Florence, South Carolina, has a surprisingly diverse dining scene, whether you’re after a quick bite or something a little more polished. Locals and out-of-towners can find plenty of spots to suit their cravings, no matter the vibe.
The best restaurants in Florence, SC, serve up quality food and a welcoming atmosphere, with a little something for everyone. These places tap into the local flavor and culture, so eating out here actually feels like being part of the community.
1) Victors
Victors sits inside Hotel Florence, and honestly, it feels a bit like a hidden gem for those who love a touch of elegance. The menu leans upscale, mixing American and French influences, and the vibe is just right for an anniversary or a treat-yourself kind of evening.
There’s a bar and bistro side, too, so you can get a full meal or just hang out with a drink and a snack. People seem to keep coming back for both the food and the attentive staff—service here really stands out.
They also do catering for anything from weddings to work parties, which is super handy if you’re planning something special in town.
Location: 126 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501
2) Julia Belle’s
Julia Belle’s is all about Southern comfort, and you can feel it the second you walk in. It started out in a big red barn at the Pee Dee Farmers Market, but now you’ll find it on West Lucas Street, with a laid-back, family-friendly vibe and some outdoor tables when the weather’s nice.
It’s family-run, and you can tell—everything feels homemade, from the BBQ egg rolls to the shrimp and grits, crab cake sandwiches, and those buttermilk biscuits that are honestly hard to resist. The menu is Southern at heart but with a little Carolina flair thrown in.
People rave about how the staff treats everyone like family. You get that genuine southern hospitality here, and the food’s just as warm and inviting.
Location: 2106-50 W Lucas St, Florence, SC
3) Da Massimo Ristorante Italiano
Da Massimo Ristorante Italiano takes Italian food seriously—like, really seriously. Everything’s made with fresh ingredients, and they try to use local stuff when they can, so the menu shifts around a bit with the seasons. You get those classic Italian flavors, and you can tell the kitchen knows what it’s doing.
It’s a cozy spot, great for anything from a family dinner to a business lunch. There’s even a private room if you need it. The place feels welcoming, not at all stuffy, which is kind of refreshing.
If you’re feeling lazy or just want to eat at home, their online ordering makes things easy. The staff genuinely seems to care about your experience, and the food is always balanced and thoughtfully presented.
Location: 821 S Irby St, Florence, SC 29501
4) LilJazZi’s
LilJazZi’s is one of those easygoing cafés where you can grab breakfast or lunch all day, and no one’s in a rush. The menu’s got everything from burgers to sandwiches, plus some specialty drinks and coffees if you need a pick-me-up.
The atmosphere is relaxed, almost like you’re visiting a friend’s place. They do catering and host events, so it’s a go-to spot for birthdays or just catching up with friends.
Since opening in 2016, LilJazZi’s has stuck to its roots—family-run, good food, friendly faces. Locals and travelers seem to agree it’s worth a stop.
Location: 163 N Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506
5) Town Hall
Town Hall is a bit of a showstopper for Florence, honestly. Executive chef Ryan Dalton puts together a menu that’s Southern-inspired but never boring—think farm-to-table, with fresh ingredients that really shine.
One of the best things here? The rooftop bar. It’s a great place to unwind, whether you’re in the mood for a full meal or just a glass of wine. The space manages to be both stylish and comfortable, which isn’t always easy to pull off.
They host private events, too, so if you’ve got something to celebrate, it’s a solid pick. The staff goes out of their way to make sure you remember your meal for all the right reasons.
Location: 101 W Evans St, Florence, SC 29501
6) Red Bone Alley
Red Bone Alley is quirky in the best way—it’s designed to look like an old Charleston neighborhood, which is honestly kind of fun. There’s plenty of space, so it’s great for groups or just a casual family dinner.
If you hate waiting, they offer a call-ahead list for smaller parties, and for really big groups, you can talk to a manager to get sorted. Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 7 pm, and there’s live music on Fridays and Saturdays, which definitely livens things up.
Location: 1903 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501
7) Aloha Kitchen
Aloha Kitchen brings a little slice of Hawaii to Florence. The food is all about family recipes—some of them have been around for generations. It’s not just about what’s on your plate, though; the place is dedicated to sharing that “aloha” spirit, which is really more about kindness and good company than anything else.
Open Monday through Saturday, you can eat in or grab something to go. The menu is full of traditional Hawaiian flavors, and everything’s made with care.
If you’re curious about Hawaiian food or just want something a little different, this spot is worth a try.
Location: 2513 W Lucas St, Florence, SC 29501
8) Tubb’s Shrimp and Fish Co.
Tubb’s Shrimp and Fish Co. is a laid-back seafood joint that’s a favorite with locals. It’s warm, unpretentious, and the kind of place where you don’t have to dress up. Outdoor seating is available if you want some fresh air with your meal.
Seafood is the star here, obviously—lots of shrimp and fish options, with beer, wine, and cocktails if you’re in the mood. You can eat in or take your food to go.
Happy hour brings some good deals, and the whole place has a homey feel. It’s the sort of spot you end up recommending to friends passing through town.
Location: 1500 2nd Loop Rd, Florence, SC 29505
9) Long Grain Cafe
Long Grain Cafe is a no-frills spot, mixing American and Chinese comfort food. It’s got a simple, easygoing atmosphere—nothing fancy, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
The menu covers a lot of ground, so picky eaters or anyone craving the classics will be happy. People tend to appreciate the straightforward service and the lack of pretense here.
You’ll find it on W Palmetto Street, and it’s especially popular for breakfast, but honestly, it’s solid any time of day.
With plenty of good reviews, Long Grain Cafe is a dependable choice if you’re after tasty food without any fuss.
Location: 260 W Palmetto St, Florence, SC 29501
10) Wholly Smokin’
Wholly Smokin’ sits right in downtown Florence, serving up barbecue since 2012. They’re all about smoked meats and the kind of classic sides that make you feel like you’re at a backyard cookout, just with a bit more polish. The vibe lands somewhere between casual and upscale—good for a family night, brunch, or just hanging out.
You’ve got options for where to sit: inside, out in the courtyard, or at the bar (which, by the way, has four flat-screens if you’re hoping to catch a game). If you’d rather eat at home or throw an event, they do take-out, delivery, and catering.
Their menu? Ribs, barbecue, and all sorts of smoked goodness, plus beer, wine, and cocktails to round things out. Locals seem to love the mix of old-school barbecue with a few updated touches. It’s not hard to see why this place draws a crowd.
Location: 150 S Dargan St, Florence, SC 29506
Florence’s Culinary Scene
Florence’s dining scene is surprisingly varied, honestly. There’s a strong Southern backbone here, but you’ll also find growing food diversity and some unexpected flavors from far beyond the region.
Local Favorites and Southern Influences
If you’re after Southern staples and comfort food, Florence has plenty of options. The City Grill comes to mind—upscale American with a Southern twist. Barbecue remains a favorite, and there’s no shortage of local joints serving up smoky plates and classic sides.
A lot of places pride themselves on using local ingredients and keeping things simple but hearty. That’s kind of the charm, right? Meals here often feel rooted in tradition and history—there’s something satisfying about that.
Growth of International Cuisine
Lately, more international spots have popped up around town, which is a nice change if you’re craving something different. Tapas, seafood, and global flavors are all on the menu now. Locals and visitors seem to appreciate the new options.
Some of these newer places aren’t afraid to use bolder spices or play with cooking styles you wouldn’t have seen here a decade ago. It’s made Florence’s food scene a lot more interesting, honestly.
Tips for Dining Out in Florence
Dining in Florence, SC can be a treat—if you know a few tricks. Timing and location matter more than you’d expect. A little planning goes a long way to scoring a good table and soaking up the local vibe.
Best Times to Visit Popular Restaurants
If you’re aiming for spots like Julia Belle’s or Town Hall, just know they get packed, especially Friday and Saturday nights. The dinner rush hits hard between 6 and 8 p.m. Try going early (think 5 p.m.) or waiting until after 8:30 if you want to dodge the crowds.
Weekdays are usually less hectic, and lunch is a quieter option than dinner. If you don’t love waiting, reservations are your friend at the busier places.
Exploring Neighborhood Dining Districts
Downtown Florence is pretty walkable, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and lounges clustered together. It’s perfect if you’re in the mood to hop around or just want to catch some live music.
Beyond downtown, you’ll find more laid-back, family-style spots and barbecue joints. These neighborhoods offer a slower pace and a peek at the local scene without all the bustle. Honestly, mixing it up between downtown and the outer areas gives you a better feel for what Florence has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s a quick rundown of what people usually want to know about eating out in Florence, SC—think popular spots, family-friendly picks, hours, new places, local specialties, and where to eat near the highway.
What are the top-rated dining spots in downtown Florence, SC?
Victors and Town Hall are two names that pop up a lot when folks talk about downtown’s best. People seem to love the quality food and the vibe at both.
Can you recommend family-friendly restaurants near Florence?
Julia Belle’s is a go-to for families. It’s got a warm atmosphere and a menu that works for just about everyone, so you can bring the whole crew without worry.
Where can I find restaurants currently open in Florence, SC?
Places like LilJazZi’s and Da Massimo Ristorante Italiano usually keep regular hours, but it’s smart to check their websites or call ahead. There are also apps and local guides that help you stay up to date.
Are there any new restaurants in Florence that have opened recently?
There are always a few new spots popping up, but honestly, the tried-and-true favorites mentioned here still get the most buzz. New places do tend to catch the locals’ eye pretty quickly, though.
What local delicacies are Florence, SC restaurants famous for?
Florence is all about Southern-style cooking and fresh, local ingredients. Barbecue and seafood are big here, and you’ll find some creative takes on both if you look around. There’s a real sense of tradition, but a bit of playfulness, too.
Which eateries offer the best dining experience off I-95 in Florence, SC?
Victors and Town Hall are both pretty handy if you’re cruising down I-95 and need a decent meal. They’re easy to get to, and folks seem to actually like the food and service—not just the location. Whether you’re just stopping for a quick bite or hanging around for a bit, these spots are worth considering.
