Happy New Year, South Carolina! You can thank us later for loading up your dining bucket list with a whole slew of must-visit eateries in the Palmetto State this year. Don't expect a lot of pomp and circumstance from these no-frills spots; but do expect to leave full and satisfied. Dig in!
1. Mayberry Diner - Greenwood
Dining here is like stepping into a rerun of the beloved Andy Griffith TV series. From the memorabilia decorating the place to the old-fashioned checkerboard floor and staff that treats everyone like family, Mayberry is aptly named. Enjoy hearty helpings of classic diner food like Thelma Lou's Country Breakfast and more. More from this previous article about Mayberry Diner.Address: 171 N Main St, Cross Hill, SC 29332, USA
2. Aunt Sue's Country Corner - Pickens
Aunt Sue's is a roadside must for dining, shopping, and a fun time, in general. Open seasonally (check their website for open dates), this country restaurant has some of the best fried chicken in the state. The best day of the week to go is on a Sunday for their massive Sunday buffet, but it's not the only day it's open. More from this previous article about Aunt's Sue's.Address: 107 Country Creek Dr A, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
3. Horst Gasthaus - North Myrtle Beach
If you're seeking authentic German food, then Horst Gasthaus is most definitely the place to go. Set aside a day in the coming months to head to North Myrtle Beach for a dining experience you're certain to love. The decor of this Bavarian haven is also a delight. Want to avoid the worst of the traffic? Head here in the off-season and feast on fantastic eats! More from this previous article about Horst Gasthaus.Address: 802 37th Avenue South, North Myrtle Beach, SC, 29582
4. Hershberger's Bakery - Fair Play
Ever hear of fried cinnamon rolls? You'll find 'em at this Amish-owned bakery on the SC/GA border. Be sure to arrive hungry. The breakfast menu features all kinds of tempting surprises, including the enormous (and delicious) cinnamon rolls. More from this previous article about Hershberger's Bakery.Address: 1011 SC-59, Fair Play, SC, 29643, USA
5. McCutcheon’s Cheeseburger House - Greenwood
Open and serving up mouthwatering burgers since 1963, this time-honored establishment is ideal for planning a scenic drive across the state — just for a delicious burger. You won't leave hungry or disappointed! More from this previous article about McCutcheon’s Cheeseburger House.Address: 512 Ninety Six Hwy, Greenwood, SC 29646, USA
6. Sweatman's BBQ - Holly Hill
Pile your plate high and then tuck a napkin in your shirt collar and let the feast begin! You can't go wrong with any of the BBQ items or sides at Sweatman's! Dine inside or on the porch where you can star at the corn field across the road. More from this previous article about Sweatman's BBQ.Address: 1427 Eutaw Rd., Holly Hill, SC 29059, USA
7. Mr. Bunky's - Eastover
Enormous cuts of prime rib aside, it's a rare occasion when you find a freshly cut and perfectly grilled sirloin weighing in at 32 ounces. Even more rare is that, at Mr. Bunky's (a meat market, market, and restaurant), the meat is from their own counter! More from this previous article about the enormous sirloin at Mr. Bunky's.Address: 10441 Garners Ferry Rd., Eastover, SC 29044, USA
8. Bleu VooDoo Grill - Easley
We haven't found another eatery in the Palmetto State as delightfully macabre as Bleu VooDoo. If the decor and lighting in this fun restaurant and bar don't make you grin from ear-to-ear, then the food and drinks will. (Don't be surprised if you order a burger and it comes with a funny surprise... ) More from this previous article about Bleu VooDoo Grill.Address: 114 E Main St, Easley, SC 29640, USA
9. Lucy Bell's Cafe - Daufuskie Island
Hop on the Daufuskie Island Ferry and begin a day trip adventure that both your spirit and your palate will love. Upon arrival, rent a bike or a golf cart and then make your way over to Lucy Bell's for some of the best Lowcountry food you'll ever have. Dine indoors or on one of the tables underneath a massive oak tree. More from this previous article about Lucy Bell's Cafe.Address: 111 Benjies Point Rd, Daufuskie Island, SC 29915, USA
10. Old McDonald Fish Camp - North Augusta
Old McDonald's is a destination eatery everyone needs to visit at least once. Expect plates and platters piled high with fresh seafood. And if you're a die hard fan of Frogmore Stew (a.k.a. Lowcountry Boil), you'll find one here! It's open three days a week: Thursday through Saturday. More from this previous article about Old McDonald Fish Camp.Address: 355 Currytown Rd, North Augusta, SC 29860, USA
11. Eatery at the Depot - Branchville
Enjoy a top-notch meal in this historic railroad depot built in 1877. The food and service are exceptional and the atmosphere has a no-frills, yet refined, vibe. More from this previous article about Eatery at the Depot..Address: 7501 Freedom Rd., Branchville, SC 29432, USA
Make treating yourself to a few road trips and some new dining destinations part of your New Year's resolution for 2020. We can't think of a more delicious way to start the year. Did we leave your favorite, no-frills restaurant off the list? Feel free to add it in the comments!
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