While some people may scoff at the mere thought of eating a hot dog, there’s a restaurant in South Carolina that’s been serving hot dogs and little else for the past 86 years – and they’re still going strong! Abbeville may be a little off the beaten path in the Palmetto State, but a trip here for lunch or dinner won’t soon be forgotten!
The Rough House opened in 1932 in downtown Abbeville. At that time, according to Census records, approximately 4,500 people lived in this community. (Today, that number is closer to 5,200.)
Opened in the height of The Great Depression, The Rough House was likely well-received. Afterall, a hot dog was (and is) not exactly an extravagant or expensive food choice.
But there's a little something else that keeps the doors open... And that is the generations of kids that have grown up (and are still growing up) paying regular homage to this local establishment.
Whether coming in for a hot dog and a soda, or for ice cream on a hot day, several generations have made visiting this hot dog joint a family tradition that just keeps getting handed down to the next.
As much as the food hasn't changed, neither has the decor. You won't find another restaurant like it in the Palmetto State. The worn and tattered look suits this place and all who love it just fine. From the bead board ceiling to the hardwood floors and worn out walls covered in memories from the past, The Rough House is truly nostalgic and a little rough — and that's just fine.
The Rough House may feature hot dogs on the menu, but you're destined to find a whole lot more than just great eats at this timeless 1930s South Carolina restaurant.
When you’re ready to discover the goodness found at The Rough House, it’s located at 116 Court Square, Abbeville, SC 29620. It’s open six days a week and the hours are: Monday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Learn more on the Facebook page.
(As a mere point of reference, Abbeville is 86 miles west of Columbia and 45 miles south of Greenville.)
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.