The best restaurants in Aiken

35 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 35 places · showing the latest additions first

Craving something light, crunchy, or fully loaded? Tokyo Grill(Aiken) does fresh specialty rolls with bold sauces, hot hibachi favorites,…

3555 Richland Ave W #154

Craving something light, crunchy, or fully loaded? Tokyo Grill(Aiken) does fresh specialty rolls with bold sauces, hot hibachi favorites, and garlic parmesan wings, plus sides like seaweed salad and fried okra. Fast, friendly, and made to order...

From the Aiken newsletter, September 5, 2026

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The Legends Grille keeps it relaxed for Aiken folks, whether you’re sliding in after a round for a cold beer and a snack or meeting friends…

555 Highland Park Dr SW

The Legends Grille keeps it relaxed for Aiken folks, whether you’re sliding in after a round for a cold beer and a snack or meeting friends for an easy, low-key dinner. Think comfortable vibes, unfussy plates, and the kind of spot you claim as your regular.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 8, 2026

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Craving a low-effort dinner this week that still tastes like Sunday at grandma’s? Soul & Seafood House does shrimp, soups, stacked…

3553 Richland Ave W Ste 104

Craving a low-effort dinner this week that still tastes like Sunday at grandma’s? Soul & Seafood House does shrimp, soups, stacked sandwiches and desserts with Southern swagger, and they make it easy with speedy online ordering for delivery or takeout so you can keep the couch groove going.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Five Guys

Restaurants

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

1909 Whiskey Rd

Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.

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Hibachi & Wings

Restaurants

Craving crispy wings and hibachi in one easy pick? Hibachi & Wings leans into the fun with saucy, from-mild-to-fiery wings and…

246 E Gate Dr

Craving crispy wings and hibachi in one easy pick? Hibachi & Wings leans into the fun with saucy, from-mild-to-fiery wings and hot-off-the-grill hibachi plates, all built for quick takeout or delivery when dinner needs cheering up... or when you refuse to wash another pan.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken keeps it local with all meat smoked in house, house made sauces, and the kind of live music nights that sneak…

222 The Alley SW

Southbound Smokehouse- Aiken keeps it local with all meat smoked in house, house made sauces, and the kind of live music nights that sneak up on your week. Need to feed a crowd? Their catering and private event options make you look like you planned it all along.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 1, 2026

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When you want burgers that mean it, wings that don’t mess around, and a cozy local-hangout vibe with TVs everywhere, Grumpy's Sports Pub is…

216 E Gate Dr

When you want burgers that mean it, wings that don’t mess around, and a cozy local-hangout vibe with TVs everywhere, Grumpy's Sports Pub is the move. Catch the game, crush some nachos or a stacked club, and let the beer selection handle overtime.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 14, 2026

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Whiskey Alley

Restaurants

Whiskey Alley nails the downtown hangout vibe with Chef Chad's creative, daily-changing plates that swing from smoked trout dip to a Royale…

227 The Alley SW

Whiskey Alley nails the downtown hangout vibe with Chef Chad's creative, daily-changing plates that swing from smoked trout dip to a Royale with Cheese, plus crisp salads and shareables.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.

151 Bee Ln

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas.

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Whether you need a quick breakfast or a laid-back lunch, What's Cookin' Downtown serves fresh-cooked comfort at hand-made tables and sends…

123 Laurens St NW B

Whether you need a quick breakfast or a laid-back lunch, What's Cookin' Downtown serves fresh-cooked comfort at hand-made tables and sends you home stocked from The Shop with casseroles, full dinners, soups, salads, desserts and even "TV" dinners. They also cater everything from business lunches to receptions.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Metro Diner

Restaurants

Local diner chain serving classic American breakfast & lunch fare in a warm atmosphere.

1944 Whiskey Rd #101

Local diner chain serving classic American breakfast & lunch fare in a warm atmosphere.

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When the group can’t pick between sushi vibes, hibachi cravings, or classic tacos and burritos, Emperador Asian-Mex has it all under one…

2645 Whiskey Rd #116

When the group can’t pick between sushi vibes, hibachi cravings, or classic tacos and burritos, Emperador Asian-Mex has it all under one roof. Easy pick for a midweek reset, big flavors, zero arguing about cuisine... just pass the guac and keep everyone happy.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 30, 2026

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WingPlace Aiken

Restaurants

With family-friendly sports bar vibes, WingPlace Aiken turns out boneless, crispy, or classic wings, plus burgers and salads, with beer,…

732 E Pine Log Rd

With family-friendly sports bar vibes, WingPlace Aiken turns out boneless, crispy, or classic wings, plus burgers and salads, with beer, wine, and cocktails to match. Online ordering keeps weeknights easy, and their catering handles parties so you can just show up and cheer.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Officially the largest pool room in the Southeast, Rack and Grill III gives you 18,000 square feet of cue-sport heaven with Diamond tables,…

522 York St NE

Officially the largest pool room in the Southeast, Rack and Grill III gives you 18,000 square feet of cue-sport heaven with Diamond tables, snooker and bumper pool plus a legit restaurant and bar. Roll in this week for leagues, monthly tournaments, or just a solid excuse to sink something besides time.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Whether it’s a weeknight scramble or game-day feast, Ferrando's Italian Pizzeria nails the basics with crispy, flavorful pies, solid…

152 S Aiken Ln

Whether it’s a weeknight scramble or game-day feast, Ferrando's Italian Pizzeria nails the basics with crispy, flavorful pies, solid salads, and mozzarella sticks that disappear fast. Order online for pickup or delivery, or tap their flexible catering when the whole crew shows up hungry.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 21, 2026

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Cozy, casual restaurant serving burger, steaks and other standard dishes alongside cocktails.

1593 Whiskey Rd

Cozy, casual restaurant serving burger, steaks and other standard dishes alongside cocktails.

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Papa Johns Pizza

Restaurants

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

105 Tamil Dr

Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.

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Takosushi

Restaurants

Takosushi blends Asian and Southwestern traditions into inventive, down to earth plates, so you can chase spicy takos with crisp, fresh…

210 The Alley SW

Takosushi blends Asian and Southwestern traditions into inventive, down to earth plates, so you can chase spicy takos with crisp, fresh rolls and feel absurdly pleased with yourself.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 22, 2026

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Buffet-style and family run, Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken nails the essentials with crispy fried chicken, barbecue, and a full lineup of Southern…

4248 Whiskey Rd

Buffet-style and family run, Dukes Bar-B-Que Aiken nails the essentials with crispy fried chicken, barbecue, and a full lineup of Southern sides, plus all-housemade sauces. When you need to feed a crowd, they make parties and catering easy... you just bring the appetite.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 12, 2026

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Neon Fig

Restaurants

Neon Fig is a locally owned, chef-driven spot turning familiar cravings into fun, imaginatively plated dishes from brunch to dinner. Swing…

110 Park Ave SW

Neon Fig is a locally owned, chef-driven spot turning familiar cravings into fun, imaginatively plated dishes from brunch to dinner. Swing by for creative plates, innovative craft cocktails or a bubbly splash of champagne, plus signature coffees that actually wake you up... and yes, they cater and host parties.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 4, 2026

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Eastern Buffet

Restaurants

This week, let Eastern Buffet be the easy yes when the group text can't agree. It’s a no-fuss Chinese buffet with sushi and plenty of…

190 Aiken Mall Dr SW

This week, let Eastern Buffet be the easy yes when the group text can't agree. It’s a no-fuss Chinese buffet with sushi and plenty of seafood, so you can graze, regroup, then return for that sleeper hit you noticed on lap one.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 18, 2026

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The Wildemount

Restaurants

The Wildemount is a cozy, family-owned fine dining spot where steaks, seafood, and other classics get the scratch-made, high quality…

200 Park Ave SW

The Wildemount is a cozy, family-owned fine dining spot where steaks, seafood, and other classics get the scratch-made, high quality treatment.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 11, 2026

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When the hibachi craving hits, Okinawa Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bowl brings sizzling steak and teriyaki chicken combos, plus salmon…

1695 Richland Ave E

When the hibachi craving hits, Okinawa Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bowl brings sizzling steak and teriyaki chicken combos, plus salmon bowls with sweet teriyaki over sushi rice. Solid weeknight save when you want something fast and comforting, not another sad sandwich.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 20, 2026

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In the mood for dinner and a show, but without getting weird? Sukiya Japanese Steak House nails the hibachi right-before-your-eyes vibe,…

226 E Gate Dr

In the mood for dinner and a show, but without getting weird? Sukiya Japanese Steak House nails the hibachi right-before-your-eyes vibe, plus sushi and sashimi that go beyond basics. Pro tip, try a Chef’s Special Roll like the Sukiya Roll or Lion King and call it a weeknight win.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 20, 2026

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Mi Rancho nails the relaxed, kid-friendly vibe and the plates that matter... sizzling fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, quesabirria, and that…

124 Dominion Dr

Mi Rancho nails the relaxed, kid-friendly vibe and the plates that matter... sizzling fajitas, cheesy enchiladas, quesabirria, and that dangerously addictive house special dip, plus refreshing cocktails. Three decades in, it’s still the easy answer when Aiken folks want bold flavors without overthinking dinner.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Casual seafood restaurant featuring oysters and other entrees and cocktails.

224 Park Ave SW

Casual seafood restaurant featuring oysters and other entrees and cocktails.

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New Moon Cafe

Restaurants

New Moon Cafe keeps Aiken running with carefully roasted Arabica beans sourced from Central and South America to the South Pacific, brewed…

116 Laurens St NW

New Moon Cafe keeps Aiken running with carefully roasted Arabica beans sourced from Central and South America to the South Pacific, brewed fresh alongside housemade pastries, soups, and satisfying entrees. It’s upbeat, unfussy, and the kind of spot you swing by once and end up a regular.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Whether you’re chasing a proper espresso, a golden waffle, or a flaky croissant that actually flakes, La Parisienne French Restaurant and…

233 Chesterfield St S

Whether you’re chasing a proper espresso, a golden waffle, or a flaky croissant that actually flakes, La Parisienne French Restaurant and Bakery keeps Aiken happily caffeinated and well fed. Simple French sandwiches and pastry temptations make it the kind of midweek pick-me-up you’ll thank yourself for.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 23, 2026

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Apizza di Napoli®️ is the first and only South Carolina pizzeria certified by AVPN in Naples, serving wood fired pies built on 100% Napoli…

740 Silver Bluff Rd

Apizza di Napoli®️ is the first and only South Carolina pizzeria certified by AVPN in Naples, serving wood fired pies built on 100% Napoli tradition. Family-owned, it’s a dependable local fix... grab a classic pie, a crisp salad, and a scoop of gelato for a simple, spot-on night.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Blue Top Grill

Restaurants

Blue Top Grill keeps it simple in the best way, with juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, crispy fried chicken, and honest-to-goodness sandwiches…

212 Aiken Rd (Graniteville) · ✓ checked Aug 27

Blue Top Grill keeps it simple in the best way, with juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, crispy fried chicken, and honest-to-goodness sandwiches that taste like someone in the kitchen actually cares. When you just need real-deal comfort without the fuss, this spot reliably hits the spot.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 3, 2026

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AnShu Asian Cafe

Restaurants

AnShu Asian Cafe keeps dinner decisions easy with fresh, flavorful Asian dishes for dine-in or quick takeout, plus private parties and…

122 Coach Light Way SW

AnShu Asian Cafe keeps dinner decisions easy with fresh, flavorful Asian dishes for dine-in or quick takeout, plus private parties and catering when your crew gets hungry; they even deliver for groups of 10 or more, which makes team lunches and HOA meetings a lot tastier.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 31, 2026

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MacK’s

Restaurants

MacK’s keeps it simple and tasty with grilled sandwiches, a popular Philly cheesesteak, and waffle fries that vanish faster than office…

159 Laurens St NW

MacK’s keeps it simple and tasty with grilled sandwiches, a popular Philly cheesesteak, and waffle fries that vanish faster than office gossip. Family-run and named for their daughter, it also delivers daily soup-and-sandwich specials and legit vegetarian options when you need a real lunch, not just desk snacks.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 7, 2026

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Pizza Hut

Restaurants

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

1036 York St NE

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

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When Aiken cravings hit, Tasty Wings & Seafood nails the mix of wings, seafood favorites, and Chinese noodles that actually taste like…

651 Silver Bluff Rd

When Aiken cravings hit, Tasty Wings & Seafood nails the mix of wings, seafood favorites, and Chinese noodles that actually taste like dinner plans. Zero fuss, big flavor, and the kind of comfort that makes a midweek feel like you got away with something.

From the Aiken newsletter, August 27, 2026

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The Polo Grounds Cafe serves crepes alongside espresso, coffee and tea, plus bagels, parfaits, smoothies, salads, and specials, making it…

225 Barnwell Ave NW

The Polo Grounds Cafe serves crepes alongside espresso, coffee and tea, plus bagels, parfaits, smoothies, salads, and specials, making it an easy Aiken brunch pick when you want something light, something sweet, or a little of both.

From the Aiken newsletter, September 19, 2026

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