Anonymous writer

The Mod Squad recently hit another restaurant. This time, the secretive band of restaurant groupies found a secluded spot to relax right in the heart of Columbia at The Back Porch.

The Mod Squad is a group of women who are looking for the perfect spot to enjoy good food and good conversation. The circle of friends often dines with their children, and every once in a while they schedule a night out…minus the kids.

Without their children on this particular evening, The MOD Squad visited The Back Porch for a relaxing “girls night out.” The women found the restaurant to be as secretly located as their own Mod Squad Headquarters. The Back Porch restaurant and bar, tucked away behind Havens Framemakers and Gallery, offers a charming respite from busy city streets.

The MOD Squad found The Back Porch offered a nice atmosphere for lunch, to catch up with old friends on the weekends or to unwind after work.

MOD 003 thought “the food was excellent in every way, i.e. presentation, taste, etc., like gourmet…but, the atmosphere was more like a hangout where I would go with friends.”

MOD 001 was impressed that all of the food was cooked in a small trailer positioned right outside the restaurant doors. “Portions of food were adequate, hot, and tasted good. Especially since it’s cooked in a trailer outside!! Kind of a neat idea.”

MOD 002 found the crab cake appetizer to be delicious and beautifully presented. And “the bruschetta was scrumptious,” seasoned with fresh tomatoes and balsamic vinegar.

The shrimp and grits was a crowd pleaser with shrimp so large the Squad stopped to “ooh and aah.”

The pasta dishes were rich and filling. Midway through her dish, MOD member 004 couldn’t eat another bite. “The dishes are creative at reasonable prices, and BIG portions. Everything I tried was very tasty!”

MOD 001 was only disappointed that they were the only ones in the restaurant. “I would consider going back for lunch and sitting outside.”

Outside, the murals and beautifully lit patio conjure up romantic images of Italy or France. Inside the restaurant, the festive bar, brightly colored chairs, enormous television, and laid–back staff set the stage for a fun outing with friends.

MOD 004 best described the restaurant as “bar meets bistro.” MOD members agreed that the restaurant’s menu and atmosphere were tailored for adults rather than children.

Another thumbs–up from the MOD Squad! The Back Porch is located at 1616 Gervais Street, and their phone number is (803) 779-4626.