Rosewood Dairy Bar’s remaining days may be fewer than customers expected. The Columbia drive-in at 3003 Rosewood Drive, serving burgers, hot dogs and soft-serve since 1942, now says its last day will likely be Saturday, Oct. 31, after customers bought up much of its remaining menu.
The business had initially estimated it would stay open through the end of November. The Post and Courier reported that the timeline shortened as customers came in, while The State reported the restaurant’s updated estimate for a final day.
The restaurant said it is running out of menu items because of the customer turnout: “We are running out of more menu items everyday thanks to all those who have been showing up and buying from us!”
Why The Longtime Drive-In Is Shutting Its Doors
The business cited rising product costs, a lack of substantial business and the condition of the rented property as reasons for closing, according to the outlet. In its Oct. 16 Facebook post announcing the decision, it also said it had not been profitable for at least five years.
The Austin family has owned the restaurant for about three decades, The State reported. Rosewood Dairy Bar said it would not order more product and would sell what remained as long as possible. The business apologized for being unable to continue and said it had debated the decision over the previous year.
The Rosewood Drive Corridor’s Planning Goal
For the corridor more broadly, City of Columbia planning records say the Rosewood Plan set a physical development goal of creating a pedestrian-oriented shopping district connected to the surrounding neighborhood.
Customers Rally Before The Final Weekend
The announcement prompted customers to share memories of the Rosewood Drive location on the restaurant’s Facebook page. Many have also made a point of visiting before it closes.
That customer support has also brought the likely closing date forward: buying the remaining menu items has left the restaurant with less to sell than anticipated.
What Comes Next For Rosewood Dairy Bar
The business has floated the possibility of a food truck in the future, though it has not said whether or when that might happen. For now, Rosewood Dairy Bar is focused on selling what remains before closing.
