Variety Restaurant
An old-school Aiken gem serving up incredibly fresh seafood and hearty portions with a side of genuinely friendly service.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Variety Restaurant
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An old-school Aiken gem serving up incredibly fresh seafood and hearty portions with a side of genuinely friendly service.
Limited Hours
Visit Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-9 pm. Limited hours mean planning is key!
Split Dishes
Generous portions make splitting dishes a great way to sample variety affordably.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood, American
Price
Mid-range
Phone
(803) 648-6987
Address
921 York St NE, Aiken, SC 29801, USA
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Generous Seafood Portions
Savor abundant, fresh seafood platters and fish dishes. A true taste of the sea with generous servings.
Old-School Atmosphere
Step back in time with a cozy, retro interior featuring wood paneling and a warm, inviting ambiance.
Attentive & Friendly Staff
Experience exceptional service from a dedicated team that makes you feel welcomed and well-cared for.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Limited Hours
Visit Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-9 pm. Limited hours mean planning is key!
Split Dishes
Generous portions make splitting dishes a great way to sample variety affordably.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials for the freshest catches and unique preparations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Limited Hours
Visit Thursdays-Saturdays, 4-9 pm. Limited hours mean planning is key!
Split Dishes
Generous portions make splitting dishes a great way to sample variety affordably.
Ask About Specials
Inquire about daily specials for the freshest catches and unique preparations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Variety Restaurant is praised for its generous portions of fresh seafood and an old-school, friendly atmosphere. While many rave about the delicious food and attentive service, a few diners have noted concerns about pricing on side items or issues with drink quality. Despite some minor inconsistencies, the overall sentiment highlights a beloved local eatery with a loyal following.
"My parents grew up in Aiken and recently took me here when we were in town visiting. I thought the seafood was fresh and very fairly priced. I got catfish, oysters, shrimp, scallops and deviled crab for $25. Unsure of the bad reviews about pricing on side items, but the restaurant is older; what else do you expect from a place that’s been there since 1931? Staff was awesome and very friendly. Highly recommended."
James Abney
"Nice local hometown restaurant with a good selection of seafood dishes. The service was attentive and the food was fresh and hot. I had the fried shrimp and my husband had the fisherman's platter, and both were nice portions with good flavor."
Michele Pappagallo
"If you want some great local seafood and steak then the Variety is most definitely the place you need to eat!!! It is my absolute favorite! The seafood is always fresh and is amazing! You can not possibly get a better tasting steak from anywhere else! It is so juicy and good! The staff is always helpful and friendly! The drinks are awesome! The owner is always there also.. Great food and atmosphere!"
R Busbee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The restaurant is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 4-9 pm.
Yes, sharing dishes like the seafood platter is recommended due to generous portion sizes.
Information on specific vegetarian or vegan options is not readily available, but it's recommended to inquire directly.
The restaurant has an old-school, retro atmosphere with wood-paneled walls and a cozy interior.
While prices can vary, many find the portions to be generous for the cost, though some side items have been noted as pricey.
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The Setting: dimly lit, wood paneled walls, eclectic decor, paper placements, retro atmosphere, old school waitresses. Lunch, Dinner, Alcohol. The Food: fresh seafood, fresh fish and beef.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit