21 Best Restaurants in Sumter, SC
From the humble mom-and-pop joints that have been serving up comfort food for generations, to the swankier establishments that offer a unique fine dining experience, this city is a food lover's paradise.
Let's embark on a gastronomic journey as I introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Sumter, South Carolina.
While this list showcases some remarkable restaurants, it's important to note there are many other exceptional dining establishments in Sumter 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.
1912 Bed and Breakfast
I've walked past the 1912 Bed and Breakfast countless times, always intrigued by its old-world charm and rustic setting.
I finally decided to treat myself to a staycation, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I've made!
From the moment I stepped into this Bed and Breakfast, I was taken aback by the period correct furnishings that seemed to have perfectly preserved the bygone era.
It was like stepping into a time capsule, a break from the usual hustle and bustle of life.
Breakfast is included, and while it might not be a feast, it's simple and satisfying.
The menu consisted of scrambled eggs, biscuits, sausage links, cereal, coffee, and juice.
It's a touch of home in every meal, and you can't help but appreciate the comforting simplicity it offers.
One of my favorite things about my stay was the peace and quiet.
GoodWings
You know, there's something heartwarming about finding a hidden gem in your own neighborhood that serves up delicious comfort food.
GoodWings is one such treasure.
Their food has a certain soulfulness to it which I believe stems from their cooking methods and the love they put into each dish.
When they say they have the best wings and burgers, they aren't kidding.
I can still remember the first time I tried their wings, the aroma itself was enticing enough to make me come back for more.
The burgers too, are a thing of beauty.
The flavors, the seasoning, it's all perfect!
Every bite is a testament to their culinary expertise.
Carolina Eatz
There's something really special about stumbling across a hidden gem in your own city.
And let me tell you, the day I found Carolina Eatz tucked away in Sumter was, without a doubt, a day of pure serendipity!
The Carolina Eatz has quickly become my go-to joint whenever I wish to indulge in some healthy, savory and flavorful food.
Speaking of food, the variety here never fails to impress me.
From meal preps that are as nutritious as they are delicious, to the best tacos I've ever tasted, Carolina Eatz has a way of surprising your palate every time.
But if there's one thing that stands out the most, it’s their knack for cooking up fresh, healthy and delicious food.
The wait, although not too long, is definitely worth it.
And as for recommendations, the gluten free chicken and waffles are a must try!
Even though I'm not a big fan of dark meat, their juicy & tasty chicken with tender waffles on the side has won me over.
Crabby Peep's Bistro LLC
Just another day in our beautiful city, and I found myself craving some good crab salad and ribs.
As is the case with such cravings, it led me right to Crabby Peep's Bistro LLC, one of the city's most cherished eateries.
The crab salad was mouth-watering, brimming with the fresh taste of the sea.
Each bite was a little explosion of flavor from the perfectly seasoned, juicy crab meat combined with the crunch of fresh vegetables.
And the ribs, oh, the ribs!
Smoky, tender, and bathed in a rich barbecue sauce that was sweet and tangy at the same time.
Each bite was a treat to the senses.
What sets Crabby Peep's apart is their unique 'grab and go' style concept.
It's perfect for days when you want to enjoy good food without the fuss of formal dining.
You can simply order, grab your food, and enjoy it wherever you please.
It's genius, really.
Baker's Sweets Bistro & Bakery
You wouldn't believe how long we've been waiting here in Sumter for a place like Baker's Sweets Bistro & Bakery!
This place is top-notch.
Every sweet tooth's paradise and every coffee lover's haven, combined with a comforting atmosphere.
The moment you step inside, the warm, welcoming ambience takes you in.
They've got an impressive selection of treats and a fancy coffee menu that's bound to satisfy your cravings.
Their cappuccino is something that deserves a special mention.
The Habit Burger Grill
I stumbled upon The Habit Burger Grill in Sumter one bustling day and boy, am I glad I did!
Now, let me tell you, the place was teeming with customers, but they managed to serve up our food in a strikingly reasonable time.
It's quite the testament to their efficient service, even though the drive-through seemed a tad slow.
But hey, that's the norm in Sumter during peak hours, isn't it?
Oh, and I cannot go on without raving about their Impossible charburger!
It’s undeniably my new favorite dish in the city.
Despite being their first day open with long lines of eager customers, they were attentive and quick on their feet.
Xclusive's Barbecue
There's something truly special about Xclusive's Barbecue.
It's the sort of place where the food is always excellent, no matter when you visit.
Every meal I've had here has been a delight.
It's rare for a place to have this lovely atmosphere consistently, but Xclusive's Barbecue manages it every time.
One of the things that really stands out about this place is the generous portion sizes.
I remember ordering their $30 Oxtail dinner, complete with rice, cabbage, macaroni and cheese, and yams.
I was genuinely amazed at the amount of food you get for the price.
It was not only a great value, but everything tasted fantastic too.
And the best part?
They manage to give you all this wonderful flavor without using pork in any of their dishes.
For someone like me who doesn't eat pork, this is a game-changer.
They cleverly use turkey meat instead, which ensures that none of the dishes lose their flavor.
It's not just their dinners that are exceptional, either.
The BBQ sandwich and lemon pepper wings are to die for.
They are so tasty that I would definitely recommend them to anyone who visits.
Something Outstandingly Cool, LLC
From the moment I stumbled upon the hidden gem that is Something Outstandingly Cool, LLC, my family and I have been hooked.
Our first visit was nothing short of a delightful surprise.
The food was absolutely tantalizing, with my personal favorite being the Philly cheese steak.
The children couldn't get enough of the Italian ice.
They've been raving about it since we got home and have been begging to go back for more.
The atmosphere of the establishment is also worth mentioning – it's warm, welcoming, and perfect for a family outing.
In addition to the delectable food and comforting ambiance, the customer service solidified our positive experience.
They made us feel right at home and were very attentive to our needs.
I found out about this place through a Facebook post and ever since then, it has become a staple in our family outings.
I look forward to trying their lemonade and hot food options on our next visit.
Sylvia Jo's
There's one place in the city that keeps me coming back time and again, and that's Sylvia Jo's.
I remember the first time I had a meal there; I called for the pork chops and Mac n Cheese, and it was so good I knew I'd be back for more.
And let's not forget the desserts - I had a slice of their Blueberry Cake and it was out of this world!
The ambiance is laid-back and comfortable, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day or to catch up with friends over great food.
Don't be put off by its modest exterior; Sylvia Jo's is a gem that's not to be judged by its cover.
Even the cheeseburger here is so much better than what I can whip up at home.
The prices are very reasonable, unlike so many places around the city that overcharge for the sake of it.
And for those of you who enjoy variety, they also have a buffet spread that's a local favorite.
Tuten's Chicken Coop
On a typical Friday evening, there's nothing quite like taking a casual drive downtown to my favorite spot, Tuten's Chicken Coop.
From the moment I step inside, the tantalizing aroma of fried chicken and fish immediately whets my appetite.
They're always prompt, friendly, and ready to offer a recommendation from their menu.
But no matter what you order, you're guaranteed a generous serving of mouth-watering, home-style food.
It's one of those places where the freshness of the food speaks for itself; everything is made to order and served hot, which makes the wait worthwhile.
My personal favorite is the chicken and fish combo.
Now, this isn't your average combo meal.
It boasts two pieces each of the crispiest chicken and the most succulent fish you could imagine, served with three slices of bread and a pile of fries.
All of this goodness comes at a surprisingly affordable price, just around $8 or $9, and in case you were wondering, every crispy bite is worth every penny.
And then there's the atmosphere.
There's a comforting sense of familial warmth that surrounds you, almost as if you've stepped into a grandparent's kitchen.
K J's Wings & Ribs
If there's one thing the people of this city know how to do, it's barbecue.
And let me tell you, K J's Wings & Ribs is a prime example of that.
I've been drawn to this place, time and time again, due to my insatiable craving for ribs.
And each visit, it never disappoints.
One time, I just wanted ribs, nothing else.
I ended up ordering two Rib Sandwiches, simply because I wanted to treat myself.
Plus, having some leftovers for a midnight snack isn't such a bad idea, right?
Each rib sandwich cost me $9, but let me tell you, every single dollar was worth it.
The meat was cooked to absolute perfection, giving me a taste of southern BBQ that I'd never experienced before.
K J's offers a very homey atmosphere.
It's far from a fancy dining experience, but that's never been a problem for me.
Although, I've only ever done carryout since I'm not sure if table service is offered if you decide to eat in.
Cajun Claws & Wing
I've had the pleasure of visiting Cajun Claws & Wing for a meal on a couple of occasions.
During my first visit, I ordered their seafood platter, opting for a mild spice level and they got it right.
Meanwhile, my couldn't help but partner devoured the wings.
Intrigued by their variety, we visited Cajun Claws & Wing again.
Cajun Claws & Wing is renowned for its seafood, a friend of mine had the best experience with their shrimp.
Neece's Grill
Just the other day, I decided to stop by Neece's Grill for a quick meal.
You can find this gem right here in our city on Google Maps.
I got to tell you, their Philly cheesesteak is phenomenal.
It practically melts in your mouth, and they serve it with a generous quarter of fresh orange and a couple of pepperoncinis on the side.
The prices at Neece's Grill are great for the quality of food you get.
It became one of my favorite places to grab a bite, especially when I'm in a hurry.
Jeffrey Lampkin's Country Boy Kitchen
If you're looking for good old southern cooking in Sumter, South Carolina, look no further than Jeffrey Lampkin's Country Boy Kitchen.
This place is a gem, serving up some of the tastiest soul food I've ever had.
It's not fancy, and it's a bit worn around the edges, but the food more than makes up for it.
I remember ordering the fried chicken wings one day.
They were hot and delicious, with a crust that was simply heavenly.
I paired it with shrimp and grits with bacon, and I was in Southern comfort-food heaven!
The green beans and corn were bursting with flavor - you could tell these were cooked with love and soul.
Let's not forget the complementary cornbread, it was soft and fluffy, the perfect side to the main course.
The pricing is reasonable too, which is always a plus.
One time I had to wait a bit for my order, but the great food more than made up for the wait.
And to top it off, there was gospel music playing in the background - the perfect accompaniment to a hearty Southern meal.
What's more, this place is attached to a gas station, making it quite easy to locate.
It might seem off the beaten track, but once you've tasted the food here, you'll see why it's worth seeking out.
Susie's Chicken and Fries
One day I was in the neighborhood and craving some good food.
I remembered hearing about a food truck known as Susie's Chicken and Fries, and discovered they also have a physical location.
I ordered their honey garlic wings and the bam bam fries.
I also got a strawberry lemonade to quench my thirst.
I'd say the shrimp fries were really nice and the wings were flavorful.
I once saw their food truck around and the chicken wings I had there were some of the best I've ever tasted!
Happy Bowl
I'm absolutely captivated by the Happy Bowl, a gem hidden away in our Sumter neighborhood.
You know, it's one of those spots you might miss if you're not looking carefully, but once you find it, you just can't resist going back, over and over.
Their menu has a myriad of delightful dishes that make my taste buds sing.
One of my top choices is the beef lo mein.
It's arguably the most scrumptious lo mein I've ever had, seriously!
Each bite is a party of flavors.
It's just a great feeling when they call to let me know that my takeout is ready, and I get to bring that amazing dish home.
The other dish that won my heart was the chicken tepanyaki bowl.
I swear that was the best meal I had in a long while.
Guignard Diner
There's a certain charm about places that feel like a second home, and for me, that place is the Guignard Diner.
I've lived in Sumter all my life, and this little diner on the corner has always been a constant.
I remember one instance where one of my friends came in, not feeling hungry at all.
You'll find such generosity in abundance at Guignard Diner.
The patrons, too, are a diverse group.
This isn't a place that caters to a specific demographic, it's a place where anyone and everyone is welcome.
From youngsters to retirees, everyone finds their comfort zone here.
The mashed potatoes, while not gourmet, are perfect for those days when you crave the simple comfort of home-cooked food.
When out-of-towners drop by, and believe me, they do quite often, they're always taken by the homely atmosphere.
Some of them even end up making it a point to eat here every morning during their stay.
Yucatan Restaurant
Just a short drive from home, I often find my family and I heading over to Yucatan Restaurant for some delicious Mexican cuisine.
It's become quite a popular spot around here, and I can understand why.
The bustling crowd is always a good sign of the culinary delights that await inside.
On our last visit, we were a group of five, eager to dig into our favorite dishes.
Interestingly, the red sauce, which I usually wouldn't go for, was surprisingly delightful that day.
One thing I must commend is their promptness in service.
Despite the place being packed, our food was delivered to our table pretty quickly.
They really don't compromise on their customer service, adding to the reasons why we keep coming back.
Side Bar
I've got to tell you, there's something special about Side Bar.
This place has a vibe that's undeniably cool.
Nestled in a woodsy setting, it's a gem of a spot offering bourbon, BBQ fare, and local beer.
It's the kind of place where you want to kick back on the quaint patio, especially on those long summer nights.
One thing that stands out about Side Bar is how it's conveniently located right across the street from the opera house.
It's been a lifesaver on more than one occasion, especially when I've attended a recital or a performance and needed a good place to unwind.
The food here is simply divine.
I've tried the oysters and shrimp, and I must say, they've nailed it.
The oysters are succulent, the shrimp perfectly cooked.
But what really makes my tastebuds sing is their beef brisket, a personal favorite of mine.
It's tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
Pair that with a fruity martini and I'm in food heaven.
Hamptons
If you're in the mood for something a bit more upscale, Hamptons is a must-visit.
Nestled in the heart of Sumter, it boasts a polished dining room and a charming, brick-paved patio that's perfect for evening gatherings.
The ambiance is the first thing you notice when you walk in.
It's the kind of place where you feel welcome the moment you step inside.
I often go there for dinner dates and the atmosphere never disappoints.
It's sophisticated yet cozy, making you feel comfortable whether you're in the main dining area or upstairs.
The drinks at the bar are definitely noteworthy.
The quality of the portions is impressive and the Southern dishes are inventive, in a good way.
In the dessert department, I'd advise you to try everything on the menu.
They’re so delicious, they have you craving for more.
Genuine Flava
Ah, Genuine Flava.
This place holds a special spot in my heart whenever I get those intense cravings for some good old comfort food.
I mean, where else can you get fried chicken that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, without the greasiness?
Trust me, it's a rarity.
Their Mac and cheese is just heavenly, so creamy and cheesy that I could literally eat it every day.
And let's not even get started on their peach cobbler.
I remember a time when I shared one with a friend and after one bite, we were so enthralled by the flavor that we immediately ordered a second one.
On another occasion, I tried their fried pork chop.
I paired it with mac and cheese, green beans, and rice and gravy.
That meal turned out to be so delectable, it was like a party in my mouth.
I can still savor the taste of it.
If you're a fan of desserts, do try their banana pudding.
They put chessman cookies in it, which adds an interesting texture and flavor to the pudding.
Honestly, it was the best I’d ever had.
Final Thoughts
The dining scene in Sumter, South Carolina, has something for everyone.
Whether you're looking for international flavors at Yucatan Restaurant, or in the mood for some delicious home-style cooking at Jeffrey Lampkin's Country Boy Kitchen, you're sure to find something that hits the spot.
Ultimately, the diverse and rich culinary offerings in this city have never ceased to amaze me.
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