Summerville, SC, is a small town established in the late 1700s in the greater Charlotte area that exudes Southern charm and is known affectionately by two nicknames. The first is "Flower Town in the Pines" for its pine trees and beautiful blooming gardens found everywhere you turn. The second is the "Birthplace of Sweet Tea" for its delicious homegrown Southern sweet tea, which originated in the late 1800s. Sweet tea isn't the only delectable treat Summerville offers; there is also plenty of world-class cuisine everywhere you turn.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly establishments, a place to stop for a light lunch, fine-dining experiences, or an excellent choice for date night, we've got options for you. Here are our top eight restaurants in Summerville, SC.
Oscar's
207 W 5th N St, Summerville, SC 29483
Photo courtesy of Oscar’s
First up on our list is Oscar's, a fine-dining establishment that's been around for over three decades. Despite its upscale interior with white linen tablecloths and an impressive wine cellar, the interior atmosphere is decidedly casual, making it the perfect choice for every occasion. Their daily menu features a mixture of local favorites, like their shrimp and grits - voted number one in Summerville - and an assortment of American classics. Indulge your taste buds in their daily offerings, like fried green tomatoes, smoked gouda grit cakes, and Charleston crab dip. If you're looking for a real treat, try one of their delectable desserts like bananas Oscar, pecan tuille, or peanut butter pie.
Montreux Bar and Grill
127 W Richardson Ave, Summerville, SC 29483
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Next on the list is an all-American bar at the top of the best-of lists. Montreux Bar and Grill has a laid-back atmosphere and features classic pub fare. Head over on a Tuesday for tacos and trivia, or try the Bloody Mary bar on the weekends during brunch. In addition to the traditional bar menu, they feature an extensive beer selection, live music, and a rock n' roll spirit. This bar is the downtown spot to try when looking for something upbeat and lively.
Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar
114 Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483
If you're looking for a family-friendly joint with a laidback atmosphere and excellent seafood, look no further than Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar. This location features some of the freshest oysters inland, offering options like an on-the-half shell, steamed or grilled. Try their Low Country boil, shark bite shrimp, signature cold crab dip, or sandwich options. Regardless of what you choose, this is an excellent option for the family.
Low Country Fish Camp
903 Central Ave, Summerville, SC 29483
Another excellent option for some of the freshest seafood in town is a resident favorite, Low Country Fish Camp. This cozy restaurant features a rustic atmosphere and seafood so fresh you'll feel like you're sitting dockside. Their menu features a selection of seafood platters with options ranging from catfish to flounder, fried duck legs, po'boys, and much more. They offer daily food and drink specials, plus endless mimosas on the weekends. With such delicious food, an eclectic and friendly atmosphere, and plenty of specialty cocktails, it's no wonder this location was voted the best seafood and place to dine in Summerville.
The Icehouse Restaurant
104 E Doty Ave, Summerville, SC 29483
Photo courtesy of The Icehouse Restaurant
Next up on the list is a location that many consider Summerville's best option for just about everything, and as the only tavern in town, it's easy to see why. This eclectic, farm-to-table restaurant features a casual yet upscale atmosphere. It has an ever-changing selection of menu specials, bold flavors, and an extensive array of specialty drinks.
Start with their fried shrimp or homemade pimento cheese before indulging yourself in their daily specials like the grilled peach and blackberry salad, shrimp pasta, or fried flounder. In addition to their daily specials, they feature a full menu of classic options like buttermilk fried chicken, shrimp and grits, ribeye steak, and country-fried steak. You'll also find a delicious assortment of desserts like a warm bourbon pecan pie, beignets, and buttermilk creme brulee. Whatever you're looking for, The Icehouse is sure to have it.
Five Loaves Cafe
214 N Cedar St, Summerville, SC 29483
Photo courtesy of Five Loaves Cafe
This restaurant choice is excellent for those looking for something that's not traditionally Southern or seafood and focuses on healthier options. The Mediterranean-inspired menu includes Brussels and bleu cheese, spinach salad, Thai coconut hot pot, seared citrus tofu, and the portobello goat cheese burger. They also have daily specials and a juice bar to enjoy.
Their goal is to create a healthier and more sustainable restaurant for customers to enjoy. Featuring fresh, local produce, pasture-raised beef, antibiotic-free chicken and turkey, and an assortment of local pasta, nuts, bread, and more, this restaurant aspires to give back to the local community in every way it can. Five Loaves Cafe will quickly become your go-to spot if you're looking for a healthier option that benefits and gives back to the local community.
Halls Chophouse - Nexton
300 Nexton Square Dr, Summerville, SC 29486
Photo courtesy of Halls Chophouse - Nexton
This upscale fine dining establishment is an excellent option when you're looking for the perfect place for date night. Halls Chophouse is a first-class experience in downtown Summerville with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, top-shelf bar selections, and incredible food.
Their USDA prime steaks are hand-cut and aged with meticulous precision to ensure the best quality. In addition to an assortment of quality steak and chops, they offer an extensive menu of classic steakhouse options. These include quail, braised duck, crab cakes, salmon, and a selection of sides and accompaniments that make an already delectable menu even more so.
After dinner, try one of their many delectable desserts or choose from one of their specialty cocktails to round out this sure-to-please experience.
Accent on Wine
132 S Main St, Summerville, SC 29483
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
Last but certainly not least is another great date night option, Accent on Wine. The bistro-like setting features a romantic atmosphere offering specially curated charcuterie boards in savory and sweet varieties, plus an extensive wine selection. Stop in on Thursdays to try new varieties of wine or any other day for a selection of European-based cheeses, specialty desserts like Baklava, and their impressive craft beer selection. Whether you're stopping by for date night or enjoying an after-work drink with coworkers, this quaint location is an excellent choice.
Now that you've seen our coveted list of Summerville restaurants, hopefully, you'll find your next favorite spot. Contact skilled Real Estate Agent Shawn Kemp of Coast & Main if you're interested in learning more about Summerville and living here. Shawn has expert insight into the Summerville real estate scene and would love to guide you to your new dream home. Reach out to him today!