Unearth The Voyage
South Carolina is rich in Gullah Geechee traditions, family recipes, and the comforting flavors of Sunday dinner. Some of the best soul food isn’t found in big restaurants – it’s tucked inside small, unassuming kitchens where the portions are generous, the seasoning is bold, and the flavors taste like home. Here are some of the tiny spots across the Palmetto State serving up the biggest plates of Southern comfort.
1. Martha Lou’s Kitchen – Charleston
For decades, Martha Lou Gadsden’s charming, pink-painted kitchen was the heart of Charleston’s soulful culinary scene. It wasn’t just the vibrant color that drew people in, but the aroma of fried chicken, lima beans, and okra soup that filled the air. Martha Lou, with her warm smile, served plates that tasted like a hug from a beloved grandmother. Despite her passing in 2021, her legacy endures through the cherished recipes her family continues to serve. This kitchen is a testament to the spirit of Charleston cooking, capturing both the history and heart of Southern soul food in every bite. Step inside, and you’ll find flavors that speak volumes.
2. Bertha’s Kitchen – Charleston
Tucked away in Charleston’s Chicora-Cherokee neighborhood, Bertha’s Kitchen has a reputation that stretches far beyond its walls. Known for its cafeteria-style setting, this James Beard Award-winning spot serves up soulful dishes that have patrons coming back time and again. From the perfectly fried whiting to the robust red rice, each dish tells a story of Lowcountry heritage. Bertha’s is a place where community and comfort converge, where every plate is a testament to the hands that prepare it. The lines that form daily are a testament to its iconic status in the soul food world.
3. Big Mike’s Soul Food – Myrtle Beach
At Big Mike’s Soul Food, Sunday-style dinners are more than a meal – they’re an event. Though the space might be small, the flavors are anything but. Regulars rave about the generous portions of fried chicken, pork chops, and turkey wings, all paired with classic sides like mac and cheese, collards, and candied yams. Each dish feels like a nostalgic trip to grandma’s kitchen. The atmosphere is inviting, filled with laughter and the comforting scent of home-cooked meals. It’s this blend of familiarity and flavor that keeps both locals and tourists returning for a taste of Southern hospitality.
4. Lizard’s Thicket – Columbia
Since 1977, Lizard’s Thicket has grown from a small kitchen to a beloved family-owned chain, while never losing its country-style roots. Smothered pork chops, fried chicken livers, and a variety of all-day vegetables like squash casserole and black-eyed peas make every visit memorable. The charm of Lizard’s lies in its ability to make guests feel like they’re part of something greater – a Southern tradition. Each bite is infused with flavors that have been perfected over generations, making it a regular stop for those seeking comfort food that feels like a warm embrace.
5. Hannibal’s Kitchen – Charleston
Hannibal’s Kitchen has been a staple in Charleston since 1985, known for its unique blend of soul food and seafood. This no-frills spot is where locals gather for plates of iconic crab rice, smothered pork chops, and turkey wings. Each dish is prepared with love and an unwavering commitment to tradition. Family photos line the walls, telling stories of the generations that have cooked and dined here. It’s more than just a meal – it’s an experience that captures the essence of community and the rich tapestry of Charleston’s culinary landscape.
6. Gullah Grub – St. Helena Island
Gullah Grub Café is small but mighty, preserving the rich culinary heritage of St. Helena Island. Chef Bill Green crafts traditional Gullah dishes like shrimp and grits, gumbo, and okra soup, each packed with history and flavor. The cozy atmosphere invites guests to slow down and savor every bite. It’s a place where culture and cuisine intersect, offering a taste of the Lowcountry’s past and present. The vibrant flavors and commitment to tradition make every meal here a celebration of Gullah culture and Southern hospitality.
7. Dukes Bar-B-Que – Orangeburg
While Dukes Bar-B-Que is famed for its mustard-based barbecue, it’s the soulful sides that complete the dining experience. Hash and rice, butter beans, fried okra, and macaroni pie are just a few of the offerings that make it feel like a Southern Sunday gathering. The buffet-style setup allows diners to sample a variety of flavors, each bite offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary traditions. Dukes is more than just a barbecue joint; it’s a landmark of Southern cooking where community and flavor come together.
