21 Best Restaurants in Anderson, SC
As the sun sets over the charming city of Anderson, South Carolina, my stomach invariably begins to rumble in anticipation.
You see, I have the delight and privilege of living in this culinary paradise where mouthwatering Southern comfort food meets innovative global cuisine.
The adventure of exploring the city’s diverse restaurant scene never ceases to excite me.
I'm eager to guide you through this food lover's haven, sharing the city's best-kept secrets and old favorites that have stood the test of time.
So, let's embark on this gastronomic journey together through the streets and flavors of Anderson, South Carolina.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Anderson that are not featured here. Our aim is not just to guide you to popular eateries but to encourage you to venture out and experience the city's diverse culinary landscape for yourself.
Full Circle Cafe
Another delightful afternoon was spent at the Full Circle Cafe!
This place never fails to impress with its delightful menu options and impeccable service.
The last time I was there, I decided to go for their 'Full Circle' pizza.
This wasn't a typical pizza.
It had gyro meat on it that was tender and flavorful.
The real surprise was its crust - a cauliflower crust and, honestly, the only cauliflower crust that I have ever enjoyed.
I also indulged in their 'Strawberry Cake'.
It was a fantastic dessert with the right amount of sweetness perfectly balanced by the freshness of the strawberries.
The experience at Full Circle Cafe isn't just about the food.
Grace was very patient with us, taking the time to understand our dietary restrictions and guiding us to the best food options we could have.
The taste of their dishes isn't the only thing that keeps me going back.
The charm of this family-run place adds to its appeal.
Having been there over 10 times, I can vouch for the consistency of their high-quality food and service.
The Common House
I've been a regular at The Common House for quite a while now.
It's heartwarming to see how their friendliness and hospitality are unbeatable in the city.
Over time, I've developed a liking for their food, which is top-notch.
Their chai lattes, especially the iced variants, have become a personal favorite of mine.
I remember once my sister, and I had to swap our breakfast plans and ended up at The Common House.
We were pleasantly surprised with what they had to offer.
My sister raved about the avocado toast she had, and I was quite impressed with the egg bites on my plate.
The $5 mimosas were an unexpected bonus!
The Common House is expansive, with ample seating space, yet it manages to maintain a sense of intimacy.
Their selection of lattes and tea drinks is impressive too.
There’s a chocolate swirl pastry I once had on my way out, and boy, was it delicious!
Tifudi
I've always felt fortunate to have Tifudi right in my neighborhood.
It's one of those off-the-beaten-path places that take a little searching to find, but once you've found it, you're rewarded with some of the best Thai-American fusion food you'll ever taste.
Tucked away inside a dark gray building, Tifudi - Thai Food with an American Twist is a culinary treasure just waiting to be discovered.
From the moment I first stepped through the door, I was smitten.
With its cool and stylish interior and the aroma of mouth-watering dishes wafting from the kitchen, I knew I was in for a treat.
And I wasn't disappointed.
Their Basil duck entree is a dish to die for, a generous serving of tender, tasty meat paired with crispy skin.
And let's not forget about the Eggplant Basil - it's just as good.
Each entree comes with a complimentary egg roll and a cup of delicious broth.
I've been to Thailand a few times, and eating at Tifudi takes me back.
The freshness of their ingredients, the authenticity of their flavors - it's like having a late-night street food experience in downtown Bangkok.
The Tom Yom soup and the spicy Pad Khee Moa are two of my personal favorites.
They also offer a superb sit-down lunch service.
The menu may not be huge, but it's quality over quantity.
I usually go for the shrimp pad thai, which comes with a spring roll and soup.
It's a fantastic blend of American and Thai cuisine that hits the spot every time.
Arden's Burger & Grill
As someone who knows the city inside out, I can vouch for Arden's Burger & Grill as a hidden gem.
Nestled in a modest corner of the city, its unassuming facade hides the flavourful surprises within.
The first time I tasted their burgers, it was a revelation!
The menu is impressively diverse for a place so compact, offering a range of burgers and fries along with Asian hibachi specials, all at very reasonable prices.
The burgers here are distinct from your regular offerings, the Asian twist gives it an intriguing character.
I remember biting into my first burger at Arden's, the experience was nothing short of fantastic.
The freshness of the hand-cut fries, served piping hot, complements the burgers perfectly.
But what sets Arden apart is not just the food but the people as well.
And that is precisely how I have come to think of Arden's Burger & Grill, a home away from home where I can enjoy a hearty meal served with care and warmth.
El Jalapeño Bar & Grill
On my visits to El Jalapeño Bar & Grill, I've always found myself leaving with a full stomach and a satisfied palate.
The food is incredibly tasty, and the drinks are just as good.
One of the things I particularly enjoy about El Jalapeño Bar & Grill is their ability to provide a quick, friendly service, regardless of the crowd.
On a recent lunch visit with my sister, we were promptly seated and served chips and salsa as we perused the menu.
The cilantro-based salsa was a hit for me!
Apart from the wonderful service, their menu is quite the culinary adventure.
The lunch chicken chimichanga and the fajita quesadilla are must-try dishes.
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, a beef enchilada is a great choice.
I also tried their Pollo California with a chicken and a beef enchilada, and it was beyond delicious.
There's also a lovely family-owned vibe to the place, which makes every visit feel intimate and cozy.
It's a perfect spot for a quiet date night or a family dinner.
Plus, the prices are very reasonable, making it an even more attractive dining option.
Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill
In my city of Anderson, South Carolina, we have our own jewel of a restaurant, Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill.
With its refined ambiance and the charm of its 19th-century hardware store past, Sullivan's is where I often find myself for special occasions or simply when I feel like treating myself to a quality meal.
The first thing that strikes you is the open floor plan, spacious and tastefully accented with wood flooring.
It's a cozy and inviting sight that somehow manages to feel both modern and nostalgic.
And then there’s the food.
The menu is a delightful array of Southern-inspired dishes, with some standout personal favorites.
I’ve had the Goat Cheese Fritters more times than I care to admit, and the Pan Sautéed Salmon topped with shrimp and creamy sauce is a treat that I find hard to resist.
Pita Way
Every so often, I come across a place in my city that becomes an instant favorite, and Pita Way is certainly one of them.
I remember the first time I stepped foot in this place.
The heavenly scent of freshly cooked food wafting from the kitchen, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere, everything promised an unforgettable dining experience.
And oh boy, did it deliver!
The falafel had this incredibly flavorful, crunchy exterior with a soft, warm interior.
The Philly cheesesteak was just as good, if not better.
It's challenging to find food so delicious yet so fresh.
Even the sweet tea was exceptional, the kind that leaves you wanting more.
But what set Pita Way apart was not just the food, it was the whole package.
The outstanding gyros, the promise of hot and fresh meals, the time it took to prepare them - around the same as sitting at a drive-through at rush hour - but so much worth it.
There's something about seeing your food being prepared right in front of you that adds to the experience.
It's not just a meal; it's a spectacle, an experience, a promise fulfilled.
To say you won't be disappointed is an understatement.
Mission Grill
When it comes to finding the best Mexican food in the city, I always find myself drawn to Mission Grill.
My palette has been lucky enough to try a variety of dishes from their menu, but there's nothing quite like their AMAZING tacos.
The first time I tried them, I went for the Chicken lime taco, beef, and shrimp.
The smoky flavors of the chicken were simply superb, making it an absolute delight to devour.
Mission Grill, for me, takes the top spot among the restaurants in Anderson.
Their Mexican dishes are not only delicious but also fresh, setting them apart from other eateries around.
Whenever I find myself in the vicinity, I make it a point to order their nachos.
The generous toppings they garnish them with are too good to resist.
And let's not even get started on the pleasant surprises this place has to offer.
Their menu is full of dishes that are perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner.
The quality of their food is consistently great, making me a frequent returnee.
Central Avenue
There’s a certain satisfaction to be had from consistency, and for me, that's exactly what Central Avenue provides.
It’s become my go-to spot over the years for a quick bite to eat.
Best burgers in the city?
Absolutely! They've been serving consistently fresh, juicy burgers since the 90s.
And I've been a regular since then.
Despite the rise of the big chain fast food joints, Central Avenue has always stood out.
Over half the time, these chains mess up my order or serve substandard food.
But not Central Avenue.
No matter how many times I've visited, my order has been spot-on every single time, and the food is always excellent.
Not to mention their prices are quite reasonable too.
Skins Hotdogs
There's just something about grabbing a hot dog from Skins Hotdogs that never gets old.
It's a tradition I've kept up since I could remember.
Whenever I'm craving a quality hot dog, it's Skins that I turn to.
Last weekend was no different, and just like always, I wasn't disappointed.
I ordered two ATW with slaw - that's All The Way for those not in the know.
And let me tell you, these hot dogs are the real deal.
My partner, equally a fan, got the same.
We never get tired of the distinct taste that only Skins can offer.
To mix things up, we got the kids each a hot dog with chili.
And because they were so good, I had to get two more ATW with slaw - just to be sure.
The place hasn't changed much over the years - it feels as if it's frozen in time.
The decor, the ambiance, it's just like how it was about four decades ago.
Taqueria Guiri Guiri
I always had limited options when it came to authentic Latin American cuisine - that is, until I discovered Taqueria Guiri Guiri.
Tucked away behind a store, you might not expect much from its exterior, but once you step inside, you're transported right to the heart of Mexico City.
Every dish at Taqueria Guiri Guiri is a testament to the authenticity of Mexico's diverse palate, with each dish being an explosion of flavors.
The menu is diverse, offering dishes typical from Mexico City and other regions.
Each bite is worth the surprise.
And for those who prefer milder flavors, they have dishes to cater to your taste buds too.
One thing I must mention about Taqueria Guiri Guiri is its affordability.
It might be street food style, but it doesn't cut corners when it comes to taste.
The tantalizing entrees are worth every penny, and I dare say they beat some high-end restaurants I've been to.
Taco Loco Bar & Grill
I've always been a big fan of Mexican cuisine and have been on a quest to discover the most authentic flavors right here in my neighborhood.
It was during one such gastronomic adventure that I stumbled upon Taco Loco Bar & Grill.
And let me tell you, it was love at first bite!
This place is an absolute gem.
Right from the moment I walked in, the welcoming atmosphere and delightful ambient music set the tone for an enjoyable dining experience.
The menu offers a good variety of delicious Mexican food, but their street tacos are a standout.
I must say, I've never tasted tacos that took me this close to the bustling streets of Mexico.
They offer a wide variety of protein options to choose from, and each bite bursts with full-bodied flavors.
The homemade hot sauces just take these tacos to another level.
What’s a Mexican feast without fantastic guacamole and a refreshing horchata, right?
I ordered both, and they did not disappoint.
They even offered a free refill on the horchata, which was a delightful treat.
Over the months, I've become a regular and tried different dishes like lengua, tinga, and barbacoa.
Each visit and each dish never cease to amaze me with their consistency in flavor and quality.
The homemade tortilla and sauces are a testament to their commitment to authentic flavors.
Taqueria Picante Mexican Kitchen & Grill
There's no other place in Anderson that does Mexican cuisine quite like Taqueria Picante Mexican Kitchen & Grill.
It's like a little slice of the West Coast right in the heart of South Carolina.
Every meal here starts with a customary serving of crispy chips and salsa that are simply out of this world.
Whenever I stop by, I make it a point to order their remarkable birria tacos.
The flavors are bold, authentic, and a real treat to my palate.
But let's not forget the Horchata - it's just so good and reminds me of the traditional Mexican beverages I've had during my travels.
Speaking from personal experience, Taqueria Picante has consistently held the top spot among Mexican restaurants in Anderson for me.
It's not just about the delicious food - although the fajitas are my absolute favorite - the overall experience is what keeps bringing me back.
Arnold's of Anderson
Whenever I get a craving for a good, old-fashioned hamburger, there's one place that comes to mind - Arnold's of Anderson.
It's an American-style casual dining spot that's been serving up some of the best traditional burgers in the city.
It's not just the taste of their juicy homemade burgers that keeps me coming back, but the inviting retro ambiance, complete with checkered floors, that gives me a nostalgic throwback to simpler times.
And let me tell you about their chicken tenders!
They're lightly breaded, perfectly crisp, and possibly the best I've ever tasted.
They come with a side of fries that are just as good.
Their meals are not only delicious but also fairly priced.
Two people can enjoy a hearty meal for just $18, and that's a bargain, in my book.
Another dish I highly recommend is their tender 8 oz sirloin steak.
Maki Sushi Bar & Bistro
It was just another Friday night in the city, and I decided to drop by Maki Sushi Bar & Bistro to get a taste of some good sushi.
The place was as lively as ever, the first thing that hit me was the aroma of the food, that was enough to get my taste buds tingling!
The menu was packed with a variety of sushi, but I went with the Tiger Roll, and it was excellent!
I decided to try something a little more adventurous and ordered the surf and turf roll, which was very good, and just to mix things up a bit, I also got the New York strip with red mash and vegetables - definitely something I would order again.
The evening didn't end there, though, I followed it all up with a marble creme brulle cheesecake, a sweet ending to a delightful dinner.
Earle Street Kitchen and Bar
One of my favorite spots in the city is Earle Street Kitchen and Bar.
Now, you might be surprised when you first see it.
Nestled by an overpass down Earle Street, it doesn't stand out much from the outside.
But don't let that fool you.
Once you step inside, you're greeted with an utterly unique atmosphere that's both rustic and chic.
And let's not forget the food!
The Southern comfort food served here has a delightful twist.
The meatloaf, oh, the meatloaf!
It's fabulous, and the goat cheese balls on top just take the entire dish to another level.
If you're a fan of chicken, the chicken fried chicken is another must-try.
The tenders are tender and perfectly breaded, offering a delicious crunch in every bite.
The restaurant also offers beer on tap and a Sunday brunch option.
Thai Spice Restaurant
Oh, the joys of finding a gem in your own neighborhood!
Thai Spice Restaurant is one such gem.
This unassuming place is a regular haunt of mine that never fails to satiate my cravings for authentic Thai cuisine.
The first thing that strikes you when you walk in is the extensive menu.
It boasts a range of noodle dishes, rice entrees, and other classic Thai dishes.
I've tried most of them and can vouch for their quality.
I always appreciate the fact that they don't keep us waiting for ages, even with the influx of to-go orders they usually have.
It was one of the best Thai dishes I've ever had.
The massaman curry I ordered was exceptional, scoring an 8 out of 10 in my books.
The pad thai and Thai tea were also very good, each deserving a solid 7 out of 10.
Red Tomato and Wine Restaurant
When it comes to finding a place that serves food with deep, rich flavors, the Red Tomato and Wine Restaurant is my personal favorite.
I remember the first time I set foot into this warm, casual eatery.
I was greeted with a wide array of Italian and Greek dishes - from pasta and pizza to salads and meat dishes, they had it all.
What struck me the most was the Athenian calzone - truly amazing!
The combination of flavors was a perfect introduction to Red Tomato.
When I was looking for a classic Italian pasta dish, the four-cheese manicotti hit the spot.
It was exactly what I needed.
And ever since that day, I couldn't wait to explore their menu further.
SummaJoe's
I've been a regular at SummaJoe's for a while now, but it never ceases to amaze me.
This place is a hidden gem in the heart of the city, serving a variety of dishes from specialty pizzas to American fare and Lowcountry dishes in a relaxed setting.
Their offerings are truly unique.
One time, I had the Bob Marley pizza, a masterpiece with jerked chicken that's nothing short of incredible.
The creativity in their menu is something that always keeps me coming back.
They seem to have a knack for merging unexpected flavors in a way that just works.
What's more, they're very accommodating to dietary restrictions.
My partner has a gluten allergy, and yet still has a variety of options to choose from.
I remember once he had this pasta natural over rice, served with steamed veg, and he couldn’t stop raving about it.
And me being a vegetarian, I'm never short of options either.
My personal favorite has to be the veggie sandwich with a side of their homemade tapenade.
Even though at first glance it might seem like a simple pizza place, SummaJoe's really exceeds expectations.
I've seen guests order the chef special, like an oven-roasted duck, or appetizers like scallop and shrimp cake, which were as delicious as they were unexpected.
Grace's Restaurant
I’ll let you in on a little secret: the best place to start your day in Anderson is Grace's Restaurant.
Warm, welcoming, and steeped in local history - it’s the epitome of the friendly neighborhood diner.
My mornings there are filled with the comforting hum of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
But Grace's isn’t just about breakfasts and refills.
Their menu is a hearty spread of classic diner food.
I'm not exaggerating when I say their full plate of eggs and bacon is quite possibly the best in the city.
And let's not forget about their burgers.
These are some really satisfying, generously-sized burgers that you won't easily forget.
La Fogata
If there's one thing you quickly learn about Anderson, it's that we're proud of our local dining scene - and La Fogata is no exception.
Offering classic Mexican fare in a laid-back setting, it's a regular lunch spot for many of us.
Last month, I went there for a family gathering.
There were 18 of us, which can be a bit of a challenge for any place, but La Fogata handled it well.
Our orders was fantastic and were served fast.
The portions are generous, and there's often enough for seconds or even thirds.
Coach House Restaurant
For years, the Coach House Restaurant has been my go-to place for the best of American, Italian, and Greek cuisine in a laid-back setting.
The food here is simply exceptional!
Every visit to the Coach House is full of pleasant surprises, and one such surprise was their coleslaw.
I don’t think I’ve ever tasted coleslaw any better than what they whip up here.
Pair that with Mac n cheese and broiled salmon, and you have yourself the perfect meal.
Not only is the food top-notch, but the service is second to none.
Every worker I’ve interacted with is always friendly and attentive.
Furthermore, the place is down to earth with a relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for unwinding after a long day.
Their varied menu is also worth mentioning - from hearty dinners to scrumptious sandwiches and burgers - they have it all!
Final Thoughts
Anderson is brimming with exceptional places to eat, each offering their own unique flair and flavor.
Whether you're craving juicy burgers from Arden's, the delightful fusion of Thai and American tastes at Tifudi, or the exquisite sushi from Maki Sushi Bar & Bistro, there's something to satisfy every palate.
There is a sense of community and warmth in these eateries, reflecting the spirit of our city.
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