A lot goes into planning a trip to a new destination—or even one you’ve visited before but haven’t explored fully.
You have to do a little digging to find out which attractions and activities are up your alley. And, of course, you have to search the different lodging options to find the right one for you and your crew.
Just as important as what fun things you’ll be doing and which cozy spot you’ll be staying is where you’ll be dining. The Pee Dee region is brimming with delicious eateries in every county; you really can’t go wrong with any of them. There are, however, a few in each county that standout from the rest.
We have rounded up the area’s unique eateries where you can indulge in genuine local food and taste the flavors of the Pee Dee: mouthwatering BBQ, juicy burgers, and classic Southern fare.
Take a look at the recommendations to follow and start creating your must-eat list for your upcoming vacation in the Pee Dee Country.
Down Home Cooking in Darlington County
It is easy to work up an appetite from all the fun in Darlington County—exploring local nature spots, soaking up the sun at Neptune Island Water Park, watching a race at NASCAR’s oldest superspeedway, just to name a few.
When it’s time to refuel, you can find your fill of hearty meals at Jewels Deluxe Restaurant, Ruth’s Drive In, and South of Pearl.
Located on the square in downtown Darlington, Jewels Deluxe Restaurant is a local favorite for its diner-like atmosphere and a menu full of all your Southern favorites, like chicken pot pie, fried chicken, mustard greens, fried okra, and more. Their menu features staples available each day, as well as a menu of several rotating entrees.
When a restaurant has been in business for more than 75 years, you know it’s got to be good. Such is the case at Ruth’s Drive In. This generational gem does not disappoint. Ruth’s Diner offers a daily menu of comfort foods, like beef stew, fried chicken, collards, and potatoes of every style. But if you only have time to enjoy one meal from this eatery during your stay, we recommend ordering their famous Pimento Cheeseburger.
Another local favorite for home-cooked meals made from recipes passed down through the generations is South of Pearl. They’re only open from 11am-2pm Monday through Friday, so you’ll want to plan accordingly.
Located in a historic home built in 1900, South of Pearl offers diners a nostalgic dining experience with a full lunch buffet of timeless Southern recipes, all made from scratch using locally sourced ingredients and heirloom recipes.
BBQ Trail Stops and Diner-Style Classics in Dillon County
Family-friendly fun abounds in Dillon County! When you’re not catching a race at the Dillon Motor Speedway, visiting the famous landmark South of the Border, or exploring local historic sites, there’s plenty of delicious dining to enjoy.
You’ll find two stops on the Pee Dee BBQ trail in Dillon County: Shuler’s BBQ and B & C Steak and Bar-B-Que. Instead of trying to choose between the two, we recommend trying both.
At Shuler’s Barbecue you’ll not only find some of the best slow-cooked barbecue and home-style country fixings you’ve ever had, but also a range of decadent homemade desserts from Sweet Lorraine’s Bakery, the on-site bakery located inside the General Store.
Sweet Lorraine’s features a rotating spread of freshly baked desserts, including carrot cake, hummingbird cake, red velvet cake, and an assortment of cheesecakes, pies, and tarts, all made from Mama Lorraine’s recipes.
Roll up your sleeves for “Southern cooking at its finest” (Google review) at B & C Steak and Bar-B-Que. This well-established steak and BBQ joint is known for their friendly service and stocked buffet with some of the Pee Dee’s tastiest chicken and meat dishes—and candied yams, which have been known to steal a heart or two.
If you’re not craving BBQ, you’re sure to find something you love on the menu at Papa Tom’s Drive-In Restaurant, a popular Pee Dee eatery that’s been around for many years. Take your pick of juicy cheeseburgers you won’t soon forget and perfectly crisp fried shrimp and oysters, and other diner-style favorites.
BBQ Goodness and American Classics in Florence County
Between fitting in all the popular attractions Florence has to offer—like, exploring local parks, museums, shops, and the SC Revolutionary Rivers Trail—you’ll have to find time to indulge in some of the city’s top eateries.
BBQ
There’s no shortage of finger-licking good BBQ in Flo Town! Schoolhouse Bar-B-Que and Wholly Smokin are must-stops for BBQ lovers visiting Florence.
As the name suggests, Schoolhouse Bar-B-Que is located in a 1930s schoolhouse in the friendly town of Scranton. The charming eatery has been a go-to for traditional Southern cooking and finger-licking good BBQ in a nostalgic, laid-back atmosphere for nearly three decades now.
In the 10 years since opening its doors, Wholly Smokin’ in Downtown Florence has made a name for itself in the Pee Dee community. Get your napkins ready for a plate full of freshly smoked BBQ and ribs at this family-friendly spot. Wholly Smokin’ features both indoor and outdoor seating, as well as plenty of flat-screens for catching the game.
Burgers & more
For the foodie after burgers and classic American-style dishes, Florence has you covered.
While 1720 Burger Bar also has amazing BBQ on the menu, their burgers are the main attraction. Their gourmet burgers are garnished with delicious toppings like homemade pimento cheese, grilled onions, and bacon (the Daisy); grilled pineapple, colby jack cheese, teriyaki sauce (the American Ninja); and more. The only thing that can be better is throwing in one (or more!) of their delicious sides—onion straws, sweet potato fries, and marinated cucumbers, to name a few.
Located downtown on W. Palmetto Street, Red Bone Alley offers one-of-a-kind dishes, like Bronzed Chicken and Angels on Horseback. They also have a number of house-made sauces you can purchase and take home with you. Savor your delicious meal with one of their yummy cocktails while listening to their latest live music lineup.
A sister store of Apple Annie’s deli and pub in Florence, BirdsNest Eats & Ales boasts a full menu of unique American dishes and classics with a creative twist. Sit back and enjoy your one-of-a-kind cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting, complete with friendly, helpful staff.
The list wouldn’t be complete without including Buddy’s, voted recently for having the best burger and milkshake—and being the best new restaurant—in the Pee Dee. Here, their freshly made burgers and fries are the signature dish. Their famous Buddy Burger—made with two smashed patties, American cheese, sautéed onions and pickles, and topped with Buddy’s famous sauce—is No. 1 on the menu.
Creatively Delicious Cuisine in Lee County
Take a break from the outdoors adventures, history tours, and great shopping in Lee County to experience the local fare.
Since 1997, Harry & Harry Too has been a go-to for both locals and visitors alike for great food and exemplary service. This much-loved eatery is known for its creative spins on American classics, like burgers, wings, hoagies, wraps, and salads. Each dish is made with a creative mix of ingredients and toppings, and they all have unique names.
When you need a quick and hearty bite to keep the fun going, head to Raley’s Lunch on W. Council Street in Bishopville. Don’t let the modest exterior fool you: This old-style restaurant is a go-to for absolutely delicious eats. Step up to the counter to order your custom meal of a la carte picks listed on an old letter peg board. Choices include everything from cheeseburgers and hot dogs to chicken tenders and, of course, South Carolina-style BBQ.
Save room for dessert because you’re going to need it when you see the line up at Get Down Pound on South Main Street! While they’re known for their pound cakes, they whip up a fresh spread of countless other sweet treats, too, including icing cakes, cheesecakes, banana pudding, brownies, pecan chewes, and pies.
Old-fashioned Eats in Marion County
Marion County is brimming with fascinating history, scenic outdoors spots, charming shops, and of course, timeless restaurants.
You can’t miss the sign on McIntyre Street reading Fred’s — BBQ, Pork & Fried Chicken. This long-established, small-town eatery doesn’t have a website or even a social media presence—a sign that you’re in for some finger-licking good, old-fashioned grub. Fred’s is well known in these parts for having some of the best breakfast around, noteworthy fried chicken, and plenty of Southern hospitality.
Just off Hwy 76, travelers will find a top-rated restaurant in Marion with a reputation for not only great food but fantastic service to match: Jimmy B’s. This longtime eatery is also known for providing excellent service to larger parties, so if you’ve got a big crew, Jimmy B’s is the spot for you! Load up and head over for a little bit of everything: juicy burgers, succulent steaks, tasty sandwiches, and fresh seafood.
“Service with a smile and a meal just like Grandma used to make” awaits at City Food & Spirits. Southern and soul food are the name of the game at this old-school restaurant. City Food & Spirits takes the classic meat-and-three meal to the next level with their two-meats and three sides-style feasts. Bring a healthy appetite with you, and you’re set!
Cafe-style Cuisine in Marlboro County
Before hitting the water at Lake Paul A. Wallace or embarking on a history tour of Marlboro County, fuel up for the day at these local eateries with menus filled with wholesome meals.
Good old-fashioned, down home cooking and friendly service await at Genesis Family Restaurant in Bennettsville. This old-school eatery has served the Marlboro County community and its visitors for many years. While you won’t find a website for them, they post their daily menu on Facebook each day for you to peruse before you go.
Another Bennettsville gem, Magnolia on Main Cafe “serves up big flavor in a small town!” This much-loved cafe features delicious blue plate lunch specials that change every day, along with rotating white board specials and an array of indulgent desserts—all made from scratch.
If you love to enjoy a plate (or two!) full of soul food, buffet-style, Palmetto Cafe is just the ticket. This quaint eatery dishes out a savory spread every day, and you can count on top quality every time. As one TripAdvisor reviewer said, “Everything from the country fried steak to the cabbage was cooked like your favorite Auntie is in the kitchen.”
BBQ Hot Spots in Williamsburg County
There’s so much to do in Williamsburg County: touring historic sites, shopping downtown, soaking up the great outdoors—and, of course, immersing yourself in the local cuisine.
A visit to Cooper’s Country Store is an unforgettable experience—a step back in time to simpler days gone by. Located in the same historic building since opening in 1937, Cooper’s is a one-stop shop for fueling up your vehicles, purchasing building supplies and hardware, and stocking up on locally grown and made food and goods—including some of the best BBQ found in the Pee Dee!
Another BBQ joint to check out in Williamsburg County is Kenny’s BBQ. Their expansive buffet features mouthwatering, whole-hog pulled pork BBQ with housemade vinegar-pepper sauce made the old-fashioned way and savory sides all made from scratch.
The list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Big D’s Bar-B-Que in Hemingway. This rustic joint is only open two days a week—Friday and Saturday—and their freshly smoked BBQ is well worth the wait!
Download our Visitor Guide today to start planning your Pee Dee getaway! And be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know with upcoming events, new shops, and noteworthy eateries!
