The next time you’re seeking a bit of history along with a short road trip and a tasty meal, gas up the car and head to Abbeville, South Carolina. Located right in historic downtown, with its brick streets and a picturesque park in the middle of the square, is an eatery that’s been around since the Great Depression – a time when dining out, even on hot dogs, was a luxury.
The Rough House opened in Abbeville in the height of the Great Depression, when South Carolinians suffered enmass at the hands of the poor economy.
Google Local/Sc Historybuff
It was here, at the Rough House and pool hall, that folks could gather and talk about the events of the day, have a modest bite to eat by way of an affordable hot dog, and gather as a community.
Facebook/The Rough House
Fast forward more than 85 years and we see the Rough House is still a gathering place for the community; a place where third and fourth generations of families are still enjoying the no-frills atmosphere, affordable (and delicious!) hot dogs, and the friendly folks who run the place.
Facebook/The Rough House
One of the most endearing things about the Rough House is its adherence to the original 1930s Depression-Era look. And while some newer restaurants pay top dollar to recreate a look like this, at the Rough House it’s the real deal.
Facebook/The Rough House
The food here is also the real deal. The eatery has been in business and serving up hot dogs longer than any other hot dog restaurant in the entire state!
Google Local/Sc Historybuff
It also has a variety of local and regional drinks and beers that change regularly.
TripAdvisor/Amy G
During the cooler month, it also rotates chili and stew into the menu; it’s a perfect complement to a hot dog when the weather gets cold.
Facebook/The Rough House
And speaking of cold, Rough House also serves some of the best ice cream in town.
Google Local/macy riley
This family-oriented hot dog restaurant and pool hall has it all, including a bit of history worth passing on to the kiddos in the family.
Google / Maps
So put the kids in the car and take ’em on a little road trip to the oldest hot dog restaurant in the state. No one will be leaving here disappointed! Rough House is open six days a week: Monday from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. and Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Learn more about Rough House and its journey over the last 87 years from its Facebook page.
Google Local/Sc Historybuff
Facebook/The Rough House
TripAdvisor/Amy G
Google Local/macy riley
Google / Maps
Have you already discovered the Rough House in Abbeville? We’d love to hear from you in the comments! Know of another Depression-era restaurant in the state? Tell us about it!
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Address: 116 Court Square, Abbeville, SC 29620, USA
