporting (again, not to say they are wrong. It really sounds like something went wrong in the kitchen for these folks).

The only food I didn't personally like was the Mac and cheese that a friend ordered, but that is personal taste and others at my table seemed to really enjoy it.

The staff seemed a bit overwhelmed but not rude or anything negative, it was a busy night.

I highly recommend this place based off of my experience. I truly hope this remains the case as I continue to go and will update my review if I experience the soggy uncooked food other people have...

Grateful to have a delicious plant based place open on a Sunday and they are open late. (They also have brunch on Sun until 2.) I got the house hoot sandwich- made with tofu and rad cabbage slaw with spicy ginger sauce that was great. It took me a moment because the slaw was cold but with the warm sandwich and tofu and warm fries it went well together. Hubby got the Philly and he does not like onions so it was nice that the peppers were not pre-mixed with the onions he would rate the sandwich a 4/5. My daughter who usually does not like any meat substitutes actually liked the veg-fil-a she said she would give it a 4/5. The fries were delicious. Prices were great for the taste and quantity of food. We don’t eat out much so it was worth it, upper end of our price point. Staff very friendly and nice. Gentleman that met us today was new x 2 weeks but checked in with the us to make sure we had what we needed. Seating area cozy and nice for a family or date night . Outdoor seating as well. Loved The hours. It allowed us to do what we wanted to do around the area and still have a good meal and not feel rushed. Yum! Edited to add we also got a slice of the chocolate cake for a birthday. It was very moist and delicious, Very nice and not overly done frosting. And it was enough for three of...