Sunday Brunch? Dipratos!

If I could sum up this review in two words, it would be "Pimento cheese." But we'll circle back to that later in the honorable mentions section. Dipratos is a renowned brunch and lunch spot situated just before Five Points, on a quiet side street. Here, they serve up unbeatable meals with options for indoor, outdoor, and covered patio seating, ensuring there's plenty of space to savor every bite. 

Positives:

Dipratos has an extensive menu that spans from indulgent peaches and cream pancakes to hearty omelets, legendary sandwiches, and unbeatable subs. When it comes to brunch in Columbia, this place is one of my top picks, alongside the Gourmet Shop. Whether it's brunch or lunch, one thing remains consistent: you simply can't skip the pimento cheese dip paired with their crunchy pita chips – it's a taste sensation unlike any other.

With its family-friendly atmosphere, Dipratos is the ideal spot for a leisurely Sunday afternoon brunch. But it's also perfect for grabbing takeout during a busy week when you're craving a delicious sandwich or salad to enjoy on your short lunch break. Whatever the occasion, Dipratos has got you covered.

Fortunately, Dipratos has its own parking lot, which alleviates the stress often associated with city parking. Situated in a less populated area, it offers easier access to parking and a more tranquil atmosphere, ensuring that your brunch experience is relaxing for everyone involved.

Negatives:

It's worth mentioning that Dipratos offers outdoor seating situated on their front lawn, which is close to the street. While I personally enjoy basking in the sun in that area, it's worth noting that passing cars might occasionally beep or rev their engines, causing a minor distraction during your meal. However, with good food and good company, it's easy to overlook. If this would bother you, I would recommend opting for their indoor seating for a more refined dining experience.

Honorable mentions:

Now, let's circle back to the star of the show: the pimento cheese. Let me tell you, as someone originally from Boston, I had never tasted anything quite like it until I came to Dipratos. Since then, I've sampled many pimento cheeses, but nothing compares to Dipratos'. Served with a generous bowl of crispy yet chewy pita chips, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of grease, this appetizer is truly in a league of its own. Trust me, it's a must-have starter, no matter how hungry you may be.

For the main course, I'd highly recommend indulging in their fluffy, chocolate-filled pancakes served with a side of crispy bacon and warm maple syrup. It's the epitome of comfort food, and trust me, you'll have leftovers to enjoy later. However, if you're leaning towards something more savory, I'd suggest going for the build-your-own omelet. Let me tell you, this omelet is massive, and you won't leave hungry. You get to customize it with your choice of Potato Cheese Casserole or local Adluh Grits, Applewood Smoked Bacon, Sausage Links, Canadian bacon, or Turkey Sausage, and it comes with Toast or a Biscuit.

Honestly, I'd recommend visiting Dipratos multiple times just to explore their entire menu. With so many enticing options, it's not going to be an easy decision, but it's sure to be a delicious one!

Would I recommend and who should come here:

I highly recommend Dipratos to any family in search of an unbeatable brunch spot here in Cola. While the restaurant is spacious, it's always bustling on weekends, but trust me, the wait is worth it. Located within walking distance from some of the freshman dorms, it became a favorite hangout spot for my friends and me when we needed a break from the dining hall food (which, let's be honest, was practically every weekend). We shared countless laughs and cherished memories over brunch on sunny Sundays.

Additionally, Dipratos is perfect for those on-the-go folks craving a delicious, hearty sandwich. I often see customers placing to-go lunch orders, making it a convenient option when you're pressed for time and don't feel like packing a lunch. And I can't speak highly enough of the wait staff – they've always provided excellent service, adding to the overall enjoyable experience at Dipratos.