When it comes to geography, we're fortunate in South Carolina that in nearly the same amount of time it takes to sit through a long movie, we can drive from one side of the state to the other. Even if you live on the coast, in a mere 3.5 hours, you can be chasing waterfalls in Oconee County or hiking to the summit of Table Rock in Pickens County. And since either activity is bound to inspire a hearty appetite, you'll want to head to one of the oldest cafeteria-style restaurants in Oconee County to refuel before the drive back home.
Steak House Cafeteria is located right in the heart of downtown Walhalla (population, about 4,000).
This small city in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is home to the famous Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel and Issaqueena Falls; both are located in a park only six miles north of the city center. The restaurant opened in 1973, serving T-bone steaks and grits.
But today, it's the fried chicken and the cafeteria-style helpings that bring people into this hidden gem.
It's especially nice to not have to wait for food to be served after ordering. Everything is plated up as guests move through the line.
The ever-changing menu varies daily and is posted on the Facebook page.
In a typical meat and two or meat and three fashion, plates are piled high with delicious home-cooked food.
As mentioned, the meats change daily, but the fried chicken is the most sought-after item. The Steak House even occasionally features fried Arabian rooster.
If you see the rooster posted on Facebook, just know you'll need to be there early... It's a favorite among the locals.
Just before you check out with your piled-high plate of food, you'll cruise right by the dessert bar.
You'll want to go a bit conservative when selecting the meat and two/three items so you can save some room for the delicious homemade dessert.
A slice of warm bundt cake, banana pudding pie, and more await.
After 46 years in business, Steak House Cafeteria in Walhalla is more like a second home for many who live nearby. It's open four days a week, including weekends, for your dining pleasure.
Steak House Cafeteria hours are Thursday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Learn more and keep up with featured daily meats, vegetables, and desserts by following its Facebook page here.
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