Posted in South Carolina Food & Dining, Hidden Gems December 02, 2017 by

This Delicious Restaurant Hidden On A Rural South Carolina Road Is A True Culinary Gem

If there’s one thing to learn from exploring the Palmetto State, it’s never underestimate what you’ll find along the back roads and in the small towns that are the heart of South Carolina. Discovering a hidden gem can be a little like discovering gold would be… you want to tell everyone, but at the same time you want to keep it secret. We’re here to spill the beans on a culinary treasure located on one of the rural roads in the state. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself drooling while you read and look at the photos below.

Located on rural SC-23 approximately an hour southwest of Columbia, there's a restaurant that's been earning national acclaim for quite some time.
Google Maps [enhanced]
For the most part, SC-23 is a rural road the snakes from just east of Batesburg-Leesville through the back country of South Carolina all the way to the Savannah River on the Georgia border.
Along the way it winds through some tiny little towns, including Ridge Spring (population 750).
Ridge Spring
As it passes through Ridge Spring, SC-23 remains a charming two-lane road, changing names momentarily to Main Street.
As you move along E Main Street you'll find the restaurant called Juniper.
Facebook/Juniper
And it's not hard to see why people will drive so far for a taste of what Juniper is dishing up!
Owner Chef Brandon Velle meticulously searches out local sustainable sources for his ingredients.
Facebook/Juniper
The Couscous Salad above features asparagus harvested from Monetta Asparagus Farm. It looks lite, delicious and full of flavor!
The space at Juniper is bright and welcoming and exactly the sort of non-pretentious venue you'd expect to find on a country road.
Four Square/Lauren Michelle B
But the food... well that's another story! You may not ordinarily expect to find world-class cuisine in rural South Carolina... but here it is.
Your mouth may start watering at the sight of the Low County Spiced Catfish below.
Facebook/Juniper
Dished up to perfection with Veggie Rice Pilaf and Crispy Onions, it's sure to please.
You'll find all sorts of unexpected surprises on the menu at Juniper.
Four Square/Lauren Michelle B
From gorgeous brunch items (those are Sweet Potato Waffles), to seasonal specials featuring quail and other unpredictable delights, the ever-changing specials at this rural eatery will continue to surprise you each time you return.
At first glance, the photo below may look like fried chicken. But oh no... take another look.
Facebook/Juniper
That's extra hearty Juniper Crab Cakes with Roasted Corn Hash, Tomato Coulis, whole Roasted Okra. Wow.
We have Chef Brandon Velle to thank for this rural sensation.
Facebook/Juniper
And it's easy to see that he loves his work!
Find this hidden rural treasure at 640 E Main St., Ridge Spring, SC 29129.
Facebook/Juniper
Google Maps [streetview]
They're open for lunch every day (except Wednesday) beginning at 11 am; and open for dinner Thursday through Saturday beginning at 6 pm. For more information, check out their Facebook page.

Have you eaten at Juniper? What did you think? Share your experiences in the comments!

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