When you visit South Carolina, you don’t just explore the beaches or charming historic towns—you also dive into some of the richest, most flavorful food in the South. From the Lowcountry coast to small inland towns, every bite comes with a story, a tradition, or a little twist that makes it unforgettable. Here are 15 iconic dishes you need to try when you’re in South Carolina.
Shrimp and Grits
Locals will tell you that shrimp and grits aren’t just breakfast—it’s a way of life in South Carolina. The creamy grits form a soft, buttery base that holds the bold, juicy shrimp, usually flavored with garlic, smoky bacon, or sausage. It’s rich without being too heavy, and the Lowcountry-style versions often include a spicy gravy that makes each bite feel like the coast is calling.
Frogmore Stew (Lowcountry Boil)
Despite the name, there are no frogs in Frogmore Stew—it’s actually a hearty one-pot seafood boil featuring shrimp, corn, sausage, and potatoes. Originally from the small town of Frogmore on St. Helena Island, this dish is all about gathering people together. Served up hot on newspapers with cold drinks and paper towels nearby, it’s the kind of meal where flavor meets fun in true Southern style.
Carolina Gold Rice with Hoppin’ John
Made with nutty, aromatic Carolina Gold rice, Hoppin’ John is a traditional mix of rice, black-eyed peas, and smoked pork that has a very comforting flavor. This dish has deep roots in African and Gullah cuisine, and it’s often served on New Year’s Day for good luck. The rich broth from the beans soaks into the rice, making it a simple yet soulful plate you won’t forget.
She-Crab Soup
A spoonful of she-crab soup tastes like elegance wrapped in Southern comfort. This creamy, pale orange soup features blue crab meat, crab roe, and a hint of dry sherry for a sweet kick. It’s often served with a sprinkle of paprika or parsley on top, and while it may look delicate, it’s surprisingly rich and satisfying. Charleston restaurants treat it like a signature treasure—and for good reason.
Chicken Bog
Don’t let the plain name fool you—chicken bog is a flavorful dish of slow-cooked chicken, rice, and smoky sausage that’s as cozy as it gets. The rice is tender and soaked in seasoned broth, while the meat falls apart with every bite. This dish is most popular in the Pee Dee region and has a loyal following for its simplicity, heartiness, and the way it feeds a crowd with ease.
Whole Hog Barbecue with Mustard Sauce
South Carolina is one of the few places where whole hog barbecue still reigns, and what makes it stand out is the mustard-based sauce, often called “Carolina Gold.” This tangy, golden sauce gives the smoky pulled pork a sharp, bold flavor that lingers in the best way. Barbecue here is more than food—it’s a regional identity, a craft, and a tradition that spans generations and pitmasters.
Pimento Cheese
Often known as the “caviar of the South,” pimento cheese is a beloved spread made from cheddar, mayonnaise, and diced pimentos. You’ll find it stuffed into burgers, slathered on crackers, or even served in sandwiches at upscale restaurants. In South Carolina, every family seems to have their own take—some add hot sauce, some use cream cheese, but all of them believe it belongs at every gathering.
Boiled Peanuts
A roadside favorite and state snack of South Carolina, boiled peanuts are green peanuts boiled in salty water until soft and flavorful. They may surprise first-timers with their briny taste and tender texture, but locals crave them like popcorn. Found at gas stations, roadside stands, and festivals, they’re eaten warm from the shell, one after the other, like a slow snack that keeps your hands busy and your taste buds curious.
Collard Greens with Ham Hock
In South Carolina, collard greens aren’t just a side dish—they’re a deeply seasoned, slow-cooked tradition. Simmered for hours with a ham hock or smoked turkey leg, the greens turn tender and soak up the rich, salty flavors from the meat. A splash of vinegar at the end cuts through the richness perfectly, and when served with cornbread, it becomes a deeply satisfying part of any Southern meal.
Okra Soup
Okra soup is a Lowcountry staple that reflects its African roots. It’s typically made with beef or seafood, fresh okra, tomatoes, onions, and rice, simmered into a thick, tangy stew. The okra thickens the soup naturally, giving it a smooth, hearty feel. Each bowl tells a story of generations who passed the recipe down without needing anything fancy to make it good.
Benne Wafers
These thin, crisp cookies might seem simple at first, but benne wafers carry a long legacy from the Gullah culture of South Carolina’s Lowcountry. Made with toasted sesame seeds—called “benne seeds” locally—these sweet, nutty treats offer a delicate crunch and a hint of caramel flavor. You’ll often find them in Charleston gift shops, but the best versions are homemade, passed down through families, and baked with love and history.
Oyster Roasts
Attending an oyster roast in South Carolina isn’t just about the food—it’s about the whole experience. Fresh oysters are steamed under wet burlap sacks over a fire, then dumped onto communal tables where friends gather to shuck, dip, and feast. It’s loud, messy, and full of laughter, with plenty of melted butter, hot sauce, and cold beer to go around. It’s a true taste of coastal life and Southern hospitality.
Tomato Pie
A slice of tomato pie in South Carolina is like summer in every bite. Ripe, juicy tomatoes are layered into a flaky crust topped with a cheesy, herb-filled mayonnaise mixture that bubbles into a golden topping as it bakes. It’s savory, rich, and surprisingly addictive. Though it might sound odd at first, once you try it—especially with fresh local tomatoes—you’ll wonder why it isn’t on every menu year-round.
Cornbread with Cracklins
Cornbread in South Carolina often comes with a surprise—cracklins or bits of crispy fried pork skin mixed right into the batter. These little pockets of salty crunch add flavor and texture that make each bite feel extra indulgent. It’s usually baked in a cast-iron skillet for a crispy edge and moist center. This dish walks the line between comfort food and bold Southern flavor with no apology.
Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler in South Carolina is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of one of the state’s juiciest crops. Sweet, tender peaches are baked under a soft, biscuit-like crust that turns golden and buttery in the oven. It’s warm, fragrant, and best served with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over the top. Whether you’re at a backyard cookout or a diner, it’s the perfect ending to any Southern meal.
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