When it comes to dining out, finding the perfect restaurant can make all the difference in the world. Whether you’re a foodie, a local, or just visiting, knowing the best restaurant in a particular area can elevate your culinary experience. In South Carolina, the options are endless, but which one stands out from the rest? In this article, we’ll dive into the world of South Carolina’s culinary scene and explore the top contenders for the best restaurant in SC.
Get ultimate traveler plannerWhat Makes a Restaurant the Best?
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a restaurant truly exceptional. Is it the quality of the food, the ambiance, the service, or a combination of all three? The answer is, it’s a little bit of everything. A great restaurant should offer an unforgettable dining experience that leaves you wanting more. From the moment you walk in the door to the last bite of your meal, every aspect should be exceptional.
A Look at South Carolina’s Culinary Landscape
South Carolina is known for its rich culinary heritage, with a blend of traditional Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, and innovative twists on classic dishes. From Charleston’s historic district to Greenville’s vibrant downtown, the Palmetto State is home to a diverse range of restaurants that cater to every taste and budget. But which ones stand out from the crowd? In this article, we’ll explore the top restaurants in SC, highlighting their unique features, menu offerings, and what sets them apart from the rest.
The Best Restaurants in South Carolina
South Carolina is known for its rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant cities, but it’s also a food lover’s paradise. From traditional Southern cuisine to fresh seafood and innovative fusion dishes, the Palmetto State has something for every palate. In this article, we’ll explore the best restaurants in South Carolina, highlighting the top eateries in different regions and cuisines.
Charleston
Charleston is a culinary hub, with a plethora of exceptional restaurants serving everything from Lowcountry classics to modern twists on traditional dishes. Here are some of the best restaurants in Charleston:
- Husk: This acclaimed restaurant is a must-visit for any food enthusiast. Chef Sean Brock’s menu changes seasonally, but expect creative takes on Southern staples like shrimp and grits and fried chicken.
- FIG: Another Charleston institution, FIG offers refined, farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal menus.
- The Ordinary: This seafood-focused eatery is located in a former bank building and serves up fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes like oysters, lobster, and fish tacos.
- Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit: This beloved biscuit shop has been featured on the Food Network and serves up flaky, buttery biscuits in a variety of flavors.
Columbia
Columbia, the state capital, is home to a thriving food scene that’s both eclectic and innovative. Here are some of the best restaurants in Columbia: (See Also: Best Restaurant In Hermosa Beach)
- The Whig: This popular gastropub serves up creative burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with an impressive selection of craft beers.
- The Oak Table: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently, but expect dishes like shrimp and grits, burgers, and salads made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe: This beloved institution has been serving up classic Southern cuisine with a twist for over 30 years. Expect dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and burgers.
- The Gourmet Shop: This upscale deli and market serves up gourmet sandwiches, salads, and soups, along with a wide selection of artisanal cheeses and charcuterie.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is known for its seafood, and for good reason – the area is surrounded by fresh waterways and the Atlantic Ocean. Here are some of the best restaurants in Myrtle Beach:
- The Wicked Tuna: This oceanfront restaurant serves up fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes like sushi, seafood towers, and fish tacos.
- The Dead Dog Saloon: This casual, beachy spot serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with a great selection of craft beers.
- The Sea Captain’s House: This beachfront institution has been serving up fresh seafood for over 50 years. Expect dishes like shrimp and grits, fish and chips, and seafood platters.
- The Cottage Cafe: This cozy breakfast spot serves up creative omelets, pancakes, and sandwiches, along with a great selection of coffee and pastries.
Greenville
Greenville has undergone a stunning revitalization in recent years, and its food scene is no exception. Here are some of the best restaurants in Greenville:
- The Lazy Goat: This Mediterranean-inspired restaurant serves up creative small plates, flatbreads, and entrees like lamb burgers and seafood paella.
- The Green Room: This farm-to-table restaurant offers a seasonal menu that changes frequently, but expect dishes like shrimp and grits, burgers, and salads made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Larkin’s on the River: This upscale restaurant serves up creative American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients and seasonal menus.
- The Tipsy Toad: This casual pub serves up burgers, sandwiches, and salads, along with a great selection of craft beers and cocktails.
Best BBQ in South Carolina
South Carolina is famous for its BBQ, and for good reason – the state is home to some of the best pitmasters in the country. Here are some of the best BBQ joints in South Carolina:
| Restaurant | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Skylight Inn | Ayden | Whole hog BBQ |
| Shealy’s BBQ | Leesville | Ribs and hash |
| Hite’s BBQ | Leesville | Mustard-based sauce |
| Midway BBQ | Buffalo | Smoked chicken and ribs |
Best Seafood in South Carolina
South Carolina is surrounded by water, and its seafood is some of the freshest in the country. Here are some of the best seafood restaurants in South Carolina:
| Restaurant | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| The Ordinary | Charleston | Fresh seafood and oysters |
| The Wicked Tuna | Myrtle Beach | Sushi and seafood towers |
| The Sea Captain’s House | Myrtle Beach | Fresh seafood and fish and chips |
| Fleet Landing Restaurant and Bar | Mount Pleasant | Fresh seafood and waterfront views |
Best Southern Cuisine in South Carolina
South Carolina is the heart of the South, and its Southern cuisine is some of the best in the country. Here are some of the best Southern restaurants in South Carolina:
| Restaurant | Location | Specialty |
|---|---|---|
| Husk | Charleston | Shrimp and grits and fried chicken |
| Mr. Friendly’s New Southern Cafe | Columbia | Fried chicken and shrimp and grits |
| The Oak Table | Columbia | Shrimp and grits and fried green tomatoes |
| Lizard’s Thicket | Columbia | Fried chicken and country cooking |
Recap
In this article, we’ve explored the best restaurants in South Carolina, highlighting the top eateries in different regions and cuisines. From traditional Southern cuisine to fresh seafood and innovative fusion dishes, South Carolina has something for every palate. Whether you’re in Charleston, Columbia, Myrtle Beach, or Greenville, be sure to check out these exceptional restaurants for an unforgettable dining experience. (See Also: Best Restaurant In Covington)
Remember to always check reviews and make reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants. And don’t be afraid to try new dishes and flavors – after all, that’s what makes dining in South Carolina so exciting!
So the next time you’re in South Carolina, be sure to indulge in the state’s incredible culinary scene. Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best restaurant in SC for seafood lovers?
If you’re a seafood enthusiast, you won’t want to miss The Wreck of Richard and Charlene in Mount Pleasant. This casual, waterfront eatery serves up fresh, locally-caught seafood in a fun and lively atmosphere. Be sure to try their famous fish camp stew!
Which SC restaurant has the best brunch options?
For a delicious and indulgent brunch, head to The Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island. This popular spot offers a creative menu that changes seasonally, with dishes like shrimp and grits, crab cake benedict, and more. Plus, their outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a mimosa or two!
What is the most romantic restaurant in SC?
If you’re looking for a romantic evening out, look no further than Husk in Charleston. This upscale restaurant offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere and a menu that focuses on traditional Southern cuisine with a twist. Be sure to request a table on the charming outdoor patio for a truly unforgettable experience. (See Also: Best Restaurant In Raleigh North Carolina)
Which SC restaurant is kid-friendly?
Families will love The Codfather in North Myrtle Beach! This casual, beach-themed eatery serves up tasty seafood and burgers in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. Plus, they have a kids’ menu and a play area with arcade games to keep little ones entertained.
What is the best restaurant in SC for large groups?
If you’re planning a night out with a big group, consider The Fishcamp on Lake Greenwood. This waterfront restaurant has plenty of space to accommodate large parties and offers a menu that features a variety of seafood, steaks, and pasta dishes. Plus, they have a private event space and can accommodate special requests with advance notice.
