South Carolina Restaurant and Dining Guide

We're plunging spoon-first into the dynamic food scene of South Carolina, coupled with a tour of its famed landmarks. In Charleston, get ready to relish seafood delights, while Mount Pleasant presents plates filled with locally-sourced delicacies. Starting to salivate? There's more! Immerse yourself in Greenville's traditional cooking methods and experience Columbia's eclectic food fusion. But hold on! Savor the comfort food of Rock Hill and indulge in Myrtle Beach's seafood banquets framed by ocean views. This isn't your ordinary culinary excursion - it's an extravagant celebration of flavors! And what's a celebration without a bit of exploration? Get ready to be charmed by the unique attractions tucked within these cities. Intrigued? Well, we're only just warming up. Sit back, unbuckle that belt and let's devour South Carolina, one taste (and sight) at a time!

Charleston: A Banquet of History and Southern Savories

Charleston, South Carolina, where history pirouettes on cobblestone lanes and the tempting scent of authentic Lowcountry cuisine permeates the air. The city's rich culinary mosaic is crafted from age-old recipes passed down generations, utilizing fresh local produce from the land and sea.

Bowens Island Restaurant, a rustic gem located on a marsh island, is a prime example. Here, you can savor their famous Frogmore Stew, also known as "Lowcountry Boil." This one-pot wonder melds sausage, shrimp, corn, and potatoes into a savory symphony. Don't leave without trying their Shrimp & Grits, where sautéed shrimp, sausage, celery, onions, and corn create a delectable melody of flavors.

In the heart of Charleston's Historic District, you'll find 82 Queen, an establishment revered for its elegant Southern charm and award-winning cuisine. Dive into their Barbeque Shrimp & Grits, where succulent shrimp and stone-ground grits are doused in bourbon-barbecue sauce, then crowned with applewood bacon, cheddar, and scallions. Their Lowcountry Seafood Gumbo, a hearty mix of shrimp, oysters, crab, Andouille sausage, okra, corn, sweet peppers, onions, and a flavorful tomato broth, served over Carolina Gold Rice Pilaf, is a flavorful ode to the region's bounty.

Moving on to Hyman's Seafood, a family-run institution for over 120 years, their famed She-Crab Soup and Shrimp Feast, featuring shrimp prepared five ways, will leave you spellbound. Lastly, Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar, Charleston's only waterfront dining destination, serves up locally-sourced dishes in a nautical-themed setting. Don't miss the Chargrilled NY Strip, Carolina Lump Crab Cakes, and the classic Southern dessert, Huguenot Torte.

After a day filled with culinary adventures, explore the city's vibrant history. Meander through the bustling Charleston City Market, filled with local vendors selling handcrafted goods. Walk across the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge for spectacular views of the Charleston harbor. And finally, pay a visit to Fort Sumter National Monument, the site where the first shots of the Civil War rang out. A day in Charleston is not just a meal, but a journey through time, tantalizing your taste buds while satisfying your sense of history and adventure.

Exploring the Culinary Delights of Mount Pleasant

In the heart of South Carolina, Mount Pleasant has grown from a small colonial settlement to a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and food. The local culinary scene is brimming with Southern favorites that will make any gastronome's heart sing.

The Shelter Kitchen + Bar serves up traditional favorites like their Bowl of Bog - a seasoned rice bowl filled with pulled chicken and smoked sausage - and the Trawler Special, featuring wild caught grouper served with collards and mac and cheese. Their recipes blend local produce and traditions, creating mouthwatering results. Page's Okra Grill, another culinary gem, boasts dishes such as Ashleigh’s Shrimp & Grits, recognized by Southern Living, and their Southern Fried Chicken Livers, a delight for those wanting to venture into unique Southern flavors. Both dishes showcase the restaurant's dedication to Southern culinary traditions, with unique twists that leave patrons eager for the next bite.

For a fusion of Vietnamese and Southern cuisines, Little Miss Ha delivers with its Pho Xao and Banh Mi. The combination of fresh, local ingredients and traditional Vietnamese recipes results in a culinary adventure not to be missed. Finally, Langdon's Restaurant & Wine Bar offers innovative dishes like Local Goat Cheese Gnocchi and Maple Leaf Farms Duck Breast, both highlighting their commitment to locally sourced, high-quality ingredients.

After indulging in the local cuisine, take a leisurely stroll in the serene Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park, soak in the charming atmosphere of Shem Creek Park, or delve into maritime history at Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. These attractions not only showcase the city's scenic beauty but also its rich historical tapestry.

Greenville: A Journey through South Carolina's Culinary Tapestry

Greenville, South Carolina, is a city with a rich past, an exciting present, and a promising future. As part of the "Old South," it carries its history proudly, while also embracing modernity. This blend of old and new is best evidenced in its culinary scene, where traditional Southern fare meets innovative gastronomy.

Soby's, a restaurant rooted in Southern cuisine, offers timeless favorites like Soby’s She Crab Soup, featuring aged sherry and crab roe, and the Manchester Farms Quail, a delightful dish combining creamer potato with cornbread & tasso stuffing, pearl onion, asparagus, and a sour cherry jus. These classic yet nuanced dishes reflect the Southern charm that resonates throughout Greenville. For a taste of Mexico in the heart of South Carolina, visit Comal 864. The restaurant's Torta, with its soft telera bread, house aioli, melty cheese, and a choice of protein, is a gastronomic revelation. Their Birria Quesadilla, bursting with birria meat and extra cheese, will keep you coming back for more.

Farm-to-table restaurant Fork and Plough celebrates local produce with dishes like their Heirloom Tomato Po Boy and Seared Cherry Point Swordfish, embodying the freshness of South Carolina's bounty. Meanwhile, for a taste of authentic Southern BBQ, SBH BBQ's Froggy Special and Hot Link Sandwich are sure to hit the spot, marrying smoky, hearty flavors with timeless BBQ techniques.

After a satisfying culinary tour, explore Greenville's cultural attractions like Falls Park on the Reedy, an urban oasis where you can enjoy the outdoors in the heart of the city. The Greenville Zoo, home to a wide array of animals, is a must-visit for families. And art enthusiasts will appreciate the Greenville County Museum of Art, showcasing a vast collection of American art.

Savoring Columbia’s Unique Food Scene

Oh, Columbia! The capital city of South Carolina is a splendid blend of history, nature, and culinary prowess. As you amble along its scenic streets, it's easy to see the echoes of the past shaping its present, especially in its food culture. Where else could you catch a glimpse of history while munching on some divine dishes?

Let's get our culinary journey rolling with the Liberty Tap Room & Grill. One bite of their Fish N’ Chips, and you'll be swooning. The beer-battered haddock partnered with seasoned fries and coleslaw is like a symphony of flavors playing in your mouth. But let's not get too carried away, we have more stops to make. Over at smallSUGAR, it's the Greens & Grains Bowl that's got everyone's tongues wagging. Fresh, local ingredients nestled cozily with warm grains - it's like South Carolina in a bowl. You'll start wondering if you can get a home within a 5-mile radius of this place.

Meanwhile, Motor Supply Company Bistro presents a refined culinary landscape. Picture this: Pan Seared Halibut, surrounded by a moat of delectable sauces and garnishes. Trust me, it's a meal that will have your tastebuds writing thank you notes. Craving some Asian flavors? 929 Kitchen & Bar's Beef Bulgogi Bibimbap is a sight to behold. Beautifully marinated beef, vibrant veggies, and that perfectly cooked egg yolk waiting to cascade over the steamed rice. It's more than just a dish, it's an experience.

Of course, Columbia isn't all about food (even if it’s easy to get distracted by the amazing grub!). After your gastronomical escapade, stroll down the Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park. Take a journey back in time at the South Carolina State Museum or bask in local culture at the Soda City Market. These are experiences that will not only make your Instagram followers green with envy but also give you a deeper appreciation of Columbia's charm.

Rock Hill: Historic Flavors, Modern Twist

Say hello to Rock Hill, South Carolina! A city where historical charm intertwines with culinary wizardry to create an experience that's nothing short of magical. Here, the whispers of the past weave into the present, lending a distinctive flair to the local cuisine.

Imagine kicking things off at The Dixie Pig Rock Hill. It's hard to resist the allure of their Smoked Cajun Shrimp BBQ. The dish packs a punch that'll make your taste buds sing the Star-Spangled Banner! It's a melange of spices and smoky goodness, and let me tell you, these folks have turned shrimp into an art form. Next, we sashay our way to The Pump House. Here, the Shrimp & Anson Mills Grits is an affair to remember. Each bite is a love letter to Southern cuisine, whispering tales of the old mill that once operated here. The harmony of fresh shrimp with creamy grits is like a symphony that has all the right notes.

Finally, at Kounter, they’ve transformed meatloaf from a humble comfort food to a gourmet delight. The Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf here is nothing short of revolutionary. It's a dish that'll have you believing in love at first bite, and second, and well, you get the picture.

And what's a visit to Rock Hill without a little exploration? Saunter over to Manchester Meadows Park to take in the greenery. Pay a visit to the Museum of York County to acquaint yourself with the local lore. And for a dash of color, take a leisurely stroll through the Glencairn Garden.

Myrtle Beach: Seaside Savory

Ah, Myrtle Beach, South Carolina! Where the waves dance against the sprawling beach, and the food scene is as vibrant as the summer sun. This seaside city has a menu that reflects the spirit of the coast, presenting a feast of flavor that’s as exciting as a day at the beach.

Let's start at Socastee Station, where you’ll find the Famous Beer Battered Chicken Bog Balls. Imagine the best game of chicken-bog (that’s chicken, sausage, and rice for the uninitiated) you've ever played, but in a bite-sized form. It's all the delicious you’d expect, beer battered and fried to a golden perfection. Next stop: Hook & Barrel. Here, the Oysters Ala Heidi are the 'it' girl of the seafood scene. They're rich, they're tasty, and they know it. Briny oysters are cozied up in a garlic herb cream, and trust me, you'll want to be part of that delicious gathering.

Hungry for more? Big Mike's Soul Food is a must-visit. The Big Mike's Special is like the greatest hits of Southern cuisine: fried chicken, collards, and mac n' cheese. It's a plate of hearty, soul-warming goodness that will have you calling Myrtle Beach 'home' before you know it. Finally, we'll whisk you away to Italy, or at least, Ciao Italian Restaurant. Their Chef's Pasta is a twirl of al dente perfection, a Mediterranean masterpiece right here on the Atlantic coast.

After such a gastronomic adventure, stretch your legs at the bustling Broadway at the Beach. Get your head in the clouds at the SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, or hobnob with the stars at the Hollywood Wax Museum.

A Symphony of Flavors in the Palmetto State

Our flavorful adventure through South Carolina has led us from the historic charm of Charleston, with its mouthwatering shrimp & grits, to the unique flavors of Mount Pleasant, where Bowl of Bog reigns supreme. We’ve been captivated by the cultural dishes of Greenville, like Soby’s She Crab Soup, and indulged in the capital city, Columbia, home to the divine Fish N’ Chips at Liberty Tap Room & Grill. The historical allure of Rock Hill has revealed tantalizing delights such as the Smoked Cajun Shrimp BBQ from The Dixie Pig Rock Hill. And let's not forget our sun-drenched stop at Myrtle Beach, where coastal flavors like the Famous Beer Battered Chicken Bog Balls from Socastee Station left a lasting impression.

Each city's cuisine tells a story - a tale of tradition, regional resources, and local love that has been simmered, sautéed, and served on our plates. The richness of South Carolina’s culture and history is best savored through its food - from the juiciest barbeque ribs to the zestiest seafood gumbo. For those with a passion for travel and an appetite for discovery, South Carolina is a gastronomical paradise waiting to be explored. Beyond the mouthwatering cuisine, there's a vibrant tapestry of sights to see, from tranquil beaches to bustling markets and impressive monuments. We promise, this journey of taste and discovery is only the beginning of your South Carolina story.

So, whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or a curious first-time visitor, we invite you to pull up a chair, grab a fork, and take a bite out of the Palmetto State. Trust us, it's an experience you won’t soon forget. Here's to your next unforgettable adventure in South Carolina!

Must-Try Restaurants in South Carolina

Recently Opened Restaurants

Recent Reviews

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Cities

Aiken

Anderson

Beaufort

Bluffton

Charleston

Columbia

Conway

Florence

Fort Mill

Greenville

Greenwood

Greer

Hilton Head Island

Lexington

Mount Pleasant

Myrtle Beach

North Charleston

North Myrtle Beach

Rock Hill

Simpsonville

Spartanburg

Summerville

Sumter

West Columbia

Points of interest