All photos taken by author – Deborah Gilbert
Sumter – Your Guide to Unique Cuisines for 2024
Sumter’s culinary scene is expansive and includes a diverse representation of mouthwatering southern cuisine, as well as international delights.
Sumter is an hour east of Columbia, 1 hour and 45 minutes northwest of Charleston, and 2 hours west of Myrtle Beach. For veterans visiting the area, Shaw AFB is 10 miles from the heart of Sumter.
Our list of unique cuisines is updated regularly to keep you coming back.
Sumter Original Brewery
Sumter Original Brewery in downtown Sumter was a vital part of the revitalization of Sumter. This 30,000 sq ft brewery/restaurant boasts three floors and a 15-barrel brewing system.
We prefer the rooftop for its ambiance, weather excitement, and open viewing of the town below. Regardless of the weather, the rooftop is a fun evening. Accessibility is paramount and the brewery offers an elevator to the rooftop.
They often host live entertainment. Families are welcome. We’ve enjoyed many a Friday evening with a glass of wine, excellent brewery cuisine, listening to the music, and watching the town enjoy the night.
Brubaker’s Cafe and Bakery
A block down the road is Brubaker’s Café and Bakery. They served their first coffee in 2020, in the midst of the Pandemic, and two years later partnered with Naomi and Warner Gift Shop.
Tucked into the heart of this diverse shop, this gem serves locally roasted coffee that’ll perk you right up. Pair it with their unique breakfast lineup or a mouth-watering lunch salad or sandwich. Their healthy cuisine selections will delight you, while your wallet thanks you.
This cozy corner is a tasty ambiance you won’t want to miss!
Palmetto Oyster House
Then, there’s the Palmetto Oyster House. Our first jaunt there was in the midst of a raging rainstorm. Even so, sitting outside undercover had an extra thrill. It’s a lively spot, indoors or out, munching on everything from seafood to burgers.
Incidentally, their signature Southern cuisine zingers like Po’House Alligator Cheesecake, Po’House Shrimp & Grits, and other delightful Southern specialties, are tasty!
Sambino’s European Bistro
Craving something international? Sambino’s European Bistro has got you covered with their German and Italian delights. Under new management since November of 2023,it’s family-owned and includes a delicious sampling from both countries.
The food is authentic cuisine. Our family spent many years in Germany and couldn’t wait to put our stamp of approval on the German dishes!
Customer service is top-notch, and local musicians serenade you.
Willie Sue’s
Don’t skip Willie Sue’s for a southern feast with an upscale twist. Whether it’s their wood-fired flavors or the southern classic cuisine, every bite’s a hit, from crawfish succotash to seafood grits, and other unique upscale choices.
Just a tip: this spot’s always buzzing, including live bands, so maybe call ahead.
Additionally, an EV charging station is at the back of the parking lot.