McAlister's Deli: Build-Your-Own Salads and Sandwiches Across South Carolina

What McAlister's Deli offers in South Carolina

McAlister's Deli is a fast-casual chain with locations throughout South Carolina where you build your own sandwich, salad, or wrap at the counter. You choose the bread, protein, vegetables, and toppings—the staff assembles it while you watch. The salad bar works the same way: pick your greens, proteins like grilled chicken or turkey, and as many vegetables and toppings as you want, then choose your dressing. Most locations also serve soup, tea, and desserts.

The chain started in Oklahoma in 1989 and has grown to over 90 locations across the South and Midwest. In South Carolina, you'll find McAlister's in cities including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Myrtle Beach. Each location operates as a standalone restaurant with dine-in seating, takeout, and online ordering for pickup.

Key Takeaways

• You build your own salad or sandwich by selecting from bread types, proteins, vegetables, and toppings at the counter.
• McAlister's locations across South Carolina accept online orders for pickup and offer dine-in seating.
• Prices vary by location and what you choose, but the build-your-own model lets you control portion size and ingredients.
• Most locations serve lunch and dinner daily, with some opening for breakfast on weekdays.

How the salad bar works

Walk up to the counter and tell the staff you want a salad. They'll ask what size you want—typically small, regular, or large. You then choose your base: mixed greens, spinach, or romaine. From there, you point to the vegetables and toppings you want added: tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, onions, carrots, cheese, croutons, nuts, and dried fruit are standard options at most locations.

For protein, you can add grilled chicken breast, turkey, ham, roast beef, or tuna salad. Some locations offer additional proteins like bacon or shrimp, though availability varies. Once everything is in the bowl, the staff hands it to you with a choice of dressings on the side—ranch, vinaigrette, Caesar, and several others depending on the location. You pay at the register based on size and any premium proteins you chose.

Building a sandwich or wrap

The sandwich process is similar. You choose your bread first: white, wheat, honey oat, or a wrap. Then you pick your protein—turkey, roast beef, ham, chicken, tuna, or vegetarian options. Next comes the vegetables: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, peppers, and others. You can add cheese, bacon, and condiments like mayo, mustard, or oil and vinegar.

McAlister's also offers signature sandwiches with set combinations if you don't want to build your own. These have names like "The Reuben" or "The Club" and come with fries or a side salad. Prices for signature sandwiches are usually posted on the menu board, while build-your-own pricing depends on what you add.

Locations and hours in South Carolina

McAlister's has multiple locations across the state. Major cities with restaurants include Charleston (downtown and suburban locations), Columbia, Greenville, Spartanburg, and Myrtle Beach. Some locations are in shopping centers or downtown areas; others stand alone. Hours typically run from late morning through evening, with some locations opening earlier on weekdays for breakfast.

To find the exact address and hours for the location nearest you, visit McAlister's website or call ahead. Hours can vary by location, and some close earlier on Sundays. If you're planning to order online for pickup, most locations accept orders through their website or app during business hours.

Pricing and what to expect

A small salad with basic vegetables and no protein typically costs less than a large salad with grilled chicken or turkey. Sandwiches fall in a similar range, with signature sandwiches priced slightly higher than basic build-your-own options. Most locations accept cash and card, and many offer online ordering with a small pickup fee.

The build-your-own model means you control what goes into your meal and can avoid ingredients you don't want. If you're watching portions, you can order a small size. If you want extra vegetables and protein, you can load up without worrying about a set menu limiting your choices.

Dietary considerations

Because you build your own salad or sandwich, you can work around dietary restrictions. If you're vegetarian, skip the meat and load up on vegetables, cheese, and nuts. If you need to avoid certain ingredients, you can see what's available and ask the staff what's in the dressings or prepared items like tuna salad. Most locations can tell you about ingredients if you ask.

McAlister's does not publish a full nutritional database on their website, so if you need exact calorie counts or allergen information, ask the staff at your location or call ahead. They can usually tell you what's in their dressings and whether items contain common allergens like nuts or shellfish.

When to visit and what to know

Lunch hours (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) tend to be busier, especially on weekdays. If you want a shorter wait, visit mid-afternoon or early evening. The build-your-own format means service is faster than a full-service restaurant but slower than a drive-through—expect to spend 10 to 15 minutes from ordering to receiving your food during busy times.

Most locations have dine-in seating, so you can eat there or take your order to go. If you're ordering online, you'll pick it up at the counter at your scheduled time. Parking is usually available at the location, though downtown Charleston locations may have limited street parking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order McAlister's online for pickup?

Yes. Most locations accept online orders through their website or mobile app. You choose your salad or sandwich, select a pickup time, and pay online. Pick up your order at the counter during your scheduled time window.

Do you deliver to homes or offices?

Delivery varies by location. Some McAlister's work with third-party delivery services, while others offer their own delivery in certain areas. Call your nearest location or check their website to see if delivery is available in your area.

What if I'm allergic to an ingredient?

Tell the staff about your allergy before they build your salad or sandwich. They can tell you what's in dressings, prepared items, and toppings. If you need detailed allergen information, call ahead so they can check their ingredient labels.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes. You can build a salad or sandwich with just vegetables, cheese, nuts, and dressing. Ask the staff which dressings are vegan if you're avoiding dairy. Some locations may have other plant-based options, so ask what's available.

How much does a salad or sandwich cost?

Prices vary by location and what you choose. A small salad with vegetables typically costs less than a large salad with grilled chicken. Signature sandwiches are usually priced higher than basic build-your-own options. Call your location or check their website for current pricing.