The Gourmet Shop - Chicken Salad Croissant

Congaree National Park storefront restaurant along a brick sidewalk under a blue-and-white striped awning, with trees nearby.

The Chicken Salad Croissant cracks open to reveal a flaky crust and a creamy, not-too-mushy chicken mix with just enough mayo to bind it. The Bacon and Brie Croissant delivers rich, indulgent bites balanced by a bright jam note. Belgian Waffles are fluffy, pockets soaking up butter and syrup, while the cafe atmosphere stays welcoming and crisp. It’s a culinary oasis of comfort and finesse in a cute shopping area near the park.

Quick facts

Meals Served: Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Signature Dishes: Chicken Salad Croissant; Bacon and Brie Croissant; Belgian Waffles
Local Specialties: House-made salads, sandwiches, paninis, cheese plates, and charcuterie boards
Popular Items: Chicken Salad Croissant; Belgian Waffles; Bacon and Brie Croissant

What to order

Meals Served: Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Signature Dishes: Chicken Salad Croissant; Bacon and Brie Croissant; Belgian Waffles
Local Specialties: House-made salads, sandwiches, paninis, cheese plates, and charcuterie boards
Popular Items: Chicken Salad Croissant; Belgian Waffles; Bacon and Brie Croissant
Menu Recommendations: Chicken Salad Croissant, Bacon Brie Croissant, Belgian Waffles, Smoked Salmon Bagel
Dietary Options: Vegetarian options available
Vegan options: inquire advised
Gluten-free options: not specified

Prices & reservations

Price Specifics: Toast with jam & butter: $2.00, Toasted Bagel with cream cheese or jam & butter: $3.95, Scones: $2.50, House Wine (Red or White): $3.95, Mimosa: $5.95, Panini meals around $15
Reservations Policy: Accepts reservations
Typical Wait Times: 15-25 minutes during peak hours
Payment Methods: Credit cards
Cash
Cash Only: 0

Hours & seating

Operating Hours: Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Outdoor Seating: Yes
Parking Details: Paid parking lot and paid street parking
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restroom

Visit strategy

Best For: Families
Casual dining
Brunch lovers
Not Ideal For: Those seeking quiet, fast service during peak brunch
Service Type: Table service
Service Speed: Moderate; potential slow during peak hours
Vibe: Bright
Inviting
Cozy
Sophisticated yet warm
Casual
Noise Level: Moderate buzz
View Type: No specific views; located in a cute shopping area
Busiest Times: Saturday mornings and brunch
Best Visit Times: Weekdays during non-brunch hours
Tips Advice: Grab Chicken Salad Croissant first during peak hours.
Reserve ahead to skip line during brunch.
Takeout is available for park-side picnics.
Try the Bacon Brie Croissant with its jam lift.
Visit on weekdays for calmer vibes.

More details

Park Area: Congaree National Park region, near Columbia, SC
Takeout Available: 1
Delivery Available: 1
Delivery Details: Takeout and delivery available; specifics not provided
Dress Code: Casual
Beverage Program: Full bar with wine and beer, craft cocktails, and mimosas
House Made: House-made salads, sandwiches, paninis, cheese plates, and charcuterie boards
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 meals available; busy but welcoming to families
Age Restriction: All ages welcome
Bar Seating: 1
Has Gift Shop: 0
Unique Factor: Bright French-inspired bakery cafe in a charming shopping area near Congaree NP
Nearby Facilities: Nearby shopping area; paid parking options nearby
Best Time To Visit: Off-peak hours on weekdays; Saturday brunch is the busiest; plan for weekday visits to avoid lines.
The Order Strategy: Skip the roasted veggie pasta side; get Chicken Salad Croissant. For drinks, cappuccino is highly regarded; Mimosas are popular.
The Vibe Check: Bright, cozy, and lively—family-friendly yet refined enough for a casual date or post-hike stop.
The Crowd Factor: Lines form on Saturday mornings and brunch; outdoor seating can ease crowding; takeout helps during park visits.
Eat Here If Skip If: EAT HERE IF: you want high-quality bakery cafe with kid-friendly vibes. SKIP IF: you require ultra-fast service during peak brunch.
Distance From Park: approximately 21 miles from park entrance
Review Summary: Texture notes emphasize a flaky croissant with balanced fillings; waffles arrive fluffy and buttery; some reviewers note slow service during peak periods but praise food and atmosphere overall.