Voodoo Brewing in Pulaski: Craft Beer and Low Country Food in the Midlands
What Voodoo Brewing offers
Voodoo Brewing is a brewpub in Pulaski, South Carolina, about 20 minutes northwest of Columbia, where you can drink house-made beer and eat food cooked on-site. The brewery operates its own taproom with a full kitchen, meaning the beer and the meals are both made there rather than sourced from elsewhere. It's the kind of place where you sit down for a pint and a plate, not a quick stop.
The brewery focuses on craft beers in styles that range from lighter ales to darker, heavier options—the specific lineup changes with the seasons and what the brewers are experimenting with. The food leans toward Low Country cooking and pub fare, the kind of dishes that pair naturally with beer. Voodoo has become a gathering spot for people in the Midlands who want to support local brewing and eat something made fresh rather than frozen.
Key Takeaways
- Voodoo Brewing is located in Pulaski, about 20 minutes from downtown Columbia, and serves both house-made beer and kitchen food in one space.
- The brewery's beer selection changes seasonally, so what's on tap when you visit depends on what the brewers have recently finished.
- The food menu emphasizes Low Country and pub-style cooking, designed to complement the beers they make.
- The taproom is a casual, community-oriented space where locals gather, not a high-end or formal dining experience.
The beer selection and brewing philosophy
Voodoo Brewing makes its beer on-site, which means the taproom is also the brewery. You can often see or smell the brewing equipment while you drink. The house beers rotate based on what's in the tanks and what the brewers want to try next, so regulars have a reason to return and see what's new. The brewery typically has several options on tap at any given time, ranging from session ales (lower alcohol, easier to drink multiple of) to imperial styles and stouts.
The brewery's name and branding draw on New Orleans and Creole culture, which shows up in the atmosphere and sometimes in the beer names and food offerings. This isn't a sterile production facility—it's designed to feel like a place with personality and history, even though it's relatively young as breweries go. If you're interested in how beer is made, the staff can usually explain what's currently brewing and why they chose those ingredients.
Food and the brewpub experience
The kitchen at Voodoo Brewing cooks everything to order, which means your meal takes longer than fast food but tastes fresher. The menu typically includes burgers, sandwiches, and heartier plates that reflect Low Country cooking—think shrimp and grits, fried catfish, or pulled pork. These are the kinds of dishes that have always paired well with beer, and they're made with the assumption that you're going to wash them down with a pint.
The portions are substantial, and the prices are moderate for a brewpub. You're paying for food made in-house and beer made in-house, not for a fancy dining experience. The atmosphere is casual and loud, especially on weekends or when there's a crowd. Families with children are welcome during the day, though it becomes more of an adult hangout as the evening goes on.
Location and getting there
Voodoo Brewing sits in Pulaski, a small town in Fairfield County northwest of Columbia. If you're coming from downtown Columbia, take I-20 west toward Winnsboro, then head north on Highway 321. The drive is roughly 20 to 25 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. Pulaski itself is a quiet area with rural character, so Voodoo stands out as a destination rather than something you'd stumble across by accident.
Parking is available on-site, and the brewpub is easy to spot once you're in Pulaski. There's no public transit to get there, so you'll need a car or a ride. If you're planning to drink beer, arrange a designated driver or use a ride service—the brewery is not in a walkable downtown area where you could easily get a cab.
Hours, reservations, and what to expect
Voodoo Brewing operates on a regular schedule, though hours can shift seasonally or for special events. It's worth checking their current hours before you go, especially if you're planning a trip on a weekday or early in the week. The brewpub does not typically require reservations for regular dining, but if you have a large group, calling ahead is a good idea so the kitchen knows to expect you.
The space fills up on weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday evenings. If you prefer a quieter experience, weekday afternoons or early evenings are usually less crowded. The brewpub sometimes hosts live music, trivia nights, or other events, so checking their social media or website before you visit can help you plan around those.
Why Voodoo Brewing matters to the Midlands beer scene
Voodoo Brewing is part of a larger movement in South Carolina toward local, independent breweries that make beer on-site rather than contract-brewing elsewhere. The Midlands has seen a steady growth in craft breweries over the past decade, and Voodoo represents the brewpub model—a place where brewing and hospitality happen in the same building. This model keeps money in the local economy and creates a space where the community can gather.
For people interested in South Carolina's brewing culture, Voodoo is worth visiting as one of the region's working breweries. You're not just drinking beer; you're seeing where it's made. The brewpub also reflects the Low Country food traditions that run through South Carolina's culinary identity, bringing together two things the state is known for—beer and regional cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit Voodoo Brewing if I don't drink alcohol?
Yes. The kitchen serves food to anyone, and you can order soft drinks, coffee, or other non-alcoholic beverages. The brewpub is a restaurant first, so non-drinkers are welcome and not pressured to buy beer.
Do I need to be a beer expert to enjoy Voodoo Brewing?
No. The staff can explain the beers if you ask, but you don't need to know anything about brewing or beer styles to sit down and order something. If you're unsure what to try, the bartenders can recommend something based on what you normally like to drink.
Is there outdoor seating?
Many brewpubs in South Carolina have outdoor patios or beer gardens, but you should check Voodoo's current setup before you visit, as outdoor space can change seasonally. Call ahead or check their social media to see what seating options are available.
Can I bring my family with kids?
Yes, families are welcome during regular daytime and early evening hours. The atmosphere becomes more adult-oriented later in the evening, especially on weekends, but there's no policy against children during normal dining times.
What's the price range for a meal and beer?
Prices are moderate for a brewpub—entrees typically run between $12 and $20, and beers are priced like craft beer anywhere else in the region. You can have a full meal with a couple of beers without spending more than $40 to $50 per person before tip.