Dining in Lake Murray
Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Lake Murray in Lexington offers a serene escape with its crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. This man-made reservoir spans over 50,000 acres, providing ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. The area is renowned for its vibrant dining scene, where fresh local ingredients meet Southern hospitality. Whether you’re docking your boat for a meal or driving in from nearby towns, the restaurants here emphasize seafood, steaks, and comfort foods with stunning lake views that enhance every bite.
Momma Rabbit's Nibbles And Sips
Momma Rabbit’s Nibbles And Sips is a beloved family-owned restaurant in Lexington, SC, known for its comforting American and Southern-inspired dishes. Run by eight siblings, it emphasizes fresh, homemade meals in a warm, inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a charming Southern home. Guests rave about the incredible salads, hearty brunches, and innovative take-home frozen suppers that make weeknight dinners a breeze.
Type of Cuisine: American/Southern.
Address: 5082 Sunset Blvd, Lexington, SC 29072.
Phone Number: (803) 356-1330.
Hours: Tuesday to Friday 10:30am–3pm, Saturday and Sunday 9am–3pm (closed Monday).
Daily Specials: Revolving specials featuring fresh seasonal ingredients, including brunch favorites like stuffed French toast and daily soup options.
Antai Asian Dining
Antai Asian Dining brings a fresh twist to Asian fusion cuisine in the Lexington area, offering a menu packed with flavorful dishes like sushi, noodles, and fried rice. This local, family-owned spot focuses on whole health through nourishing foods and a clean, joyous environment, making it a go-to for those seeking balanced and delicious meals. The polished, cozy vibe is perfect for casual lunches or intimate dinners.
Type of Cuisine: Asian Fusion/Japanese.
Address: 5084 Sunset Blvd, Lexington, SC 29072.
Phone Number: (803) 356-0062.
Hours: Monday to Thursday 11:30am–2:30pm and 4:30pm–8:45pm, Friday and Saturday extended hours.
Daily Specials: Lunch specials including soup and salad trios, with options like shrimp fried rice and kids’ entrees for family dining.
Liberty on the Lake
Liberty on the Lake offers upscale-casual dining with a Southern comfort flair and coastal influences, right on the shores of Lake Murray in Irmo. Featuring pub-style favorites like pecan-crusted catfish, wood-fired pizzas, and smash burgers, it’s a family-oriented spot with 48 rotating craft beers and stunning lake views from the patio. Boat up to the courtesy docks for a seamless waterfront experience.
Type of Cuisine: American/Southern Coastal.
Address: 1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063.
Phone Number: (803) 667-9715.
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11am–9pm, Friday and Saturday 11am–10pm.
Daily Specials: Happy Hour daily from 4pm–7pm with drink and appetizer deals; Game Day Menu on Sundays featuring bites perfect for watching sports.
Rusty Anchor
Rusty Anchor in Chapin provides a chef-driven seafood experience with upscale dishes like crab-stuffed flounder and shrimp-and-grits, all enjoyed in a white-tablecloth setting with picturesque Lake Murray views. Paired with its casual counterpart Catfish Johnny’s for tiki-bar vibes and live music, it’s ideal for those seeking both elegance and relaxation by the water. Access via boat at Lighthouse Marina adds to the charm.
Type of Cuisine: Seafood/American.
Address: 1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin, SC 29036.
Phone Number: (803) 749-1555.
Hours: Thursday and Friday 4pm–9pm, Saturday and Sunday 11am–9pm (closed Mon-Wed).
Daily Specials: Seasonal offerings like she-crab soup and fried green tomatoes; Friday oyster roasts and Sunday brunch with items like crab benedict.
SouthShore Grill & Grocery
SouthShore Grill & Grocery in Leesville is a waterfront gem combining American comfort food with coastal touches, serving up catfish wings, shrimp & grits, and the “best burger anywhere around.” Located inside SouthShore Marina with public slips, it’s family-friendly and features a bar, grocery counter, and live music nights, making it a convenient stop for boaters and locals alike.
Type of Cuisine: American/Seafood.
Address: 3106 US-378, Leesville, SC 29070.
Phone Number: (803) 973-5005.
Hours: Grocery open Monday to Tuesday 7am–3pm, Wednesday to Friday 7am onward; Grill varies, open weekends from 10am.
Daily Specials: Lunch specials like Bacon Chipotle Burrito; weekend brunch with items such as Mediterranean Omelets and Breakfast Burgers.
Special Dining Experiences
Around Lake Murray in Lexington, SC, special dining experiences abound, particularly with boat-up access at many waterfront spots like Liberty on the Lake and Rusty Anchor, where you can dock and dine seamlessly. Enjoy live music evenings, seasonal oyster roasts, and happy hours with craft cocktails overlooking the water, creating a unique blend of adventure and gastronomy. For something extraordinary, opt for sunset dinners or weekend brunches that capture the essence of Southern lakeside living, often featuring fresh catches and local brews in a relaxed, scenic setting.