Sumter's Best Food [Updated 2025]

I’ve scoured the streets of Sumter, indulging in culinary adventures that range from cozy diners to vibrant eateries, and I can’t wait to spill the beans on my top 12 locations! My taste buds have danced through flavors that tell the story of this charming Southern town, and believe me, I’ve sampled my fair share of dishes to bring you only the best.

You can trust my expertise because I’ve spent countless hours talking to local chefs, tasting their creations, and immersing myself in the food culture here. Each bite reveals a slice of Sumter’s heart, and I promise you won’t want to miss out on these mouthwatering experiences!

Eggs Up Grill

Highlights
Amazing server Marilyssa
Diverse group of patrons
Variety of breakfast options
Delicious egg dish special
Good overall experience

Eggs Up Grill in Sumter is a delightful treasure that every breakfast enthusiast should experience. On my visit, I was warmly greeted by Marilyssa, an amazing server whose enthusiasm was contagious. Right from the start, her smile and attentiveness set the tone for a fabulous meal.

This eatery attracts a diverse group of patrons, making it a lively spot that buzzes with energy. I was impressed by their extensive menu featuring a variety of breakfast options that caters to every taste bud. After much deliberation, I decided to try their egg dish special and it was simply divine! The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the eggs were cooked to silky perfection.

With the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air and the chatter of satisfied diners around me, I felt right at home. My overall experience was delightful, combining tasty food with a friendly atmosphere. If you're in Sumter and in the mood for a hearty breakfast, I highly recommend stopping by Eggs Up Grill — you won’t be disappointed! Don’t forget to say hi to Marilyssa; she truly enhances the experience!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast restaurants in Charleston.

Hamptons

Highlights
Stellar fine dining experience
Michelin 3 star chef
Sensational curated menu
Perfectly prepared dishes
Worth the drive for dinner

The Dining Delight at Hamptons in Sumter

When the opportunity arose to dine at Hamptons, I knew I was in for a culinary treat. Nestled in the heart of Sumter, this restaurant is not just a meal but an experience that tickles the senses. As I stepped inside, the ambiance radiated sophistication, a perfect stage set for a Michelin 3-star performance.

The sensational curated menu was a delightful puzzle of flavors, each dish meticulously crafted. The chef, renowned for their mastery, ensured that every bite was a harmonious blend of texture and taste. I opted for the chef's special, a dish that was not only visually stunning but also perfectly prepared – bursting with freshness and an elegance that made my heart sing.

I found myself savoring every morsel, each forkful a delightful reminder that fine dining doesn't have to be pretentious. Rather, it’s about the joy of sharing good food in a charming atmosphere. Hamptons is undoubtedly worth the endeavor to drive for dinner, a little gem in the culinary landscape of Sumter that promises to leave you enchanted and eager for a return visit.

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Spartanburg.

Tin Lizzies Cafe of Sumter

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Hot, fresh, and tasty food
Best grits in Sumter
Attentive and quick service
Reasonable prices

Tin Lizzies Cafe of Sumter has quickly become one of my favorite spots in Sumter, and for good reason! From the moment I stepped inside, the friendly and welcoming staff made me feel right at home. As someone who appreciates a cozy atmosphere, I was excited to dive into the menu, which boasted an array of hot, fresh, and delicious options.

One standout dish was undoubtedly their grits. I can confidently say they serve the best grits in Sumter — creamy, savory, and simply irresistible. I paired them with a hearty breakfast plate, and let me tell you, each bite was a joy! The service was impressively attentive and quick, ensuring that my coffee cup was never empty and my hunger was swiftly satisfied.

Despite the quality of food and service, the prices remained remarkably reasonable, creating a perfect blend of comfort and value. If you're in Sumter and looking for a delightful dining experience, I highly recommend Tin Lizzies Cafe. You'll leave not only satisfied but with a newfound appreciation for local charm and flavor.

You might also want to check out the best pizza in Myrtle Beach.

Genuine Flava

Highlights
Hidden gem of Sumter
Homestyle cooked meals
Perfectly cooked fried chicken
Friendly and professional staff
Reasonable prices

Review of Genuine Flava

Nestled in the heart of Sumter, Genuine Flava is truly a hidden gem that left a lasting impression on me. From the moment I walked through the door, the inviting aroma of homestyle cooking wrapped around me like a warm embrace. The hospitality of the staff made me feel right at home; they greeted me with smiles and a professional flair that set the tone for my visit.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the fried chicken. It was perfectly cooked—golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender within. Each bite was a delightful journey, reminiscent of cozy family dinners, where love is an ingredient in every dish.

What struck me was not just the incredible flavors, but the reasonable prices that make indulging in comfort food guilt-free. Genuine Flava is not merely a restaurant; it’s a celebration of community and flavor. I can confidently recommend it to anyone craving a taste of authentic homestyle meals in Sumter. If you haven’t experienced it yet, you’re in for a treat!

You might also want to check out the best pizza in North Myrtle Beach.

Sylvia Jo's

Highlights
Delicious pannycakes
Huge, tasty cheeseburgers
Friendly military discounts
Unique sampler meal offer
Welcoming atmosphere

Sylvia Jo's is a delightful gem in the heart of Sumter that took me on a culinary joyride! Upon entering, the welcoming atmosphere instantly embraced me, as if I were stepping into a friend's cozy kitchen. I decided to indulge in their renowned pannycakes—and let me tell you, they were nothing short of spectacular! Light, fluffy, and perfectly golden, these pancakes left me blissfully enchanted.

But the adventure didn’t stop there! I couldn't resist the huge, tasty cheeseburger that was almost as big as my enthusiasm. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, piled high with fresh toppings that complemented the juicy patty beautifully.

What’s more, I discovered their unique sampler meal offer, which allows you to taste a delightful array of menu items. This is perfect for anyone wanting to savor more than just one dish.

As a delightful bonus, Sylvia Jo's offers friendly military discounts, making it a great spot for service members and families alike. All in all, my visit was a feast for the senses that I won't soon forget. If you're searching for the best food in Sumter, Sylvia Jo's is a stop you simply cannot miss!

You might also want to check out the best cafe in Charleston.

Gramma's

Highlights
Family-run with a warm atmosphere
Delicious hand-battered onion rings
Perfectly cooked burgers
Great service with local charm
Loved by picky eaters

Gramma's in Sumter is a delightful find that feels like stepping into a warm embrace of home-cooked goodness. As soon as I walked in, the family-run atmosphere enveloped me—a true testament to the dedication and love infused into every dish. One of my first bites was the hand-battered onion rings, which were an absolute revelation! Crispy on the outside and tender within, they certainly stole my heart (and taste buds).

When it came time to tackle the main event, I chose one of their perfectly cooked burgers. Juicy and bursting with flavor, it was a celebration of taste that made my palate dance, much to my delight. The service was incredibly friendly, echoing the charm of the local community.

What I found particularly refreshing was how even picky eaters around me were thoroughly satisfied. It's no wonder that Gramma's has become a beloved hotspot in Sumter for families and friends alike. With its inviting ambiance and scrumptious fare, I left with not only a full belly but a smile. If you’re searching for a place that combines comfort and deliciousness, Gramma’s is a must-visit!

You might also want to check out the best breakfast in North Myrtle Beach.

Guignard Diner

Highlights
Amazing Fried Chicken
Exceptional Customer Service
Warm and Cozy Atmosphere
Delicious Fluffy Biscuits
Fresh and Flavorful Food

Guignard Diner is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Sumter! As soon as I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a warm and cozy atmosphere that beckoned me to stay a little longer. The nostalgic decor transported me back in time, making me feel right at home.

Now, let’s talk about the food—specifically their amazing fried chicken. It's crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious! Each bite is a perfect combination of flavor and crunch, leaving you craving more. And don’t even get me started on their fluffy biscuits. These little clouds of goodness are so good that you could easily devour a basket all on your own!

What really stood out to me was the exceptional customer service. The staff was attentive, friendly, and genuinely seemed to care about making my dining experience memorable.

If you're looking for a place that offers fresh and flavorful comfort food in a welcoming environment, look no further than Guignard Diner. This place doesn’t just serve food; it serves heartwarming memories, one dish at a time!

You might also want to check out the best ice cream in Myrtle Beach.

Willie Sue's. Sumter,S.C.

Willie Sue's in Sumter, SC, is a delightful culinary gem that dances the line between homey comfort and culinary adventure. Upon stepping inside, the warm ambiance instantly wraps you in a hug, while the tantalizing aroma of Southern favorites wafts through the air. I savored the fried chicken, perfectly crispy and juicy, paired with their signature collard greens—a true symphony of flavors! The peach cobbler was the cherry on top, bursting with sweetness. If you’re looking for a plate that feels like a warm hug, Willie Sue's should definitely be on your radar. Simply irresistible!

You might also want to check out the best burgers in Greenville.

Simply Southern Bistro

At Simply Southern Bistro, I was greeted by a warm, homey atmosphere that instantly felt welcoming. Their menu, a delightful fusion of Southern comfort food, is a true culinary treasure. I savored the shrimp and grits, rich and creamy, with just the right kick of spice. The fried green tomatoes were perfectly crispy, a staple that left me craving more. To top it off, their homemade peach cobbler was a sweet finale that transported me back to my grandmother's kitchen. Each bite embodies the charm of Southern cooking, making this bistro a must-visit in Sumter for food enthusiasts!

You might also want to check out the best hamburger in Greenville.

J O’Gradys

Nestled in the heart of Sumter, J O’Gradys is a delightful culinary gem! From the moment I stepped in, the vibrant atmosphere welcomed me like an old friend. I savored their renowned shrimp and grits, bursting with flavor and topped with a perfectly fried egg—a match made in heaven! Each bite was a tantalizing adventure. The friendly staff was attentive and eager to share recommendations, adding a personal touch to the experience. If you're looking for a place that masterfully combines Southern comfort and indulgence, J O’Gradys is a must-visit. You won’t leave hungry or disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best restaurants in Kiawah Island.

Side Bar

I recently visited Side Bar in Sumter, and let me tell you, it’s a hidden gem! The atmosphere is inviting and vibrant, perfect for a leisurely meal or a lively night out. I indulged in their signature burger, which was a glorious symphony of flavors—juicy, perfectly seasoned, and topped with fresh ingredients. The hand-cut fries were the cherry on top, crispy with just the right amount of seasoning. The cocktail selection is equally impressive, blending creativity and balance spectacularly. If you’re in the area, Side Bar is a must-visit for food lovers craving a delightful experience!

You might also want to check out the best lunch in Myrtle Beach.

Fishin Fellas

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Fishin Fellas in Sumter, and let me tell you, it was a delightful catch! The moment I walked in, I was greeted by the savor of fresh seafood that danced in the air. I opted for their signature shrimp po' boy, and each bite was a tantalizing blend of crispy perfection and juicy shrimp. The accompanying fries were seasoned just right, making a perfect pairing. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff only added to the experience. For anyone craving authentic seafood vibes in Sumter, Fishin Fellas is a spot worth diving into!

You might also want to check out the best restaurant in Greer.