Melrose Market, a new concept from local restaurateur, announced for Melrose Heights retail center

Led by industry veteran Chad Elsey, the American brasserie is planned to open in 2026

Columbia’s hospitality scene is set to welcome a fresh concept with the announcement of Melrose Market, a new full-service eatery from local restaurateur Chad Elsey. 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.

“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,” says Elsey, Melrose Market owner and managing partner. “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 will offer a mix of cozy lounge seating, a charming bar, a vibrant dining room, and a patio that invites guests to linger. A limited retail section will offer handpicked pantry staples and other goods tailored to the area’s needs. Offering an elevated yet easygoing energy, the scene will be warm, inviting, and lively — 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 Chad Elsey, a restaurateur with more than 15 years of experience creating spaces where good food and a welcoming atmosphere go hand in hand. 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 — and now, he’s bringing that same vision just down the road from his own front door.

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 deeply tied to its neighborhood, with partners who all live within two miles of the restaurant. Enhancing its walkability, a newly constructed pedestrian walkway and staircase will connect Kirby Street — directly across from Melrose Park — to the retail center, providing convenient foot access for residents and visitors alike.

“It’s about building a place we’d want to spend time in,” says Elsey. “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.”

Now Hiring: Executive Chef

Melrose Market is currently seeking an executive chef to help shape its menu and lead the thoughtfully designed kitchen. The ideal candidate will bring creativity, leadership, and a passion for sourcing the best local and seasonal ingredients. Applicants can expect to collaborate closely with Elsey to create a menu that’s innovative yet approachable.

“We’re building something that’s truly collaborative,” Elsey added. “Whoever steps into this chef role will have the freedom to bring their ideas to the table — literally — and help define the flavor of Melrose Market.”

Bringing New Life to a High Traffic-Corridor

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, is poised to complete the project.

Another confirmed tenant, Salons by JC, will join the project, bringing added customer flow and energy to the development. Approximately 3,000 square feet of retail space remains available; interested parties can contact William Mills with Trinity Partners for leasing details.

Melrose Market is slated to open its doors in early 2026. Construction is underway, and more details on menu offerings, hirings, and opening events will be shared in the coming months on the restaurant’s social media pages. Follow along at @MelroseMarketSC on Facebook, Instagram and more.

About Melrose Market

Opening in 2026, Melrose Market is a locally owned American brasserie and market designed for everyday gathering, celebrating and connecting. Located in Columbia’s historic Melrose Heights neighborhood, the space features indoor and outdoor dining, a lively bar, cozy lounge seating and a thoughtful retail component. The restaurant blends the comfort of a Southern corner store with the charm of a European café. Guests can expect a welcoming space that works for everything from coffee chats and business lunches to happy hours and milestone celebrations. Follow @MelroseMarketSC on Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok, and find more information at www.melrosemarketsc.com.

Website: www.melrosemarketsc.com.
Facebook: Melrose Market | https://facebook.com/melrosemarketsc
Instagram: @melrosemarketsc | https://www.instagram.com/melrosemarketsc/
X: @melrosemarketsc | https://x.com/melrosemarketsc
TikTok: @melrosemarketsc | https://www.tiktok.com/@melrosemarketsc
Hashtags: #MelroseMarketSC