🔆 South Carolina’s Lowcountry Licks: I-95 Food Stops
🔆 South Carolina’s Lowcountry Licks: I-95 Food Stops
Welcome to the South Carolina segment of your I-95 culinary journey!
As you traverse the Palmetto State, from the northern gateway near Dillon down to the coastal plains and the edges of the Lowcountry, you’ll find a wealth of authentic Southern cuisine and regional specialties that make for perfect SoFloDining Approved pit stops. We believe that road trip meals should be a chance to slow down, enjoy local flavor, and savor the state’s deeply rooted Gullah-Geechee and barbecue traditions.
Welcome to the South Carolina segment of your I-95 culinary journey!
As you traverse the Palmetto State, from the northern gateway near Dillon down to the coastal plains and the edges of the Lowcountry, you’ll find a wealth of authentic Southern cuisine and regional specialties that make for perfect SoFloDining Approved pit stops. We believe that road trip meals should be a chance to slow down, enjoy local flavor, and savor the state’s deeply rooted Gullah-Geechee and barbecue traditions.
If you are cruising down the I-95 corridor through Dillon, South Carolina, Peddler Steakhouse is a nostalgic culinary gem worth pulling off for. Located right in the middle of the iconic South-of-the-Border tourist strip—famous for its classic billboards and wallabies—this spot brought back fond memories of childhood family road trips. Doris and I made a point to stop in during our WTF Snowbird Series travels, and coming back after all these years turned out to be an incredible find.
Travelers and steak lovers consistently rave about Peddler Steakhouse for its unique tableside steak cutting, historic rustic atmosphere, and top-tier salad bar. From custom-cut ribeyes cooked over charcoal to genuine Southern hospitality, every detail makes it a standout dining destination along the interstate. Whether you are revisiting fond memories or discovering it for the first time, this steakhouse is a must-add to your highway itinerary.
Location: Peddler Steakhouse 3346 Highway 31, Dillon, SC 29536
If you are cruising down the I-95 corridor through Florence, South Carolina, Redbone Alley is an unforgettable culinary stop for your itinerary. Doris and I pulled off the highway here on our WTF Snowbird Series travels, and step one inside reveals a jaw-dropping setup: built inside a transformed former department store, it feels like the ultimate two-story outdoor backyard complete with wrap-around porches, glowing lantern gardens, vivid murals, and an ice-cream truck playing vintage fifties tunes. We snagged a spot on the balcony, took in the vibrant atmosphere, and dug into crisp fried green tomatoes topped with blackened shrimp—hitting that ideal balance of sweet, crisp, and smoky.
Diner consensus mirrors our experience: people love the hyper-fresh Lowcountry flavor profile, relaxed family-friendly vibe, and massive indoor-outdoor aesthetic. Chef Dale Barth’s commitment to quality shines through locally sourced Darlington rice, fresh Atlantic seafood, and top-tier cuts that elevate classic Southern dining into something extraordinary. Paired with an outstanding wine list and top-notch drinks, it is an essential roadside destination for any serious traveler looking for high-energy charm and incredible food.
Location: Redbone Alley 1903 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501
If you are craving an authentic culinary detour right off the I-95 corridor near Florence, South Carolina, Monarcas Mexican Restaurant is the ultimate stop. Doris and I pulled off the highway here during our WTF Snowbird Series travels, and we were immediately greeted by a vibrant atmosphere complete with soft mariachi music playing in the background. It is a family-owned gem where vibrant, fresh flavors take center stage from the moment you take your seat.
It’s easy to see why road-weary travelers and locals alike rave about this spot. Their standout menu features crave-worthy, fresh tableside guacamole and extraordinarily savory birria tacos and birria quesadillas, served alongside traditional, rich consommé for dipping. For genuine Mexican hospitality, top-tier fresh ingredients, and a truly customizable dining experience that recharges you for the road ahead, make sure to add Monarcas to your travel plans.
Location:
Monarcas Mexican Restaurant
2007 West San Lucas Street, Florence, SC 29501