Columbia, SC, August 13, 2025
News Summary
A new market called Melrose Market is set to open in Columbia’s Melrose Heights neighborhood, revitalizing the area with a full-service restaurant, retail space, and community gathering events. The establishment, founded by Chad Elsey, will offer a café-based menu and neighborhood essentials. A unique walkway will enhance accessibility, promoting a pedestrian-friendly environment. This project is in collaboration with Boyer Construction and Studio 2LR, with an expected opening in Spring 2026.
New Melrose Market Set to Open in Columbia’s Melrose Heights in 2026
A new market named Melrose Market is set to open in Columbia’s Melrose Heights neighborhood in 2026. It will occupy the site located at 2710 Gervais Street, revitalizing an area that has previously housed various establishments, including a grocery store and a community market.
The Melrose Market will primarily feature a full-service restaurant with a bar and outdoor patio. The restaurant is expected to offer a café-based menu with breakfast items, lunch sandwiches, and happy hour specials. In addition to dining options, a retail space will sell common neighborhood store items such as beer, wine, gifts, and essentials like milk, eggs, and cheese.
Founded by Chad Elsey, who is partnering with Jeb Babcock, manager of Za’s on Devine, the concept of Melrose Market is greatly inspired by Elsey’s hometown of Charleston. The aim is to create a modern version of classic corner stores found in both the U.S. and Europe.
Community Focus and Accessibility
Elsey emphasizes the importance of the Melrose Market as a community gathering place. The establishment is designed to cater to various social interactions, whether for business meetings or family gatherings. Plans include hosting live music events and providing a venue for residents to watch Gamecock football games on Saturdays.
To enhance accessibility, a unique walkway connected to Kirby Street will allow safe access to the market without needing to cross major roads, promoting a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Upgrades and Collaborations
The shopping center that will house Melrose Market is set to undergo a complete renovation. This includes updates such as a new paint job and improvements to the parking lot, resulting in an overall clean slate construction. Collaborations for this project include Boyer Construction and local design firm Studio 2LR.
The anticipated official opening is slated for Spring 2026. In addition to Melrose Market, a neighboring building will see the opening of Salons by JC, with a third suite remaining available for rent. Together, these developments aim to create a convenient and enjoyable space for families, friends, and business engagements.
Background Context
Melrose Heights has a rich history of various businesses serving the community. The introduction of Melrose Market signifies a new chapter for this area, aspiring to meet the needs of local residents by providing quality dining and retail options in a welcoming atmosphere.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | 2710 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC |
| Opening Date | Spring 2026 |
| Restaurant | Full-service with bar, outdoor patio, café-based menu |
| Retail Space | Sells neighborhood essentials like beer, wine, gifts, milk, eggs, and cheese |
| Community Events | Live music, football viewing events |
| Accessibility | Walkway connected to Kirby Street for safe access |
FAQ Section
When is the Melrose Market expected to open?
The Melrose Market is scheduled to officially open in Spring 2026.
What facilities will Melrose Market offer?
It will feature a full-service restaurant with a bar and outdoor patio, as well as a retail space selling typical neighborhood store items.
Who is involved in the project?
The project is spearheaded by Chad Elsey, in collaboration with Jeb Babcock, and supported by Boyer Construction and Studio 2LR.
How will access to Melrose Market be improved?
A new walkway linked to Kirby Street will provide safe access to the market without crossing major roads.
What inspired the concept of Melrose Market?
The concept draws inspiration from classic corner stores in Charleston and aims to replicate those experiences in the Melrose Heights community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Post and Courier: Market Coming to Columbia, SC Neighborhood
- Columbia Missourian: Missouri Symphony Orchestra Hosts Holiday Market Concert
- Cola Today: Community Supported Grocery Brings Local Produce Delivery
- WIS TV: Woman Charged After Accidentally Shooting Cousin
- Dignity Memorial: Doris Bradley Obituary
- Wikipedia: Columbia, South Carolina
- Google Search: Columbia SC neighborhoods
- Google Scholar: Columbia SC community market
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Columbia, South Carolina
- Google News: Columbia SC food news
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