Locals Say These South Carolina Soul Food Joints Are The Real Deal
South Carolina has a rich tradition of soul food that runs deep in its culture. From perfectly fried chicken with a crispy crust to creamy, buttery mac and cheese, the flavors here bring comfort and joy.
Throughout the state, there are family-run restaurants and hidden gems where recipes have been carefully handed down through the years.
These spots are gathering points where stories and memories are shared alongside hearty plates.
1. Bertha’s Kitchen, North Charleston
Walking into Bertha’s feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen on Sunday morning. The smell of bacon grease and cornbread hits you right in the feels.
Their fried chicken stays crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Mac and cheese comes loaded with real cheese, not that powdered stuff from a box.
Locals line up early because Bertha’s runs out of the good stuff fast. Smart folks call ahead to save their favorite dishes.
2. Hannibal’s Kitchen, Charleston
Nobody does seafood and grits quite like Hannibal’s Kitchen in the heart of Charleston. Their shrimp and grits recipe could make a grown person weep happy tears.
The building looks small from outside, but inside packs more flavor per square foot than anywhere else downtown. Red rice comes perfectly seasoned with just enough spice to wake up your taste buds.
Regulars know to save room for their peach cobbler. That dessert alone makes the trip worthwhile every single time.
3. Martha Lou’s Kitchen, Charleston
Martha Lou herself still greets customers at the door most days, sharing stories while ladling out generous portions. Her smile makes every visitor feel like family from the first hello.
Okra gumbo here tastes like pure magic in a bowl. Cornbread comes out hot and crumbly, perfect for soaking up every last drop of pot liquor from the collard greens.
Cash only policy keeps things simple and old school. The handwritten menu changes based on what Martha Lou feels like cooking that day.
4. Big Mike’s Soul Food, Myrtle Beach
Big Mike earned his nickname honestly, standing well over six feet tall with a personality that fills the whole restaurant. His laugh echoes from the kitchen while he works his magic on the stove.
Catfish here gets fried to golden perfection with a cornmeal coating that crunches just right. Sweet potato fries come cut thick and seasoned with secret spices that keep folks guessing.
Beach visitors often stumble upon this gem by accident but leave as devoted fans who plan future trips around Mike’s cooking schedule.
5. Jestine’s Kitchen, Charleston
My cousin dragged me here three summers ago, claiming their fried green tomatoes would change my life. Turns out she wasn’t exaggerating one bit about those crispy golden slices.
The dining room feels like eating at a favorite aunt’s house, complete with mismatched chairs and family photos covering every wall. Banana pudding comes piled high with real whipped cream and vanilla wafers.
Sunday brunch gets packed with church crowds who know good food when they taste it. Reservations help but walk-ins usually find space eventually.
6. Gullah Grub, St. Helena Island
Authentic Gullah cuisine lives on at this island treasure where recipes survived centuries of family traditions. Every dish tells stories of coastal Carolina culture and heritage.
Hoppin’ John tastes exactly like great-grandmothers used to make, with black-eyed peas and rice cooked to perfection. Frogmore stew brings together shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes in one glorious pot.
The remote location keeps crowds smaller, making each meal feel special and personal. Island visitors consider finding this place a true accomplishment worth bragging about.
7. Charlene’s Home Cooking, Spartanburg
Charlene treats every customer like they just walked into her actual home for Sunday dinner. Her warm hospitality makes strangers feel welcome from the moment they step through the front door.
Meatloaf gets served with mashed potatoes so creamy they could win awards at county fairs. Lima beans might sound boring, but Charlene’s version converts even the pickiest vegetable skeptics into believers.
The daily specials board changes based on seasonal ingredients and whatever Charlene feels inspired to cook that particular morning for her hungry customers.
8. A Peace of Soul Vegan Kitchen, Columbia
Plant-based soul food sounds impossible until you taste what Chef Marcus creates in this revolutionary Columbia kitchen. His jackfruit pulls apart just like traditional barbecue pork but tastes even better somehow.
Cashew mac and cheese fooled my meat-loving uncle completely during our last family visit. Collard greens get their smoky flavor from mushrooms instead of ham, proving vegetables can satisfy any craving perfectly.
The menu proves soul food comes from cooking techniques and seasoning wisdom, not just from using animal products in every single dish.