Meat-and-Threes in the

Olde English District

When it comes to Southern cooking, South Carolina doesn’t mess around. Sweet tea, cornbread, fried chicken—served up with all the fixins. If you’re exploring the Olde English District and hungry for a home-cooked meal, the region’s “meat-and-threes” have you covered.

What Is a Meat-and-Three?

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a plate of hearty, Southern-style meat with three sides—think fried okra, collards, mac-and-cheese. Whether it’s lunch or supper, you’ll find these spots buzzing with locals, and plates loaded with cornbread or a biscuit, paired with a tall glass of sweet tea.

Some are buffet-style, where you can pile on as much as you want; others offer full service with rotating menus. The Olde English District has plenty to choose from, and you don’t want to miss out. Below are a few to get you started.

The Front Porch

There’s something special about enjoying a home-cooked meal in a cozy, welcoming spot with loved ones. That’s exactly the vibe at The Front Porch—comfort food that reminds you of meals at home. With daily specials and a menu full of fried and grilled favorites, you’re in for a treat.

And no Southern meal is complete without cornbread or a biscuit. Don’t forget the “veggies”—at The Front Porch, which includes mac and cheese, fried green tomatoes and crispy fried squash. Because here, comfort is always on the menu.

Leigh Anne’s Restaurant

Leigh Anne’s has been a local favorite since the 1980s. Its menu offerings include different types of salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, chicken, fish, and other delicious dishes, including meat and vegetable plates. Keep an eye out for the daily special to see what’s hot in the kitchen each day, and be sure to save some room for a slice of pie or fresh cobbler.

Haile Street Grill

Haile Street Grill has been an integral part of Camden since the restaurant first opened in 1928. Known for its traditional breakfasts, fresh salads, and mouthwatering sandwiches, the real star here is the meat-and-three lunch.

With a rotating selection of five to eight different meats daily, you’re sure to find something to crave. Pair your choice with three sides—whether it’s veggies, casseroles, or soups—for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is timeless.

Mary’s Café

Grab lunch or dinner at Mary’s Café in Rock Hill for a taste of home-style cooking. On the menu are several appetizers, salads, sandwiches, and meat-and-three (or two) plates that are offered daily.

Midway BBQ

Don’t let the name fool you. Though Midway BBQ is known for serving some of the finest BBQ in Union County, it also offers several types of meats and sides. (The sweet potato souffle is a crowd-pleaser.) For the true Midway experience, order their iconic beef hash and chicken stew—locals can’t get enough of them. Come hungry, because this Union County spot delivers comfort food at its finest.

Mully’s Restaurant

Known for serving delicious soul food, Mully’s Restaurant is a buffet-style meat-and-three restaurant in Lancaster County. Entreés rotate depending on the day of the week. The buffets can be enjoyed at the restaurant, or if you are in a rush to explore Andrew Jackson State Park or Lindsay Pettus Greenway, take your plate to go. 

Wagon Wheel Restaurant

Wagon Wheel has been winning over hearts (and appetites) since 1978. Locals can’t get enough of the fried squash—sliced and hand-breaded to order, it’s a standout dish. Stop by for daily lunch specials or swing in on Sunday for the buffet. Just one tip: bring cash—this beloved spot doesn’t take cards, but the food is well worth the trip to the ATM.