When it comes to scenic dining in South Carolina, there’s no shortage of choices. Most people automatically think of our coastal areas, though, when we’re talking scenery. Places like Myrtle Beach and Charleston always draw attention and crowds! But there’s an amazing waterfront restaurant in South Carolina with river views we’ve found that we just know you’re going to fall in love with.

Located on the Catawba River on Herrons Ferry Road, The Pump House was built in the 1940s to move (and filter) millions of gallons of river water daily to the Celanese textile and chemical plant in Rock Hill, SC. It was shut down and abandoned in 2005.
The Pump House/Facebook
In 2015, it was renovated and repurposed as a one-of-a-kind destination restaurant, with certain pump house components and history of the area preserved. This sprocket is displayed outside the restaurant with the sign explaining its role when the pump house was operational.
Jeff H/TripAdivsor
Inside this waterfront restaurant in South Carolina in the main level dining area, there are custom wall boxes displaying Catawba Native American pottery and a collection of Catawba tribal arrowheads hanging on the wall. The Catawba were known as “The People of the River.”
Kim Edwards/Google Reviews
Adorning a wall by some wine bottles is a "River Woman" painting, which depicts a woman locals were said to have seen on the river.
Bill McLeod/Google Reviews
There are five stories of dining rooms, bars (including a rooftop bar), and outdoor patios. Each floor is its own place and just as exciting as the other. The different dining rooms are elegant and quiet.
The Pump House/Facebook
You'll want to make a reservation, and when you check in, the hostess on the main floor will tell you which floor to go to and has someone waiting on you at the elevator to take you to the correct table so there's no unnecessary confusion or frustration.
The Pump House/Facebook
The water and sunset views from the outdoor dining areas are exquisite. The restaurant has been named among the most scenic restaurants in America!
The Pump House/Facebook

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Restaurant with a View in Rock Hill
The Pump House/Facebook
Along with the atmosphere and scenic views of the river, you will enjoy some of the best Southern-inspired American cuisine prepared with fresh ingredients by accomplished local chefs.
The Pump House/Facebook
Start your meal off with cocktails or a drink from the top-notch wine list along with a tasty appetizer such as fried calamari, a customer favorite, or perhaps fried green tomatoes...
The Pump House/Facebook
... followed by an entree such as filet mignon or shrimp and grits, other customer favorites.
The Pump House/Google Reviews
And then, finish your meal off with a decadent dessert such as banana pudding cheesecake! Portions are generous here, so if you want to have dessert, perhaps consider taking home some leftovers in order to save some room to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The Pump House/Facebook
The Pump House in Rock Hill is the perfect choice for those looking for a uniquely local spot while traveling, date night, or perhaps for a special occasion. The views from the balcony areas are unforgettable and a dozen taps at the bar are split between North and South Carolina beers.
The Pump House/Facebook
It's a fine dining experience with stellar service and a cozy atmosphere.
The Pump House/Facebook

Get more information at The Pump House website and restaurant updates at The Pump House Facebook page. And you’ll want to stroll through the magical Glencairn Garden in Rock Hill while you’re in the area for some fresh air and more beautiful scenery. Don’t forget some good insect repellent if it’s during the buggy summer months in South Carolina when you go!

What’s your favorite type of scenery to enjoy while dining? Have you ever eaten at this waterfront restaurant in South Carolina, The Pump House? Share your thoughts with us!

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Waterfront Restaurant In South Carolina & Related Info

AnneMarie | April 19, 2024

Where else can I experience rooftop dining in South Carolina?

There are a number of options for rooftop dining in South Carolina, but some of the best spots we’d recommend for you to check out include:

  • Hendrix Restaurant, Columbia – A top rated spot on Main Street of South Carolina’s beautiful capital city
  • RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar, Myrtle Beach
  • Tin Roof, Myrtle Beach
  • Juniper, Greenville – During the winter months, you can even dine in an igloo atop the roof at Juniper
  • The Citrus Club, Charleston – Many customers vote this as best in Charleston, found at The Living Room at The Dewberry on Meeting Street!
  • The Grand Bohemian Wine Bar, Charleston – Also a top-rated spot

Where else can I go for fine dining in South Carolina?

Five restaurants in South Carolina made the Top 25 Fine Dining Restaurants in the United States list! You definitely want to add these to your bucket list:

  • Grill 225, Charleston – This one came in at Number 17 on the list. It’s a chophouse featuring one of the best wine lists in Charleston.
  • Peninsula Grill, Charleston – Coming in at Number 15 of 25, this wonderful eatery offers award-winning food that can be enjoyed in the enchanting outdoor garden setting.
  • Charleston Grill, Charleston – Located within the Belmond Charleston Place hotel, this spot was ranked at Number 8 on the list. You’ll enjoy delicious Southern cuisine here.
  • Halls Chophouse, Charleston – At number 6, this family steakhouse also has locations in both Columbia and Greenville and offers brunch on Sundays.
  • Circa 1886, Charleston – This delightful restaurant made the Top 5 for the list, Number 4. Eat here for Southern cuisine and Lowcountry favorites.

 

Of course, Charleston isn’t the only other place for amazing fine dining options. Check out The Library Restaurant in Myrtle Beach, Rick Erwin's West End Grille in Greenville, and Di Vino Rosso in Columbia, for starters!

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Featured Addresses
The Pump House, 575 Herrons Ferry Road, Rock Hill, SC 29730, USA