Unearth The Voyage
South Carolina’s culinary scene is dotted with tiny Italian joints that deliver big on flavor. These hidden gems, cherished by locals, offer authentic Italian experiences that are guarded with pride. Here, we explore 16 such spots, each with its unique flair and irresistible charm.
1. Rizzo’s Spaghetti House
Rizzo’s Spaghetti House is a beloved spot in the Fort Mill/Indian Land area. It’s known for its unassuming exterior and welcoming interior, featuring red booths and wooden tables. The aroma of marinara fills the air, a scent that many locals claim is “worth the drive.”
The menu sticks to classics like spaghetti with meatballs and chicken parm, crafted with care and authenticity. Locals guard this spot jealously to keep its charm intact. It’s a place where comfort meets quality, avoiding the pitfalls of chains.
Crowded parking is a testament to its reputation among those in the know.
2. Trattoria Giorgio
Nestled in Greenville, Trattoria Giorgio offers the genuine feel of an Italian trattoria. One of its owners hails from Italy, bringing authenticity to every dish. The décor is modest, yet inviting, allowing the food to take center stage.
Homemade pastas and wood-fired pizzas are paired with a robust Italian wine list. This is a place for special occasions, yet it remains cozy and refined.
Locals cherish its authenticity and the fact it hasn’t been overtaken by tourists, making it a well-kept secret.
3. Di Vino Rosso
Located in Columbia, Di Vino Rosso is frequently described as a “hidden gem.” Known for thoughtfully prepared dishes like osso buco, the restaurant provides an intimate dining experience.
The atmosphere balances warmth with sophistication, making it a favorite among locals who appreciate serious Italian cuisine. It’s not flashy but has been polished by word-of-mouth.
Visitors to the Midlands region seeking authentic Italian flavors will find this spot quietly thriving, a testament to its enduring appeal.
4. Wild Olive
Wild Olive, just outside Charleston on Johns Island, combines elegance with a relaxed vibe. Nestled under live oaks, the restaurant blends Lowcountry ingredients with Italian techniques.
Dishes like agnolotti and charred octopus delight the palate, complemented by a wine list rich with Italian selections. It’s a date-night-worthy spot, yet welcoming for small gatherings.
Far from the tourist bustle, it’s a favorite local haunt, held close by those who know its value.
5. Ombra Cucina Italiana
On Hilton Head Island, Ombra Cucina Italiana serves refined Italian fare in a cozy setting. It features innovative pasta dishes and offers gluten-free and vegetarian options.
The extensive Italian wine list complements the flavorful menu, making it a go-to for locals desiring quality without spectacle. It’s more visible than some hidden joints, yet retains its appeal.
Visitors to the Lowcountry seeking authentic Italian cuisine will find it a beloved choice among residents.
6. Leone’s Italian Ristorante
Leone’s Italian Ristorante in Conway is a small-town treasure, known for dependable, comforting flavors. It has appeared on “best Italian restaurants in SC” lists, earning a reputation for warm service.
Classic dishes like lasagna and fettuccine delight patrons seeking a taste of Italy. The restaurant’s unassuming charm keeps it under the radar.
For those in the coastal region, it’s a reliable, flavor-filled choice beyond the tourist strip.
7. Villa Romana Italian Restaurant
Villa Romana in Myrtle Beach offers Italian flavors outside the main tourist areas. Highlighted in local “10 Best” lists, it serves pizza, pasta, and traditional fare with a personal touch.
The restaurant’s charm lies in being a local alternative to beachfront chains. Its modest atmosphere appeals to regulars seeking authenticity.
Locals guard it because it remains unpretentious and great for a low-key Italian dinner, away from the spotlight.
8. Mamma Henry’s
Mamma Henry’s in West Columbia is a hidden gem, consistently serving up hearty Italian comfort food. The easygoing vibe and generous portions create a welcoming environment.
Locals nod knowingly when newcomers “discover” it, appreciating its dependable flavors. It’s a place where community and taste come together.
For those in the Midlands craving pasta, it’s a must-visit spot, cherished for its authentic charm.
9. Amici’s Italian Bistro
In North Charleston, Amici’s Italian Bistro offers a suburban Italian spot trusted by locals. While not extensively reviewed, it appears in regional round-ups for Italian dining.
The moderate scale and neighborhood feel create an inviting atmosphere. Familiar menu items are done well, making it a local favorite.
Friends spread the word, yet it remains a comfortable, rather than flashy, choice for Italian dining.
10. Dempsey’s Pizza
Dempsey’s Pizza in Clinton is an unassuming eatery locals swear by, offering Italian-style dishes. Part of South Carolina’s hidden gems, it’s ideal for road-trippers and upstate explorers.
Its charm lies in its small-town feel and reliable flavors, attracting those who appreciate quality over flashiness.
For anyone wanting Italian taste without big-city crowds, Dempsey’s is a standout option among local favorites.
11. Rosie’s Pizzeria
On Pawleys Island, Rosie’s Pizzeria may present as a pizza joint, but its Italian roots run deep. Small and quiet, it’s cherished by those in the know.
Vacationers looking to escape big resort dining find it a refreshing choice. Its family-run atmosphere and delicious offerings make it a local treasure.
For coastal visitors, Rosie’s offers a slice of authenticity and tradition, away from the usual bustle.
12. Knead Pizza
In Lexington, Knead Pizza is a modest spot where the food punches above its size. While pizza-centric, it fits the Italian joint profile with its relaxed setting.
The neighborhood-driven atmosphere and big flavors make it a go-to for residents. It’s a familiar place with comforting, reliable tastes.
Locals appreciate its simplicity and quality, ensuring it remains a cherished secret among the community.
13. Camden House of Pizza
Camden House of Pizza carries Italian-American traditions in a small-town setting. Part of the landscape of beloved spots, it’s a quiet favorite.
It offers a flavor of real-town Italian, drawing those who prefer charm over flash. Its unpretentious nature makes it a cherished local haunt.
For those exploring beyond major metro areas, it provides a taste of authentic, small-town Italy.
14. Hot Tomato
Back in Myrtle Beach, Hot Tomato offers Italian-style dishes celebrated among locals. Its inclusion in recommended local spots highlights its appeal.
Ideal for beach-goers wanting to dine away from the main tourist rush, it offers robust flavors in a relaxed setting.
With its modest size and big taste, Hot Tomato remains a well-kept secret among seasoned visitors and locals alike.
15. Luigi’s Trattoria
Also in Myrtle Beach, Luigi’s Trattoria is treasured for its neighborhood feel and comforting dishes. It embodies the “tiny joint, big flavor” ethos.
With consistent food that satisfies rather than trends, it’s perfect for those seeking authentic Italian. Locals love its welcoming atmosphere.
Its coastal location shows that great Italian eats aren’t confined to inland metro zones, offering a delightful dining experience.
16. Pomodori Italian Eatery
Pomodori Italian Eatery on Hilton Head deserves mention for its fusion of Southern Italian tradition with local ingredients. Carolina shrimp bucatini and fried green tomatoes delight patrons.
Locals speak of it as a high-flavor option, yet it remains unpretentious. Its welcoming atmosphere adds to its charm.
For those in the Lowcountry, it’s a delightful spot, offering Italian flair in a comfortable setting that’s easily cherished.
