Peddler Steakhouse – 3346 Highway 31, Dillon, S.C.: located right in the middle of the South-of-the-Border tourist strip-those cheesy billboards, the wallabies. We stopped there with family on childhood vacations. Had to come back, and boy, was it a find. www.peddlersteakhouse.com

Redbone Alley – 1903 West Palmetto St., Florence, SC: think of it as the ultimate backyard-except the yard is two stories high, the porch wraps around a glowing lantern garden, and there’s an ice-cream truck playing scratchy fifties tunes while kids run wild. We sat on the balcony, watched the alley murals shift colors in the sunset, and ate fried green tomatoes topped with blackened shrimp-crisp, sweet, smoky. The chef, Dale Barth, started this place in ninety-two after tearing the roof off a dead department store. Everything’s hyper-fresh: Darlington rice, Atlantic shrimp, beef flown in that morning. My kind of place-food that’s good, wine that’s better, and every bite makes you forget you’re not actually outdoors. www.redbonealley.com

Monarcas – 2007 West San Lucas Street, Florence, S.C.: For a delicious and authentic detour right off I-95 near Florence, South Carolina, look no further than Monarcas Mexican Restaurant. This family-owned spot is celebrated for its lively atmosphere, complete with low mariachi music, and its commitment to fresh, flavorful cuisine. Road-weary travelers rave about their customizable dining experience, particularly the crave-worthy table-side guacamole and the incredibly popular, savory birria tacos and birria quesadillas served with traditional consommé for dipping. It’s a genuine slice of Mexican hospitality and cooking that makes for a perfect pit stop. www.monarcasflorence.com