Melrose Market restaurant to open in Columbia’s Melrose Heights

Melrose Market, a new full-service eatery from local restaurateur Chad Elsey, is slated to open in the historic Melrose Heights area in early 2026.

The space will be a modern take on a classic European café, “pairing approachable dining in a refined atmosphere with the warmth of a neighborhood hub,” according to a news release.

“Opening a café-style restaurant is something I’ve wanted to do for years, and I am excited to be able to do it in my own backyard,” Elsey, Melrose Market owner and managing partner, said in the release. “We wanted to bring something to Melrose Heights that feels fresh and modern but is still connected to the neighborhood’s character.”

Located at 2710 Gervais St., the 5,000-square-foot American brasserie and market is designed to offer a mix of lounge seating, a bar, a dining room, and a patio. A limited retail section will offer handpicked pantry staples and other goods tailored to the area’s needs, the release said. Elsey’s objective is to offer an elevated yet easygoing energy — equally suited for an early cappuccino, a leisurely lunch, or a toast over martinis.

Melrose Market comes from a team deeply rooted in Columbia’s dining scene. At the helm is Elsey, a restaurateur with more than 15 years of experience, his work as a former managing partner at Cantina 76 and former partner at Za’s on Devine has helped shape some of the city’s favorite local spots.

Joining him is longtime collaborator Jeb Babcock, also a former Cantina 76 partner and current managing partner at Za’s, along with Chad’s wife, Ashley Elsey, who will lead brand identity and communications. Together, they’re building Melrose Market as a gathering place that reflects their shared passion for good food, good company and the community.

Named for and inspired by Melrose Heights, the eatery is tied to its neighborhood, with partners who live within two miles of the restaurant. A newly constructed pedestrian walkway and staircase will connect Kirby Street — directly across from Melrose Park — to the retail center.

“It’s about building a place we’d want to spend time in,” Elsey said in the release. “Somewhere that makes it easy to gather, to connect, and to celebrate moments big and small — all while adding to the incredible community we’re proud to call home.”

The project is part of a larger revitalization effort by building owners George Kornegay and Walker Barber — both University of South Carolina alumni who have strong ties to Columbia. Local architecture firm Studio 2LR is leading the restaurant’s design. Boyer Construction, already involved in the retail center’s renovations, will complete the project.

Another confirmed tenant is Salons by JC. Approximately 3,000 square feet of retail space remains available, with leasing managed William Mills with Trinity Partners.