The 2025 Ultimate Guide to the Best Lake Murray, SC Restaurants
This is the 2025 ultimate guide to the best lakefront Lake Murray, South Carolina’s restaurants in Lexington, Gilbert, Batesburg-Leesville Prosperity, Newberry, Chapin and Irmo (over 650 miles of shoreline). I’ve included Google Maps links to help you navigate Lake Murray. If you’re considering a home on the lake, I’m Patrick O’Connor, Team Lead for The #1 Coldwell Banker Team in South Carolina out of the Lexington/Lake Murray office, I live on Lake Murray, and help home buyers and sellers on and around the lake.
Liberty on the Lake
1602 Marina Rd, Irmo, SC 29063
**This is ONE OF Patrick’s Top Pick on Lake Murray
Liberty on the Lake at Marina Bay (1602 Marina Rd, Irmo) is my family’s summer go‑to lunch and dinner spot thanks to its perfect mix of accessibility, atmosphere, and great food and drinks. A quick cruise from Sandy Beach, the restaurant offers courtesy docks and generous slip parking, so you can tie up and walk straight in—even on peak weekends. A 2025 renovation refreshed the airy dining room and lake‑view patio, where pub‑style comfort food shines against one of Lake Murray’s best sunset backdrops. Pair your meal with 48 rotating craft and local brews, a top‑rated Bloody Mary, or anything from the full bar while the kids enjoy the friendly, family‑oriented vibe. Lines move fast with an easy online waitlist, and the lively bar makes any short wait fly by. For lunch, dinner, or drinks, Liberty on the Lake remains the ultimate waterfront hangout on Lake Murray.
Food at Liberty on The Lake
Liberty on the Lake’s kitchen leans into upscale‑casual Southern comfort with a coastal twist. The “Lake Favorites” board stars Pecan‑Crusted Catfish over cheddar grits and hollandaise, North Coast Salmon with key‑lime slaw and asparagus, and a richly sauced Low‑Country Shrimp & Grits. Steak lovers can go classic with an 8‑oz Filet Mignon or splurge on the Filet “Oscar,” crowned with lump crab, béarnaise, and asparagus.
To share, locals rave about Smoked Mahi Dip, Coconut Shrimp with pineapple marmalade, Peel‑&‑Eat Shrimp, double‑fried Liberty Wings (honey‑sriracha is the sleeper hit), and piled‑high Taproom Chicken Nachos.
Wood‑fired 12‑inch pizzas—Pepperoni, Margherite, Garlic Shrimp, or the everything‑loaded Taproom—join a soup‑and‑salad corner featuring creamy Charleston She‑Crab and a crisp Lakeside Caesar.
Handhelds keep things lake‑day friendly: a butter‑toasted Classic Smash Burger, a Southern‑Fried Chicken BLT with Cajun remoulade, the Big Fish Sandwich (grilled or fried cod), and a gooey Steak‑and‑Cheese Hoagie.
“House Favorites” rotate in heartier plates like Jambalaya Pasta loaded with shrimp, crawfish, and andouille, plus seasonal specials such as the Salmon BLT or Liberty Club. Certified‑Angus Ribeyes headline the “Signature Steaks” section, all served with premium sides—think baked creamed corn, collards au gratin, or grilled asparagus with béarnaise.
Round things out with house‑made hush‑puppies from the Southern‑Fried Basket (mix‑and‑match shrimp, oysters, or cod) or classic comfort sides like mac & cheese and Freedom Fries. Whatever you order, it’s designed to pair perfectly with Liberty’s 48 rotating taps and a sunset over Lake Murray.
Atmosphere at Liberty on The Lake
Floor‑to‑ceiling windows and an elevated, dog‑friendly patio keep the water in sight whether you’re lingering over brunch or catching live music on summer evenings. A short cruise from the dam and Lexington’s north shore, Liberty’s is the perfect spot when you’re on the lake and also a great spot to fuel up at the end of the dock before you get back on the lake.
Rusty Anchor & Catfish Johnny’s
1925 Johnson Marina Rd, Chapin SC
Food Rusty Anchor & Catfish Johnny’s
Rusty Anchor & Catfish Johnny’s share the same lakeside deck at 1925 Johnson Marina Rd in Chapin, giving boaters a one‑stop choice between white‑table cloth seafood and a breezy tiki‑bar vibe. Tie up at the Lighthouse Marina courtesy docks (dockhands usually on duty) and head indoors to the Rusty Anchor dining room for chef‑driven plates like fork‑tender 8‑oz filet mignon, pecan‑crusted catfish over cheddar grits, crab‑stuffed flounder, and the house Low‑Country shrimp‑and‑grits—plus a wine list that runs from coastal whites to bold Cabernets. Seasonal specials lean local: think she‑crab soup, fried green tomatoes with pimento‑cheese crumble, and a Friday oyster roast when the weather turns cool.
Atmosphere & Live Music at Rusty Anchor & Catfish Johnny’s
Step back onto the deck and you’re at Catfish Johnny’s, an open‑air bar‑and‑grill built for flip‑flops and live music. Here the menu turns casual—blackened mahi tacos, half‑pound smash burgers, smoked‑wing baskets, and shareables like peel‑&‑eat shrimp or smoked‑mahi dip—served alongside craft drafts and frozen boat drinks until the band wraps up. String lights, corn‑hole boards, and a sunset line of rafted‑up pontoon boats give the place its “lake‑party” reputation, while the adjoining Rusty Anchor keeps reservations for date‑night or family celebrations. Open Friday through Sunday in spring and daily all summer, the twin venues let you choose your mood without ever leaving the dock.
San José & Marina
3340 US-378, Leesville, SC 29070
**This is ONE OF Patrick’s Top Pick on Lake Murray
I think this is the best San Jose in the Midlands! San Jose Mexican Restaurant & Marina sits on the quiet south‑shore bend of Hollow Creek, just off the US‑378 causeway at 3340 US‑378, Leesville. Boaters can nose into a brand‑new, 20‑slip dock and ramp installed in 2024, then follow the ramp straight up to the restaurant’s lake‑front entrance—no roads, trailers, or valet needed. From the water it’s roughly a 10‑minute cruise west of SouthShore Marina and an easy mid‑lake lunch stop for anyone running between Dreher Island and the dam. Drivers enjoy the same convenience: dock your boat out back or arrive by car with plentiful parking along Highway 378.
Food at San José & Marina
Inside, the kitchen turns out the full San Jose family menu—think sizzling Fajitas Texanas loaded with steak, chicken & shrimp; rib‑eye Carne Asada with fresh avocado; jumbo Gulf‑Shrimp Fajitas; and the share‑worthy Parrillada platter of steak arrachera, chicken, shrimp, and chorizo. Lighter bites range from creamy Cheese Dip and Spinach Dip to street‑style tacos (asada, pastor, carnitas, pescado) and crispy tortilla Chimichangas or Taco Salads served in edible shells. A separate bar blender keeps the margarita lineup flowing—classic lime, mango, or top‑shelf tequila flights—alongside Mexican beers and micheladas.
Atmosphere at San José & Marina
The mood is as relaxed as a lake afternoon: order at the counter, grab a fresh made margarita (with tequila upgrades available), and settle onto the shaded deck where bright umbrellas, string lights, and unobstructed water views frame every table. Families drift in straight from the dock in flip‑flops and life jackets, while sunset crowds linger for live‑music weekends and the nightly golden‑hour glow over Hollow Creek. True to San Jose’s 40‑year roots, service stays friendly and fast, making this lakeside outpost a simple, breezy choice whether you cruise in for tacos or drive out for a casual weeknight dinner.
SouthShore Grill & Grocery (SouthShore Marina)
3106 US‑378, Leesville SC
SouthShore Grill & Grocery anchors the waterfront at 3106 US‑378 in Leesville, inside SouthShore Marina on Lake Murray’s south shore. Boaters can ease into the marina’s public slips (added in 2024) and walk a few steps from the dock straight to the hostess stand, while drivers roll in off US‑378 to ample surface parking. The mid‑lake location puts it roughly halfway between Dreher Island State Park and the dam, making it an easy “refuel and bite” stop whether you’re cruising east or west. The Lake Murray NewsMapQuest
Food at SouthShore Grill & Grocery (SouthShore Marina)
The menu marries lake‑day comfort with chef touches from the Café Strudel team: crispy Catfish Wings, battered Grouper Bites, and a double‑patty S.S. Burger headline the starters and handhelds, while heartier plates range from creamy Shrimp & Grits and a seared Trigger Fish entrée to a 10‑oz CAB “Captain’s” filet and weekend brunch specials like the over‑the‑top Breakfast Burger or Mediterranean Omelet. House‑cut fries, pimento‑cheese grits, and a rotation of local craft taps (plus frozen margaritas) round out the lake‑friendly lineup. southshoregrillandgrocery.comThe Lake Murray News
Atmosphere at SouthShore Grill & Grocery (SouthShore Marina)
Laid‑back and family‑friendly, SouthShore sprawls across an indoor bar, a small grocery counter for grab‑and‑go provisions, and an expansive deck that looks directly over the marina slips and open water—prime seating for sunset selfies or live‑music nights in summer. String lights, lake breezes, and “Sunday mimosa” vibes keep flip‑flops and life jackets perfectly on‑brand, but the service pace stays quick enough for anglers who just need lunch before heading back out. It’s equal parts neighborhood hangout and new‑school lake joint, delivering casual coastal energy without leaving the Midlands.
Na’Cho Margarita
745 Marina Way, Prosperity SC
Na’Cho Margarita is tucked into Buffalo Creek on Lake Murray’s northwest shore at 745 Marina Way in Prosperity. Boaters can idle into the protected cove, tie up at the marina’s courtesy slips, or launch right next to the restaurant for a quick walk up from the dock. By water it sits roughly halfway between Riverwinds Landing and Dreher Island, while drivers reach it directly off SC‑391 with plenty of paved parking beside the gate.
Food at Na’Cho Margarita
The menu leans into crowd‑pleasing Mexican favorites built for sharing after a day on the lake. Expect Special Fajita Nachos piled high with steak, chicken, and shrimp; birria‑style tacos; jumbo Shrimp Fajitas; and combo platters like Tres Amigos (grilled chicken breast, steak, shrimp with pineapple) or slow‑braised Carnitas dinners. Starters run from classic queso fundido and house cheese dip to a towering Nachos Supreme, while burritos, chimichangas, and taco salads cover the staples. Behind the bar, frozen and on‑the‑rocks margaritas—think mango, strawberry, and Cadillac—headline a cocktail list backed by Mexican beers and micheladas.
Atmosphere at Na’Cho Margarita
This is pure lake‑day casual: guests wander up from the docks in sandals, grab a buzzer, and settle under bright umbrellas on the deck or beneath the shady live‑oak patio. Quick counter service keeps the line moving, while live‑music evenings and big‑screen sports create a dock‑party vibe. It’s an unfussy, upbeat spot to refuel with tacos, sip a cold margarita, and watch pontoon boats drift through Buffalo Creek’s calm water.
Big Man’s Marina Grill
125 Big Man’s Rd, Leesville SC
**This is Patrick’s Top burger pick on Lake Murray
Big Man’s Marina Grill is a lively, no-frills eatery situated on the northern shores of Lake Murray at 125 Big Man’s Rd, Leesville, South Carolina. Housed within a full-service marina, this casual spot combines the convenience of a lakefront grill with the charm of a local hangout. Its prime location, easily accessible by car or boat, makes it a go-to destination for lakegoers, fishermen, and families looking for a hearty meal with picturesque views of the water. The exterior is unassuming, with a focus on functionality, while the interior features simple decor, including nautical accents and TVs for catching sports, creating a welcoming, down-to-earth vibe.
Food at Big Man’s Marina Grill
The menu at Big Man’s Marina Grill centers on classic American comfort food, with a reputation for serving some of the best burgers on Lake Murray. The oversized, juicy cheeseburgers, made fresh and cooked to order, are a standout, paired with crispy, hand-cut fries or wing chips. Other popular dishes include chicken salad, shrimp baskets, fish tacos, and fried bologna sandwiches, offering a mix of seafood and traditional fare. Appetizers like fried mushrooms and crunchy fried pickles are crowd favorites, noted for their golden, flavorful coatings. The grill also serves hot dogs, corn dogs, chicken tenders, and a variety of sides, ensuring options for all tastes. Meals are reasonably priced, with generous portions that provide great value, and the marina store offers snacks and drinks for those on the go.
Atmosphere at Big Man’s Marina Grill
Big Man’s Marina Grill is a haven for boaters, featuring a well-equipped dock that allows guests to pull up directly from Lake Murray, making it a convenient stop for those enjoying a day on the water. The dock accommodates various boat sizes, and the marina provides gas, bait, and tackle, enhancing its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. The atmosphere is laid-back and friendly, with a focus on community and convenience. The outdoor seating area offers prime lake views, perfect for enjoying a meal while watching boats glide by, while the indoor space provides air-conditioned comfort and a casual setting for dining or grabbing a quick bite. The staff’s warm, attentive service adds to the relaxed charm, and the grill’s extended hours—open daily from early morning to evening—make it an ideal spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, whether arriving by land or lake.
The Cove at Lake Murray
101 Sandalwood Rd, Batesburg‑Leesville SC
The Cove at Lake Murray, located at 101 Sandalwood Rd, Batesburg-Leesville, South Carolina, is a premier lakeside dining destination nestled within the Lake Murray Resort and Marina. Perched on the tranquil southern shores of Lake Murray, this restaurant offers stunning views of the water and surrounding natural beauty, making it a standout spot for both locals and visitors. Housed in a modern facility with a touch of Southern charm, The Cove is part of a vibrant marina complex that includes event venues and recreational amenities. Its convenient location, just minutes from Interstate 20, provides easy access while maintaining a serene, getaway-like atmosphere perfect for a relaxing meal.
Food at The Cove at Lake Murray
The Cove at Lake Murray delivers a creative take on Southern-inspired cuisine, blending coastal flavors with elevated comfort food. The menu emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with highlights including seafood dishes like bang bang shrimp, noted for its flavorful preparation, and crab-stuffed flounder drizzled with lemon herb sauce. For land-based options, guests can enjoy juicy grilled steaks, Southern-style fried chicken, or hearty salads with house-made dressings. Appetizers, such as fried green tomatoes and hushpuppies, capture the essence of the region, while desserts like peach cobbler and bourbon pecan pie provide a sweet, indulgent finish. The restaurant offers a well-stocked bar with craft cocktails, local beers, and a curated wine list, ensuring perfect pairings for every dish. The focus on quality and presentation makes every meal a memorable experience.
Atmosphere at The Cove at Lake Murray
A defining feature of The Cove at Lake Murray is its seamless integration with the marina, offering direct boat access for guests arriving from the lake. The marina’s docks accommodate a range of vessels, from small boats to larger yachts, with staff available to assist with mooring, making it a favorite for boaters exploring Lake Murray. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, blending Southern hospitality with a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. The outdoor dining area, with its covered patio and sweeping lake views, is ideal for enjoying a meal while watching the sunset or passing boats. Inside, the restaurant features large windows, rustic wooden accents, and cozy seating, creating an intimate setting. Live music on weekends, often featuring local artists, adds a lively touch, while the attentive service ensures a welcoming experience, whether dining al fresco or indoors.
Timberlake Country Club (Mulligan’s Pub / The Dining Room)
222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin SC 29036
Timberlake Country Club, located at 222 Timberlake Dr, Chapin, South Carolina, is a member-owned, family-friendly destination nestled within the scenic Timberlake Plantation community along the shores of Lake Murray. The club is renowned for its Willard C. Byrd-designed golf course but also houses two distinct dining venues: Mulligan’s Pub and The Dining Room. These restaurants, open to the public, offer diverse dining experiences with stunning views of the lake and golf course. Just a short drive from Columbia via I-26, the club’s picturesque setting and recently updated interiors create a welcoming atmosphere for golfers, locals, and visitors seeking a memorable meal in a vibrant, community-oriented environment.
Food at Timberlake Country Club (Mulligan’s Pub / The Dining Room)
Mulligan’s Pub serves a casual, American-style menu focused on fast service and comfort food, available Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Diners can enjoy crisp salads, hearty sandwiches, and pub favorites like burgers and appetizers, with a daily special adding variety. The pub’s extensive beverage menu includes a wide selection of beers, wines, and hard liquors, perfect for pairing with its laid-back fare. The Dining Room, open Fridays and Saturdays from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm and for Sunday brunch from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, offers a more refined experience with a business-casual dress code. Its menu features elevated dishes such as perfectly cooked scallops, medium-rare ribeye with asparagus, and fried potato cakes with a delectable crunch, noted for their rich flavors and delicate demi-glaze sauce. Both venues emphasize quality, with a new chef earning praise for enhancing the culinary offerings.
Atmosphere at Timberlake Country Club (Mulligan’s Pub / The Dining Room)
Timberlake Country Club benefits from its proximity to Lake Murray, with a marina within the Timberlake Plantation community offering boat access for those arriving by water. The marina’s well-maintained docks accommodate various vessels, making it easy for boaters to visit the club’s dining venues after a day on the lake. The atmosphere at Mulligan’s Pub is casual and lively, with a recently updated interior featuring Wi-Fi, TVs for sports, and a kid-friendly vibe, ideal for relaxed lunches or social gatherings. The Dining Room, by contrast, exudes sophistication, with large windows showcasing panoramic views of Lake Murray and the golf course, creating an elegant backdrop for evening dining or Sunday brunch. Both venues benefit from the club’s friendly, efficient service and community-focused ethos, with the scenic lake and golf course enhancing the overall experience, whether dining indoors or enjoying the serene outdoor setting.
Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern
3224 US‑378, Leesville SC
Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern, also known as Charlie’s Fisherman’s Wharf, is a beloved seafood restaurant and tavern located at 3224 US-378, Leesville, South Carolina, near the shores of Lake Murray. Situated in a casual, rustic building, the restaurant is a local favorite for its laid-back charm and proximity to the lake, making it a convenient stop for both residents and visitors exploring the area. Just a short drive from downtown Leesville, the establishment offers a welcoming environment with a focus on community, enhanced by its marina-adjacent setting and easy access from the highway. The interior features simple, nautical-themed decor, while the outdoor deck provides a relaxed space to enjoy the lake’s ambiance.
Food at Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern
The menu at Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern centers on classic seafood and American fare, with a focus on hearty portions and approachable flavors. Standout dishes include the grilled shrimp, praised for its excellent preparation, and the coconut shrimp, noted for its crispy coating and sweet undertones. Seafood platters are a highlight, featuring fried oysters, scallops, clams, and fish, served with hushpuppies and homemade wing chips that earn high marks for their crunch and flavor. Other popular options include the lemon butter salmon over rice, surf and turf with grilled shrimp, and a juicy double cheeseburger for non-seafood diners. The menu also offers chicken strips, hamburger steak, and a kid-friendly selection, ensuring broad appeal. While some diners note inconsistencies in food temperature, the tavern’s fresh-brewed tea, homemade ranch, and generous portions are consistently well-received. A full bar with cocktails, beer, and wine complements the dining experience.
Atmosphere at Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern
Fisherman’s Wharf & Tavern is ideally suited for lakegoers, offering dock access for boaters on Lake Murray, making it a popular stop for those enjoying a day on the water. The dock accommodates various vessel sizes, allowing guests to moor and step directly into the restaurant’s welcoming atmosphere. The tavern’s vibe is cozy and family-friendly, with a down-home feel that encourages lingering over meals or drinks. The outdoor seating area, including a back deck, is perfect for enjoying warm weather and lake breezes, while live music on weekends adds a lively touch, drawing crowds for a festive experience. The restaurant’s unique charm is enhanced by nearby animals, such as goats and a cow, which delight younger guests. Despite occasional service challenges during busy periods, the friendly staff and relaxed, community-oriented setting make it a cherished spot for casual dining and socializing.
Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill
849 Marina Way, Prosperity SC
Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill, located at 849 Marina Way, Prosperity, South Carolina, is a vibrant lakeside restaurant situated within Martin’s Landing Marina on the northwestern shores of Lake Murray. Opened on March 1, 2025, the restaurant occupies a beautifully renovated space that was formerly Buffalo Creek Marina, blending modern updates with the historic charm of a building uniquely built over the water. Just a short drive from downtown Prosperity, it offers stunning views of the lake and easy access for both land and water travelers. The interior features updated decor with a spacious bar area, while the outdoor seating provides a scenic spot to enjoy the lake’s serene beauty, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
Food at Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill
The menu at Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill offers a variety of classic American dishes with a focus on hearty, crowd-pleasing fare. Signature items include juicy cheeseburgers served with crispy sweet potato fries, shrimp and grits praised for their rich flavors, and fresh grilled chicken salads for a lighter option. Other offerings include chicken tenders, fish sandwiches, and bar snacks like fried appetizers, catering to diverse tastes. The food is noted for its quality, with diners highlighting the rare hamburger and flavorful grilled chicken salad as standout dishes. A full bar complements the menu, offering cold beers, craft cocktails, and a selection of wines, perfect for pairing with the casual yet satisfying meals. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and a welcoming dining experience has quickly earned it praise as a go-to spot on Lake Murray.
Atmosphere at Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill
A key feature of Martin’s Landing Bar & Grill is its boat-friendly access, with a well-maintained dock at Martin’s Landing Marina allowing boaters to cruise in and dine with ease. The dock accommodates various vessel sizes, and the marina’s amenities, including gas and a Marina Mart for snacks and supplies, enhance the convenience for waterborne guests. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating options that capitalize on the lake’s picturesque views. The outdoor area is particularly inviting, with a fun, social vibe ideal for watching sunsets or enjoying a meal with friends. Inside, the bar area is equipped with TVs for sports fans, and the updated decor creates a modern, comfortable setting. Reviews highlight the great service and fun, family-friendly environment, making it a standout addition to Lake Murray’s dining scene.
Fiddler Blues on Lake Murray
3644 Prosperity Hwy, Prosperity SC
Fiddler Blues on Lake Murray is a vibrant, family-friendly restaurant perched along the scenic shores of Lake Murray at 3644 Prosperity Hwy, Prosperity, South Carolina. Housed in a modern yet rustic building, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the lake’s sparkling waters and surrounding wooded hills. Its prime location, just a short drive from downtown Prosperity, makes it an ideal spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a laid-back meal with a stunning waterfront backdrop. The exterior features a spacious outdoor deck, while the interior is adorned with nautical touches and cozy furnishings, creating a welcoming environment that captures the essence of lakeside living.
Food at Fiddler Blues on Lake Murray
Fiddler Blues specializes in a delightful mix of Southern seafood and American comfort food, emphasizing fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The menu highlights dishes like crispy fried shrimp, succulent catfish filets, and crab bites packed with real crabmeat, jalapeños, and cheddar cheese. Standout appetizers include the Fiddler Fries, waffle fries smothered in jack and cheddar cheese, topped with bacon and chives, and served with a house ranch mix. For heartier options, guests can enjoy juicy burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, or the flavorful hamburger steak. The restaurant also offers salads, small plates, and a kids’ menu to cater to diverse tastes. Desserts, such as the indulgent hot toffee cake, provide a sweet finish, paired with a selection of local beers, wines, or craft cocktails that complement the casual dining experience.
Boat Access and Atmosphere at Fiddler Blues on Lake Murray
A hallmark of Fiddler Blues is its boat-friendly access, with a dock that welcomes boaters cruising Lake Murray, making it a popular stop for those enjoying a day on the water. The dock accommodates small to medium-sized vessels, and the restaurant’s proximity to the lake ensures easy access for waterborne guests. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, with the outdoor deck offering prime seating to soak in panoramic lake views, especially during sunset. String lights and comfortable seating enhance the deck’s charm, while live music, often featuring local bands, adds a festive vibe on weekends. Inside, the dining area is warm and inviting, with large windows framing the lake and a bustling bar area perfect for catching a game. The combination of friendly service, lakefront serenity, and a fun, down-home feel makes Fiddler Blues a must-visit destination for a memorable dining experience.