Best Places to Eat in Santee, SC — Why Craig’s Deli Is a Local Favorite
Santee, South Carolina might be known for its beautiful lakes, golf courses, and outdoor activities — but ask anyone who spends time here, and they’ll tell you the same thing: good food is part of the experience. Whether you’re a local, a traveler passing through on I-95, or someone heading out for a day on Lake Marion, finding the right place to eat matters.
That’s where Craig’s Deli comes in.
If you’re searching for the best places to eat in Santee, SC, this guide highlights what makes the area special — and why Craig’s Deli has earned its spot as a local favorite.
Santee’s Food Scene: Small Town, Big Flavors
Santee offers a mix of Southern comfort food, quick-service favorites, classic diners, golf-course grills, and local spots that know how to treat people right. From breakfast to late lunch, visitors can find something fresh and satisfying without the rush of bigger cities.
Some popular food stops include:
- Local diners with classic Southern breakfasts
- Waterfront spots near Lake Marion
- BBQ joints known for smoky, slow-cooked meats
- Grab-and-go restaurants for travelers
But when it comes to fresh sandwiches, homemade sides, and consistent quality, one place stands out every day of the week: Craig’s Deli.
Why Craig’s Deli Is a Local Favorite
✔ Fresh, Made-to-Order Sandwiches
Every sandwich is built fresh — never pre-made, never sitting around. From the bread to the toppings, everything is prepared to order. Locals know they’re getting something that’s not just quick but quality.
✔ Perfect Stop for I-95 Travelers
Santee is a major stop between New York and Florida. Craig’s Deli sits right in the perfect spot for travelers who want something better than fast food but still fast enough to keep moving.
✔ Great Prices for Families & Groups
Whether it’s a group of golfers, a fishing crew, or a family road-tripping, Craig’s offers generous portions and affordable prices.
✔ Consistent Friendly Service
Craig’s has that warm, small-town vibe Santee is known for. You’ll always be greeted with friendly service and people who actually care about good food and customer experience.
✔ Easy Catering for Events & Gatherings
From lake days to family reunions, Craig’s offers catering trays, sandwich platters, and group options that make feeding a crowd simple. It’s one of the top catering choices in Santee for a reason.
Perfect For Golfers, Fishermen, and Weekend Travelers
Santee is home to:
- Lake Marion Golf Course
- Santee National Golf Club
- Santee Cooper Country Club
- Some of the best fishing on the East Coast
Craig’s Deli has naturally become a pre-round breakfast stop and a post-fishing lunch destination.
If you’re heading out early, grab breakfast. If you’re finishing a long morning on the lake, Craig’s has cold sandwiches and fresh sides ready to go.
What to Try at Craig’s Deli
While everything is solid, the local favorites include:
- The Classic Club Sandwich
- Piled-high cold cut subs
- Homemade salads and sides
- Fresh breakfast sandwiches
- Sweet treats and desserts made in-house
And because everything is made fresh, it never tastes “store-bought” or premade.
A True Local Staple in Santee, SC
Restaurants come and go, but the ones that care about doing things right continue to grow. Craig’s Deli has become a staple in the Santee area not just because of the food, but because of the people, consistency, and hometown quality that keeps customers coming back.
If you’re exploring Santee, planning a family trip, grabbing something for the golf course, or looking for the perfect catering option, Craig’s Deli should be at the top of your list.
Looking for Catering in Santee, SC?
If you’re hosting:
- A family reunion
- A lake day
- A golf tournament
- A church event
- A company lunch
Craig’s Deli makes it easy to feed everyone with fresh, affordable, crowd-pleasing options.