Every journey on the open road is made better with great food stops along the way. For those traversing the South Carolina Adventure Route on a Harley, the culinary landscape is as varied and thrilling as the ride itself. BareKnuckleBiker.com has rounded up the best biker-friendly eateries, each rated on our Bare Knuckle Biker Coolness Scale. From hearty breakfasts to satisfying dinners, here's where to fuel up your body and soul.
1. The Mountain Skillet - Blue Ridge Yonder
Location: Near the start of SC Highway 11, Walhalla, SC
Coolness Rating: 8/10
Type of Food: Classic American breakfast and brunch
Description: Nestled at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Mountain Skillet offers the perfect start to a day's ride. Known for its hearty breakfasts, the skillet specials and homemade biscuits are a hit among locals and riders alike. It's the kind of place where you're greeted by name and the coffee never stops flowing.
Local Customer Review: "A gem in the mountains! The pancakes are as big as your head, and the staff treats you like family. A must-stop for any biker hitting the road early."
2. Lowcountry Boil Company - The Lowcountry Stretch
Location: Midway along US Highway 17, near Beaufort, SC
Coolness Rating: 9/10
Type of Food: Seafood, specializing in traditional Lowcountry boil
Description: Offering a taste of the coast, the Lowcountry Boil Company serves up the best of Southern seafood. The communal dining experience of a Lowcountry boil—shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes all cooked together—is not to be missed. It's a casual, friendly spot where the stories are as plentiful as the food.
Local Customer Review: "The boil is out of this world! Fresh, flavorful, and fun. It's more than a meal; it's an experience. Bikers, you won't regret stopping here."
3. Midlands Smokehouse & Grill - The Midlands Cruise
Location: Along State Highway 34, close to Columbia, SC
Coolness Rating: 7/10
Type of Food: Barbecue and Southern comfort food
Description: Midlands Smokehouse & Grill is a haven for meat lovers, offering slow-cooked barbecue and a variety of Southern comfort dishes. The ribs and pulled pork are the stars, smoked to perfection and served with a side of genuine Southern hospitality. It's a laid-back spot where bikers can kick back and enjoy a meal that feels like home cooking.
Local Customer Review: "Best BBQ on the route! The sauce is to die for, and the sides are just like grandma used to make. A friendly spot with plenty of space for bikers to relax."
4. Ocean's Edge Restaurant - The Grand Strand Sprint
Location: On US Highway 17, Myrtle Beach, SC
Coolness Rating: 10/10
Type of Food: Seafood and American classics with an ocean view
Description: Ocean's Edge Restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a meal with a view. Located right on the beach, diners can enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and salads while watching the waves. The atmosphere is upscale yet relaxed, making it a great spot to celebrate a day of riding with a memorable meal.
Local Customer Review: "A stunning view and even better food. The seafood is fresh, and the atmosphere is unbeatable. Highly recommend for a sunset dinner after a long ride."
5. Hilltop Bistro - The Upstate Twist
Location: Near SC Highway 11, towards the end of the Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway
Coolness Rating: 9/10
Type of Food: Farm-to-table American cuisine
Description: The Hilltop Bistro is a gem in the upstate, offering dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes seasonally, but the quality and creativity are constants. It's a more refined dining option for bikers looking to treat themselves to a meal that highlights the best of South Carolina's produce.
Local Customer Review: "Every dish was a delight, and the service was top-notch. It's a beautiful spot to unwind and enjoy some truly special food. Don't skip the dessert!"
Riding through South Carolina offers not just scenic beauty but a taste of the diverse culinary landscape of the region. From roadside diners to beachfront restaurants, the eateries along the South Carolina Adventure Route provide the perfect pit stops for hungry bikers. Each location has been rated for its biker-friendly atmosphere, quality of food, and overall coolness, ensuring that your journey is as delicious as it is thrilling. Bon appétit, and ride safe!