Travelers Rest, South Carolina, is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot, drawing food lovers with its diverse and thriving dining scene. From cozy coffee shops to innovative eateries, this charming town offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring the Swamp Rabbit Trail, you’ll find an array of award-winning chefs and delightful destinations ready to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into some of the must-visit restaurants in Travelers Rest, SC, including a closer look at local favorite, Shortfields Travelers Rest.
American Classics and Local Favorites in Travelers Rest
For a taste of classic American fare and a welcoming atmosphere, Travelers Rest boasts several standout options. Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant is a local institution, known for its laid-back vibe and hearty meals. Step inside, and you’re instantly part of the family, ready to enjoy a cold beer and comforting dishes.
Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant in Travelers Rest SC, a local hangout for beer and meals.
Another timeless choice is The Whistle Stop Café, the oldest café in the Upstate. This beloved spot has been family-owned for over 70 years and was beautifully restored in 2013, retaining its historic charm while offering a fresh dining experience. Recognized as a top themed restaurant and a must-visit in South Carolina, The Whistle Stop Café is a testament to Travelers Rest’s enduring appeal.
The Whistle Stop Cafe, the oldest cafe in Upstate SC, offering themed dining and historic charm.
Upcountry Provisions Bakery & Bistro offers the perfect lunch experience with artisan sandwiches crafted from hormone-free meats and cheeses on freshly baked bread. Beyond lunch, they are also celebrated for breakfast and dinner, offering everything from scones to salads and catering services. A true community staple since 2011, Upcountry Provisions is a reliable choice for quality and comfort.
Upcountry Provisions Bakery & Bistro in Travelers Rest SC, known for artisan sandwiches and fresh baked goods.
And then there’s Shortfields Travelers Rest. Starting as a catering company in 2010, Shortfields quickly gained a loyal following for their delicious food. In 2013, owners John & Marvin Short and Cory Satterfield opened their restaurant at 24 South Main Street, bringing their popular catering menu to a restaurant setting. Shortfields Travelers Rest SC has become synonymous with quality and local flavor, making it a key highlight in Travelers Rest’s dining landscape.
Shortfields Travelers Rest SC restaurant exterior, showcasing their location on Main Street.
Pizza and Italian Delights
For those craving Italian flavors, Travelers Rest provides excellent options. Coastal Crust is renowned for its wood-fired pizzas and also features a variety of Italian-inspired dishes, from antipasto to house-made meatballs and locally sourced pastas. Their desserts perfectly round out a delightful Italian meal.
Coastal Crust restaurant in Travelers Rest SC, famous for wood-fired pizza and Italian cuisine.
Sidewall Pizza Company, located in a renovated tire shop in downtown Travelers Rest, offers handcrafted pizzas, along with fresh salads, craft beers, wines, sodas, and homemade ice cream. It’s a popular spot for enjoying delicious pizza in a unique and inviting setting.
Sidewall Pizza Company in downtown Travelers Rest SC, serving handcrafted pizzas and craft beers.
Craft Beverages and Relaxed Vibes
Travelers Rest is also a haven for craft beverage enthusiasts. Community Tap offers a wide selection of craft beers and select wines in a bottle shop and taproom setting, perfect for discovering new favorites.
Community Tap taproom in Travelers Rest SC, offering a selection of craft beers and wines.
Swamp Rabbit Brewery, Travelers Rest’s first and only craft brewery, opened in 2014 and quickly became known for its award-winning beers. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local craft brewing at its finest.
Swamp Rabbit Brewery in Travelers Rest SC, the town's first craft brewery with award-winning beers.
The Tasting Room is a community gathering spot that combines a boutique bottle shop with a welcoming atmosphere. With a Certified Sommelier and Cicerone, they offer curated retail wines and beers, plus over 30 wines by the glass and a large selection of world beers. It’s an ideal place for relaxed conversations and exploring fine beverages. Bespoke Wine Shop of Travelers Rest also offers a large selection of wines and craft beer, along with charcuterie, appetizers, and desserts, making it another great spot for wine lovers.
The Tasting Room in Travelers Rest SC, a boutique bottle shop with a welcoming atmosphere for wine and beer lovers.
International Cuisine and Unique Eats
For those seeking global flavors, Farmhouse Tacos provides hand-crafted, locally sourced tacos with a “Mom & Pop” feel. Their farm-to-table approach and freshly squeezed margaritas, combined with a pet-friendly patio, make for a unique and enjoyable dining experience.
Farmhouse Tacos in Travelers Rest SC, serving hand-crafted tacos and fresh margaritas in a pet-friendly setting.
Sushi Yama is the go-to destination for high-quality sushi and Japanese specialties, featuring daily and seasonal selections. TR’s Oriental provides traditional Chinese cuisine in downtown Travelers Rest, offering familiar favorites in a family-friendly environment. For Vietnamese cuisine, Tru Broth specializes in Pho noodle soup, bone broth, and vegetarian options, using locally sourced ingredients with a focus on grass-fed and pasture-raised products.
Sushi Yama restaurant in Travelers Rest SC, known for high quality sushi and Japanese cuisine.
Coffee, Sweets, and Treats
Travelers Rest also caters to those with a sweet tooth and coffee aficionados. Leopard Forest Coffee Company has been a Travelers Rest mainstay since 2004, offering freshly roasted specialty coffee in a cozy café setting. Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse shares a passion for delicious food, beverages, and community, serving delightful crepes and coffee. Treehouse Cafe and Studio, an art café and community hub, serves Leopard Forest Coffee, sandwiches, snacks, and soups, with vegan and vegetarian options available.
Leopard Forest Coffee Company in Travelers Rest SC, a local coffee roastery and cafe since 2004.
Pink Mama’s Ice Cream is a locally owned ice cream parlor famous for homemade pink waffle cones and unique ice cream flavors. Located on Main Street with Swamp Rabbit Trail access, it’s a perfect spot for classic ice cream treats. For a refreshing treat, Sunset Slush of Travelers Rest & Treats offers Italian ice, all-natural smoothies, and freshly squeezed juices.
Pink Mama's Ice Cream parlor in Travelers Rest SC, famous for homemade pink waffle cones and unique ice cream flavors.
Farm-to-Table and Fine Dining Experiences
Topsoil Kitchen and Market stands out with its farm-to-table approach, led by Chef Adam Cooke, a James Beard semifinalist. Menus are inspired by local farms, emphasizing a direct connection to the food source. Topsoil offers an elevated dining experience that celebrates local ingredients and culinary artistry.
Topsoil Kitchen and Market in Travelers Rest SC, a farm-to-table restaurant led by a James Beard semifinalist chef.
Travelers Rest, SC, is truly a destination where you can savor local flavors and explore a diverse range of dining experiences. From the comforting American classics at Shortfields Travelers Rest to the international cuisines and sweet treats, there’s something to please every palate in this charming town. Explore these restaurants and discover your own favorites in Travelers Rest!
