Gwandolyn Presbury, Atlanta Area REALTOR
I happened to come to Columbia for a few hours. Met my sister downtown and we stumbled upon Transmission Arcade. As soon as we opened the door, we knew it’s where we were supposed to be. The food was good, the service was on point and the atmosphere was dead on. It reminded us of when our boys were young and we would take them to the arcade to play. Very different menu items. We had the chicken Marsala Sandwich, pork chop Sandwich and smoked wings.
… moreAdam Kolkowski
The place is great, wonderful games and all that. Pinball is amazing, lots of fun games to play. The food: The Smashburger was TRULY a smashburger, and it was AMAZING, like hands down the best I’ve had. Only fired one picture off before I devoured it. Truly next level
… moreN. Lee
We enjoyed our visit here. The wings NEVER disappoint. I tried the salad today and it was huge and tasty. The atmosphere is relaxing and chill with all the patrons playing games while enjoying drinks. I would highly recommend this restaurant/arcade.
… moreAlejandro (AlejOpinion)
Transmission Arcade & Bar in downtown Columbia is the perfect blend of nostalgia and nightlife. Walking in feels like stepping into your childhood—only now, there’s a killer cocktail in hand. The walls hum with old-school arcade classics, while the energy is electric with laughter, friendly competition, and great music.
What sets this place apart is that it’s not just about the games. The food is shockingly good—think comfort food with a creative twist. The smash burger is a must, and the loaded fries are next-level. The bartenders know their stuff too, serving up craft beers and cocktails that rival any upscale bar in town.
Whether you’re coming for a throwback game night, a casual date, or just to unwind with friends, Transmission delivers a vibe that’s both laid-back and unforgettable. It’s Columbia’s hidden gem where fun and flavor collide.
… moreClaire Taylor
I recently visited transmission for the first time in a few years, and my friend and I had a fantastic time. The Betty White crab game was our favorite. The vibes and service were amazing too. The bartender (Kevin?) made us amazing drinks and gave us great food recommendations as well as he was able to fix two of the games that weren’t working properly for us almost instantaneously! We will be back!
… moreTyrell Ross
Went with some friends on a Friday night and while it was packed and took us a bit to get table we still had fun at the bar. The game selection was pretty good even though some of the multiplayer games weren’t working with 2 players but the FOOD WAS DELICIOUS. I was telling my buddies I need to go back one day just for the food alone. I got the Tikka Chicken sando sandwich and it was so good along with the choco tacos I had as well. I will more than likely be back my buddies and I honestly had a great time
… moreJohn Doe
Transmission is such a cool place! It’s barely noticeable from the outside, but once I stepped inside, I was instantly amazed at how unique and colorful the inside was!
The chicken tenders and fries were great, and the drinks were affordable as well. The bartenders were all really cool, and the clientele was very nice and welcoming!
I didn’t play any of the games this time, but everybody who was looked like they were having a great time!
I would highly recommend Transmission, and I will certainly be back soon!
… moreJordan Lehr
One of Columbia’s best! Excellent smashed burgers, fries and legendary smoked wings. The Big Cat rolls are can’t miss. Great place to bring the kids and enjoy a meal and beverage.
… moreJessica Moye
WINGS and Fries! Absolutely love! We have visited this spot three days straight! We love the vibes! DRINKS are good! Please visit this spot!
… moreAndrew Foard
I regularly go to this arcade, and always have a good time. If you like pinball you’ll really really like it here. Outside of pinball and arcades, the staff is very friendly, the food is delicious, and I love that they’re always changing up the pinball selection
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