Rock Hill, South Carolina, is rapidly becoming a culinary hotspot, and you don’t have to look far to find incredible dining experiences. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting, Rock Hill’s restaurant scene is packed with diverse flavors and atmospheres to satisfy every palate. From cozy, casual eateries to upscale dining destinations, this city offers a rich tapestry of culinary delights. Get ready to explore our curated list of the must-try Restaurants Rock Hill Sc boasts, guaranteed to make your taste buds sing. Southern comfort food, international flavors, sizzling pizzas, and savory BBQ – Rock Hill truly has it all, waiting for you to discover your new favorite spot!
1. The Flipside Restaurant
Location: Downtown Rock Hill – 129 Caldwell St, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Consistently ranked among the top restaurants Rock Hill SC offers, The Flipside Restaurant delivers a delightful experience centered around locally inspired comfort food with a Southern twist and classic American favorites. It’s no wonder this spot frequently earns the coveted No. 1 rating in Rock Hill. Guests rave about the impeccable service, mouthwatering dishes, and an impressive selection of beverages. From local craft beers to expertly mixed cocktails and refreshing mocktails, The Flipside caters to all tastes. Don’t miss their Rosemary Mojito – a drink as visually stunning as it is delicious. For those planning special events, The Flipside also features a private dining area, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
Cuisine:
Southern Comfort, American
Must-Try Menu Items:
Brunch? Indulge in the Southern Fried Chicken Monte Cristo. Despite its name, it’s a unique and savory creation unlike a traditional Monte Cristo. The combination of rosemary ham with perfectly fried chicken and rich gravy is an unforgettable flavor experience.
Lunch? Opt for the Grilled Chicken, Spinach, and Apple Salad. The light and zesty cider vinaigrette beautifully complements the fresh ingredients, making it a perfect midday choice.
Dinner? For a truly memorable dinner, choose between the Carolina Trout or the Shrimp and Grits. Both dishes are expertly prepared and showcase the best of Southern cuisine. You won’t be disappointed!
Menu: The Flipside Restaurant Menu
Exterior of The Flipside Restaurant in Rock Hill, South Carolina, showcasing its inviting outdoor seating area.
The Flipside Restaurant interior in Rock Hill, featuring its cozy and comfortable dining space.
The Flipside Restaurant sign in Rock Hill SC, highlighting its location and name.
The Vibe
The Flipside Restaurant offers a comfortable yet slightly upscale ambiance, a step above your everyday casual dining. The interior incorporates repurposed architectural elements, creating a homey and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose from a small, full-service bar area, cozy booths, or traditional tables. The welcoming entrance, tucked along a charming walkway between buildings, adds a unique, almost speakeasy-like feel to your dining experience.
2. Burgers and Barley
Location: Winthrop Area – 111 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Looking for the quintessential college town burger joint in Rock Hill? Look no further than Burgers and Barley. Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you; this spot delivers exceptional quality and freshness in every burger. Their extensive menu features a variety of burger options, allowing you to customize your protein with choices like custom beef, bison, turkey, chicken, or black bean patties. Beyond burgers, Burgers and Barley offers classic American starters such as fried pickles and fried green tomatoes, along with satisfying salads and creamy mac and cheese. With a full bar featuring a rotating selection of fresh, local beers on tap, there’s something for everyone. The outdoor area expands the dining experience with additional seating, cozy fire pits, and a secondary bar. Plus, Burgers and Barley stays open later than many restaurants in the area, making it a perfect choice for a late-night dinner.
Cuisine:
Burgers, American, Salads
Highly Recommended Menu Items:
Spice Lover? Dare to try the Daredevil burger, loaded with poblano cream cheese, crispy jalapeno frites, and a zesty chipotle mayo. The explosion of flavor is truly remarkable.
Lighter Fare? The Wedge vs. Cobb salad is a standout salad option in Rock Hill. Pair it with their balsamic dressing – it’s so delicious you might want to drink it straight!
Menu: Burgers and Barley Menu
Burgers and Barley restaurant exterior in Rock Hill, showcasing its casual and inviting facade.
Burgers and Barley restaurant interior in South Carolina, displaying its laid-back and spacious dining area.
Burgers and Barley sign in Rock Hill SC, clearly marking its location.
The Vibe
Inside, Burgers and Barley presents a relaxed and casual setting with a mix of high and low tables, comfortable booths, and ample bar seating. The fenced-in outdoor yard adds to the casual vibe, furnished primarily with picnic tables. Multiple TVs throughout the restaurant ensure you won’t miss any of the big games.
3. Old Town Kitchen
Location: Lowenstein Building – 300 Technology Center Way Suite #203, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Nestled in the Lowenstein Building, conveniently located near Winthrop University and downtown Rock Hill, Old Town Kitchen stands out as a true gem. Many locals consider this to be a top favorite among Rock Hill restaurants, and for good reason. Their menu showcases thoughtfully crafted dishes featuring unique and exciting components that will have you eager to return. Old Town Kitchen is committed to using locally sourced ingredients and updates its menu seasonally, ensuring fresh and innovative offerings. While beloved dishes come and go with the seasons, you’re always guaranteed to discover something new and delicious to love. From classic American fare like Steak and Fries to Southern staples such as Salt & Pepper Fried Flounder, the menu is diverse and satisfying. Enhance your dining experience with Old Town’s full bar, offering signature cocktails that elevate every meal. Don’t forget to check out their delightful Sunday brunch.
Cuisine:
American, Southern Inspired
Can’t-Miss Menu Selection:
The Bang Bang Chicken Sandwich is a culinary masterpiece that is sure to impress. The bang bang sauce provides a delightful sweet and spicy kick, perfectly balanced and not overpowering. Paired with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, pickle, and a distinctive pickled pea relish, it’s a flavor combination unlike any other. Served with crispy battered fries, this sandwich is a must-try.
Menu: Old Town Kitchen Menu
Date Night Idea:
For a fun and unique date, surprise your partner with a game of cornhole at the American Cornhole League, located in the same building as Old Town Kitchen. Enjoy some friendly competition before or after your delicious meal.
Exterior of Old Town Kitchen and Cocktails in Rock Hill SC, showing its modern and inviting entrance.
Close-up of a delicious burger at Old Town Kitchen in Rock Hill SC, highlighting its gourmet presentation.
Interior of Old Town Kitchen in Rock Hill SC, featuring its stylish and comfortable dining space.
The Vibe
Imagine a library, a plant store, and a restaurant all combined into one unique space – that’s the vibe at Old Town Kitchen. It strikes a perfect balance between fresh and nostalgic. Exposed brick walls, expansive windows, bookcase-lined walls reminiscent of a library, and vibrant green plants create a wonderfully comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The ambiance is so cozy, you might be tempted to stay all night! A generously sized patio offers shaded outdoor dining, perfect for enjoying pleasant weather. For private events or larger parties, a dedicated private room is also available. Parking is conveniently located under the building; remember to bring your ticket to the restaurant for validation.
4. Hobo’s
Location: Winthrop Area – 520 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
If you’re craving a fantastic burger in Rock Hill, Hobo’s is the place to be. Renowned for their burgers, shakes, and brews, Hobo’s consistently delivers on flavor and experience. Enjoy live music frequently on their patio or indoors, and don’t miss their popular music bingo nights on Tuesdays. Their drink menu boasts a wide selection of local beers, some even brewed right next door for ultimate freshness. Indulge in hand-spun milkshakes, available with or without a boozy kick. With build-your-own salad and burger options featuring diverse protein choices, plus a varied menu catering to all tastes, Hobo’s truly has something for everyone.
Cuisine:
American, Burgers, Bar Fare
Highly Recommended Menu Items:
Start with the Fried Banana Peppers, a crispy and generous pile served with a flavorful chipotle ranch dipping sauce.
For burger lovers, The Wanderer is a must-try: a juicy patty topped with cheese, bacon, BBQ sauce, and crispy fried onions – a flavor explosion in every bite.
Don’t overlook the Steak Quesadilla. Served on a cauliflower tortilla (you won’t even notice it’s cauliflower!), it’s a surprisingly delicious and satisfying option. With a menu this extensive, exploring it is a delight.
Menu: Hobo’s Menu
Hobo's Restaurant exterior in Rock Hill SC, showing its historic building facade and outdoor patio.
Close-up of Hobo's shrimp tacos in Rock Hill SC, showcasing their flavorful and fresh ingredients.
Hobo's Restaurant interior in Rock Hill SC, highlighting its rustic and casual dining atmosphere.
The Vibe
Hobo’s breathes new life into a historic Rock Hill building, once home to the Rock Hill Coca-Cola Bottling Company in 1941. The restaurant cleverly incorporates original wood from the building into its booths and other design elements. Exposed brick and vintage signage contribute to the rustic and casual vibe. An upstairs area is available for large parties, and a patio overlooks a shared green space with the Perch complex. If there’s a wait, kill time next door at Off the Tracks brewing for a refreshing drink.
5. Kounter
Location: Downtown Rock Hill – 135 E Main St Suite 101, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Kounter’s motto, “The Rock Hill restaurant where you come to be delighted,” truly encapsulates the dining experience here. Chef Rob’s innovative and memorable menu items set Kounter apart in the Rock Hill dining scene. With dishes like Chicken and Waffle Sushi, Bao Tacos, and Lobster Gnocchi, Kounter offers a unique and exciting culinary journey. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive. This restaurant offers far more than meets the eye, blending history with modern culinary artistry. The building itself has a rich history as the former McCory’s Five and Dime, a landmark for 60 years. In 1961, it became a site of civil rights history when nine African American students, the Friendship Nine, staged a sit-in to protest segregation, refusing to leave when denied service. Kounter pays homage to this history, with the names of the Friendship Nine inscribed on the backs of the counter stools. Their story is displayed in the hallway leading to the restaurant, and a historical marker stands outside. Kounter also actively partners with other local restaurants and hosts engaging events – check their events page for upcoming happenings.
Cuisine:
Unique, Fusion, Modern American
Must-Experience Menu Items:
The Crabby Patty is a standout: a chili-lime crab cake with fresh greens, tomato, and a fried caper remoulade, all served on a brioche bun. Seafood lovers will be in heaven.
For dinner, the Spaghetti Os and Meatballs are a playful and sophisticated dish: lamb meatballs paired with anellini pasta, orange-scented ricotta, forest mushroom cream, and crispy basil. It’s an unforgettable flavor combination.
Menu: Kounter Menu
Kounter Restaurant exterior in Rock Hill, showcasing its modern and inviting storefront.
Chef Rob of Kounter Restaurant in Rock Hill SC, highlighting the culinary talent behind the restaurant.
Kounter Restaurant interior in Rock Hill SC, featuring its stylish counter and intimate dining space.
The Vibe
Kounter retains elements of its past life as a five and dime, most notably the original counter and stools, now stylishly updated for a contemporary feel. The space is intimate, so reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or to avoid wait times.
6. Cibi Cibi
Location: Winthrop Area – @ Slow Play Brewing, 274 Columbia Ave, Rock Hill, SC
Cibi Cibi elevates the food truck experience in Rock Hill to a whole new level. Often hailed as the best food truck in town, Cibi Cibi is known for its incredible burgers, crispy Brussels sprouts, and seriously delicious wings. Conveniently located outside Slow Play Brewing, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite craft beer alongside top-notch food truck fare. Their Taco Tuesdays are a local favorite, but be prepared for menu variations – Cibi Cibi keeps things exciting with rotating specials. It’s truly amazing how much culinary creativity and deliciousness comes from this single truck.
Cuisine:
Food Truck, Burgers, Sandwiches, American
Top Menu Recommendations:
You absolutely must try the Classic Cibi Cibi burger. This double patty masterpiece is a cheesy, melty delight loaded with caramelized onions. It’s a burger that dreams are made of.
They are also famous for their fried Chicken Sandos, but be mindful of the heat levels – they don’t hold back on spice! Choose your heat level wisely and enjoy the flavor.
Menu: Cibi Cibi Menu
Cibi Cibi food truck in Rock Hill, showcasing its vibrant and mobile kitchen.
Cibi Cibi restaurant setup in Rock Hill, indicating its location alongside Slow Play Brewing.
Cibi Cibi restaurant sign in Rock Hill SC, branding its name and food truck identity.
The Vibe
Cibi Cibi is a food truck, so the vibe is all about casual outdoor dining. Grab your food to go, relax on the patio at Slow Play Brewing, or head inside Slow Play to eat and enjoy the brewery atmosphere. The patio is dog-friendly, so bring your furry friend along for dinner. Benefit from the live music and events often happening at Slow Play for added entertainment during your meal.
7. The Pump House
Location: Riverwalk – 575 Herron’s Ferry Rd., Rock Hill, SC 29730
The Pump House is undeniably the most upscale dining destination in Rock Hill. This unique restaurant, transformed from a former industrial pump house, is now a stunning five-story architectural marvel offering breathtaking views of the Catawba River. Diners can savor their meals and drinks across multiple levels, both indoors and outdoors. The Pump House boasts an extensive wine list and a creative cocktail menu filled with Instagram-worthy drinks.
Cuisine:
Southern Inspired Fine Dining
Top Dish Recommendations:
The Shrimp and Anson Mills Grits are a timeless classic, and The Pump House prepares it to perfection.
The Blackened Tenderloin Cobb Salad is a delightful and sophisticated salad, with a honey balsamic dressing adding a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory tenderloin.
Menu: The Pump House Menu
The Pump House Restaurant exterior in SC, showcasing its unique architectural design and riverfront location.
The Pump House Restaurant building in Rock Hill SC, highlighting its multi-level structure and scenic views.
The Pump House Restaurant sign in Rock Hill SC, clearly marking its upscale dining establishment.
The Vibe
The Pump House exudes an upscale, dimly lit, and intimate atmosphere, perfect for special occasions or a sophisticated night out. While the dress code is relaxed, it’s a place where you’ll feel more comfortable dressing to impress. The ambiance is elegant and classy without being overly pretentious, creating a welcoming environment for a refined dining experience.
8. Jasmine Grill
Location: Cherry Road – 2476 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
You’ve likely driven past Jasmine Grill countless times – make sure your next drive includes a stop. This restaurant offers some of the most authentic Mediterranean food in Rock Hill. The menu is extensive, portions are generous, and there’s a wide array of side dishes to choose from. Jasmine Grill also offers family-style platters, perfect for sharing.
Cuisine:
Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Highly Recommended Dishes:
The Chicken Shawarma plate is a must-try, paired with Baba Ganoush and a side salad featuring a refreshing minty flavor and light dressing.
Alternatively, try the Kafta Kebabs with Tapoleh salad and soup for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Menu: Jasmine Grill Menu
Jasmine Grill Restaurant exterior in Rock Hill SC, showing its accessible location on Cherry Road.
Jasmine Grill Restaurant interior in Rock Hill, displaying its clean and casual dining area.
Jasmine Grill sign in Rock Hill SC, advertising its Mediterranean cuisine.
The Vibe
Housed in a building that formerly served as a Del Taco, Jasmine Grill retains a fast-food building aesthetic. However, upon entering, you’ll immediately notice the exceptional cleanliness and inviting aromas. The open kitchen is visible from the dining area and is impeccably maintained. Booths and tables fill the space, and the steady stream of customers is a testament to its popularity.
9. Charanda
Locations: Dave Lyle – 2476 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732 and Newport – 4811 Old York Rd Ste 101, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Rock Hill locals are passionate about their Mexican restaurants, and choosing a favorite can be a sensitive topic. While Rock Hill boasts several excellent Mexican restaurants, Charanda stands out as a top choice for many. If you’re undecided, order their Ultimate Margarita – it might just sway your opinion. Even if you’re watching your calorie intake, it’s hard to resist the chips, salsa, and their addictive ranch dip. For a truly indulgent meal, try the Fajitas Charanda, a sizzling platter piled high with steak, shrimp, chicken, and chorizo. With two convenient locations in town, there’s no excuse not to enjoy Charanda.
Cuisine:
Mexican
Must-Order Menu Items:
The Gringo Dip, Birria Tacos, Arroz Con Pollo, and Chimichangas are all highly recommended and consistently delicious choices.
Menu: Charanda Menu
Charanda Restaurant exterior in Rock Hill, featuring its vibrant and colorful facade.
Charanda Restaurant interior in South Carolina, showing its spacious and festive dining area.
Charanda Restaurant sign in Rock Hill SC, advertising its authentic Mexican cuisine.
The Vibe
Charanda offers the classic strip mall Mexican restaurant vibe – vibrant, tiled interiors, long booths, and ample seating, ensuring minimal wait times. Outdoor tables are also available.
10. The Dixie Pig
Location: Celanese Area – 2007 Celanese Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
For BBQ lovers, The Dixie Pig is a Rock Hill institution. If you appreciate great BBQ, you likely already know about The Dixie Pig, widely recognized as Rock Hill’s favorite BBQ joint. They offer all the BBQ classics, from tender pulled pork to flavorful ribs and brisket, along with all the traditional Southern fixings you crave.
Cuisine:
Barbeque, Southern
Don’t Miss These Menu Items:
Stick to the classics and order the pulled pork BBQ sandwich or plate. For brisket enthusiasts, the chopped Brisket is a must-try. Pair your BBQ with their BBQ Hash and creamy Mac & Cheese for the perfect Southern BBQ feast.
Menu: Dixie Pig Menu
The Dixie Pig Restaurant exterior in Rock Hill, showing its classic BBQ joint facade.
The Dixie Pig Restaurant interior in South Carolina, highlighting its casual and rustic BBQ atmosphere.
The Dixie Pig Restaurant sign in Rock Hill SC, clearly marking its BBQ specialty.
The Vibe
The Dixie Pig is a quintessential divey BBQ joint, located next to a laundromat – a setting that many BBQ aficionados consider a hallmark of authenticity.
11. NC Noodle Bar
Location: Cherry Road – 2365 Cherry Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29732
While Rock Hill has a diverse Asian dining scene, NC Noodle Bar is a standout that shouldn’t be missed. Their Drunken Noodles, Basil Fried Rice, and Pad Thai are consistently excellent and highly recommended. You can customize the spice level to your preference. Guests appreciate the generous portions and friendly service.
Cuisine:
Asian, Thai
Top Menu Choices:
The Basil Fried Rice is a personal favorite, and the Chicken Pad Thai is another excellent choice. With a wide variety of options, it’s hard to go wrong at NC Noodle Bar.
Menu: NC Noodle Bar Menu
NC Noodle Bar exterior in Rock Hill, showcasing its unassuming storefront.
NC Noodle Bar interior in South Carolina, showing its clean and functional dining space.
NC Noodle Bar sign in Rock Hill SC, advertising its Asian cuisine.
The Vibe
NC Noodle Bar offers a straightforward and unassuming dining environment. The space is clean and functional, with a mix of low and high tables, as well as a bar area. Outdoor seating is available but rarely utilized.
12. Empire Pizza
Locations: Celanese – 1405 Riverchase Blvd, Rock Hill, SC 29732 and Newport – 4811 Old York Rd STE 106, Rock Hill, SC 29732
Empire Pizza is more than just a pizza place; it’s a versatile restaurant with a comprehensive menu. Beyond pizza, they offer salads, wings, calzones, sandwiches, meatballs, pasta, wraps, and more. For those seeking low-carb or gluten-free options, Empire Pizza offers a pizza bowl – all the pizza toppings without the crust – as well as gluten-free crust options.
Cuisine:
Pizza, Italian-American
Top Menu Picks:
For pizza lovers, the Two Brothers Supreme is a must-try. Alternatively, the Greek Salad is an excellent and refreshing choice. A popular combination is a small salad paired with a slice of pizza or wings. Don’t miss their meatballs, which come with two delicious garlic knots.
Menu: Empire Pizza Menu
Empire Pizza exterior in Rock Hill, showcasing its casual and family-friendly facade.
Empire Pizza interior in South Carolina, showing its lively and bar-centric atmosphere.
Empire Pizza sign in Rock Hill SC, clearly advertising its pizza and bar offerings.
The Vibe
Empire Pizza has the feel of a pizza place connected to a lively bar. It can get quite crowded and boisterous later in the evening, especially with their popular music bingo nights. If you’re looking for a quiet conversation, it’s advisable to call ahead and check their event schedule. Seating options include booths along the walls, high tables in the bar area, and a spacious patio at the Celanese location.
13. Common Market
Location: Downtown Rock Hill – 161 West Main St., Rock Hill, SC 29730
The arrival of Common Market in Rock Hill was met with considerable excitement, and for good reason. This unique spot is truly exceptional, from its impressive beer selection to its outstanding deli. Common Market serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. They offer excellent vegan and vegetarian options alongside a variety of meat dishes.
Cuisine:
American, Deli, Market
Top Menu Selections:
The Dilworth Scandal sandwich, featuring roasted turkey, brown sugar bacon, cider-braised onions, and firecracker sauce on ciabatta, is a standout. Alternatively, try the Pimpin’ D, a delicious combination of pimento cheese, bacon, and tomato on sourdough. In reality, everything on the menu is worth trying!
Menu: Common Market Menu
Common Market exterior in Rock Hill, showcasing its eclectic and inviting storefront.
Common Market interior in South Carolina, showing its bright and uniquely decorated space.
Common Market sign in Rock Hill SC, advertising its deli and market offerings.
The Vibe
Common Market is bright, unique, and full of character. A whimsical white rabbit mural adorns the back wall, and the space is filled with a diverse mix of chairs and tables. A great outdoor area provides a perfect setting for enjoying your meal. For a complete experience, grab a coffee at Two Scoops next door before breakfast at Common Market, or enjoy their homemade ice cream for dessert after your meal.
