10 Restaurants You Have To Visit In South Carolina Before You Die

How many times have you described a restaurant to your friends or family and said something like, "Oh my gosh you guys, you've gotta try this place. The food is to die for...." ?

At Only In South Carolina we're convinced that those experiences don't have to be framed with the most expensive menus, or linen tablecloths and napkins that go in the laundry after each use.

They're framed with good food, an amazing or unique atmosphere, and of course, the people with whom you're eating.

With that being said, "Oh my gosh you guys...you've gotta try these 10 restaurants in South Carolina before you die!"

1. Bowens Island - Charleston, SC

Trust me when I say I will not be making new friends in Charleston after bringing more attention to this well-kept secret. Bowens Island was touted by USA TODAY as the place where the locals in Charleston go. It's true. The first time I ate at Bowens was more than 25 years ago. I remember it was just a one-story graffiti-crusted building at the end of the road - and the food was off-the-charts good. Sure, the seafood is fresh and delicious, but Bowen's itself is an eclectic experience you must have before you die.

2. Top of Carolina - Columbia, SC

Top of Carolina is one of Columbia's most unique restaurants. It's also the state's only rotating dining room. From the top floor of the Capstone Building you'll enjoy a fabulous meal and 360-degree views all at once. More

3. Lombardo's Bistro - Myrtle Beach, SC

Lombardo's is a great place in Myrtle to get Italian and American cuisine. Are you brave enough to order the Lombardo Tower? Filet of beef, cut to order, topped with a crab cake AND grilled shrimp! Served with sautéed fresh vegetables and a house made balsamic reduction. If you do, be sure to double back and let us know in the comments! More

4. The Lazy Goat - Greenville, SC

Of all the delightful restaurants in Greenville, The Lazy Goat is on this list because they dare to serve exceptional Spanish (and Mediterranean) Cuisine. Good Spanish food doesn't fly on the radar in South Carolina as often as, say, seafood. On top of that, they have a hip bar and a killer view of the Reedy. More

5. Sunrise Bistro Xpress - Charleston, SC

Folks headed to Kiawah Island have been eating at John's Island's popular Sunrise Bistro for years. Last year they opened the Sunrise Bistro Xpress, and it's in the same trendy up and coming neighborhood in downtown Charleston as Hominy Grill. Dine in or carry out from this new trending breakfast/lunch spot in Charleston's Cannonborough neighborhood. More

6. The Chickin Lickin' Hickory House - Hardeeville, SC

In a world where the word "fried" is a five-letter word not so popular to use in conjunction with food anymore, the Chickin Lickin Hickory House serves up some of the best Fr*ed Chicken in the state! They also have Fr*ed Seafood, plus some outstanding BBQ pork and ribs. It's finger lickin....no, it's Chickin Lickin good! More

7. Scott's BBQ - Hemingway, SC

Our Only In South Carolina article last June about the best BBQ in the state sparked a ton of debate. But we think Scott's BBQ in Hemingway is the one you have to try before you die. More

8. Fulton Five - Charleston, SC

Charleston is a melting pot of fine dining establishments. Fulton Five is one that has withstood the hands of time - and that's hard to do in Charleston with so much competition. It helps that they not only dish up incredible Italian food, but they're also considered the most romantic restaurant in all of Charleston. More

9. The Wreck - Mount Pleasant, SC

When most people think of restaurants on Shem Creek in Mt. Pleasant, The Wreck is one of the most overlooked places. But don't underestimate The Wreck; after all they are located right by the dock where all the fresh seafood comes in. As with so many on this list, The Wreck is an experience as well as a dining establishment. More

10. Captain's Quarters - Santee, SC

Lately, people are happy to rant online about an unpleasant experience, but people only rave about Captain's Quarters. Apparently the absolute best seafood in or near Santee is here, at Captain's Quarters. See for yourself in this nice photo of a huge lobster tail. Yum. More

Have you eaten at any of these great restaurants in South Carolina? What other restaurants would you add to this list? Share your favorites with us in the comments.