The Midlands and Upstate Restaurants

We’ve compiled the best of the best in The Midlands and Upstate - browse our top choices for Restaurants during your stay.

Sort by: 27 Recommendations {{numTotalPoiResults}} {{ (numTotalPoiResults===1)?'Recommendation':'Recommendations' }} 0 Recommendations
CLEAR ALL Area Search CLEAR ALL
Loading...
  • 1. Motor Supply Co. Bistro

    $$$$ | Vista | Eclectic

    The daily-changing menu at this stalwart of the Columbia dining scene highlights the best of what local farmers and purveyors have to offer...

    The daily-changing menu at this stalwart of the Columbia dining scene highlights the best of what local farmers and purveyors have to offer, worked into eclectic dishes that span European to Asian influences. The artsy interior (a former engine parts building, on the National Register of Historic Places) and thoughtful service make it a standout.

    920 Gervais St., Columbia, South Carolina, 29201, USA
    803-256–6687

    Known For

    • Curated beer and wine selection
    • Farm-to-table menu that changes daily
    • Gorgeous setting in a renovated 19th-century building

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • 2. Oak Hill Cafe

    $$$$ | Modern American

    In a simple home nestled just off a highway, this restaurant houses one of the most innovative kitchens in the Southeast. Owners David Porras...

    In a simple home nestled just off a highway, this restaurant houses one of the most innovative kitchens in the Southeast. Owners David Porras and Lori Nelsen combine their chef and lab science histories to extract maximum flavors from the produce grown on their on-site farm. Order liberally from shared plates that include charcuterie and pickled veggies, and don't overlook the local fish.

    2510 Poinsett Hwy., Greenville, South Carolina, 29609, USA
    864-631–1397

    Known For

    • A deconstructed deviled egg featuring emulsified crème fraîche, honey Dijon, and roe
    • 2020 James Beard Best New Restaurant semifinalist
    • Relaxed atmosphere indoors or at picnic tables outside
  • 3. The War Mouth

    $$ | Main Street Area | American

    Named after a freshwater sunfish and set in a former auto repair garage, this casual-cool joint serves up whole-hog barbecue from its wood-fired...

    Named after a freshwater sunfish and set in a former auto repair garage, this casual-cool joint serves up whole-hog barbecue from its wood-fired outdoor pit as well as hearty Southern specialties like chicken bog, quail legs, and catfish stew. Stick around for nightcap craft cocktails at the popular bar.

    1209 Franklin St., Columbia, South Carolina, 29201, USA
    803-569–6144

    Known For

    • Wood-fired meats
    • Lively happy hour
    • Craft cocktails

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues.
  • 4. Augusta Grill

    $$$$ | American

    Wood paneling and modern art set the tone at this fine-dining stalwart, where the daily-changing menu (posted online) includes seafood like...

    Wood paneling and modern art set the tone at this fine-dining stalwart, where the daily-changing menu (posted online) includes seafood like tempura soft-shell crabs, hearty steaks, and braised duck. Order ahead to be sure the kitchen hasn't run out of its signature blackberry cobbler.

    1818 Augusta St., Greenville, South Carolina, 29605, USA
    864-242–0316

    Known For

    • Small plate options designed for sharing
    • Varied, seasonal menu
    • Blackberry cobbler
    • Quality service with Southern hospitality

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch.
  • 5. Gather GVL

    $ | Downtown | Eclectic

    The most unique of Greenville's growing food hall scene is Gather, where stacks of colorful shipping containers housing mini-kitchens circle...

    The most unique of Greenville's growing food hall scene is Gather, where stacks of colorful shipping containers housing mini-kitchens circle a central courtyard. Grab an acai bowl, a signature sushi roll, or a basket of fried chicken, and find a spot to kick back and enjoy the live bands on weekends.

    126 Augusta St., Greenville, South Carolina, 29601, USA
    864-501–5008

    Known For

    • On-site craft beer shop
    • Pet-friendly atmosphere (leashed, and not on weekends)
    • A hefty lobster roll from the Lob Father

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • Recommended Fodor’s Video

  • 6. Hampton Street Vineyard

    $$$$ | Downtown | French

    This cozy bistro with upscale French fare is set inside one of the first buildings constructed in the city after Sherman's infamous march. It...

    This cozy bistro with upscale French fare is set inside one of the first buildings constructed in the city after Sherman's infamous march. It has exposed brick walls, arched windows, and original wide-plank floors. Dinners are creative but not over the top, with entrées such as seared breast of duck with orange and fennel, and a classic steak frites.

    1207 Hampton St., Columbia, South Carolina, 29201, USA
    803-252–0850

    Known For

    • Massive wine selection
    • Locally inspired, seasonally changing menu
    • 650-bottle wine list that won Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence
    • Attractively presented entrées
  • 7. Husk Barbeque

    $$ | Downtown | American

    This spinoff of the famous Charleston restaurant rebranded in 2021, shifting toward a casual barbecue model, with long-time Husk butcher Dave...

    This spinoff of the famous Charleston restaurant rebranded in 2021, shifting toward a casual barbecue model, with long-time Husk butcher Dave Jensen at the helm. In addition to smoked meats, the outpost also offers the Husk empire's lauded fried chicken and cheeseburger.

    722 S Main St., Greenville, South Carolina, 29601, USA
    864-627–0404

    Known For

    • Gorgeous exposed-brick interior balanced with industrial lighting
    • Southern food prepared with an intense eye for detail
    • Ingredients rooted in the local culture and land
    • Combo plates featuring prime beef brisket or pulled pork
    • Top-shelf bourbon selection

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • 8. Immaculate Consumption

    $ | Main Street Area | Sandwiches

    This coffee shop roasts its own beans, and from its location immediately next to the State House, it's helped to fuel many a legislative session...

    This coffee shop roasts its own beans, and from its location immediately next to the State House, it's helped to fuel many a legislative session for over two decades.

    933 Main St. , Columbia, South Carolina, 29201, USA
    803-799–9053

    Known For

    • Generously portioned sandwiches and salads
    • "concentration coffee" with coconut oil and grass-fed butter
    • Comfortable interior suitable for working

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed weekends
  • 9. Jianna

    $$$$ | Downtown | Italian

    Combining the best of Italy and coastal South Carolina, this downtown osteria serves house-made pastas and gnocchi, plus a selection of raw...

    Combining the best of Italy and coastal South Carolina, this downtown osteria serves house-made pastas and gnocchi, plus a selection of raw oysters from around the country, served with a house hot sauce and prosecco mignonette. The bright, modern interior features an open kitchen and a massive central bar that includes outdoor balcony seating when weather permits.

    600 S. Main St., No. 2, Greenville, South Carolina, 29601, USA
    864-720–2200

    Known For

    • Raw oysters and negronis
    • Hearty, authentic pasta entrées
    • Light, lively atmosphere

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.
  • 10. Linda's Bistro

    $$$$ | European

    In open, café-like surroundings, Chef Linda Rooney elevates traditional European favorites, turning out excellent mushroom-Gruyère tarts, risotto...

    In open, café-like surroundings, Chef Linda Rooney elevates traditional European favorites, turning out excellent mushroom-Gruyère tarts, risotto with roasted mushrooms and Asiago cheese, and steak fries. Main courses come with a salad, a vegetable, and potatoes.

    135 York St. SE, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801, USA
    803-648–4853

    Known For

    • Seasonal wild game dinners
    • Rotating selection of entrées priced below $20
    • Seasonal wild game and wine dinners
    • Charming location in a historic home
    • Local and organic ingredient sourcing

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No lunch
  • 11. Little Pigs Barbecue

    $ | Northeast | American

    Enjoy the laid-back Southern atmosphere at this Carolina barbecue joint. Grab a plate, get in the buffet line, and load up on brisket, pulled...

    Enjoy the laid-back Southern atmosphere at this Carolina barbecue joint. Grab a plate, get in the buffet line, and load up on brisket, pulled pork barbecue, fried chicken, ribs, and fried fish, along with fixings such as collards, coleslaw, and macaroni and cheese.

    4927 Alpine Rd., Columbia, South Carolina, 29223, USA
    803-788–8238

    Known For

    • All-you-can-eat buffet
    • Real country cooking, priced right
    • Mustard-, tomato-, and vinegar-base barbecue sauces–-choose your favorite

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon. and Tues. No dinner Sun. and Wed.
  • 12. Malia's

    $$$$ | Eclectic

    Locals love this busy contemporary restaurant, with dim lighting and dark decor that conveys a cool class. The menu changes monthly and may...

    Locals love this busy contemporary restaurant, with dim lighting and dark decor that conveys a cool class. The menu changes monthly and may include American, Caribbean, French, and Italian entrées. Dinner reservations are recommended on weekends.

    120 Laurens St. SW, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801, USA
    803-643–3086

    Known For

    • White tablecloth dining
    • Small-town farm-to-table cuisine
    • White-tablecloth dining on weekend evenings
    • Casual lunch scene

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon. No dinner Tues.
  • 13. Mediterranean Tea Room

    $ | Shandon | Middle Eastern

    This friendly little restaurant serves Middle Eastern and Greek food, such as a marinated chicken breast, that keeps people coming back. The...

    This friendly little restaurant serves Middle Eastern and Greek food, such as a marinated chicken breast, that keeps people coming back. The kofta (spiced meatball), hummus, and vegetarian dishes offer patrons a break from the rich Southern cooking elsewhere.

    2601 Devine St., Columbia, South Carolina, 29205, USA
    803-799–3118

    Known For

    • Gyros and falafel
    • Cheery atmosphere
    • Colorful, cheery atmosphere
    • A generous Greek salad

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. No lunch Sat.
  • 14. Mill Pond Steakhouse

    $$$$ | Steakhouse

    It's all about steak here, and what steaks they are: aged for at least 35 days before they're cut, the fillets, rib eyes, and strips are juicy...

    It's all about steak here, and what steaks they are: aged for at least 35 days before they're cut, the fillets, rib eyes, and strips are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. You can dine alfresco overlooking the sprawling pond or enjoy the vintage saloon-style bar. Area farmers provide most of the produce; grits for the shrimp and grits are ground at the mill next door. There is a limousine service available to and from Camden.

    84 Boykin Mill Rd. , Rembert, South Carolina, 29128, USA
    803-425–8825

    Known For

    • Views across the namesake pond
    • High-end Southern cuisine
    • Locally sourced produce
    • Homemade mixed-berry cobbler

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon.
  • 15. Mr. Friendly's New Southern Cafe

    $$$ | Five Points | American

    Who knew that barbecue sauce could be the base for such tasty salad dressing or that pimento cheese could elevate a fillet to near perfection...

    Who knew that barbecue sauce could be the base for such tasty salad dressing or that pimento cheese could elevate a fillet to near perfection? Appetizers of fried pickles and country ham–spinach dip only add to the creative thinking that makes Mr. Friendly's such a local treasure. The ever-changing wine-by-the-glass menu is another.

    2001A Greene St., Columbia, South Carolina, 29205, USA
    803-254–7828

    Known For

    • Seafood specials
    • Impressive wine and beer list
    • Attractive outdoor seating

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No lunch Sat. Closed Sun. and Mon.
  • 16. New Moon Café

    $ | Café

    This funky café pairs Aiken's best coffee (the coffee beans are roasted right next door) with freshly baked muffins and sweet rolls, panini...

    This funky café pairs Aiken's best coffee (the coffee beans are roasted right next door) with freshly baked muffins and sweet rolls, panini sandwiches and salads, and homemade soups. The crab bisque is particularly good.

    116 Laurens St. NW, Aiken, South Carolina, 29801, USA
    803-643–7088

    Known For

    • Healthy food made with heart
    • Smoothies and milk shakes
    • Quick, friendly service

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: No dinner
  • 17. Salud Mexican Kitchen and Tequila Lounge

    $$ | Mexican

    Authentic street tacos (small and four to a plate), generous burritos, and what may be the state's best tequila collection come together in...

    Authentic street tacos (small and four to a plate), generous burritos, and what may be the state's best tequila collection come together in this modern Mexican-themed lounge with comfy seating and a tranquilo vibe.

    1011 Broad St., Camden, South Carolina, 29020, USA
    803-425–4850

    Known For

    • 100 tequila varieties
    • Albondigas, a turkey meatball soup
    • Fun, celebratory vibe on weekends

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon.
  • 18. Sam Kendall's

    $$$$ | Steakhouse

    The exposed brick wall and high-back booths offer the perfect upscale backdrop for steak or seafood, including tuna sashimi and shrimp in garlic...

    The exposed brick wall and high-back booths offer the perfect upscale backdrop for steak or seafood, including tuna sashimi and shrimp in garlic chili sauce. The menu also features an extensive list of more than 100 wines. It's a surprisingly modern, upscale spot for a rural part of the state.

    1043 Broad St., Camden, South Carolina, 29020, USA
    803-424–2005

    Known For

    • Fine dining in historic digs
    • Signature cocktails
    • Extensive wine list

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun.
  • 19. Soby's

    $$$$ | Downtown | American

    The palette of plums and golds is a stunning contrast to the original brick and wood that was uncovered during the renovation of this 19th-century...

    The palette of plums and golds is a stunning contrast to the original brick and wood that was uncovered during the renovation of this 19th-century cotton exchange building. Although the menu changes seasonally, perennial favorites—a layered appetizer of fried green tomatoes and jalapeño pimento cheese, shrimp, and locally ground grits, and the wonderful white-chocolate banana-cream pie—are always available.

    207 S. Main St., Greenville, South Carolina, 29601, USA
    864-232–7007

    Known For

    • Popular Sunday brunch
    • One of the city's best wine lists
    • Partnerships with local farms
    • Patio seating on Court Square
  • 20. Southern Pressed Juicery

    $ | Downtown | Vegetarian

    Cold-pressed juices, energy bowls, and salads in a high-ceilinged, bright room make this an obvious spot for a pick-me-up when you're hoofing...

    Cold-pressed juices, energy bowls, and salads in a high-ceilinged, bright room make this an obvious spot for a pick-me-up when you're hoofing it around town.

    2 W. Washington St., Greenville, South Carolina, 29601, USA
    864-729–8626

    Known For

    • Superfood coffee drinks
    • Bottled fruit and veggie juices
    • Creative, delicious smoothies

No Restaurants Results

Please try a broader search, or expore these popular suggestions:

There are no results for {{ strDestName}} Restaurants in the searched map area with the above filters. Please try a different area on the map, or broaden your search with these popular suggestions:

Recommended Fodor’s Video