Somtimes when you’re dining out, getting to the restaurant is part of the amazing experience. No matter the season, you’ll enjoy a road trip to any one of the following eateries as much as the food and atmosphere of the restaurant. Hop in the car, put on some tunes, and enjoy. Check them out below and then start planning your next foodie adventure!
1. Old Town Hall - Ridgeway
This small town secret is a delightful stop for a quick bite from the pub-inspired menu, or for a leisurely steak dinner. Old Town Hall is located in the old town hall (and jail) right in the middle of town. You can't go wrong here with anything on the menu, including their signature fried green tomatoes over grits served with an onion gravy (pictured here). Address: 140 S Palmer Street, Ridgeway, SC, 29130
2. Johnson Creek Tavern - St Helena Island
With views of the marsh and a version of frogmore stew on the menu, Johnson Creek Tavern is the spot for fresh seafood and a breeze from the ocean. It's located on the way to Hunting Island State Park and pairs perfectly with a beach excursion to the most visited state park in South Carolina. Address: 2141 Sea Island Parkway, St Helena Island, SC, 29920
3. Bizzell's - Hartsville
If you're looking for casual dining in a refined atmosphere, then Bizzell's is the place to go. The menu is chock full of contemporary American fare, all served at reasonable prices. They also have a full bar. Address: 137 East Carolina Avenue, Hartsville, SC, 29550
4. Thai House II - Santee
If you're a lover of Thai food or really enjoy some great sushi now and then, after a visit to Thai House II, you'll agree it's some of the best in the state. From expertly crafted sushi rolls to Thai entrees, and even the popular Bento Box (pictured here), you can't go wrong if you're seeking Thai food or sushi. Address: 9086 Old Number Six Highway, Santee, SC, 29142
5. Shorty's Grill - Loris
With their hand-cut fries and delicious burgers piled high with the toppings of your choice, Shorty's is an epic American diner where the experience is as much about the food as it is the locals who frequent the restaurant. You'll always find smiling faces in this local go-to diner. Be sure to order the hand-cut fries... delish! Address: 4115 Meeting Street, Loris, SC, 29569
6. Harry and Harry Too - Bishopville
The best way to describe Harry and Harry Too is to say if the Lizardman sign out front doesn't make an impression on you, then the interior definitely will. From a lifesized cutout of Superman to, well, everything else including the kitchen sink, you'll have much fodder at which to marvel and discuss during your meal. As far as the menu goes, don't pass up the fresh-cut french fries. Harry and Harry Too is the quintessential Lizardman experience everyone should have. Address: 719 Sumter Highway, Bishopville, SC. 29010
7. Seewee Restaurant - Awendaw
Any list of rural restaurants in South Carolina wouldn't be complete without Seewee. For Lowcountry cuisine, this eatery is an icon where locals and visitors alike are willing to wait for a table for long periods — because the food is just that good. Check it out! Address: 4808 North Hightway 17, Awendaw, SC, 29429
8. Jo Mars Family Restaurant - Lancaster
You simply can't go wrong with the buffet at Jo Mars. It features a salad bar and delicious home-cooked food — including golden brown Southern fried chicken. Address: 278 Lancaster Bypass East, Lancaster, SC, 29720
9. Shiloh Fish House - Chesterfield
Any restaurant with 'fish house' in the name has to be a great place to check out. Such is the case with this unassuming roadside fish house in the Shiloh community just south of Chesterfield. Try the salt and pepper fish platter (pictured here). The crispy, seasoned breading is mouthwatering. Address: 3388 SC-102, Chesterfield, SC, 29709
You’ll enjoy the drive to these country restaurants in South Carolina at least as much as the food once you arrive. Have you dined at any of them before? We’d love to hear about your experience in our comments!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.