Dining, a highlight of any vacation, is particularly fun in North Augusta where the offerings include an old-fashioned drive-in restaurant, a fish camp with farm animals and an authentic Southern barbecue joint.
Here are some of the spots you’ll want to hit on your visit to the city:
Sno-Cap Drive-In – Chow down on burgers, milkshakes and other all-American eats at this 60s-era restaurant offering both indoor seating and drive-in service. The fourth Saturday of each month, the Cap hosts a cruise-in, drawing dozens of antique car lovers for an evening of 50s nostalgia.
Gary’s Hamburgers – Of course, fresh, made-to-order hamburgers are the specialty of the house, but the chicken strips and fried okra are faves, too. If you stop in for breakfast, be sure to order the biscuits.
Old McDonald Fish Camp – This family-owned restaurant is famous for its all-you-can-eat whole fried catfish, flounder and perch and a grits and hush puppies bar that comes complimentary with every dinner. Kids love feeding the owners’ farm animals. The menagerie includes goats, chickens, ducks and peacocks.
DeShawn’s Seafood and Chicken – You’d expect great fried chicken at a Southern diner. You’ll get that here and much more, including crab legs, frog legs, deviled crab, grilled shrimp, bone-in fish and fried alligator bites.
BBQ Barn – The barbecue in this local spot is covered with a house blend of herbs and spices, then hickory-smoked until the meat is caramelized and falling off the bone. The desserts on the menu are mouthwatering, too!
Southbound Smokehouse – This new Riverside Village eatery offers more than just delicious barbecue. It’s a place where you can enjoy live music, a game of cornhole or horseshoes or just hang out with friends.
Manuel’s Bread Café – Enjoy French fare with a Southern twist in this quaint café. French-born Chef Manuel Verney-Carron uses fresh produce from his own organic farm to create his fabulous dishes. His bread and desserts are to die for!
Salt & Marrow Kitchen – Located in the new Crowne Plaza Hotel adjacent to SRP Park, the restaurant offers “farm-to-fire” cuisine in the tradition of the American South. Inspired by the unique history of the region, dishes on the menu showcase local ingredients prepared with modern techniques.