Big Billy's Burger Joint: A South Carolina Burger Stop Worth the Drive

What to expect at Big Billy's

Big Billy's Burger Joint is a casual counter-service burger restaurant in South Carolina where you order at the front, grab a number, and wait for your food at a table or the counter. The menu centers on hand-formed beef patties, fresh toppings, and house-made sides. The space is unpretentious—vinyl booths, a few high-top tables, and walls decorated with local sports memorabilia and vintage signage. It's the kind of place where the owner often works the grill and remembers regulars' usual orders.

The burger lineup runs from a basic single patty to loaded double and triple options. Most burgers come with your choice of cheese, and the kitchen doesn't skimp on toppings—lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles arrive fresh and properly proportioned. Condiments include house-made aioli, sriracha mayo, and a signature burger sauce that keeps people coming back. Fries are cut daily and fried to order, which means they arrive hot and crispy rather than sitting under a heat lamp.

Key Takeaways

• Big Billy's makes burgers to order with fresh beef patties and house-prepared sauces, so expect a short wait during lunch and dinner rushes.
• The restaurant is cash-friendly but also takes cards, and prices run moderate for a made-to-order burger spot—typically $12 to $18 for a burger with fries.
• Parking is available on-site or on the street depending on location, and the space is casual enough for families, dates, and solo diners.
• Sides beyond fries include onion rings, coleslaw, and milkshakes made with local ice cream, which pair well with the burgers.

The burger menu and what sets it apart

The signature burger is the Big Billy—a double patty with cheese, bacon, fried onions, and the house sauce on a toasted bun. It's substantial without being unwieldy, and the fried onions add texture that distinguishes it from standard burger fare. For those who want to build their own, the restaurant offers a base burger and lets you add toppings at a per-item cost, which works well if you have specific preferences or dietary needs.

Specialty burgers rotate seasonally and often feature local ingredients or seasonal produce. Past offerings have included a burger topped with a fried egg and crispy shallots, another with roasted mushrooms and Swiss cheese, and a spicy version with jalapeños and pepper jack. The kitchen posts these on social media and sometimes on a chalkboard near the counter, so checking ahead or asking when you arrive tells you what's available that day.

Beyond burgers, the menu includes chicken sandwiches, hot dogs, and a few vegetarian options. The chicken sandwich uses a hand-breaded breast and arrives crispy without being greasy. Hot dogs are all-beef and grilled, not boiled, which makes a noticeable difference in flavor. Vegetarian diners can order a loaded veggie sandwich with grilled portobello mushroom, roasted peppers, and the house aioli, or simply a cheese and veggie burger.

Sides, drinks, and what to order with your burger

Fries are the default side and come in regular or large portions. The kitchen also makes onion rings to order—they're hand-battered and arrive hot and crispy. Coleslaw is available as a lighter side, and a few locations offer sweet potato fries or waffle fries depending on the day. Asking what's available when you order ensures you get what you want rather than finding out after you've paid.

Milkshakes are made fresh with local ice cream and come in classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, plus rotating specials like salted caramel or cookies-and-cream. Soft drinks, iced tea, and lemonade round out the beverage list. Coffee is available in the morning if you're stopping by for breakfast, though the burger menu is the main draw.

Hours, location, and how to find it

Big Billy's operates during lunch and dinner hours, typically opening around 11 a.m. and closing in the evening—exact hours vary by location. The restaurant is closed on Sundays at most locations, so plan accordingly if you're making a special trip. Calling ahead confirms hours and whether any specials are running that day.

The restaurant has multiple locations across South Carolina, so search for the one nearest you before heading out. Each location maintains the same menu and quality standards, though some have slightly different layouts or seating capacities. Parking is available at all locations, either in a dedicated lot or on the street nearby.

Pricing and payment options

A single burger with fries typically runs $12 to $15, depending on toppings and size. Double and triple burgers cost more, and specialty burgers with premium toppings may run $16 to $18. Sides like onion rings or coleslaw add $2 to $4, and milkshakes are usually $5 to $6. Combo deals that bundle a burger, fries, and drink are sometimes available and offer modest savings.

Big Billy's accepts both cash and cards, so you're not locked into one payment method. Tipping is optional but common at counter-service restaurants, and the tip jar sits at the register. No reservation system exists—you order when you arrive and wait for your number to be called.

When to visit and what to know about wait times

Lunch (roughly 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and dinner (5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.) are the busiest times, especially on weekends. If you want to avoid a crowd, mid-afternoon (2 p.m. to 4 p.m.) or late evening (after 8 p.m.) tend to be quieter. Wait times during peak hours can stretch to 15 to 20 minutes, though the line moves steadily since the kitchen works efficiently.

Because burgers are made to order, expect a few minutes even when the restaurant is quiet. This is intentional—the kitchen prioritizes freshness over speed. If you're in a hurry, calling ahead to place an order for pickup can shave time off your visit, though not all locations offer this service. Asking when you arrive tells you whether it's an option.

The atmosphere and who goes there

Big Billy's draws a mix of regulars, families, and people passing through who've heard about the place. The vibe is casual and welcoming, with no dress code or pretense. Conversations at neighboring tables are audible, so it's not a quiet spot for intimate dining, but it's perfect for casual hangouts, quick lunches, or a burger run with friends. The staff is generally friendly and patient, even during rushes.

The space is clean and well-maintained, with a focus on function over decor. Vintage burger-joint touches—neon signs, old license plates, sports photos—give it character without feeling forced. Restrooms are available for customers, and the restaurant is wheelchair accessible at most locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my burger with specific toppings?

Yes. You can order a base burger and add or remove toppings to suit your preferences. The kitchen charges per topping for additions beyond the standard setup, so ask about the cost before you order if you're adding multiple items. This flexibility works well for people with allergies or strong preferences.

Do you have vegetarian or vegan burger options?

Big Billy's offers a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich and can make a cheese burger without the patty if you ask. Vegan options are more limited since most sauces and sides contain dairy or eggs, but the kitchen is usually willing to work with you if you explain your dietary needs when ordering.

Is Big Billy's good for a quick lunch, or should I plan extra time?

During off-peak hours (mid-afternoon or late morning), you can order and eat in 15 to 20 minutes. During lunch or dinner rush, add another 10 to 15 minutes for the line and cooking time. If you're on a tight schedule, calling ahead to place a to-go order can speed things up at locations that offer it.

What's the best burger to order if I'm new to Big Billy's?

The Big Billy (double patty with cheese, bacon, fried onions, and house sauce) is the signature and a solid introduction to what the kitchen does well. If you prefer something simpler, a single patty with cheese and the house sauce shows off the quality of the beef and the sauce without overwhelming you with toppings.

Can I order Big Billy's for delivery or catering?

Delivery and catering options vary by location. Some Big Billy's locations partner with third-party delivery services, while others focus on dine-in and takeout only. Call your nearest location directly to ask what's available, since policies differ across the South Carolina restaurants.