Ernie's Cafe & Steak House

Ernie's Cafe is THE diner you absolutely must visit in Columbia! Stepping into Ernie's feels like stepping back in time. It's got that classic diner vibe, complete with a counter where you can watch the magic happen. It's warm, welcoming, and full of character--a true local gem. This cozy, classic spot has everything you want in a breakfast joint--amazing food, friendly service, and an authentic charm that keeps you coming back for more.The biscuits and gravy are out of this world! Perfectly fluffy biscuits smothered in rich, flavorful gravy that always hits the spot. The French toast is equally incredible--crispy on the outside, soft and custardy on the inside, and served with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether you're in the mood for hearty comfort food or something a little lighter, Ernie's has you covered.The staff is fantastic--friendly, attentive, and genuinely happy to see you. They make sure your coffee cup is never empty and your food is served hot and fresh. If you're in Columbia, do yourself a favor and stop by Ernie's Cafe.

Ernie's Cafe & Steak House, is a true classic diner. I was in town for a wedding and they gave a list of restaurant recommendations. Ernie's was not on the list, but once in town both the bride and groom verbally recommended it for breakfast. The wedding was Saturday, so before I left town on Sunday, I filled my tummy with a classic breakfast. It's a popular diner, so there was a line out the door. I will say, the manager/hostess kept it moving. A Karen, cut past several of waiting a went inside and went to take an open stool. She was quickly sent back outside and to the end of the line. The hostess, then came out and told another single diner and myself to come and take which stool we wanted at the counter.Ernie offers 12 different combos for breakfast, I picked one that I thought I wanted. When I ordered and said to hold the buttered toast and give me an half order of Biscuits and Gravy. My waitress was so sweet, she said, nope. She said she was going to save me money by ordering me the #11 and replacing the French Toast with the B&G. That's excellent customer service. My Combo #11 was delicious. Had my eggs scrambled and they were super fluffy and simply seasoned. The three slices of bacon were crispy and the Hash Browns had crispy edges. However, the true star of my breakfast was the Biscuit and Gravy. The biscuit wasn't as fluffy as I'd like, but the gravy was top notch. I love pepper and it was extremely peppery which made me happy. If anyone is going to Columbia, I'd tell them to stop by Ernie's for breakfast. When I come back to COMO, I'm going to stop by for lunch and enjoy a burger. Dick Tracy, thinks about them all the time.

We came in for brunch on a weekday, and our party of 5 was seated right away. Ambiance is a typical casual breakfast diner. Menu is basic but lots of options. Service was good.- Omelet (4.5/5): I was impressed how tasty the omelet was! I got sausage, pepper jack, mushrooms, onion, peppers. Plus hash browns on the side, which were very crispy which I love. - Biscuits and sausage gravy (4/5): Good portion size. Biscuits were fluffy, lots of gravy and super flavorful.

Good food. Quick service. Unlimited coffee for sure. Girls are so attentive. A lot of people at all times.

Very good priced breakfast. The coffee was not charged for refills which was great, each item of my meal was fantastic. The decorations were very cool and retro. Everyone at the table was satisfied, I will return.

A MUST if you are in CoMo! Traditional style breakfast food from breakfast sandwiches to omelets to plates. The grilled cheese was also phenomenal. The servers and staff were extremely nice and had exceptional service. The inside is small but gives that old school feel.

Had the Breakfast Combos. Waffles were large and fluffy. Eggs and sausage were delicious and the hash brown crisp. The staff was nice and friendly making the whole experience enjoyable. Will definitely swing by again when I'm in town

The number 11 is my go to meal. You get a choice of ham, bacon or sausage, french toast or short stack(pancakes), eggs your way and hash brown. I always ask for extra crispy hash browns. I have never gone wrong with this choice. Service is fast as its like an in and out old time type diner.

I stopped here for lunch on a Tuesday at 12:30 pm and it was not that busy. This is an old diner that has a lot of character. I was greeted right away by a very friendly and upbeat server. He gave me my menu and took my drink order. The menu is not that large, but it is in the diner tradition, 1/3 is for breakfast and 2/3 is for lunch. I was very happy with the selections.My server brought me my coke and took my order. I ordered the #1 Bacon & Turkey "World Famous Pyramid Club" with American cheese on white bread along with the house chips.The meal was served within 5 mins, and it looked fantastic. It was two layers high like a traditional club, but it was only cut in half, which was nice, the sandwich doesn't fall apart when you eat it. This is an "upscale" classic club sandwich. The lettuce is not iceberg, it is a fancy type of lettuce. Normally I find these types to be bitter, but this was really good. The tomatoes were very fresh, and the meat was outstanding. This is the best club sandwich I have ever had... But wait, there's more... The house made potato chips are fantastic. Everything about this place was good. From the décor to the overall atmosphere to FANTASTIC service... You cannot go wrong trying this place, it is truly a special diner. I wish this was in my hometown.

Charm all around! Staff, decor, & bar. I wanted an omelet, husband wanted lunch. Ernie's came through. Coffee was good, & refills kept coming. Will absolutely return when we're in town.