People traveling into South Carolina from the northern areas of the country are often curious about grits. Some have said after trying them they didn't really care for them. Granted, basic grits don't necessarily have a lot of flavor, and how they are cooked can truly make a big difference in the end result sitting before you on the table. There are also different types of grits, from traditional stone-ground grits to hominy grits and quick and instant grits. So as I was once advised by a nutritionist regarding parenting through picky eating behaviors, you should not write off something new you're trying until you've had it multiple times (I believe the magic number she gave me was even 15 times!). Now, if it's something like the texture that you can't deal with, that's different. But if we're talking about the overall flavor, try to give it a fair chance! And when it comes to grits, if your first exposure is a place like Track Kitchen in Aiken, S.C., there's a really good possibility you'll be an instant fan.

Since 1957, Aiken's Track Kitchen has served breakfast to patrons ranging from doctors to horse trainers to those visiting from out-of-town as well as all the locals who frequent the old-fashioned restaurant in Aiken.

It's nestled in the midst of Aiken's Historic Horse District near the training track, surrounded by two polo fields and the Aiken Steeplechase Association's office. Please travel cautiously along the dirt road leading to the restaurant, Mead Road, as it's common to see horses walking it.

If you were just passing by, you may not realize Track Kitchen in Aiken is even a restaurant. It has a humble appearance, more of a hole-in-the-wall type of place with a hometown atmosphere. You can be yourself here, comfortable and casual.

The grits are nothing fancy, but they are a customer favorite.

The food is freshly prepared, and it's a small place with a very laid-back vibe. Make sure you're not in a hurry when you go. It's more of a Mayberry type of pace, and you likely will wait awhile for your food.

But after you pour a cup of coffee for yourself in the kitchen (they do things differently here!), take the time to peruse the history displayed on the walls. It's a fascinating experience at this Aiken icon that was the 2020 Aiken's Choice for "Best Place for Breakfast."

Sadly, one of the Track Kitchen owners known as Pockets passed away in November of 2018. His legacy continues to live on through this special place that his wife continues to operate.

It's clear from the article and the local support of this eatery that Pockets was a loved and influential man in his Aiken community. The Aiken Standard article shares the fun story towards the end of how he got his nickname. It happened at a former workplace when he lived in Texas, where he shared the same first name with another man there. The boss needed a way to distinguish between the two of them, and it occurred to him that this James always had his hands in his pockets! So he called him "Pockets" and the rest is history.

Be sure to confirm Track Kitchen in Aiken, S.C. is open before making a trip, as it's closed during the summer. If you'd like to experience more of the area after dining there, book a room at the historic Willcox Hotel and make it a weekend adventure. Aiken is full of things to do!

Interested in seeing the inner workings of how stone-ground grits are made? Visit Marsh Hen Mill and Market at Edisto Island for another fascinating grits adventure.

What's your favorite way to eat grits? Have you ever thought you didn't like something but were willing to try it a few more times and then changed your mind? Share your story with us in the comments section!