The Viral Firestorm And Hidden Gems: 5 Iconic 'Grills' That Define South Carolina's Dining Scene

As of December 2025, the search term "The Grill South Carolina" has become synonymous with a complex mix of viral controversy and deeply-rooted Southern culinary tradition. While one small-town establishment, the Mill St. Grill in Manning, SC, recently dominated headlines due to a high-profile, resurfaced video incident, the Palmetto State is home to a rich tapestry of local 'grills' that define its unique food landscape. This article dives into the sensational news that captivated the nation while also celebrating the historic and delicious entities that truly represent the state's grilling heritage.

The term 'grill' in South Carolina often refers to a cherished local eatery, a place where Southern comfort food and community history intersect. From the historic districts of Newberry to the small towns of Piedmont, these institutions serve up everything from classic mustard-based BBQ to signature shrimp and grits. Understanding "The Grill South Carolina" requires looking beyond the recent viral story to appreciate the authentic, diverse flavors of the state.

The Viral Firestorm: Mill St. Grill, Manning, SC

The most recent and highly publicized entity associated with the keyword is the Mill St. Grill (sometimes referred to simply as 'The Grill') located in Manning, South Carolina. This establishment was thrust into the national spotlight following the resurfacing of a controversial video.

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The incident, which sparked significant online outrage and backlash, involved the restaurant's owner, Christopher Phillip Wallman Jr., confronting a Black couple over a dispute regarding an order of missing pork chops. While the video itself is undated, its reappearance online in 2024 and 2025 led to widespread discussion about customer service, restaurant ethics, and racial dynamics in the South.

The controversy turned the Mill St. Grill into a focal point for social media debate, overshadowing its local reputation and menu. Owner Christopher Phillip Wallman Jr. faced significant public criticism, highlighting how quickly local business disputes can escalate into major national news stories in the digital age.

A Culinary Tour of South Carolina's Iconic Local Grills and Specialties

To gain true topical authority on "The Grill South Carolina," one must explore the other historic and beloved establishments that serve as cornerstones of their respective communities. These local grills embody the authentic spirit of Southern cooking, offering unique specialties that draw on regional ingredients and traditions.

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1. The Grille on Main (Newberry, SC)

Located in the heart of historic downtown Newberry, SC, the Grille on Main operates out of a building that dates back to the mid-1800s. It has been recognized as a favorite local eatery, especially for lunch.

• Signature Dishes: The restaurant is famous for its Southern favorites, including the rich and creamy Pimento Cheese Burgers, perfectly crispy Country Fried Steak, and their addictive Fried Pickles.
• Atmosphere: The historic setting provides a classic, warm Southern dining experience, making it a staple for both residents and visitors exploring the Newberry County area.

2. Saluda River Grill (Piedmont, SC)

Situated in the historic town of Piedmont, SC, the Saluda River Grill is located along the picturesque Saluda River in a historic, renovated establishment.

• Must-Try Specialties: The menu features high-quality Southern fare. Their starters, such as Onion Petals and Fried Green Tomatoes, are highly recommended. However, the true standout is their version of the classic lowcountry dish: South Carolina stone ground grits topped with sautéed shrimp, garlic, tomatoes, and bacon in a creamy sauce.
• The Setting: The location itself, near the Saluda River, adds a unique, scenic element to the dining experience, distinguishing it from typical roadside grills.

3. The Sharon Grill (Sharon, SC)

A true local institution, The Sharon Grill in Sharon, SC, has been a community favorite for over 40 years. It embodies the classic small-town American restaurant model, focusing on fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes.

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• Menu Highlights: They offer a wide range of American comfort food. Dinner platters include a seasoned Hamburger Steak and Grilled Chicken that can be served blackened, BBQ, or teriyaki style. For appetizers, the Buffalo Shrimp and house-made Pimento Dip are popular choices.
• Breakfast Fame: The restaurant is also known for its specialty 3 Egg Omelets, including "The Donna" (ham, Monterey Jack, and cheddar) and "The Philly" (shaved ribeye, peppers, and provolone).

4. Red Hill Grill (Barnwell, SC)

The Red Hill Grill is located in the heart of Barnwell's historic district. The building itself has a fascinating history, originally serving as a historic drugstore.

• Historical Context: During the restoration process, a hand-painted Coca-Cola advertisement was discovered, adding to the restaurant's nostalgic charm and connection to the region's past.

5. The Village Grill (Abbeville, SC)

Another classic entity in the state's culinary landscape, The Village Grill in Abbeville, SC, is known for its extensive list of specialties, often served with a choice of two traditional Southern "go-alongs" (sides).

The Deep Roots of South Carolina's Grill and Barbecue Culture

The prevalence of the 'grill' concept in South Carolina is inextricably linked to the state's storied BBQ heritage. South Carolina is often argued to be the birthplace of American barbecue, a tradition that began with English settlers bringing pigs to the region in the 17th century.

The Four Pillars of SC BBQ Sauce

South Carolina is unique in that it recognizes four distinct types of barbecue sauce, each tied to a specific region, which speaks to the state's diverse grilling culture:

1. Mustard Sauce: This is the most famous and unique to South Carolina, with its origins clearly traceable to German settlers. It is often referred to as "Carolina Gold."
2. Vinegar-and-Pepper Sauce: Common in the eastern part of the state.
3. Light Tomato Sauce: A vinegar-and-pepper base with a touch of ketchup.
4. Heavy Tomato Sauce: The thick, sweet sauce most common across the rest of the United States.

The culture of grilling is a regular part of life in the state, with many residents eating BBQ at least once a week. This tradition extends beyond pork to include grilled seafood, especially in coastal areas like Charleston, and classic Southern comfort food staples. The influence of Gullah Barbecue also adds a layer of rich, precise culinary science to the state’s grilling masters.

A Network of Culinary Entities

The Grills mentioned—Mill St. Grill, The Grille on Main, Saluda River Grill, The Sharon Grill, Red Hill Grill, and The Village Grill—are part of a broader network of culinary entities that include: Hominy Grill (a historic Charleston institution), Peninsula Grill (Charleston), Sullivan's Metropolitan Grill (Anderson), Carolina Roadhouse, and the popular Swig & Swine BBQ.

In conclusion, while the recent viral story from Manning, SC, brought negative attention to one establishment, the term "The Grill South Carolina" truly represents a multi-faceted culinary tradition. It is a world of historic buildings, regional specialties like Shrimp and Grits, Pimento Cheese, and the famous Carolina Gold mustard sauce, all serving as essential gathering places for Southern comfort food lovers.