Travelers Rest, South Carolina, is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot, boasting a diverse range of dining experiences from cozy coffee shops to sophisticated restaurants. Whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring the Swamp Rabbit Trail, Travelers Rest offers a flavor for every palate. This guide highlights some of the best places to eat in town, focusing on local favorites and must-try destinations, including the renowned Shortfields Restaurant Travelers Rest.
Explore the Diverse Culinary Scene of Travelers Rest
Travelers Rest is not just a scenic stop; it’s a destination for food lovers. From award-winning chefs to casual eateries, the town provides an array of options to satisfy any craving. Here’s a curated list of restaurants that make Travelers Rest a delicious place to be:
Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant
Step into Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant, a true local hangout in Travelers Rest. This welcoming spot invites you to feel like family from the moment you walk in. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere where you can unwind with a cold beer and savor a hearty meal. It’s the perfect place to experience the friendly, community-focused spirit of Travelers Rest. Image alt text: Guests enjoying meals and drinks at Chicora Alley Firehouse Restaurant, Travelers Rest, a local favorite.
Coastal Crust
Coastal Crust brings the taste of Italy to Travelers Rest with its acclaimed wood-fired pizzas. Beyond pizza, their menu features a delightful selection of Italian-inspired dishes. Indulge in antipasto, house-made meatballs, locally sourced pastas, and decadent desserts. Coastal Crust offers a comprehensive Italian dining experience in the heart of South Carolina. Image alt text: Neapolitan style wood-fired pizza at Coastal Crust restaurant in Travelers Rest, SC.
Community Tap
For craft beer and wine enthusiasts, Community Tap is a must-visit in Travelers Rest. This bottle shop and taproom boasts a rotating selection of craft beers and curated wines. It’s an ideal spot to sample local and regional brews or find the perfect bottle to take home. The relaxed environment makes it great for casual meetups and unwinding after a day of exploring. Image alt text: Variety of craft beers on tap at Community Tap, a popular beer and wine spot in Travelers Rest.
Farmhouse Tacos
Experience the fresh flavors of Farmhouse Tacos, where hand-crafted tacos are made with love and locally sourced ingredients. This family-owned restaurant offers a farm-to-table approach with a fun, funky twist. Enjoy freshly squeezed margaritas and a pet-friendly patio, making it a perfect casual dining destination in Travelers Rest. Image alt text: Colorful and flavorful tacos from Farmhouse Tacos, Travelers Rest, highlighting fresh, local ingredients.
Leopard Forest Coffee Company
Leopard Forest Coffee Company has been a beloved fixture in Travelers Rest since 2004. This cozy café and roastery is known for its freshly roasted specialty coffee. Just a short walk from Main Street, it’s the perfect place to start your day with a expertly brewed coffee or enjoy a relaxing afternoon break. Image alt text: Exterior of Leopard Forest Coffee Company in Travelers Rest, a local roastery and cafe with outdoor seating.
SBH BBQ Restaurant
For authentic, award-winning BBQ, SBH BBQ Restaurant is a must-try in Travelers Rest. Indulge in wood-smoked brisket, chicken, and other BBQ classics, alongside hand-cut fries and creamy mac & cheese. Located on the Swamp Rabbit Trail in downtown Travelers Rest, enjoy patio or back lawn dining in a lively atmosphere. Image alt text: Plates of wood-smoked BBQ ribs and brisket at SBH BBQ Restaurant, Travelers Rest, an award-winning barbecue destination.
Pink Mama’s Ice Cream
Pink Mama’s Ice Cream is a locally owned and operated ice cream parlor that exudes charm and deliciousness. Known for their homemade pink waffle cones and unique ice cream flavors, Pink Mama’s treats every guest like family. Located on Main Street with Swamp Rabbit Trail access, it’s ideal for classic ice cream treats and family fun. Image alt text: Selection of homemade ice cream flavors and pink waffle cones at Pink Mama’s Ice Cream, Travelers Rest.
Sidewall Pizza Company
Sidewall Pizza Company offers handcrafted pizzas, fresh salads, and a selection of craft beer, wine, and sodas. Located in a renovated tire shop in downtown Travelers Rest, it combines a unique setting with delicious food. Don’t miss their homemade ice cream for a perfect dessert. Image alt text: Handcrafted pizza and fresh salad at Sidewall Pizza Company, Travelers Rest, served in a unique, renovated space.
Shortfield’s Restaurant Travelers Rest
Shortfields Restaurant Travelers Rest began as a catering company in 2010 and evolved into a beloved restaurant in 2013. Founded by John & Marvin Short and Cory Satterfield, Shortfields quickly gained a following for their delicious, comforting cuisine. Located at 24 South Main Street, Shortfields Restaurant brings their catering favorites to a restaurant setting, offering a menu filled with dishes that have become local staples. Experience the food that Travelers Rest has grown to love at Shortfields Restaurant Travelers Rest, a cornerstone of the local dining scene. Image alt text: Exterior of Shortfields Restaurant Travelers Rest, a popular dining destination on Main Street, Travelers Rest.
Swamp Rabbit Brewery
Swamp Rabbit Brewery is Travelers Rest’s first and only craft brewery. Opened in 2014, they are passionate about sharing great craft beer with the Upstate. Visit their taproom to try their award-winning beers and experience the local craft beer culture of Travelers Rest. Image alt text: Pints of craft beer at Swamp Rabbit Brewery, Travelers Rest’s first and only brewery, showcasing their award-winning brews.
Sushi Yama
Sushi Yama offers high-quality sushi and Japanese specialties in Travelers Rest. With daily and seasonal specials, Sushi Yama provides a diverse menu of fresh and flavorful Japanese cuisine. It’s a great choice for sushi lovers and those looking to explore Japanese flavors. Image alt text: Fresh sushi rolls and Japanese dishes at Sushi Yama, Travelers Rest, known for quality and seasonal selections.
Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse
Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse is passionate about delicious food, beverages, and community. Enjoy a variety of sweet and savory crepes, along with excellent coffee in a welcoming atmosphere. Tandem is a perfect spot for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch in Travelers Rest. Image alt text: Sweet and savory crepes being prepared at Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse, Travelers Rest, a community-focused cafe.
The Tasting Room
The Tasting Room is a community gathering place that combines a boutique bottle shop with a friendly atmosphere. Curated by a Certified Sommelier and Cicerone, they offer a wide selection of retail wines and craft beers. Enjoy wines by the glass, draft beers, and bottled beers in a comfortable setting with a deck, bar, and fireplace. Image alt text: Wine bottles and comfortable seating area at The Tasting Room in Travelers Rest, a boutique bottle shop and gathering spot.
The Whistle Stop Café
The Whistle Stop Café is the oldest café in the Upstate, family-owned for over 73 years. Recognized as a top-themed restaurant, it offers a restored and remodeled space with classic American café fare. Experience a piece of Travelers Rest history at this beloved local institution. Image alt text: Classic American diner style exterior of The Whistle Stop Cafe in Travelers Rest, the oldest cafe in the Upstate.
Topsoil Kitchen and Market
Topsoil Kitchen and Market is a farm-to-table restaurant led by award-winning Chef Adam Cooke. With menus inspired by local farms and ingredients, Topsoil offers an honest and direct connection to the food they serve. Experience the best of Travelers Rest’s local agriculture through their innovative dishes. Image alt text: Farm-to-table dishes at Topsoil Kitchen and Market in Travelers Rest, showcasing fresh, local ingredients.
Sunset Slush of Travelers Rest
Sunset Slush of Travelers Rest & Treats is your go-to for refreshing treats. Enjoy Italian Ice, all-natural smoothies, freshly squeezed juices, and more. It’s the perfect place to cool down and enjoy a sweet treat, especially after exploring the Swamp Rabbit Trail. Image alt text: Colorful Italian Ice and smoothie selections at Sunset Slush of Travelers Rest, perfect for a refreshing treat.
Treehouse Cafe and Studio
Treehouse Cafe and Studio is an art café and community hub serving Leopard Forest Coffee, sandwiches, snacks, and soups. With vegan and vegetarian options, it’s a welcoming space for everyone. Enjoy art and community along with your meal at this unique Travelers Rest spot. Image alt text: Interior of Treehouse Cafe and Studio, Travelers Rest, an art cafe and community hub with food and drinks.
TR’s Oriental
TR’s Oriental is a family-favorite traditional Chinese restaurant in downtown Travelers Rest. Offering classic Chinese dishes, it’s a reliable and tasty option for those craving familiar flavors. Enjoy a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for a family meal. Image alt text: Classic Chinese dishes at TR’s Oriental in Travelers Rest, a family-favorite restaurant.
Tru Broth
Tru Broth is a fast-casual café specializing in Vietnamese cuisine. Serving Pho noodle soup, bone broth, vegetarian food, coffee, and tea, they focus on locally sourced ingredients and pasture-raised products. Experience authentic Vietnamese flavors in a healthy and conscious setting. Image alt text: Bowls of Pho and Vietnamese cuisine at Tru Broth in Travelers Rest, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.
Upcountry Provisions Bakery & Bistro
Upcountry Provisions Bakery & Bistro is known for perfect lunches with artisan sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, homemade cookies, and more. Serving the Travelers Rest community since 2011, they offer breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, from quick bites to catered events. Image alt text: Artisan sandwiches and baked goods at Upcountry Provisions Bakery & Bistro, Travelers Rest, a local favorite for breakfast and lunch.
Bespoke Wine Shop of Travelers Rest
Bespoke Wine Shop of Travelers Rest offers a large selection of wines and craft beers, along with charcuterie, appetizers, and desserts. Attend wine tastings or host private parties in this welcoming wine shop. It’s a perfect evening destination for wine and beer lovers in Travelers Rest. Image alt text: Wine bottles and charcuterie board at Bespoke Wine Shop of Travelers Rest, a wine and beer shop with tasting events.
Savor the Flavors of Travelers Rest
From Shortfields Restaurant Travelers Rest to a wide array of other dining destinations, Travelers Rest, SC, offers a rich and satisfying culinary landscape. Whether you’re in the mood for BBQ, Italian, tacos, or a cozy coffee, Travelers Rest’s restaurants are ready to welcome you and deliver a memorable dining experience. Explore these local gems and discover your own favorite flavors in Travelers Rest.
