9 South Carolina Meat-And-Three Restaurants Known For Big Flavor

South Carolina knows how to serve up comfort on a plate. Meat-and-three restaurants let you pick your favorite protein and pair it with three delicious sides, creating a meal that feels like Sunday dinner every day.

These spots have been feeding families and travelers for generations with recipes passed down through the years.

1. Wade’s Restaurant

Spartanburg locals have flocked here since 1947 for a reason you can taste. Those legendary homemade yeast rolls practically melt in your mouth, and the fried chicken stays crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside.

With over two dozen sides to choose from, including creamy mac and cheese and tender squash casserole, you’ll struggle to pick just three. Family recipes and Southern hospitality make every visit feel special.

2. Lizard’s Thicket

Columbia residents have trusted this spot since 1977 for honest-to-goodness Southern cooking. Country-fried steak comes smothered in rich gravy that soaks perfectly into fluffy mashed potatoes.

Baked chicken offers a lighter option without sacrificing flavor, while fried okra brings that satisfying crunch. Squash casserole delivers comfort in every creamy, cheesy bite, making it nearly impossible to save room for dessert.

3. Bertha’s Kitchen

North Charleston’s soul food treasure has built its reputation on more than just delicious food. Pork chops arrive perfectly seasoned and tender, paired with fluffy rice drowning in savory gravy that’ll have you scraping your plate clean.

Family ownership shines through in every detail, from the welcoming smiles to recipes crafted with genuine love. Community matters here as much as the cooking does.

4. Big Mike’s Soul Food

Myrtle Beach visitors discover that big portions match Big Mike’s name perfectly. Pork chops come thick-cut and seasoned with spices that create a flavorful crust you’ll remember long after vacation ends.

Collard greens simmer slow and low until they’re tender and packed with smoky goodness. Nobody leaves hungry from this place, where hearty meals fuel beach adventures and family memories alike.

5. Charlene’s Home Cooking

Moore’s hidden gem serves meals that taste exactly like grandma’s kitchen. Crispy fried chicken delivers that perfect golden crunch with each bite, while creamy mac and cheese provides the ultimate comfort food experience.

Family recipes passed through generations create flavors you simply can’t replicate anywhere else. Save space for homemade banana pudding, because skipping dessert here would be a genuine mistake.

6. OJ’s Diner

Two locations across Greenville and Easley mean more folks can enjoy these soul food favorites. Turkey and dressing brings Thanksgiving vibes to any ordinary Tuesday, with moist meat and perfectly seasoned stuffing.

Collard greens cook down until they’re silky and flavorful, while mac and cheese achieves that ideal balance between creamy and cheesy. Families fill the tables here, creating a warm buzz of conversation and laughter.

7. Ray’s Diner

Step inside and you’ll feel transported back to simpler times. Chicken and dumplings arrive steaming hot in a bowl big enough to share, with tender chunks of chicken swimming in rich, silky broth.

Sweet potato casserole tops itself with a pecan crust that adds delightful crunch to the creamy, spiced filling underneath. Generous portions guarantee you’ll need a to-go box for later enjoyment.

8. Mama Penn’s Restaurant

Anderson’s answer to home cooking serves meatloaf that’ll change your mind if you’ve ever doubted the dish. Flavorful and moist, it comes sliced thick with a tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully.

Buttermilk biscuits arrive hot from the oven, fluffy layers begging for butter or gravy. Traditional Southern cooking shines here without any fancy tricks, just honest food made with care and quality ingredients.

9. Sweatman’s Bar-B-Que

Smoky barbecue perfection awaits at this legendary spot where pork gets cooked low and slow over hickory wood. Pulled pork arrives tender and juicy, kissed with smoke and ready to pair with your choice of three classic sides.

Hash over rice provides a unique South Carolina specialty you won’t find everywhere. Weekend-only hours make each visit feel extra special and worth planning around.