News Summary
Mack’s Cash Grocery has been declared the winner of The State’s Burger Poll, receiving over 5,700 votes and achieving 18% of the total. This marks the restaurant’s second victory since it first won in 2021. Located in downtown Columbia, Mack’s is celebrated for its classic Southern breakfast and lunch offerings, including burgers, hot dogs, and chicken salad sandwiches. Manager Susan Looney leads the team in providing excellent customer service, reflecting the local community’s loyalty and preference for dining at this beloved establishment.
Columbia Celebrates Mack’s Cash Grocery as 2025 Burger Poll Champion
Mack’s Cash Grocery, a cherished establishment located at 1809 Laurel St. in downtown Columbia, has been crowned the winner of The State’s Burger Poll for 2025. This significant recognition marks the second time the restaurant has claimed the title, having previously won in 2021. The recent poll, which was open for voting from July 7 to July 13, 2025, received an impressive total of more than 5,700 votes from local residents.
Mack’s Cash Grocery captured 18% of the votes, securing the top position against 34 local competitors. Following distantly in second place was Transmission Arcade with 12% of the votes, while Cayce’s The Kingsman rounded out the top three with 7% of the votes. The poll, organized to spotlight the best burger venues in the Midlands, reflects the community’s preference for local dining experiences.
About Mack’s Cash Grocery
For decades, Mack’s Cash Grocery has been a staple in Columbia, known for its classic Southern breakfast and lunch offerings. The restaurant serves burgers all day, alongside a variety of other menu items including hot dogs, chicken strips, and homemade chicken salad sandwiches. The establishment is particularly beloved for its straightforward, no-frills approach to food, which resonates with many regular customers.
Manager Susan Looney, who has dedicated 30 years to the restaurant, plays a crucial role in maintaining the fast-paced environment, especially during busy lunch hours when the line often extends down the hallway and out the back door. Known for her efficiency and familiarity, Looney oversees the lunch rush and ensures that customer service remains a top priority.
A Look at the Atmosphere
The interior decor of Mack’s reflects a deep connection to local history and the University of South Carolina community. Dark wood-paneled walls are adorned with memorabilia including political cartoons and newspaper clippings, contributing to the establishment’s unique charm. This nostalgic ambiance creates an inviting atmosphere, where a diverse range of customers convene to enjoy their meals.
Community Impact and Customer Loyalty
The winning of the burger poll showcases the strong bond between Mack’s and its community. Susan Looney has expressed gratitude towards customers for their ongoing support and votes, emphasizing the loyalty that has developed over many years. Following the passing of Clyde Calhoun Patrick III, a former owner, in 2023, the restaurant continues to thrive, serving as a resilient pillar of the community.
As Columbia celebrates Mack’s Cash Grocery’s latest victory in the 2025 Burger Poll, the restaurant not only highlights the culinary options available in the Midlands but also reinforces the importance of local businesses. With its rich history, welcoming environment, and dedicated management, Mack’s stands as a testament to what makes dining out in Columbia both enjoyable and memorable.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The State: Local News Article
- Wikipedia: Burger
- Cola Today: Pimento Cheeseburgers
- Google Search: Columbia restaurants
- The State: Food and Drink Article
- Google Scholar: Local Business Impact
- Post and Courier: Food Writer Picks
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Local Dining Experiences
- Dignity Memorial: Clyde Patrick Obituary
- Google News: Mack’s Cash Grocery
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
