10 Affordable Eats In South Carolina Cherished By Locals
South Carolina’s food scene is full of hidden gems where you can enjoy incredible meals without emptying your wallet. Locals know the best spots to grab authentic flavors that tell the story of the region’s rich culinary heritage.
From soul food to barbecue, these beloved eateries offer generous portions and unforgettable tastes. Let me share with you the places where South Carolinians love to eat.
1. Bertha’s Kitchen
Family recipes passed down through generations make this North Charleston spot a true treasure. Since 1980, this place has been serving up Gullah-style cooking that earned recognition from the James Beard Foundation.
Their crispy fried chicken and savory red rice are legendary among locals. You’ll find generous portions that fill you up without breaking the bank, all served with genuine Southern hospitality that makes you feel like family.
2. The Beacon Drive-in
Operating since 1946, this Spartanburg icon serves portions so massive they’ve become the stuff of local legend. Their famous ‘A-Plenty’ plates come piled high with mountains of crispy onion rings that seem to defy gravity.
Burgers, barbecue, and fries are served with that old-school diner charm. The atmosphere buzzes with energy as servers shout orders across the dining room, creating an experience that’s purely South Carolina.
3. Hannibal’s Kitchen
Since 1985, this Charleston gem has been dishing out Gullah-inspired cuisine that you won’t find anywhere else. Their crab rice brings together coastal flavors in ways that honor traditional Low country cooking.
Shark steak sandwiches might sound adventurous, but locals swear by them. The no-frills setting keeps prices low while the flavors stay sky-high, making every visit feel like discovering a delicious secret.
4. Ike’s Korner Grille
Fresh, never frozen beef makes all the difference at this Spartanburg favorite. You’ll taste the quality in every juicy bite of their burgers, cooked to perfection and served with hand-cut fries.
The dive-bar-meets-diner vibe creates a relaxed atmosphere where comfort food reigns supreme. Locals pack this place during lunch and dinner, drawn by honest cooking and prices that respect your budget without compromising on taste.
5. Sully’s Steamers
Steamed bagel sandwiches might sound unusual, but one bite will make you a believer. This Greenville spot puts a creative twist on classic flavors by steaming their bagels, creating a texture that’s soft yet satisfying.
Quick service makes it perfect for busy days when you need something delicious fast. The unique preparation method sets them apart from typical sandwich shops, earning them a devoted following among locals.
6. Shealy’s Bar-B-Que
Mustard-based barbecue is a South Carolina tradition, and nobody does it better than this Batesburg-Leesville institution. Since 1969, they’ve been perfecting their pulled pork with that signature tangy yellow sauce.
The buffet-style setup lets you sample everything from fried chicken to classic Southern sides. You can go back for seconds without guilt because the prices stay reasonable, making it a family favorite for Sunday dinners.
7. Big Mike’s Soul Food
Myrtle Beach visitors often miss this local favorite, but residents know exactly where to go for authentic soul food. Crispy fried chicken arrives at your table with a crunch that announces its perfection.
Mac and cheese comes creamy and rich, while collard greens are cooked just right with the perfect amount of seasoning. Generous portions mean you’ll likely have leftovers, giving you even more value for your money.
8. Melvin’s Barbecue
Whole-hog barbecue cooked low and slow creates flavors that can’t be rushed. This Charleston area staple has been smoking pork to perfection, serving it alongside hash and rice, a Low country specialty.
Their buffet offers variety without the hefty price tag you’d expect from such quality. The rustic atmosphere keeps things casual and welcoming, where strangers become friends over shared plates of incredible barbecue.
9. Duke’s Bar-B-Que
Counter-service keeps things simple and affordable at this beloved barbecue chain with multiple South Carolina locations. Their chopped pork sandwiches come dressed with that distinctive yellow sauce locals crave.
Adding coleslaw right on top of the meat is a South Carolina tradition that creates the perfect bite. Quick service and wallet-friendly prices make this a go-to spot when barbecue cravings strike during a busy day.
10. Martha Lou’s Kitchen
The bright pink building announces you’ve arrived somewhere special in Charleston’s East side. Martha Lou Gadsden has been cooking soul food with love since 1983, creating a following that includes celebrities and locals alike.
Lima beans, fried chicken, and cornbread taste like they came from your grandmother’s kitchen. Limited hours and cash-only payment add to the authentic charm of this irreplaceable community treasure.
