The Anderson, Oconee, Pickens areas each have thriving restaurant scenes. Residents dine at fine places such as Restaurant 4126 in Anderson or Rick Erwins in Clemson's Patrick Square. Neighbors gather at popular spots like The Smokin’ Pig off of Clemson Boulevard. There are plenty of happy-hour deals and lots of good choices for kid-friendly dining. Here are some of the local picks for favorite restaurants and dining experiences.

Earle Street Kitchen and Bar

This place is a gem, offering Southern comfort food with a twist. Many dishes have locally sourced ingredients. Here you can taste trendy and delicious cuisine without breaking the bank. Pick anything from their menu, and you will not be disappointed. They also offer a very popular Sunday brunch with outdoor seating.

134 W. Earle St., Anderson, SC; 864-965-9052

Summa Joe's

Summa Joe's is a charming, retro restaurant with very good food with fresh ingredients, great variety, and friendly and efficient service. Whenever you have that feeling like: "I'll know what I want when I see it" – go here. Just be patient; this place can get busy.

127 N. Main St., Anderson, SC; 864-965-9030

Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill

Sullivan’s Metropolitan Grill is a favorite local restaurant we support. It’s a wonderful sit-down restaurant for the whole family. Originally opened as a hardware store during the late 1800s, our unique building has morphed into the fine dining destination for lunch, dinner, business meetings, catering affairs and weddings in Anderson.

208 S. Main St., Anderson, SC; 864-226-8945

Raines On Main

Great atmosphere. Great food. Great prices. The owner and his wife are super nice, and always take the time to speak to every guest. Best pool tables in the area, and drink prices are cheaper than almost every place downtown.

312 S. Main St., Anderson, SC; 864-622-8339

The Smokin’ Pig

Three words — get the brisket! The Smokin' Pig may look like a country shack, but serves some of the best barbecue in South Carolina.

6630 Clemson Blvd., Pendleton, SC; 864-646-5150

720 Anderson Dr., Williamston, SC; 864-841-2323

701 S. Pendleton St., Easley, SC; 864-442-5074

The Boondocks

The menu is Southern, i.e. plenty of options to have a burger, chicken fingers and salads. They feature the bird-dog, a tasty, uniquely Southern treat. The food is great, and the hushpuppies are out of this world. They use only quality ingredients to bring their customers the best food possible.

3819 N. Hwy. 81, Anderson, SC; 864-540-8181

J. Peters Grill & Bar

Really great service in a restaurant with a superior atmosphere. For the quality of the restaurant, the prices are reasonable, and the early-bird specials are practically a steal. The menu at J. Peters includes true recipes such as she-crab soup and slow-roasted prime rib but also includes some amazing new flavors as well.

202 S. Main St., Anderson, SC; 864-224-0040

115 Interstate Blvd., Anderson, SC; 864-222-0090

Restaurant 4126

4126 brings a special and unique fine dining restaurant to Anderson, SC. The aesthetically pleasing environment and the food is presented in a thoughtful way that is simple yet elegant.

It’s an experience that should be shared with family and friends. Order signature dishes inspired by local favorites with a southern fine dining twist.

4126 Clemson Blvd., Anderson, SC; 864-844-9820

Elkmont Tap and Cellar

Quaint pub with excellent service and food. There are about 15 craft brews to choose from and several excellent wine choices. The Elkmont Club is a popular item; we recommend it with a side of delicious potato salad.

100 Liberty Dr., Unit #3, Clemson, SC; 864-653-7002

Rick Erwin’s Clemson

It is an A+ experience from start to finish. Rick Erwin's Clemson offers a dining experience like no other in the area. The restaurant’s atmosphere and interiors are lovely, the food is delicious, and the craft drinks are on the mark. It is obvious that the staff are all well-trained and that they enjoy their jobs. You will thoroughly enjoy the entire dining experience.

127 Market St., Clemson, SC; 864-654-9466

313 Café

This cafe is beautifully decorated in a rustic/industrial style. The staff is friendly, and the restaurant is clean and quiet. The coffee, waffles, and omelet are delicious. Lots of room to breathe in the simple, well-decorated combo of a classic coffee bar with farmhouse-restaurant style. The menu isn't huge, but everything on it is excellent.

807 By-Pass 123 #16, Seneca, SC; 864-539-2131

Joe’s New York Pizza

This is the home to superb pizza, pasta, and other eats. This pizza is the specialty here, and there are various specials throughout the week. The service is always great. Enjoy some of the best pizza in the South, where your taste buds are sure to dance a jig; even the pickiest of eaters will be satisfied — it will fill up the soul.

104 Thomas Green Blvd., Clemson, SC; 864-722-5464

685 By-Pass 123 # D, Seneca, SC; 864-888-0009

Pot Belly Deli

An absolute staple in the Clemson and surrounding areas. PBD serves up an amazing breakfast, lunch and dinner for anyone looking for a fresh and quality meal. If you're looking for an authentic Clemson experience, this is a spot worth checking out.

109 Wall St., Clemson, SC; 864-653-3663

The Lighthouse Restaurant

Fantastic food, creative menu, friendly and efficient staff, all wrapped up in a fun lake-themed environment. The Lighthouse offers a lovely dining experience on beautiful Lake Keowee. The menu has lots of options for anyone, and the prices are fair for the style of food. They even have a cabana down by the lake that serves its own food and drinks.

1290 State Rd. S-37-15, Seneca, SC; (864) 888-4446

Solé Grill and Sushi Bar

Locals say it’s the best sushi in Seneca. Get reservations Friday and Saturday if you don't want a 30-plus-minute wait. The restaurant is clean with a nice yet casual atmosphere and friendly staff. On Wednesdays, they even offer BOGO on a large selection of rolls.

700 By-Pass 123, Seneca, SC; 864-882-9463

Sole On The Green

A full-service restaurant and bar. They open for lunch and dinner. Located inside the Clemson University Conference Center and Inn. The dining room and outdoor patio look over the beautiful Walker Golf Course and Lake Hartwell. The fountain, lake and all the greenery at the course is soul-soothing therapy.

230 Madren Center Rd., Clemson, SC; (864) 656-7444

Blue Marble Deli & City Market

By far one of the best places to eat in Seneca. They offer fresh-baked bread, sandwiches, soups and salads, a butcher shop, fresh pasta, imported cheeses, and fresh seafood.

286 Market St., Seneca, SC; 864-280-6717

Blue Heron Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Blue Heron offers the finest steaks and fresh seafood. The restaurant is dedicated to providing its customers with delicious and innovative food with select dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Choose between dining upstairs in a more formal setting or downstairs at the bar or outside on the patio.

405 College Ave., #130, Clemson, SC; 864-653-3354

PRESST food and wine

The best at putting together tasty and fresh combinations for wraps and salads – or satiate your lunch cravings with a delicious pressed sandwich on freshly baked bread. All the employees are attentive and eager to please. Give it a try — you will not be disappointed.

12019 N. Radio Station Rd., Seneca, SC; 864-973-8978

Calhoun Corners Restaurant

Located in a historic building, Calhoun Corners is an upscale restaurant with delicious food and a full bar – the perfect place for your special events. In an area of limited restaurant options, this is a quaint upscale establishment with excellent steak and seafood.

103 Clemson St., Clemson, SC; 864-654-7490

Groucho’s Deli

Groucho’s is a chain restaurant that is known for its classic deli sandwiches and signature sides. You definitely cannot go wrong with an Apollo and the Formula "45" sauce. Great place to eat, especially during Clemson game days.

104 Fendley St., Clemson, SC; 864-653-7764 

SunnySide Café

SunnySide Cafe brings a new flare to Southern comfort food. Specializing in locally sourced ingredients, SunnySide Cafe offers fresh, feel-good food in a comfortable atmosphere. Local, fresh and delicious! No need to add salt or butter to the grits – and the eggs taste like they were just gathered that morning.

101 Market St., Clemson, SC; 864-653-9532

Tipsy Taco

A locally owned and operated Seneca restaurant. Enjoy a fun, laid-back environment specializing in made-from-scratch Tex Mex favorites like street tacos, tamales, fajitas, and much more. The bright painted walls create a warm, inviting energy with a creative Mexican twist. Definitely a five-star destination when you’re craving nachos. With an extra order of chips, you have plenty for two, because they are generous with the toppings.

13430 Clemson Blvd., Seneca, SC; 864-654-0188

BREWS on the Alley

Great brewhouse – combines beer brews and coffee brews, and has a great selection of both. They also have a set of shelves dedicated to beers you can take home. You can bring in food to eat while you are enjoying drinks. Popular local hangout; come to relax after a long day at work.

109 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC; 864-973-8923

Palmettos Smokehouse and Oyster Bar

A coupon brought may bring you in the door. The great food and excellent service will keep you coming back. This full-service bar and cozy dining room sells fresh oysters from the Gulf, Atlantic, and North Atlantic that are shucked right in front of you.

199 Old Greenville Hwy., Clemson, SC; 864-810-7339

Copper River Grill

Copper River Grill serves traditional American cuisine made from only super-high-quality ingredients and offered at moderate prices. The atmosphere is casual and comfortable, and features wide-open show kitchens, stone fires, comfortable booths and other inviting elements reminiscent of an Alaskan mountain lodge. Great place for casual dining.  

514 US-123, Seneca, SC; 864-888-8788

The Pizza House Greek and Italian Restaurant

The food is amazing, and the method they use to build pizzas is above and beyond most places (toppings in between the layers of cheese? Smart!). Just be careful when you ask for extra cheese; the amount of cheese is unquestionably "extra."

50 Halter Dr., Piedmont, SC; 864-605-0065

Greentop’s Kitchen

Unpretentious from the outside, but every little detail has been thought out inside. The quality of the food and presentation is impeccable. Simple, homey food made special. Excellent options for gluten-free diners. The staff is well-informed and friendly; the atmosphere is relaxed.

2907 N. Pleasantburg Dr., Greenville, SC; 864-349-1214

Serendipity Café

Cheerful venue with exposed-brick walls serving American cafe eats, including soups and sandwiches. Even when it's busy, you can often find a table that offers a little privacy for thoughtful conversation. Need to take your buddies out for lunch? Excellent custom catering services for every occasion; treat your guests to delectable dishes like the pot roast or their exclusive range of homemade soups.

104 E. W. Main St., Easley, SC; 864-855-8921

Clemson Wine Bar

Clemson Wine Bar is a social eatery with happy-hour food and happy-hour specials. Learn about wine in a comfortable, fun environment. Experience new wines by exploring flights from their large selection of wines from around the world. Pair your wines with some tasty food selections like the charcuterie boards.

149 Thomas Green Blvd., Clemson, SC; 864-904-9845

The Appellation Wine Bar

It’s a neighborhood wine bar and wine shop with a variety of seating areas, where people can gather with friends and enjoy a glass of wine, or craft beer, and a small bite to eat.

1510 Blue Ridge Blvd., Suite 106, Seneca, SC; 864-873-9463

Skins Hot Dogs

Nobody has cooked a hot dog quite like Skin Thrashers. With their special blend of pork and beef hotdogs and their family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder they have been featured in magazines and polls around the country.

3420 Clemson Blvd., Anderson, SC; 864-226-4588

The Scoops Ice Cream Shop

Home of the Six Mile High Sundae. The Scoop Ice Cream Shop serves an eclectic mix of homemade goodness in a family-friendly atmosphere. Besides ice cream, shakes, sundaes and floats, they make great New York-style pizza to order too.

108 N. Main St., Six Mile, SC; 864-481-5137

N the Midst Ice Cream
Watch them make the ice cream right in front of your eyes. They use liquid nitrogen to freeze the cream. It makes it an experience with the little ones. They also serve with almond and cashew milk, allowing everyone to enjoy this treat.

1109-A Jennings Ave., Seneca, SC; 864-973-8777

Mellow Mushroom

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones and creative stone-baked pizzas. It's somewhat New York style, but Mellow Mushroom started out in the South's own Atlanta, GA.

1007 Tiger Blvd., Clemson, SC; 864-718-5062

Pixie & Bill's

This signature fine-dining establishment has been operating in Clemson since 1971 and is often considered a landmark restaurant for the area. The steaks and chops are outstanding; the delicious sides and appetizers pair perfectly, and the service is excellent.

1058 Tiger Blvd., Clemson, SC; 864-654-1210

Tokyo Japanese Restaurant

Tokyo's is a very good, high-quality Japanese restaurant. The staff is quick to get the food out to you and the taste is great. There's a big selection of sushi, and it is made fresh from their sushi area.

906 Tiger Blvd., Clemson, SC; 864-654-0037

The Village Bakery & Cafe

The Village Bakery & Cafe has been providing excellent sweets and food for over 20 years. An open dining room atmosphere invites you and your family to come to enjoy a delicious meal and some sweet pastries.

108 E. Main St., Pendleton, SC; 864-646-5800

1826 Bistro

Part of historic Farmers' Hall, this inviting bistro serves American fare such as steaks and seafood. The food is great, and they change the menu regularly. Great waitstaff, excellent menu, and good wine. Make your reservation for a truly enjoyable evening.

105 Exchange St., Pendleton, SC; 864-646-5500

Mac’s Drive-In

Customers enjoy looking at the Clemson memorabilia that decorates the walls of the diner; a must stop for all Clemson Tiger fans. Great nostalgia and drive-in food! This is a cash or check *only* restaurant.

404 Pendleton Rd., Clemson, SC; 864-654-2845

The Pompous Pig

Fine meats smoked to loving perfection; sides prepared like Momma used to make; sauces are the real deal, especially the mustard sauce; Southern sweet tea like it’s supposed to be made; and outstanding service by staff.

3320 N. Main St., Anderson, SC; 864-231-7447

Clemson Confectioneries  

A unique gourmet cupcake and dessert bakery featuring endless one-of-a-kind flavors, beautiful creations, and the tastiest treats. They have a huge variety of cupcakes, cookies, macaroons, and even cupcakes for your pets.

405 College Ave., Clemson, SC; 864-722-5164

Walnut Street Bakery

They offer a wide variety of baked goods, and their new location is beautiful. Pick up cakes, cupcakes, cookies and other baked goods to take home or place an order for custom design cakes and special treats.

106 Ram Cat Alley, Seneca, SC; 864-882-5364

NYC Bagel and Sandwich Shop

NYC Bagel and Sandwich Shop is pleased to bring the authentic flavors of New York to Clemson, South Carolina. Not to mention a true, New York bagel which is hard to find the further you go down the East Coast.

125 Anderson Hwy., Clemson, SC; 864-986-3040

All In Coffee Shop

Espresso drinks, baked goods and light fare offered in a warm space with global flair and a roomy patio. There are multiple sections where you can enjoy the coffee/breakfast/lunch, either by yourself or with your friend(s). One of the better meeting places to work or study, and enjoy whatever you just ordered.

106 Earle St., Clemson, SC; 864-372-4510

Your Pie Pizza

Diners choose their dough, sauce, cheese and toppings for their pizza and then pair with gelato and microbrews.

111 Earle St., Clemson, SC; 864-643-4180

Good Karma Ice Cream and Candy Shoppe

A cute ice cream shop with good prices, great ice cream, and a cool atmosphere. The shop is in the same building as the karma shop. The employees are happy and willing to help you select from hot sauces, candies, drinks and so much more. Truly a great attraction for any age.

203 W. Main St., Easley, SC; 864-360-9658

Sardi’s Den

Sardi’s is a hole-in-the-wall Clemson tradition known for their Southern-style cuisine. A few customer favorites are BBQ ribs, peel-n-eat shrimp, and wings.

520 Old Greenville Hwy., Clemson, SC; 864-654-7427

Spill The Beans

A local favorite for ice cream in Clemson. The ice cream is always extremely fresh and tastes natural. Their coffee is good, but most go for the ice cream.

102 N. Clemson Ave., Clemson, SC; 864-654-1515