Finding Good Eats

Don’t ask me what it is that attracts me to certain restaurants, but no matter where I am it’s fun to find good eats in unexpected places without relying on Trip Advisor. They aren’t always fancy and the curb appeal may be lacking, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting to venture in.

Shoot, without continuing to talk about my culinary adventures, I’ll share these found during our recent time in South Carolina. Each had unique character as well as tasty vittles.

This is the Fillin’ Station. OK, with porta potties sitting out front and a somewhat rundown look, some of you might not have stopped. The hubby wasn’t keen on it either, but I was hungry and intrigued by the place.

Inside folks were shooting pool and enjoying midday beers so my interest in stopping could definitely be questioned.

Still not put off, we spotted an outdoor deck. Seated there we had a wonderful view of marsh land that so characterizes South Carolina’s lowcountry.

Looking at the menu, there was no question we had chosen a good place.

I’m crazy about fried oysters and couldn’t resist ordering the po’ boy which hands down is the best ever! Since that first stop we’ve gone back multiple times and have introduced friends who agree that the Fillin’ Station is a special find.

Next up is Harold’s Country Club in Yemassee. At one time it was a filling station and garage and it, too, looks pretty nondescript. Inside, the decor is classic clutter and there is no question about the building’s original purpose.

If what I understood is correct, every night features a different all you can eat buffet. This night it was fried chicken with all the southern fixins that made me think of eating at my grandmother’s! By the time I finished stuffing myself I could hardly walk out of Harold’s! I swooned over the perfectly fried chicken livers and made such a to do over them, I was given a container to take home!

The last find was Gullah Grub which like the other two places seemed a little shabby. By now, however, I had discovered that looks can be deceiving!

Inside lime green walls and shelves were covered with Gullah memorabilia which gave insight to this lowcountry culture.

The menu offered only a few items, but what there was was prepared as it was ordered and served hot right from the kitchen.

Some of the items were bottled for sale, and we left with gumbo and some seasonings.

I was feeling pretty proud of these discoveries only to discover Southern Living had featured an article on Harold’s several years ago. Just this week The Washington Post had an article on Beaufort and to my amazement Gullah Grub on St. Helena Island was the only eatery mentioned. I guess I’m not the only one who likes to stumble on the unexpected!