Best For
Southern seafood classics and group dinners in a polished setting.





Located in the heart of Columbia, Blue Marlin is a cornerstone of the local dining scene, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable, locally sourced seafood. The menu is a tribute to Southern coastal flavors, with standout dishes like their famous shrimp and grits, She Crab Soup, and blackened salmon. The restaurant features a contemporary interior that accommodates both large groups and couples, though outdoor seating is also a popular choice. While the atmosphere is polished, the vibe remains welcoming and suitable for everything from business lunches to casual family dinners. Guests often praise the flavorful, rich sauces and the variety of traditional sides like grit cakes and collard greens.
Located in the heart of Columbia, Blue Marlin is a cornerstone of the local dining scene, celebrated for its commitment to sustainable, locally sourced seafood. The menu is a tribute to Southern coastal flavors, with standout dishes like their famous shrimp and grits, She Crab Soup, and blackened salmon. The restaurant features a contemporary interior that accommodates both large groups and couples, though outdoor seating is also a popular choice. While the atmosphere is polished, the vibe remains welcoming and suitable for everything from business lunches to casual family dinners. Guests often praise the flavorful, rich sauces and the variety of traditional sides like grit cakes and collard greens.
Signature shrimp and grits available in appetizer or entree portions.
Locally sourced, sustainable seafood with a Lowcountry focus.
Spacious interior with plenty of seating for large parties.
Extensive menu featuring She Crab Soup and fresh Mahi Orleans.
Outdoor seating available for those who prefer dining al fresco.
Southern seafood classics and group dinners in a polished setting.
Lunch, Dinner
Casual Dining, Groups, Date Night, Tourists, Locals
Blue Marlin is highly regarded for its authentic Southern seafood, with the shrimp and grits frequently cited as a standout dish. Reviewers often highlight the Mahi Orleans and She Crab Soup as phenomenal choices that showcase the restaurant's Lowcountry roots. While the atmosphere is generally described as great and accommodating for large groups, some guests have noted that the interior can feel quite cold due to the air conditioning. Service experiences appear mostly positive, though a few diners mentioned occasional delays during off-peak hours. The food is praised for its flavor, although some reviewers found certain dishes to be a bit heavy on oil. Overall, it remains a popular destination in Columbia for those seeking fresh, sustainable fish and classic South Carolina sides like grit cakes and collard greens.