Top 5 on the South Carolina Pecan Trail
There are lots of stops on the South Carolina Pecan Trail in Florence, South Carolina, but here’s the ones you do not want to miss.
As far as farmer’s market go, this one ranks as one of the best in the nation. The Pee Dee State Farmer’s Market is one of a kind; open year round, you can drive through, shop at vendor stalls and then load your car up with treasures. Everything from plants to tomatoes to fried pies can be found in this 45, square-foot facility. And, yes, you’ll find bags of fresh pecans to take home and create your own pecan masterpiece.
2. Piggyback’s BBQ and Catfish in Lake City serves Pepsi with a side of peanuts. Always. In a bottle. South Carolina’s own liquid is all you find in most restaurants. There’s peanuts but there’s also the sweet potato casserole with a pecan topping that will provide the stamp in your trail passport.
3. Lay your head on the soft pillows of Hotel Florence, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This luxury boutique hotel in downtown Florence is ideal for relaxation and with Victor’s located in the lobby, it will easily satisfy your cravings - like the pecan pie martini. You’re welcome.
4. I’m a sucker for afternoon tea, and Top Hat Special-Teas fits the bill. In a quaint little tea room in the downtown district, Top Hat offer a vast selection of specialty teas along with pecan scones dolloped with Devonshire Cream. They remind you of the importance of lingering over lunch or tea with a friend.
5. Remember to close your mouth as you peruse the selection of hand-painted Belgium chocolates in the showcase. At ChocoBella, colorful hand-painted chocolates and artisan gelato are the things of which heaven consists of in Florence. Try the chocolate pecan bonbon or the butter pecan gelato. Although pricey, one or two bonbons will get you home satisfied. Exquisite doesn’t even begin to describe this experience.
For more information on the South Carolina Pecan Trail, visit these websites: Florence Convention and Visitors Bureau, Discover South Carolina.
To read my article on the South Carolina Pecan Trail in South Carolina Currents, follow the link to Going Nuts.
