MomSkoop
South Carolina knows how to fry chicken right. From the bustling streets of Columbia to the quiet charm of Greenwood, this state serves up some of the crispiest, most flavorful fried chicken you’ll ever taste. Whether you’re a local looking for your next favorite spot or a visitor ready to experience true Southern cooking, these seven restaurants will make your taste buds dance with joy.
1. Bernie’s Chicken – Columbia
Walking into Bernie’s feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of perfectly seasoned chicken fills the air. Located in Columbia’s heart, this family-owned restaurant has been serving crispy, golden chicken for decades.
Each piece comes out steaming hot with a crust that cracks when you bite into it. The secret blend of spices creates layers of flavor that make every bite memorable.
Don’t leave without trying their homemade sides, especially the creamy mac and cheese that pairs beautifully with their signature chicken.
2. Carolina’s Chicken and More – Gaffney
Gaffney’s hidden gem sits quietly on a corner street, but locals know exactly where to find the best chicken in town. Carolina’s Chicken and More lives up to its name with a menu full of Southern comfort foods.
Their chicken boasts an extra-thick coating that stays crunchy even after it cools down. The juicy meat inside practically falls off the bone, making it impossible to eat just one piece.
Try their famous honey butter biscuits alongside your chicken order – they’re fluffy, warm, and absolutely perfect for soaking up any leftover flavor.
3. Yogi Bear’s Honey Fried Chicken – Hartsville
Sweet meets savory at Yogi Bear’s, where honey-glazed fried chicken takes center stage in Hartsville. This playful restaurant combines childhood nostalgia with seriously good food that keeps families coming back week after week.
The honey glaze creates a sticky, sweet coating that balances perfectly with their blend of savory spices. Each bite delivers a unique flavor experience that’s both familiar and exciting.
Kids love the fun atmosphere while parents appreciate the generous portions and reasonable prices that make family dining affordable and enjoyable.
4. Little Howie’s – Aiken
Small in name but big on flavor, Little Howie’s has become Aiken’s favorite spot for no-nonsense fried chicken done right. This cozy restaurant focuses on quality over quantity, preparing each order fresh to perfection.
Their chicken features a light, crispy coating that doesn’t overpower the tender meat underneath. The cooking technique ensures every piece stays moist while achieving that perfect golden-brown color everyone loves.
Regular customers swear by their spicy seasoning option, which adds just enough heat to make your mouth tingle without overwhelming your taste buds completely.
5. Southern Chicken – Surfside Beach
Beach vibes meet Southern comfort at this Surfside Beach favorite, where vacationers and locals gather for exceptional fried chicken just steps from the ocean. The salty sea air somehow makes everything taste even better here.
Their chicken comes out incredibly crispy with a seasoning blend that hints at coastal flavors. The relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for feeding hungry families after long days in the sand and surf.
Order their family pack for beach picnics – the chicken travels well and tastes amazing whether you eat it hot or at room temperature later.
6. The Chicken Basket – Anderson
Anderson’s beloved Chicken Basket has been perfecting their recipe for generations, creating a loyal following that spans multiple families. Their old-school approach to frying chicken produces consistently amazing results every single time.
The secret lies in their pressure-frying technique, which locks in moisture while creating an incredibly crispy exterior. Each piece emerges from the kitchen golden brown and crackling with flavor.
Their traditional sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes complete the experience, offering classic Southern comfort food that feels like a warm hug on your plate.
7. Miss Ann’s Fried Chicken – Greenwood
Greenwood’s Miss Ann’s operates like a Southern kitchen should – with love, patience, and recipes passed down through generations. This charming restaurant treats every customer like family from the moment you walk through the door.
Their chicken showcases a beautifully seasoned crust that shatters when you bite into it, revealing incredibly juicy meat that’s been marinated to perfection. The cooking process takes time, but the results speak for themselves.
Save room for their famous peach cobbler, a local specialty that provides the perfect sweet ending to your fried chicken feast experience.