Dining

Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe

DiningOPERATIONAL★ 4.4
Storefront entrance in Congaree National Park reflected in glass doors, with wooden framing and street scene.

Kaminsky's Dessert Cafe in Columbia offers a cozy, quirky vibe with a full bar. Toll House Pie is a warm, nut-crusted slice with a caramel glaze that crackles on the bite; the Brownie Sundae delivers a fudgy center with a crisp edge and vanilla crown. Red Velvet Cake (3-layer) satisfies the sweet tooth, while Pink Velvet adds a playful twist. On busy Fridays it fills up with a lively, friendly energy.

Quick facts

Meals Served
  • Evening
Signature Dishes
Toll House Pie; Red Velvet Cake; Brownie Sundae
Popular Items
Toll House Pie and Brownie Sundae

What to order

Meals Served
  • Evening
Signature Dishes
Toll House Pie; Red Velvet Cake; Brownie Sundae
Popular Items
Toll House Pie and Brownie Sundae
Menu Recommendations
Toll House Pie; Brownie Sundae; Chocolate Coconut Martini
Dietary Options
  • Vegetarian
  • Gluten-free options

Prices & reservations

Price Specifics
Cakes by slice $8-$10; Pies by slice $7-$8; Cheesecake by slice $8-$12; Brownie $4-$6; Cookies (2) $5-$6; Dessert Martinis $14; Adult Milkshakes $11.40; Specialty Coffees $4-$8
Reservations Policy
Walk-ins welcome; waitlist with text updates; specialty desserts can be reserved 48 hours in advance
Typical Wait Times
Significant on busy nights; Fridays are especially crowded; wait times possible
Cash Only
0

Hours & seating

Operating Hours
  • Monday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM
  • Sunday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM
Seasonal Hours
Year-round
Outdoor Seating
Yes
Parking Details
Metered parking nearby in the downtown Columbia area

Visit strategy

Best For
  • After-hike treats
  • Casual dates
  • Friends gatherings
Service Type
Counter for desserts; table service for drinks
Service Speed
Varies
Vibe
  • Cozy
  • Charming
  • Quirky
  • People-friendly
Noise Level
Moderate buzz; lively on weekends
Busiest Times
Friday and Saturday nights
Best Visit Times
Weeknights or earlier evenings
Tips Advice
  • Order Toll House Pie first for the nutty, caramel-crack crust
  • Brownie Sundae delivers fudgy center and crisp edges
  • Reserve desserts 48 hours in advance
  • Chocolate Coconut Martini is a standout dessert cocktail
  • If you’re in a hurry, visit on a weekday evening

More details

Park Area
Congaree National Park
Takeout Available
1
Delivery Available
1
Delivery Details
Uber Eats, GrubHub, DoorDash
Dress Code
Casual
Beverage Program
Full bar; specialty coffees; dessert martinis; adult milkshakes; beer and wine
Tasting Flights
0
Tours Available
0
Bottle Sales
0
Parking Available
1
Dog Friendly Patio
0
Wi-Fi Available
0
Family Friendly
1
Family Friendly Notes
Kid-friendly; offers kids' milkshakes and sundaes
Age Restriction
All ages welcome
Bar Seating
1
Has Gift Shop
0
Unique Factor
Full bar paired with a dessert-forward menu; Toll House Pie is a signature highlight
Nearby Facilities
Metered parking nearby; downtown Columbia location
Best Time To Visit
Weeknights or earlier evenings to dodge crowds; Friday and Saturday nights are the busiest.
The Order Strategy
Skip Red Velvet Cake; get Toll House Pie. For cocktails, order Chocolate Coconut Martini.
The Vibe Check
Post-hike chill meets downtown dessert bar; cozy, casual, and a touch bustling—great for a relaxed date or group hangout.
The Crowd Factor
Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest; to beat the line, arrive early or opt for online waitlist and bar seating
Eat Here If Skip If
EAT HERE IF: you want a dessert-focused night with friends or family. SKIP IF: you need a quiet moment during peak times.
Distance From Park
approximately 22 miles from park entrance
Review Summary
Toll House Pie and Brownie Sundae dominate the texture notes; portions are generous and pies feel substantial. Red Velvet Cake can be dry in some slices, and drinks occasionally arrive slower on busy nights. The crowd brings a lively, friendly energy, especially on Fridays.

Location

Close-up view of a dessert display near Congaree National Park area, featuring whipped cream and cherries.Dessert display case with assorted cakes in Congaree National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Is Toll House Pie nut-containing?

Yes. Toll House Pie contains nuts; Peanut alert. Ask staff about nut-free options.

Are reservations required?

Walk-ins are welcome; a waitlist is used and specialty desserts can be reserved 48 hours in advance.

Is takeout available?

Yes. Takeout and delivery via Uber Eats, GrubHub, and DoorDash.

Do they have a dessert lineup for families with kids?

Yes. The cafe offers kid-friendly milkshakes and sundaes.

What’s the standout cocktail?

Chocolate Coconut Martini is a notable dessert cocktail.

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated February 2026. Report an issue.