Discover the 14 Unmissable Restaurants in Florence, SC: Your Complete Dining Guide

The delightful city of Florence, South Carolina, an often overlooked gem, is a paradise for culinary enthusiasts. It’s here that the charm of the south meets a diverse array of restaurants in Florence, each boasting their unique gastronomic tale.

Be it soul-warming Southern comfort food, delectable seafood straight from the ocean, authentic Mexican fare, or anything in between, you’re bound to find a plate that sings to your palette in Florence.

In this guide, we’ll whisk you away on a culinary tour of the 14 best restaurants in Florence, SC, a list every foodie must delve into.

A Southern Haven: Julia Belle’s Restaurant

Nestled inside the vibrant Pee Dee State Farmers Market, Julia Belle’s Restaurant is a delightful fusion of comfort and novelty. This cozy and unpretentious spot is just the place to experience Southern cuisine, but with a surprise twist.

Address: 2513 W Lucas St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-4686

Here, you can delve into the comforting flavors of Southern classics like crispy fried catfish, tender rosemary grilled chicken, or their signature shrimp and grits, a dish that would make any food lover weak in the knees. And as any Southern diner worth its salt, Julia Belle’s boasts a mouthwatering chicken pot pie that’s bound to warm your soul.

After the main course, treat yourself to their homemade desserts. With options like the sweet, luscious peach cobbler, a classic creamy banana pudding, and the irresistible red velvet cake, you’re guaranteed to conclude your meal on a high note.

For Seafood Aficionados: Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish Co.

What started as a humble pop-up market, Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish Co., has grown to become a beloved stop for seafood lovers making their way through Florence, as well as locals in search of the freshest catches.

Address: 1500 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29505
Phone: (843) 799-5579

Their reputation for quality and freshness is indisputable, making it one of the go-to downtown Florence restaurants. The menu at Tubb’s is a testament to their passion for seafood, featuring delights such as raw oysters that taste like a crisp sea breeze, tender crab cakes, sumptuous lobster rolls, delectable fish tacos, and their standout steam buckets.

Take your seafood experience up a notch with their signature sauces, including the flavorful Tubb’s sauce, the heavenly garlic butter sauce, or for those who like a kick, the fiery boom boom sauce. Whether you’re a long-time seafood enthusiast or just discovering your love for ocean fare, Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish Co. is a must-visit place to eat in Florence, SC.

A Fine Dining Experience: Victors Steaks Wine Seafood

Nestled in the heart of the historic downtown area, inside the elegant Hotel Florence, you’ll find Victors Steaks Wine Seafood, a restaurant that presents a sophisticated twist to traditional steak and seafood.

Address: 126 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 665-0846

Victors is the epitome of upscale dining in Florence, marrying a refined ambiance with a contemporary take on classic dishes.

Their menu is a celebration of high-quality ingredients, featuring options such as succulent filet mignon, melt-in-your-mouth prime rib, salmon with a delicate risotto, a fresh and vibrant tuna tartare, and an innovative pairing of scallops with deviled eggs.

What’s a fine dining experience without a perfect wine to complement your meal? At Victors, you have the option to choose from their extensive wine list to find the perfect glass or bottle that matches your chosen dishes.

As a fine dining standout among downtown Florence restaurants, Victors offers an unforgettable dining experience.

A Southern Barbecue Gem: Wholly Smokin’ BBQ and Ribs

For those seeking the quintessential barbecue experience, look no further than Wholly Smokin’ BBQ and Ribs.

Address: 150 S Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506
Phone: (843) 407-7545

This family-owned and operated gem stands out among restaurants in Florence, SC, specializing in smoked barbecue and ribs. The secret behind their irresistible dishes lies in their wood-fired smoker, which imbues their meats with a deep, smoky flavor that’s incredibly satisfying.

At Wholly Smokin’, you can feast on a variety of smoked meats, such as their tender brisket, flavorful pulled pork, juicy chicken, and, of course, their signature ribs.

Add to that their selection of traditional sides like creamy mac and cheese, hearty collard greens, savory baked beans, and warm cornbread, and you’re in for a feast that embodies the spirit of southern food in Florence.

And the experience doesn’t stop there. With a full bar and live music on weekends, Wholly Smokin’ BBQ and Ribs goes beyond being a restaurant; it’s a place where good food and good times come together.

Cajun Delight: The Lost Cajun- Florence Interstate Crossings

If you fancy a culinary adventure that takes you to Louisiana without leaving South Carolina, then The Lost Cajun is your destination.

Address: 2106 W Lucas St Unit 30, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 407-1077

Nestled among the numerous places to eat in Florence, SC, The Lost Cajun brings the vibrancy and warmth of Cajun cuisine to the south. Their menu offers an authentic taste of Louisiana with dishes like hearty gumbo, flavorful jambalaya, succulent crawfish étouffée, satisfying po-boys, and the pièce de résistance, beignets that transport you straight to a New Orleans bistro.

For those unsure of what to order, they offer a free sampler of six signature dishes. This way, you can explore their menu before you dive into your main meal.

With its friendly atmosphere, open kitchen, and rustic wooden tables, The Lost Cajun- Florence Interstate Crossings promises a dining experience that’s both comfortable and exciting.

Revolutionary Pizzas at Rebel Pie

Breaking away from the conventional is Rebel Pie, a pizza place that takes a fresh and innovative approach to the beloved Italian staple.

Address: 804 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29505
Phone: (843) 799-1165

Among the various restaurants in Florence, Rebel Pie is the rebel indeed, providing an expansive menu with an impressive variety of pizzas. From classics like cheese and pepperoni to unique specialty pies like the Rebel Yell, the Thai Fighter, and the Veggie Patch, Rebel Pie ensures there’s something for every pizza lover.

In addition to their pre-designed options, they provide a “build your own pizza” feature, allowing patrons to tailor their pizzas with an array of toppings, sauces, and cheeses. Round off your pizza party with their appetizing selection of salads, sandwiches, wings, and desserts for a truly satisfying meal.

A Unique Southern Experience: Red Bone Alley

For a dining experience that’s both delicious and visually charming, look no further than Red Bone Alley.

Address: 1903 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 673-0035

Red Bone Alley is more than just another one of the restaurants Florence SC has to offer. It transports its guests to a delightful southern town, complete with a vibrant street scene, a peaceful fountain, and a romantic gazebo. This imaginative design contributes to an ambiance that’s charming, welcoming, and unmistakably Southern.

The food here is equally captivating, with a menu that takes inspiration from the Carolinas, Louisiana, and Florida. Dive into comforting dishes like shrimp and grits, pecan chicken salad, and low country boil, or dare to try their unique gator bites.

Complemented with a full bar and live entertainment on weekends, Red Bone Alley is a must-visit when considering downtown Florence restaurants.

Embracing Local Produce: Town Hall

Lastly, but by no means least, we introduce you to Town Hall, a restaurant that celebrates local and seasonal ingredients.

Address: 101 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501
Phone: (843) 472-5203

Located in the historic Kress corner of downtown Florence, Town Hall offers a farm-driven, Southern-inspired menu, making it one of the new restaurants in Florence SC that are truly worth a visit. The restaurant showcases the best of what the season has to offer, featuring dishes like homemade sausage, seared scallops, grilled quail, and sumptuous roasted chicken.

Their family-style sides such as whipped potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and macaroni and cheese, amplify the homely feel of their meals. To round it all off, they offer an extensive list of American spirits, local beer, fine wines, and well-balanced cocktails that beautifully complement their food.

Dive into the Freshness at Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish Co.

Nestled at 1500 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29505, Tubb’s Shrimp & Fish Co. is a beacon for seafood enthusiasts. Regarded as one of the top restaurants in Florence, SC, Tubb’s can be reached at (843) 799-5579. You can also explore their scrumptious offerings on their website.

This restaurant epitomizes the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. Their menu features a variety of fresh seafood like shrimp, fish, oysters, scallops, and crab legs. Add a dollop of their specially crafted sauces and pair your seafood with their hearty sides and refreshing salads for a truly satisfying meal.

If you’re in a rush, Tubb’s convenient drive-thru service is your savior. Their exemplary catering service also ensures a memorable dining experience at your events, making it one of the most promising new restaurants in Florence, SC.

Indulge in Authentic Italian Delicacies at Stefano’s Italian of Florence

Stefano’s Italian of Florence at 2600 S Irby St, Florence, SC 29505, offers an immersive experience into the heart of authentic Italian cuisine. Run by a family passionate about their culinary tradition, Stefano’s can be contacted at (843) 664-9191 or visited online.

The cozy and welcoming ambiance of Stefano’s, characterized by its brick oven and charming fireplace, promises a truly Italian dining experience. Delight in their traditional offerings such as lasagna, chicken parmigiana, fettuccine Alfredo, and calzones.

Their pizzas, crafted with fresh dough, homemade sauce, and quality cheese, will transport you to the streets of Naples. In addition to their mouth-watering menu, Stefano’s also houses a full bar and offers a superb catering service, making it a must-visit among the downtown Florence restaurants.

Taste the Funky Flavors at Mellow Mushroom Florence

Housed at 120 Dunbarton Dr, Florence, SC 29501, the Mellow Mushroom Florence is not your average pizza place. Get ready for a fun and funky dining experience at this restaurant which can be reached at (843) 407-1442 or on their website.

The vibrant decor of Mellow Mushroom, adorned with colorful murals, psychedelic lights, and eclectic art, truly stands out among the restaurants in Florence. Their menu boasts of unique pizzas with intriguing names like the Holy Shiitake, the Funky Q Chicken, and the Kosmic Karma.

If you’re in the mood for something other than pizza, their salads, sandwiches, calzones, and munchies are worth a try. To complement your meal, Mellow Mushroom offers a select range of craft beers, cocktails, and wines, reinforcing its position among the best restaurants in Florence, SC.

Explore the Mexican Fiesta at Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant

Make your way to Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant at 842 Woody Jones Blvd, Florence, SC 29501 for an authentic taste of Mexico. Reach out to them at (843) 662-6922 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

Step into Margarita’s and find yourself in a vibrant and festive Mexican fiesta. Among the places to eat in Florence, SC, Margarita’s offers a fun and lively dining experience with sombreros, flags, and vibrant murals enhancing the ambiance.

The menu is a Mexican delight featuring enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, tacos, and nachos. Their different flavors and sizes of margaritas are the perfect addition to your meal. With a dedicated lunch menu and a kids menu, Margarita’s ensures a delightful dining experience for everyone.

Savor the Mexican Delights at El Agave Mexican Restaurant

For more Mexican flavors, head to El Agave Mexican Restaurant located at 490 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29505. Contact them at (843) 292-0055 or visit their website to explore their menu.

El Agave offers a warm and welcoming dining atmosphere with its wooden tables and booths. Here, you can enjoy a variety of Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients, including quesadillas, chimichangas, chile rellenos, and carne asada.

Try their special dishes like the molcajete or the seafood platter for a unique dining experience. With a full bar and an exceptional catering service, El Agave stands out among the restaurants in Florence, SC.

Revel in the Modern Vibe of King Jefe Taco Bar

King Jefe Taco Bar, situated at 215 N Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506, offers a modern and hip dining experience. Get in touch with them at (843) 407-4686 or explore their exciting menu on their website.

With its trendy and industrial interior featuring exposed brick walls and metal chairs, King Jefe stands out among the downtown Florence restaurants. Their menu features inventive tacos with fillings like pork belly, fried chicken, shrimp, and tofu.

Besides tacos, their salads, bowls, nachos, and quesadillas are equally appetizing. With a selection of tequila, mezcal, beer, wine, and cocktails, King Jefe is a must-visit when exploring new restaurants in Florence, SC.

Conclusion

No matter your culinary preference, you can be assured that Florence, South Carolina, has something for you. From traditional Southern BBQ to exotic Cajun dishes, from inventive pizzas to farm-to-table cuisine, these are the best restaurants in Florence SC. So, the next time you’re in town, make sure to satisfy your gastronomic cravings in one of these standout establishments. After all, life is too short for anything but good food!

To further explore the culinary scene in South Carolina, check out our guides on restaurants in Greenville and restaurants in Spartanburg SC, or venture beyond the mainland to the barrier islands and other islands of South Carolina for more food adventures. Bon appétit!