This is one of Fort Mill's best kept secrets. The food is seasonal and features ingredients from local farms. The quality is exquisite and the flavors are fresh. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Highly recommend this place.
What reviewers say about The Local Dish
What does The Local Dish do?
The Local Dish is a family-owned and operated restaurant located on Main Street in Fort Mill, SC, serving traditional Southern food with a modern twist. Across the sample of reviews shown, customers most often describe the food positively, with several calling it delicious, fresh, and well-prepared. Some reviewers also note friendly staff and a cozy atmosphere.
What are the most common complaints about The Local Dish?
Based on the critical reviews on file, the most common complaints involve poor service experiences and disappointing food quality. Critical reviewers wrote about unkind or unhelpful staff, long waits for orders, and food that was bland, undercooked, or overpriced. A few critical reviewers also described feeling unwelcome due to rigid rules and limited menu flexibility.
AI-generated from reviews on this page. Verify anything important with the company directly.
Service was good...small but cozy...menu was small but food was good. Had the nachos app and the pork belly app...both very tasty. Grilled shrimp po boy and the chicken and waffles were good...the salads were large and fresh. We enjoyed the food and the visit.
First time here. The food was delicious. I had the PLT with Fried Green Beans. My husband had the Local Dish Burger and Fries. Our server was very nice. I liked everything about the style of the place too. We got there about 8:15 and were seated right away. The place was crowded so it was a little loud in there. It takes a while to get your food which is fine. You have time to visit a bit. As soon as we left I called someone to highly recommend the place.
Fantastic food and amazingly warm service. Loved the atmosphere and can't wait to return and try more things on the menu!
Great comfort food, excellent meatloaf, shrimp and grits, also yummy pork belly.
Great place and great food. The people are always a pleasure to deal with.
Everything was great. Food, service, decor, location.
We had Local Dish cater a party for us and they did a great job. All of the food was delicious and got rave reviews from all in attendance. The bacon wrapped scallops and carmelized pear and brie crustini were at the top of my list!
Great food and always busy for lunch so go before noon.
Great lunch, there were 5 of us and it was 5 for 5. 3 toasted pimento cheese with bacon and tomato on sourdough bread, 1 hamburger deluxe and one veggie sandwich, all were great. Sides were good and generous. Iced tea soda and water flowed freely. We often drive past on Main Street in Fort Mill, SC on our way to or from Florida to North Carolina but never stop. Made the best choice today.
Came in for a pickup order and everything was at the bar waiting on me. Was happy to see masked employees. They were polite and courteous. Will return again to try more of their menu.
Sooooo soooooo good! I ve been several times and everything is always excellent. The fried green tomatoes are one of my favorites. Go in and give them a try. You will not be disappointed.
One of the best in Fort Mill...love that it is in town. Both service and food are good each time we go.
Wow! 5+ stars. Great atmosphere and terrific food. The menu and choices are small enough that you can make a decision, yet you can t because it all looks good. We will be coming back many times over.
Another update. This time we went for dinner! We went easy because there s usually a line out the door. We sat with no wait, but noticed the place was a bit stuffy / hot (it was 93 degrees outside), but still fans were running. The appetizer came out beautifully - we had ordered the Pork Belly. For dinner we ordered the Scallops and I had the Shrimp Pasta. Both were terrific. The shrimp pasta is a bit on the spicy side since the sauce is cooked with Chili peppers. But the flavors of the artichoke and the linguini pasta (al dente) is by far one of the best. My wife s risotto (which comes with the scallops) was also one is the best around this area. This places continues to be on my top 10 favorite restaurants in the Greater Charlotte area.
Oh my.... I am so full I can't move. Pork nachos are great. Scallops yummmm.... Doughnuts pudding closed the deal. Service was wonderful. Someone roll me out of here. Thanks sweeties for sharing this great meal with me.
Unique dishes made with fresh ingredients in a homey atmosphere and a courteous staff.
The waiter Randy was very nice and the food was amazing.
Fantastic southern food. Shrimp and grits are better than anything I've had in Savannah or Charleston at any price
Ate there last night. Had a hostess that looked like she hated her job. The waitress was somewhat efficient. The food was poor and the choices were rather limited. I had an $18 plate of Country Style Steak that was akin to an over-sized Hungry Man Dinner. It was rather small and bland. The wife had the Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf. My mashed potatoes had a thicker consistency than the meatloaf and the bacon was almost raw. It was a rather poor outing. Wished we went to the Improper Pig or Town Tavern.
Great fried spinach. Good shrimp pasta. When we visit from Orlando on our drive north this is our go-to place.
We have been going to Local Dish for years, and have never, in our numerous trips, ever been let down by the food or the service. Adam, behind the bar, is an absolute rock star! His drinks are delicious and not to be missed. By far the best dish on the menu is the Chicken Pot Pie. I know - Pot Pie? Really? But yes! It is hands down the best thing I've ever eaten! Be sure to get there early enough to try it, as they do sell out on a busy Friday or Saturday night. Thank you to everyone at Local Dish, both front and back of house, for always giving us an exceptional meal!
We live nearby and never stopped in until recently. Truly a hidden gem, excellent food, atmosphere, and staff.
I have been here five times and each time was excellent. My favorite dish is the shrimp and grits and I always add the fried green beans. I'm from Texas with a strong cajun background. Wish I knew about this dish way before I settled here in Fort Mill.
Had a pulled pork Nacho appetizer. Was So different and very good
great experience here. The food is top notch for the area. The quality of the food is something I'd expect in a big city at a high price restaurant.
The prices are very reasonable, food is fresh, and menu is great.
Definitely check this one out.
First time dining at this restaurant this evening with another couple. The staff were wonderful. Our waitress gave me some suggestions. Food was absolutely delicious. The dessert was out of this world. Donut bread pudding with fresh whipped cream and blueberries. Do yourself a favor and try this restaurant out.
Great local spot good food friendly friendly service always a hit.
Was looking forward to dining here with a friend of mine today. Was greeted by a friendly server, however when my friend tried to order something that was not paired together on the menu (although clearly both items were sold at the restaurant), she was denied. There was no willingness from the server nor the "manager" to explain the decision, the response was just "no, we will not be able to do that". It was actually quite rude of the manager not to even come to the table to try to explain why he was unwilling to be flexible (even though she was willing to pay extra to be accommodated). We decided to go to another restaurant in Fort Mill called the Flip Side Cafe and really enjoyed ourselves! The food was phenomenal and so was the service. Unfortunately, we will not be back at Local Dish.
Note to management: If you are unwilling to accommodate your customers' varied dietary needs or requests, you need to explain politely WHY you are denying their request and offer other ways to make sure that they are satisfied and able to order from your menu.
We love Local Dish. The menu is different than most of the other local restaurants so it is fun to eat there and the food tastes homemade. You have to try their deep fried green beans! Highly recommend.
Rude, Unfriendly, A Very Diciplined Atmosphere. Customer Service Lacking. 6 diners 3 of which were kids 3 adults split apart because staff would not put two tables together there were 3 4 tops empty. Waitress very rude. Why pay for agravation? Dine where you are appreciated.
Been many times. Food is always good. Great specials. Fresh food!
#1 in Fort Mill! Your mouth will dance with delight! I have ate most items and always satisfied. Every time I recommend this place I am always thanked! Local foods from the local dish! The general manager Josh Grun always makes us feel welcome!
Just visited The Local Dish again and they tweaked the menu. The blueberry addition to the chicken and waffles was a nice addition.
One of the best restaurants in Fort Mill!!! Everything on the menu is excellent. The fish specials are always great and the pimento cheese burger is awesome. Friendly service. It does get busy but busy is good.
Casual dining experience in beautiful downtown Fort Mill. The service and the food were excellent! The food was brought to our table quickly. Everyone loved their choices. The fried chicken and waffles were cooked perfectly. The chicken was moist on the inside and crispy on the outside. The pulled pork nachos were seasoned perfectly and paired with a tasty pico de Gallo. The fried green beans did not disappoint either. The shrimp and grits was a perfect blend of creole and southern. My dad is an excellent condition from Louisiana and my mom from Charleston SC. I have tasted award winning cuisine from them both (well...award winning in my eyes but certainly raved about by all who tried their cooking). So needless to say, many have tried but not come close to what I have had. This dish was spot on! Only reason I gave 4 stars instead of 5 was because I didn't get to enjoy all of it (side note...manager took care of the issue immediately). Oh, almost forgot to mention the crispy spinach. If you have a sandwich, this would be a great pairing. I will certainly visit again. Enjoy!
Love this place! My husband had the new menu item, the Filet and it was delicious. I of course had the shrimp and grits. We got the sausage gravy dip with chips it was good but needed more flavor. Pretty bland. Next time I'm getting the new menu item, crab cakes!
Charming local spot! First time here and we will definitely be back. Great service, delicious food and cozy atmosphere. Had the salmon....great!
John, Adam and Paige were fantastic to our party of three. The hummus was delicious and the platter was beautifully displayed. I had the shrimp and grits for lunch. Best choice I could have made. The grits were nice and creamy, no clumps. The shrimp were good sized and a very good amount was on the plate! I will be coming back!!
Delicious meal. I feel lucky to have this great place only a walk away.
Very tasty...seared scallops were good, interestingly good flavors...hanger steak , great visual presentation, combination of complimentary herb,spice seasoning
What a great little find tucked away in downtown Fort Mill. There was a 30 min wait on a Saturday during a festival, which wasnt bad at all. We will definitely go back.
Great food !! friendly , prompt staff. Definitely recommend you Go try it.
Excellent, fresh food. Great service, charming atmosphere, great cocktails. Love this restaurant!
Absolutely wonderful. This is a small place in downtown Fort Mill with limited seating, but a great home grown country type atmosphere. The food is amazing! We got fried green bean appetizer, chicken and waffles, fish po boy (local catfish), and donut bread pudding; all deserving of 5 stars. A decent sized bar is inside also serving wine, liquor, and beer. Definitely check this place out.
We had the Local Dish burger, and it was delicious. The server was friendly and service was great!
The homemade hummus and fried green beans were excellent.
Had the shrimp po boy and it was excellant. Very tasty. Did grilled shrimp.
Great farm fresh Southern food. I have never been disappointed!
Local Dish Burger! My husband ordered this. I could not help myself from eating half his meal. Pimento cheese on a Burger is so good. (Never said healthy... )
Delicious shrimp pasta dish,....only 4 shrimp in it though.
Quaint w/ good customer service. Will go to again
Great little cafe. Should definitely try the Salmon. Great service, great food.
Grouper with Risotto mixed with spinach and lobster and truffle sauce was outstanding. Service is impeccable. Food is always fresh and never had a bad experience here. Can't go wrong having dinner here. Love
Amazing wings, okra, meatloaf, and gumbo! Very very impressed with all food ordered and the service!
Today, 2/1/19 I found a nasty, wet brown paper towel in my salad. The nasty, brown wet paper towel was in between the salad. I ate some of the salad and went for a second helping and on my fork was a large nasty, brown wet paper towel.
The manager offered me more food and I declined. I will never eat at the Local Diah Restaurant in Fort Mill, SC and that was my first and last time visiting that place. Nor will I ever recommend that place for food. They have a poor health rating from my perspective.
excellent shrimp and grits wonderful service good bang for the buck and the chocolate chess pie was delicious
Our favorite local place for a great meal every time!
I'd love to post about their delicious meals but they do seasonal menus and it may be gone! But if you see lamb shank, or butternut squash gnocchi, or bacon wrapped scallops....Order two of each. Aside from specifics, this is a great place. Great food, great cocktails, intimate seating, and again food is amazing. Go often!
Just Fantastic! The quaint atmosphere, friendly staff, and remarkable food quality are a welcome treat to Fort Mill. I work downtown and stop in at least 3 times a week and I never get tired of eating here. Whether it's meeting with a client, grabbing a quick lunch, or having a fun dinner with the family, Local Dish has always impressed.
Fantastic food, with a fun menu and a great drink selection!
Local Dish - is a very yummy spot to get great local, fresh food. This is a great farm to table place and I love that I can take my children and know they are eating food that is not processed. I love the scallops!
Love the place, it's simple decor hides the true beauty of the fresh mouthwatering dishes that change with the season. They are creative and authenticly unique. Great for any ocassion.
Great place to eat. Service was excellent. Dishes are original and very, very good. I can highly recommend Local Dish.
Visited Local Dish for the first time to have my weekly lunch date with a friend. We were nicely greeted upon arrival. However, when we inquired about a menu substitution of two items that are clearly on their menu, I was flat out told no. I went ahead and ordered something else which was cheaper than what I originally came to order. At any rate, we asked the waitress if she could ask 'why' the two substitution options weren't possible and she dismissed us with a huge smile. There was no real effort to attempt to make me, the paying customer, whole in the situation. We were met with a 'deal with it' attitude but of course accompanied with a smile. II was very disappointed with the apparent disregard and lack of value shown to us as paying customers. We politely requested that our orders be canceled and left for another establishment that appreciated our patronage.
The food here was absolutely delicious. The server's were tending to the customer every need. Great to go at anytime. You'll make part of your weekly if not a must each month
Enjoyed the grilled chicken sandwich with pears-so good! The cole slaw was very creamy. It was a great combination! Hope to get back soon
Amazing food! The chicken and waffles are the best I've ever had. Service is very fast and the staff is genuinely polite and friendly.
Delicious lunch, loved the crispy spinach side! Friendly, prompt service. Will definitely be back for dinner next time.
Delish food, quick and friendly servers, a nice comfortable atmosphere. We have dined here several times. This will be a regular for us.
Amazing food. Reasonably priced. Friendly staff. Our go-to place in Fort Mill!
Great menu, great lil cozy atmosphere. The decor & feel Really reminded me of a restaurant you would see in my home state in VT. But with a southern flare in the food. Would like to check it out again & try more of the menu for sure. Will return! : )
This was a delightful dining experience. Some of the best food I have had in a long time!
I used to work at this location as a hostess and I completely love all of the staff and the food is to die for! Will definitely be visiting soon, one of the best spots in fort mill
I have never once been disappointed in any meal I've had at Local Dish. The staff is always friendly and attentive.
Fun local place that is definitely worth visiting. Had lunch here and it was quite crowded at noon. Food was good although definitely some pricey items.
Their Brussel sprouts appetizer is amazing. The portions are huge!
This place is my Cheers. Good food cooked and served by people I love.
News
No news yet. This is where the business shares its own updates and press.
Photos
No photos yet. Photos shared by reviewers will show up here.
Widgets
Get the widget for your site →About The Local Dish
Local Dish a family-owned and operated restaurant located on Main Street in Fort Mill, SC. Come enjoy our traditional Southern food with a modern twist.
The Local Dish is a family-owned and operated restaurant located on Main Street in Fort Mill, SC. The restaurant has been serving traditional Southern food with a modern twist for years, and it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The Local Dish prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes that are both satisfying and healthy. The menu features classic Southern favorites like fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato pie. But the chefs at The Local Dish also put their own spin on these classics by adding unexpected ingredients or cooking techniques.
One of the most popular dishes at The Local Dish is the fried chicken sandwich. This sandwich features crispy fried chicken breast topped with homemade pickles, slaw, and spicy mayo served on a brioche bun. It's the perfect combination of savory and spicy flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Another must-try dish at The Local Dish is the shrimp and grits. This dish features plump shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce served over cheesy grits with bacon bits sprinkled on top. It's comfort food at its finest!
In addition to its delicious food, The Local Dish also offers an extensive drink menu featuring craft beers from local breweries as well as signature cocktails made with fresh juices and herbs.
The atmosphere at The Local Dish is warm and inviting with rustic decor that pays homage to its Southern roots. Whether you're looking for a casual lunch spot or a cozy dinner destination, this restaurant has something for everyone.
But don't just take our word for it! Customers rave about their experiences at The Local Dish on review sites like Yelp and Google Reviews. Many praise the friendly staff who go above-and-beyond to make sure every guest feels welcome while others rave about how flavorful each dish tastes.
If you're looking for an authentic taste of Southern cuisine in Fort Mill, SC then look no further than The Local Dish! With its commitment to using fresh ingredients combined with innovative cooking techniques - this family-owned restaurant truly stands out from other dining options in town!
- Website
- localdishinc.com
- Phone
- (803) 547-2201