Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews: What to Order and Where to Find Them in South Carolina

Red Robin serves customizable burgers with unlimited fries at locations across South Carolina

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and Brews is a casual dining chain where you build your burger from scratch—choosing your patty, toppings, sauce, and bun—then get a basket of steak fries that refills throughout your meal. The chain operates multiple locations in South Carolina, primarily in the Upstate and Midlands regions. Unlike fast-casual burger spots, Red Robin is a sit-down restaurant with table service, a full bar, and an atmosphere built around groups and families rather than quick lunch runs.

The burger customization is the main draw. You start with a protein choice (beef, turkey, or plant-based), then layer on toppings from a list that includes bacon, fried eggs, grilled pineapple, crispy onion strings, and dozens of sauces. Red Robin also offers chicken sandwiches, salads, and appetizers, but the burger menu is where the restaurant's identity lives. Prices run higher than fast-food chains but lower than upscale burger restaurants—expect to spend $12 to $16 for a burger entree before drinks and tax.

Key Takeaways

• Red Robin locations in South Carolina include Greenville, Spartanburg, Columbia, and Charleston, with hours typically 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays and later on weekends.
• You customize every burger by choosing your protein, toppings, sauce, and bun style, with unlimited refills of steak fries included in the entree price.
• The restaurant has a full bar serving beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks, making it a social destination beyond just food.
• Red Robin works well for groups and families because the customization means everyone can build exactly what they want without special requests slowing down the kitchen.

How to Build Your Burger at Red Robin

The menu walks you through the build in order: protein first, then toppings, then sauce, then bun. Start by picking your base—a half-pound beef patty is standard, but you can swap to turkey, a veggie patty, or add a second patty. From there, the toppings list includes expected items like lettuce, tomato, and cheese, plus house specialties like crispy onion strings, fried egg, grilled pineapple, and jalapeños.

Sauces are where Red Robin differentiates itself from standard burger joints. Beyond ketchup and mayo, you'll find sriracha aioli, whiskey bacon sauce, garlic aioli, and seasonal specials. The bun choices typically include a classic sesame seed, a pretzel bun, or a gluten-free option. Many Red Robin regulars order the same burger every visit, but the menu is designed to encourage experimentation—you can try a different combination each time without feeling like you're ordering something completely unfamiliar.

Red Robin Locations and Hours in South Carolina

Red Robin operates in several South Carolina markets. Greenville has the most locations, with restaurants in the downtown area and near shopping centers. Spartanburg, Columbia, and Charleston each have at least one location. Hours vary slightly by location but typically run 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. Some locations stay open later on weekends, especially those near entertainment districts.

Before visiting, check the Red Robin website or call ahead to confirm hours, as seasonal changes and staffing can shift opening and closing times. Locations near shopping centers tend to have consistent hours year-round, while downtown or entertainment-district locations may adjust for local events or holidays. Parking is available at all South Carolina locations—most are in shopping centers with ample lot space, and downtown locations have street parking or nearby garages.

What Makes Red Robin Different from Other Burger Chains

Red Robin's unlimited fries set it apart from competitors. Once your entree arrives, your server brings a basket of steak fries and keeps refilling it throughout your meal—you don't order a second basket, it just keeps coming. This model works especially well for groups, where some people eat slowly or want to linger over drinks. The fries themselves are hand-cut and seasoned, thicker than fast-food fries but not as heavy as steakhouse versions.

The bar program is another differentiator. Red Robin locations serve craft beers, well drinks, and house cocktails. The beer list rotates seasonally and often features local South Carolina breweries alongside national brands. This makes Red Robin a destination for after-work groups or weekend hangouts, not just a family dinner spot. The casual atmosphere—booths, bar seating, and TVs showing sports—supports both purposes without feeling split between them.

Timing Your Visit and What to Expect

Lunch (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.) is quieter than dinner, especially on weekdays. If you want a faster experience or prefer a calmer atmosphere, lunch is your window. Dinner (5 p.m. to close) brings families and groups, particularly Friday and Saturday nights. Wait times can stretch to 30 minutes on weekend evenings, though the restaurant usually seats you within 15 minutes even during peak hours. Takeout is available at all locations and moves faster than dine-in during busy times.

Red Robin does not take reservations at most South Carolina locations, so arriving early or during off-peak hours improves your odds of immediate seating. The restaurant is designed for lingering—service is unhurried, and the unlimited fries encourage people to stay longer—so plan for 45 minutes to an hour from arrival to departure during normal service. If you're in a hurry, order takeout or visit during lunch hours.

Menu Items Beyond Burgers

While burgers are the focus, Red Robin's menu includes chicken sandwiches (grilled or crispy), salads with protein options, and appetizers like wings, nachos, and fried pickles. Entrees come with your choice of side—fries, sweet potato fries, or a salad—though the unlimited fries basket is included with burger orders only. Kids' menu options are available for younger diners, with smaller portions and simpler flavor profiles.

Desserts include milkshakes, which you can customize with toppings and sauces similar to the burger build. Shakes come in classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, plus seasonal specials. Non-alcoholic drinks include soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and coffee. The beverage program is substantial enough that Red Robin works as a casual hangout spot even if you're not eating a full meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order Red Robin online for pickup?

Yes, most South Carolina locations accept online orders through their website or app for takeout. You build your burger online the same way you would in the restaurant, then pick it up at a designated time. Call your local Red Robin to confirm they offer online ordering, as availability varies by location.

Are there vegetarian or vegan burger options?

Red Robin offers a plant-based patty that works as a substitute for the beef patty on any burger. You can customize it with any toppings and sauces the same way you would a meat burger. Ask your server about current plant-based options, as menu items can change seasonally.

Do I need to order fries separately, or are they included?

Unlimited fries are included with every burger entree at no extra charge. Your server brings a basket when your burger arrives and refills it throughout your meal. Fries are not included with chicken sandwiches, salads, or other non-burger entrees unless you order them as a side.

What's the best burger for someone who doesn't like spicy food?

Stick with classic toppings and skip the sriracha aioli, jalapeños, and whiskey bacon sauce. Ask your server to recommend mild sauces—garlic aioli, regular mayo, and ketchup are safe choices. You can also request a burger with just cheese, bacon, and lettuce if you prefer simplicity over complexity.

Does Red Robin have a happy hour?

Many Red Robin locations offer drink specials during happy hour, typically in the late afternoon or early evening. Hours and pricing vary by location, so call ahead or check the website for your nearest restaurant's specific happy hour times and deals.