13 South Carolina Sandwich Spots That Skip Advertising And Still Draw Lunch Crowds
In South Carolina, some sandwich shops stay busy without flashy signs or big marketing budgets.
Locals know exactly where to go for stacked subs, warm bread, and fillings that never disappoint.
Lunchtime brings steady lines, friendly chatter, and the sound of grills working nonstop.
These spots rely on word of mouth, repeat customers, and flavors that speak louder than any advertisement.
From small towns to city neighborhoods, each place offers its own twist on a classic sandwich experience.
In South Carolina, loyalty is earned one bite at a time, and these under-the-radar shops prove that great food always finds its audience.
1. Groucho’s Original Deli
Walking into this Five Points institution feels like stepping into a college town time capsule with its vintage deli counter and handwritten menu boards lining brick walls.
The signature STP Dipper is a go-to order, and regulars swear by the tangy Formula 45 sauce that gets slathered on every sub.
Located at 611 Harden Street in Columbia, SC 29205, this spot sits in the heart of the bustling student district near the University of South Carolina.
The interior features worn wooden booths and checkered floors that have hosted thousands of hungry customers over eight decades.
Fun fact: the original owner named the shop after Groucho Marx because he wanted a place where people could laugh and eat great sandwiches.
Lines form during lunch hours, but the staff moves quickly even on busy days, getting you in and out without sacrificing quality or flavor in any bite.
2. The Gourmet Shop
Tucked on Saluda Avenue at number 724 in Columbia, SC 29205, this upscale deli operates out of a charming converted house with a cozy front porch and garden seating that makes every lunch feel like a backyard picnic.
The Chicken Salad Croissant is legendary here, made with grapes, pecans, and a secret blend of spices that keeps people guessing.
Inside, exposed beams and soft lighting create an intimate cafe vibe, while display cases showcase freshly baked pastries and gourmet groceries.
The building itself dates back decades and maintains its residential charm with hardwood floors and vintage light fixtures.
Locals love that you can grab a sandwich and browse shelves stocked with artisan jams, olive oils, and imported cheeses.
The staff knows most customers by name, and the kitchen cranks out made-to-order sandwiches with ingredients sourced from nearby farms whenever possible, ensuring every bite tastes fresh and flavorful.
3. Sub Station II
Pulling up to 403 N. Cherry Road in Rock Hill, SC 29732, you will spot a no-frills storefront with a simple red and white sign that has been a local landmark for generations.
The Philly Cheesesteak here is piled high with thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, and grilled onions that drip with savory goodness.
Inside, the decor keeps things basic with laminate tables, fluorescent lights, and a straightforward menu board that focuses on what matters: big subs at fair prices.
The open kitchen lets you watch your sandwich being built from scratch, and the smell of toasted bread fills the entire space.
Interestingly, this chain started in South Carolina and expanded across the Southeast purely through customer loyalty and zero advertising dollars.
The staff works at lightning speed during the lunch rush, yet every order comes out hot, fresh, and loaded with toppings that make each bite satisfying and memorable.
4. Sully’s Steamers
Nestled at 6 East Washington Street in Greenville, SC 29601, this downtown gem specializes in steamed sandwiches that arrive warm, soft, and bursting with flavor.
The Italian Steamer is the star attraction, featuring layers of salami, ham, pepperoni, provolone, and a signature vinaigrette that soaks into the bread.
The building sits in a historic downtown block with tall ceilings, exposed brick, and large storefront windows that flood the dining area with natural light.
The counter-service setup keeps things casual, and the aroma of steaming bread greets you the moment you step through the door.
Here is a cool tidbit: steaming the sandwiches instead of toasting them keeps the bread pillowy while melting the cheese to perfection.
The lunch crowd packs this place, with office workers and tourists lining up for a taste of something different from the usual grilled or cold subs found elsewhere in the city.
5. Swamp Rabbit Cafe & Grocery
Located at 205 Cedar Lane Road in Greenville, SC 29611, this spot sits right along the Swamp Rabbit Trail, making it a favorite pit stop for cyclists and hikers grabbing a quick bite.
The Veggie Wrap is a crowd favorite, stuffed with hummus, fresh vegetables, and a zesty tahini dressing that tastes light yet filling.
The building features a modern farmhouse design with reclaimed wood accents, large windows, and a spacious patio where you can watch trail traffic roll by.
Inside, shelves are stocked with organic groceries, local honey, and eco-friendly products, blending cafe and market seamlessly.
Fun fact: this cafe is a mission-driven business that supports farms and community partners, so every sandwich purchase helps the Upstate scene.
The menu focuses on healthy, whole-food ingredients, and everything is made fresh daily without any shortcuts or processed junk, attracting health-conscious eaters from all over the Upstate region.
6. The SamMitch Shop
Standing at 201 Wall Street in Spartanburg, SC 29306, this quirky little shop serves sandwiches with clever names and bold flavors that punch above their weight.
The Gobbler is a Thanksgiving-inspired masterpiece with turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and gravy all crammed between two slices of toasted sourdough.
The interior is small but mighty, with colorful murals, mismatched furniture, and a playful vibe that makes you smile before you even take a bite.
The building itself is an old storefront that has been revitalized with bright paint and creative decor that reflects the fun personality of the menu.
Owners keep things interesting by rotating seasonal specials and encouraging customers to create their own wild combinations.
The name is a playful nod to Sam and Ryan, the brothers who own and run the shop in Spartanburg, greeting customers and keeping the menu playful, and their passion for inventive sandwiches shines through in every single order.
7. Alvin Ord’s Sandwich Shop No 2
Situated at 1415 Ribaut Road in Port Royal, SC 29935, this Lowcountry favorite has been proudly slinging sandwiches for decades, earning a following without running a single ad.
The Shrimp Salad on a croissant is the signature dish, made with fresh local shrimp and a creamy dressing that tastes like coastal perfection.
The building is a modest structure with a retro sign out front and a simple dining room that feels like stepping into a different era.
Vinyl booths, wood paneling, and a no-nonsense counter give it a classic diner feel that regulars adore.
Interestingly, the name traces back to Alvin Ord Johnston’s original Salvation sandwich creation in the 1970s, and this second shop continues the tradition of quality over flash.
The menu is straightforward, the portions are generous, and the staff treats everyone like family, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps locals coming back week after week.
8. Stu’s Surfside Subs
Positioned at 1 N Forest Beach Drive, Unit F-3, on Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, this beachside sub shop is a must-visit for anyone craving a post-beach lunch.
The Beach Club is the top seller, loaded with turkey, bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato, and mayo on freshly baked bread that tastes like summer in every bite.
The space is small and casual, with surfboards hanging on the walls, beach-themed decor, and a laid-back vibe that matches the island lifestyle.
Large windows let in ocean breezes, and the counter service keeps things fast for hungry beachgoers.
Fun fact: Stu himself is often behind the counter, chatting with customers and making sure every sub meets his high standards.
The shop has been a Hilton Head staple for years, relying entirely on word of mouth from vacationers and locals who rave about the fresh ingredients and generous portions that make every sandwich worth the stop.
9. Brown Dog Deli
Found at 225 Calhoun Street in Charleston, SC 29401, this deli is a downtown institution known for its massive sandwiches and quirky menu names.
The Blue Dog is a fan favorite, featuring roast beef, blue cheese, caramelized onions, and horseradish mayo on a fresh hoagie roll that delivers bold flavors in every mouthful.
The interior is cozy and eclectic, with dog-themed art, exposed brick, and a counter where you can watch the sandwich artists work their magic.
The building is an old Charleston structure with high ceilings and worn hardwood floors that add character and charm.
Locals love that you can customize almost anything on the menu, and the staff never blinks at even the wildest requests.
The name comes from the owner’s love of dogs, and the playful theme extends to the menu with clever canine-inspired sandwich names that make ordering fun and memorable for first-timers and regulars alike.
10. Caviar & Bananas
Perched at 51 George Street in Charleston, SC 29401, this upscale market and cafe combo offers gourmet sandwiches that look as good as they taste.
The Fried Chicken Biscuit is a brunch legend, with crispy chicken, pickles, and honey butter on a fluffy biscuit that melts in your mouth.
The space is bright and modern, with white subway tiles, marble countertops, and open shelving stocked with artisan goods and specialty groceries.
Large windows and high ceilings create an airy, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to linger over your meal.
Fun fact: the name is a playful nod to the high-low concept, offering everything from caviar to everyday staples under one roof.
The prepared foods section is always bustling, and the sandwich station churns out creative combinations using premium ingredients that elevate simple lunches into something special and worth talking about with friends.
11. Mozzo Deli (Downtown)
Anchored at 616 Meeting Street in Charleston, SC 29403, this Italian-inspired deli serves sandwiches that transport you straight to a Roman piazza.
The Mozzarella Caprese is a simple yet stunning creation with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, balsamic glaze, and olive oil on crusty ciabatta.
The interior is sleek and minimalist, with white walls, clean lines, and a glass display case showcasing imported meats, cheeses, and Italian pantry staples.
The building has a modern feel, but the menu pays homage to traditional Italian flavors and techniques.
Interestingly, the owners import many ingredients directly from Italy, ensuring authenticity in every bite.
The deli also offers a selection of Italian sodas and craft drinks, making it a great spot to grab lunch or stock up on gourmet items for a picnic, and the attention to detail keeps customers coming back for more.
12. Bon Banh Mi
Stationed at 162 Spring Street in Charleston, SC 29403, this Vietnamese sandwich shop brings bold, bright flavors to the Holy City with authentic banh mi that pack a serious punch.
The Pork Banh Mi is the star, loaded with marinated pork, pickled vegetables, cilantro, jalapenos, and a smear of mayo on a crispy baguette.
The space is small and efficient, with simple decor, a short counter, and a few tables for dining in.
The building is a converted storefront with big windows and a welcoming vibe that reflects the friendly service you get at the counter.
Fun fact: the owners learned their recipes from family in Vietnam, and they bake the baguettes fresh daily to get that perfect crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside texture.
The menu is short and focused, allowing the kitchen to perfect each sandwich and deliver consistent quality that has earned a loyal following without any advertising or social media hype.
13. Dagwood’s Deli & Sports Bar (North Myrtle Beach)
Parked at 4200 Highway 17 S in North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582, this spot combines a classic deli with a lively sports bar atmosphere, making it perfect for catching the game and chowing down.
The Dagwood is the signature sandwich, a towering creation with turkey, ham, roast beef, bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and all the fixings stacked high on fresh bread.
The interior features plenty of TVs, bright neon signs, and booth seating that gives it a fun, casual vibe.
The building is a standalone structure with ample parking and a large dining room that fills up fast during lunch and game days.
Interestingly, the name comes from the comic strip character Dagwood Bumstead, famous for his ridiculously tall sandwiches.
The portions here live up to the name, and the menu offers something for everyone, from classic deli fare to bar snacks, ensuring every visit is satisfying and memorable.