Discover the vibrant culinary experience awaiting you at The Grit Counter – Mt. Pleasant, a beloved spot that masterfully combines Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Nestled in the heart of Mt. Pleasant, this eatery has carved out a niche by focusing on hearty, flavorful dishes that celebrate the rich heritage of Southern cuisine.
Whether you’re craving a classic breakfast or a mouthwatering lunch, The Grit Counter offers a menu that pays homage to tradition while embracing contemporary flavors and fresh ingredients.
What sets The Grit Counter apart is its dedication to quality and community. Locally sourced produce, handcrafted recipes, and a welcoming atmosphere make it more than just a place to eat — it’s a destination to savor.
From the first bite of their signature grits to the last sip of a perfectly brewed coffee, every detail is curated to provide a memorable dining experience. For those new to Southern fare or seasoned food lovers, The Grit Counter’s Mt.
Pleasant location is a must-visit culinary gem.
Breakfast Offerings: A Southern Start to Your Day
The breakfast menu at The Grit Counter is a celebration of traditional Southern morning staples infused with fresh, local ingredients. This section highlights the variety and richness of the breakfast dishes designed to energize and satisfy every palate.
Start your day with a bowl of creamy, stone-ground grits, available in multiple varieties. The classic butter and cheese grits are a staple, but the menu also features options topped with shrimp, bacon, or fresh herbs.
Each dish is prepared with care, ensuring the grits are always perfectly creamy and flavorful.
Complementing the grits are other Southern breakfast favorites such as fluffy biscuits, savory sausage patties, and farm-fresh eggs cooked to order. The balance of hearty proteins and comforting carbs ensures a fulfilling meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Popular Breakfast Dishes
- Shrimp & Grits: Fresh Gulf shrimp sautéed with garlic and spices served over creamy grits.
- Biscuits and Gravy: Fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in rich, homemade sausage gravy.
- Country Breakfast Plate: Two eggs any style, grits, sausage or bacon, and a biscuit.
- Veggie Grits Bowl: Grits topped with sautéed seasonal vegetables and a sprinkle of cheddar.
“The Grit Counter’s breakfast is a perfect blend of comfort and creativity, making every morning meal feel like a special occasion.” – Local Food Critic
Lunch Selections: Southern Comfort with a Contemporary Edge
The lunch menu offers a dynamic mix of traditional Southern dishes and innovative plates designed to please diverse tastes. The focus remains on fresh ingredients and bold flavors, making lunch at The Grit Counter both satisfying and nourishing.
Signature sandwiches and hearty bowls dominate the lunch offerings, featuring ingredients like slow-cooked pulled pork, fried green tomatoes, and house-made pimento cheese. Each item is crafted to highlight the best of Southern cuisine while incorporating modern culinary techniques and seasonal produce.
For those seeking lighter options, the menu includes fresh salads and vegetable-forward dishes that provide balance without sacrificing flavor. The Grit Counter also offers daily specials that showcase creative seasonal ingredients, ensuring a fresh experience with every visit.
Lunch Favorites
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Slow-roasted pork with tangy barbecue sauce, coleslaw, and pickles on a toasted bun.
- Fried Green Tomato BLT: Crispy fried tomatoes with bacon, lettuce, and mayonnaise on artisan bread.
- Pimento Cheese Plate: Classic Southern cheese spread served with crackers and pickled vegetables.
- Seasonal Harvest Salad: Mixed greens, nuts, fruits, and a house vinaigrette dressing.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Calories (Approx.) |
| Pulled Pork Sandwich | Pulled pork, barbecue sauce, coleslaw, bun | 650 |
| Fried Green Tomato BLT | Fried green tomatoes, bacon, lettuce, mayo, bread | 580 |
| Pimento Cheese Plate | Pimento cheese, crackers, pickles | 420 |
| Seasonal Harvest Salad | Mixed greens, nuts, fruits, vinaigrette | 350 |
Signature Grits: Beyond the Basics
The Grit Counter elevates the humble Southern grit into an art form. This section dives into the variety of grit dishes offered, each prepared with unique toppings and flavor profiles that showcase the dish’s versatility.
Stone-ground grits form the base for all dishes, cooked slowly to achieve a creamy, velvety texture. Beyond the classic cheese or butter, the menu features options that layer on flavors such as smoky bacon, fresh shrimp, sautéed mushrooms, and spicy chorizo.
Each combination is thoughtfully curated to complement the smooth grits without overpowering them.
The Grit Counter also offers vegan and vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this Southern staple. The use of fresh herbs, seasonal vegetables, and house-made sauces adds depth and complexity to these dishes.
Popular Grit Variations
- Shrimp and Andouille Grits: A spicy, savory dish with local shrimp and smoky sausage.
- Mushroom and Herb Grits: Earthy mushrooms sautéed with fresh herbs over creamy grits.
- Veggie Grit Bowl: Seasonal roasted vegetables with a drizzle of tangy sauce.
- Classic Cheese Grits: A simple yet rich dish with sharp cheddar melted into the grits.
“Grits at The Grit Counter are a revelation—comfort food redefined with sophistication and soul.” – Renowned Chef
Beverage Selection: Complementing Every Meal
The drink offerings at The Grit Counter are carefully chosen to enhance the dining experience. From freshly brewed coffee to refreshing specialty drinks, beverages are crafted with the same attention to quality as the food menu.
Coffee enthusiasts will appreciate the locally roasted beans used for drip coffee and espresso drinks. The coffee is roasted to highlight bright, balanced flavors that pair beautifully with the rich and savory dishes.
For those seeking non-caffeinated options, a range of fresh juices, teas, and house-made lemonades are available.
Seasonal beverages reflect local ingredients and trends, often featuring herbs, fruits, and spices that change with the time of year. Whether you’re grabbing a morning pick-me-up or a midday refresher, the beverage menu offers something for every mood and palate.
Featured Drinks
- House Blend Coffee: Medium roast with notes of chocolate and berry.
- Herbal Lemonade: Fresh lemonade infused with mint or lavender.
- Chai Latte: Spiced tea with steamed milk and a hint of vanilla.
- Seasonal Fresh Juice: Rotating blends using local fruits and vegetables.
| Beverage | Type | Key Flavors |
| House Blend Coffee | Coffee | Chocolate, berry, medium roast |
| Herbal Lemonade | Non-alcoholic | Mint or lavender, citrus |
| Chai Latte | Tea | Spices, vanilla, creamy |
| Seasonal Fresh Juice | Juice | Varies with season, fresh and bright |
Locally Sourced Ingredients: A Commitment to Quality
A defining characteristic of The Grit Counter is its dedication to sourcing ingredients from local farms and producers. This commitment ensures freshness, supports the community, and reflects a sustainable approach to dining.
By partnering with Mt. Pleasant area farmers and artisans, The Grit Counter prioritizes seasonal produce and ethically raised proteins.
This not only enhances the flavor profiles but also fosters a transparent supply chain that customers can trust. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering dishes that highlight the best local offerings at any given time.
The emphasis on local sourcing also means the kitchen can maintain high standards for quality and consistency. This focus on provenance infuses every dish with a sense of place and pride, making dining at The Grit Counter a uniquely regional experience.
Local Partners and Ingredients
- Fresh vegetables and herbs: Sourced weekly from nearby farms.
- Free-range eggs: Delivered daily from local poultry farms.
- Artisanal cheeses and dairy: Supporting regional creameries.
- Handcrafted breads and pastries: Baked by Mt. Pleasant bakeries.
“Sourcing local isn’t just a policy — it’s the soul of our kitchen and the heart of our flavors.” – Executive Chef, The Grit Counter
Customer Experience and Ambiance
Beyond the food, The Grit Counter offers an inviting atmosphere that encourages guests to relax and enjoy their meals. The interior design combines rustic Southern charm with modern touches, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
Comfortable seating, natural lighting, and tasteful decor reflect the community-oriented spirit of the restaurant. Whether you’re dining solo, with family, or meeting friends, the ambiance fosters connection and conversation.
Attentive staff provide friendly service, ensuring that every visit feels personalized and enjoyable.
Special events and weekend brunches add to the vibrant social scene, inviting locals and visitors alike to experience the culture and cuisine of Mt. Pleasant in a casual yet refined setting.
Highlights of the Dining Experience
- Cozy Seating Areas: Mix of booths, tables, and communal seating.
- Local Art Displays: Featuring works by Mt. Pleasant artists.
- Friendly, Knowledgeable Staff: Ready to suggest dishes and pairings.
- Weekend Brunch Specials: Unique menu items and live music.
| Feature | Description |
| Seating | Comfortable booths and tables with natural light |
| Decor | Rustic Southern charm meets modern aesthetics |
| Service | Friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable staff |
| Events | Weekend brunch with live music and special menus |
Allergy and Dietary Considerations
The Grit Counter is attentive to the diverse needs of its customers, offering options that cater to various dietary restrictions and preferences. The kitchen staff is well-trained to accommodate allergies and special diets without compromising flavor or quality.
Gluten-free diners can enjoy dishes made with naturally gluten-free ingredients or specially prepared alternatives. Vegan and vegetarian selections are clearly marked and thoughtfully crafted to provide satisfying and balanced meals.
The restaurant encourages guests to communicate their dietary needs to ensure a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Transparency about ingredients and preparation methods underpins the establishment’s approach to dietary inclusivity, making it a welcoming destination for all food lovers.
Dietary Options Available
- Gluten-Free: Several dishes use gluten-free grains and breads.
- Vegan: Plant-based grits bowls and salads.
- Vegetarian: Meat-free versions of classic dishes.
- Allergy-Friendly: Staff trained to avoid cross-contamination.
“Inclusivity in dining means crafting flavors that everyone can enjoy without compromise.” – General Manager, The Grit Counter
Conclusion: A Flavorful Destination in Mt. Pleasant
The Grit Counter in Mt. Pleasant stands as a shining example of how traditional Southern cuisine can be reinvented with care, creativity, and a commitment to quality.
Its menu showcases the depth and versatility of Southern cooking, from creamy grits to hearty sandwiches and fresh, seasonal salads. Each dish tells a story rooted in heritage but elevated by thoughtful preparation and fresh, local ingredients.
Beyond the food, the welcoming atmosphere, attentive service, and dedication to community make every visit a memorable experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Southern fare or exploring it for the first time, The Grit Counter offers a culinary journey that satisfies both the soul and the palate.
For those seeking a place where authenticity meets innovation, this Mt. Pleasant gem promises to delight and inspire with every bite.
