Food over Clemson, South Carolina
# **A Foodie’s Guide to Clemson: 10 Must-Try Dining Experiences**
Clemson, South Carolina, is more than just a college town—it’s a hidden gem for food lovers. From Southern comfort food to inventive Asian fusion, the local dining scene offers something for every palate. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or a longtime resident, these ten restaurants promise unforgettable meals. Here’s where to eat and what to order.
---
## **1. Loose Change Bar & Grill**
? *349 College Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/loose-change-clemson)
**Vibe:** A laid-back sports bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for game day or a casual night out.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Loose Change Burger** – A juicy, half-pound patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and their signature sauce.
- **Buffalo Chicken Wrap** – Crispy fried chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, wrapped with lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese dressing.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of tortilla chips piled high with chili, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local craft beer—they have a solid selection on tap.
---
## **2. Zen Ramen and Sushi Burrito**
? *1067 Tiger Blvd #30, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/zen-ramen-and-sushi-burrito-clemson)
**Vibe:** A trendy, fast-casual spot blending Japanese and American flavors with Instagram-worthy sushi burritos and rich ramen.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Tonkotsu Ramen** – Creamy pork broth with tender chashu pork, soft-boiled egg, and chewy noodles.
- **Spicy Tuna Sushi Burrito** – A massive seaweed-wrapped roll stuffed with spicy tuna, avocado, cucumber, and crispy tempura flakes.
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, crab, and avocado topped with eel sauce for a sweet-savory bite.
**Pro Tip:** Try their boba tea for a refreshing drink pairing.
---
## **3. Goober’s**
? *614 SC-93, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/goobers-clemson)
**Vibe:** A quirky, nostalgic diner with a retro vibe, serving up hearty Southern classics.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Goober Burger** – A double-stacked cheeseburger with all the fixings, served with crispy fries.
- **Chicken & Waffles** – Golden fried chicken atop a fluffy Belgian waffle, drizzled with syrup.
- **Pimento Cheese Fries** – A Southern twist on loaded fries, smothered in creamy pimento cheese.
**Pro Tip:** Save room for their homemade milkshakes—thick, creamy, and perfect for dessert.
---
## **4. Columbo’s Pizza**
? *203 Pendleton Rd, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/columbos-pizza-clemson)
**Vibe:** A no-frills, family-owned pizzeria with a loyal following for its New York-style slices.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Pepperoni & Mushroom Pizza** – Thin, foldable crust with a perfect balance of cheese and toppings.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and served with marinara for dipping.
- **Meatball Sub** – Juicy meatballs in marinara, topped with melted mozzarella on a toasted roll.
**Pro Tip:** Order by the slice for a quick lunch, or grab a whole pie for game night.
---
## **5. Study Hall Restaurant & Bar**
? *101 College Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/study-hall-restaurant-and-bar-clemson)
**Vibe:** A sleek, modern gastropub with craft cocktails and elevated pub fare.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Truffle Fries** – Crispy fries tossed in truffle oil and parmesan.
- **Study Hall Burger** – Grass-fed beef, bacon jam, and brie on a brioche bun.
- **Bourbon-Glazed Salmon** – Perfectly seared with a sweet and smoky glaze.
**Pro Tip:** Their craft cocktails are a must—try the Clemson Mule (a local twist on the Moscow Mule).
---
## **6. Lao Hu Cheng Asian Bistro**
? *906 Tiger Blvd, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/lao-hu-cheng-asian-bistro-clemson)
**Vibe:** A cozy, authentic spot for Chinese and Thai cuisine with bold flavors.
### **Must-Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and spicy—a classic done right.
- **Pad Thai** – Stir-fried noodles with peanuts, egg, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
- **Szechuan Beef** – Tender beef in a fiery, numbing Szechuan pepper sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for extra spice if you like heat—they don’t hold back.
---
## **7. Backstreets Pub & Grill**
? *102 Earle St, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/backstreets-pub-and-grill-clemson)
**Vibe:** A local dive with great bar food and a fun, rowdy crowd.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Backstreets Wings** – Smoky, crispy, and tossed in your choice of sauce (try the honey mustard BBQ).
- **Philly Cheesesteak** – Loaded with shaved ribeye, peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
- **Bacon Blue Cheese Burger** – A messy, delicious masterpiece.
**Pro Tip:** Happy hour specials make this a great spot for cheap eats and drinks.
---
## **8. Calhoun Corners Restaurant**
? *103 Clemson St, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/calhoun-corners-restaurant-clemson)
**Vibe:** Upscale Southern dining in a historic, charming setting.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Shrimp & Grits** – Creamy stone-ground grits with plump shrimp and a spicy Andouille sauce.
- **Filet Mignon** – Perfectly cooked with a red wine reduction.
- **Bread Pudding** – A warm, custardy dessert with bourbon sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Dress slightly nicer—this is the place for a classy night out.
---
## **9. The Esso Club**
? *129 Old Greenville Hwy, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/the-esso-club-clemson)
**Vibe:** A legendary Clemson sports bar with a divey, historic feel.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Esso Burger** – A classic cheeseburger with all the fixings.
- **Fried Pickles** – Crispy, tangy, and served with ranch.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender, and piled high.
**Pro Tip:** Go on game day for the ultimate Clemson experience.
---
## **10. Spill The Beans Clemson**
? *102 N Clemson Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/spill-the-beans-clemson-2)
**Vibe:** A cozy coffee and ice cream shop with a sweet tooth’s dream menu.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Affogato** – Espresso poured over vanilla ice cream.
- **Cookie Dough Ice Cream** – Chunks of real cookie dough in creamy vanilla.
- **Caramel Latte** – Rich, sweet, and perfect for a caffeine boost.
**Pro Tip:** Their outdoor seating is ideal for people-watching downtown.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
Clemson’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you're craving Southern comfort, Asian fusion, or a perfect pizza slice, these ten spots deliver. So grab a fork (or just your hands) and dig in—you won’t be disappointed.
**Hungry yet?** Go explore, eat well, and savor every bite in Clemson! ?️?
Clemson, South Carolina, is more than just a college town—it’s a hidden gem for food lovers. From Southern comfort food to inventive Asian fusion, the local dining scene offers something for every palate. Whether you're a student, a visitor, or a longtime resident, these ten restaurants promise unforgettable meals. Here’s where to eat and what to order.
---
## **1. Loose Change Bar & Grill**
? *349 College Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/loose-change-clemson)
**Vibe:** A laid-back sports bar with a lively atmosphere, perfect for game day or a casual night out.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Loose Change Burger** – A juicy, half-pound patty topped with cheddar, bacon, and their signature sauce.
- **Buffalo Chicken Wrap** – Crispy fried chicken tossed in spicy buffalo sauce, wrapped with lettuce, tomato, and blue cheese dressing.
- **Loaded Nachos** – A mountain of tortilla chips piled high with chili, cheese, jalapeños, and sour cream.
**Pro Tip:** Pair your meal with a local craft beer—they have a solid selection on tap.
---
## **2. Zen Ramen and Sushi Burrito**
? *1067 Tiger Blvd #30, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/zen-ramen-and-sushi-burrito-clemson)
**Vibe:** A trendy, fast-casual spot blending Japanese and American flavors with Instagram-worthy sushi burritos and rich ramen.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Tonkotsu Ramen** – Creamy pork broth with tender chashu pork, soft-boiled egg, and chewy noodles.
- **Spicy Tuna Sushi Burrito** – A massive seaweed-wrapped roll stuffed with spicy tuna, avocado, cucumber, and crispy tempura flakes.
- **Dragon Roll** – Eel, crab, and avocado topped with eel sauce for a sweet-savory bite.
**Pro Tip:** Try their boba tea for a refreshing drink pairing.
---
## **3. Goober’s**
? *614 SC-93, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/goobers-clemson)
**Vibe:** A quirky, nostalgic diner with a retro vibe, serving up hearty Southern classics.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Goober Burger** – A double-stacked cheeseburger with all the fixings, served with crispy fries.
- **Chicken & Waffles** – Golden fried chicken atop a fluffy Belgian waffle, drizzled with syrup.
- **Pimento Cheese Fries** – A Southern twist on loaded fries, smothered in creamy pimento cheese.
**Pro Tip:** Save room for their homemade milkshakes—thick, creamy, and perfect for dessert.
---
## **4. Columbo’s Pizza**
? *203 Pendleton Rd, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/columbos-pizza-clemson)
**Vibe:** A no-frills, family-owned pizzeria with a loyal following for its New York-style slices.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Pepperoni & Mushroom Pizza** – Thin, foldable crust with a perfect balance of cheese and toppings.
- **Garlic Knots** – Buttery, garlicky, and served with marinara for dipping.
- **Meatball Sub** – Juicy meatballs in marinara, topped with melted mozzarella on a toasted roll.
**Pro Tip:** Order by the slice for a quick lunch, or grab a whole pie for game night.
---
## **5. Study Hall Restaurant & Bar**
? *101 College Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/study-hall-restaurant-and-bar-clemson)
**Vibe:** A sleek, modern gastropub with craft cocktails and elevated pub fare.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Truffle Fries** – Crispy fries tossed in truffle oil and parmesan.
- **Study Hall Burger** – Grass-fed beef, bacon jam, and brie on a brioche bun.
- **Bourbon-Glazed Salmon** – Perfectly seared with a sweet and smoky glaze.
**Pro Tip:** Their craft cocktails are a must—try the Clemson Mule (a local twist on the Moscow Mule).
---
## **6. Lao Hu Cheng Asian Bistro**
? *906 Tiger Blvd, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/lao-hu-cheng-asian-bistro-clemson)
**Vibe:** A cozy, authentic spot for Chinese and Thai cuisine with bold flavors.
### **Must-Order:**
- **General Tso’s Chicken** – Crispy, sweet, and spicy—a classic done right.
- **Pad Thai** – Stir-fried noodles with peanuts, egg, and a tangy tamarind sauce.
- **Szechuan Beef** – Tender beef in a fiery, numbing Szechuan pepper sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Ask for extra spice if you like heat—they don’t hold back.
---
## **7. Backstreets Pub & Grill**
? *102 Earle St, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/backstreets-pub-and-grill-clemson)
**Vibe:** A local dive with great bar food and a fun, rowdy crowd.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Backstreets Wings** – Smoky, crispy, and tossed in your choice of sauce (try the honey mustard BBQ).
- **Philly Cheesesteak** – Loaded with shaved ribeye, peppers, onions, and melted cheese.
- **Bacon Blue Cheese Burger** – A messy, delicious masterpiece.
**Pro Tip:** Happy hour specials make this a great spot for cheap eats and drinks.
---
## **8. Calhoun Corners Restaurant**
? *103 Clemson St, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/calhoun-corners-restaurant-clemson)
**Vibe:** Upscale Southern dining in a historic, charming setting.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Shrimp & Grits** – Creamy stone-ground grits with plump shrimp and a spicy Andouille sauce.
- **Filet Mignon** – Perfectly cooked with a red wine reduction.
- **Bread Pudding** – A warm, custardy dessert with bourbon sauce.
**Pro Tip:** Dress slightly nicer—this is the place for a classy night out.
---
## **9. The Esso Club**
? *129 Old Greenville Hwy, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/the-esso-club-clemson)
**Vibe:** A legendary Clemson sports bar with a divey, historic feel.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Esso Burger** – A classic cheeseburger with all the fixings.
- **Fried Pickles** – Crispy, tangy, and served with ranch.
- **Pulled Pork Sandwich** – Smoky, tender, and piled high.
**Pro Tip:** Go on game day for the ultimate Clemson experience.
---
## **10. Spill The Beans Clemson**
? *102 N Clemson Ave, Clemson, SC 29631*
? [Menu](https://zmenu.com/spill-the-beans-clemson-2)
**Vibe:** A cozy coffee and ice cream shop with a sweet tooth’s dream menu.
### **Must-Order:**
- **Affogato** – Espresso poured over vanilla ice cream.
- **Cookie Dough Ice Cream** – Chunks of real cookie dough in creamy vanilla.
- **Caramel Latte** – Rich, sweet, and perfect for a caffeine boost.
**Pro Tip:** Their outdoor seating is ideal for people-watching downtown.
---
## **Final Thoughts**
Clemson’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. Whether you're craving Southern comfort, Asian fusion, or a perfect pizza slice, these ten spots deliver. So grab a fork (or just your hands) and dig in—you won’t be disappointed.
**Hungry yet?** Go explore, eat well, and savor every bite in Clemson! ?️?
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