Nestled just west of Historic Downtown Conway, the Country Club Forest neighborhood is more than a peaceful residential enclave—it’s a destination for food lovers seeking hidden gems, welcoming cafés, and unforgettable culinary experiences. From locally owned bakeries on Country Club Drive to inventive food trucks on 16th Avenue, this thriving corner of Conway has become a hotspot for both casual bites and elegant evenings out. Whether you’re a local or a visitor on the hunt for flavor, here’s your guided tour to dining in Country Club Forest.
The Heart of the Neighborhood: Country Club Drive’s Dining Delights
Start your culinary exploration on Country Club Drive—the spine of the neighborhood and a gathering point for many of its best eateries.
- Daisy Lane Café (at the corner of Country Club Dr. and 16th Ave.): This cozy café has earned a loyal following for its homemade quiche, rotating soup specials, and artisan sandwiches. The cozy, sun-dappled dining room sets the stage for a lazy Saturday brunch. Their turkey, cranberry, and brie panini is a must-try, and they brew locally roasted coffee that’s perfect for a pick-me-up. Most dishes range from $8-$13, making this a wallet-friendly gem.
- Bella Sera Bistro (off Country Club Dr. near Country Club Villas): For anyone craving Italian, Bella Sera is legendary. Homemade pasta, house-made sauces, and seasonal specials take center stage. Their creamy risotto and lobster ravioli are standouts, while the tiramisu is pure indulgence. Expect a mid-range price point ($14-$28 per entrée), white tablecloths, and the occasional live piano at dinner.
Bakeries & Sweet Treats: Satisfying Your Sweet Tooth
When a craving for sweets strikes, you don’t have to go far.
- Forest Lane Bakery (just south of 16th Ave. on Forest Ln.): Don’t miss this family-run spot for flaky morning pastries, decadent cinnamon rolls, and custom cakes (locals rave about their red velvet). Forest Lane also serves classic Southern pies—think pecan and sweet potato—making it a dessert destination. Prices for treats typically fall under $5, and they often have a selection of gluten-free goodies.
- Sweet Magnolia Treat Truck (rotating weekly at the Country Club Forest Park): This cheerful pink food truck is a favorite with families for its gourmet cupcakes, hand-spun milkshakes, and made-to-order donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar. Check their socials for the weekly schedule—sometimes they roll out specials like banana pudding sundaes or peach hand pies during the summer.
International Flavors: Tastes from Around the World
One of the reasons foodies love Country Club Forest? The neighborhood’s culinary diversity.
- Tienda y Taquería Guadalajara (16th Ave. & Elm St.): Don’t judge this unassuming spot by its humble exterior. Step inside for authentic, budget-friendly Mexican food: fresh off-the-grill carne asada tacos, homemade tamales, and zesty pozole on weekends. The owners frequently feature daily specials (most under $12). There’s a small grocery section to take home hot sauces and tortillas.
- East Garden Express (at the strip mall adjacent to Country Club Dr. & Main St.): This local favorite dishes out flavorful Chinese takeout—everything from crispy orange chicken to delicate shrimp dumplings. Dinner deals are hearty and perfect for sharing, with entrée prices typically ranging from $10 to $18. Try the Szechuan beef for a spicy kick!
Classic American & Southern Fare
For comfort food with a touch of nostalgia, you’ll find several spots right in the neighborhood.
- Country Club Diner (at the intersection of Country Club Dr. and 9th Ave.): Step into this retro-inspired eatery for classic diner fare, including juicy burgers, golden fries, and hand-battered onion rings. Locals love their breakfast platters (the biscuits and gravy are a hometown favorite) and bottomless coffee. Most items are under $12, making it a go-to for casual evenings or breakfast with friends.
- Mama Bea’s Soul Kitchen (Elm St. & 17th Ave.): Southern hospitality shines at Mama Bea’s, where the fried chicken is always crisp, the collard greens are perfectly seasoned, and the sweet tea flows endlessly. Sunday specials often include oxtails or smothered pork chops. The warm, family-style ambience makes everyone feel at home, with hearty plates in the $10-$20 range.
Casual Bites & Food Truck Finds
Country Club Forest embraces relaxed, community-driven dining, especially with its thriving food truck scene.
- Coastal Cravings Food Truck Market (seasonal pop-up at Country Club Forest Park): Held monthly near Forest Ln., this food truck roundup draws vendors from across Conway. Favorites include Lowcountry BBQ, loaded seafood boils, and vegan street tacos. It’s the best way to sample a cross-section of the city’s flavors—you never know if the next booth will have Korean bibimbap bowls or North Carolina-style pulled pork.
- The Local Scoop (mobile, but often parked outside Forest Lane Park): Homemade ice cream churned from local dairy, inventive seasonal flavors (like blueberry-basil or brown butter pecan), and nostalgic floats bring sweet summer bliss to the neighborhood.
Local Food Traditions & Seasonal Events
Beyond restaurants, Country Club Forest loves to celebrate its food culture.
- Annual Fall Food Fest (held at Forest Lane Park): This family-friendly event features tastings from neighborhood eateries, pie-baking contests, and live music. It’s a highlight for locals eager to sample autumn favorites like apple fritters and hearty stews.
- Backyard BBQ Cook-Offs: Each spring, you might spot wafts of hickory smoke as neighbors set up grills for informal BBQ competitions—smoked ribs, secret-recipe sauces, and classics like coleslaw and mac & cheese make these gatherings irresistible.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites
Part of what makes Country Club Forest special are the tucked-away spots locals keep coming back to:
- Aunt Marie’s Pimiento Cheese Stand (thankfully, a well-kept secret just off 10th Ave.): Stop by this tiny roadside stall for homemade pimiento cheese, buttery crackers, and what many call “the best deviled eggs in Horry County.” Ask about her seasonal jams and chow-chow.
- The Book Nook Café (located in a converted home near Forest Ln. & 8th Ave.): Book lovers and caffeine aficionados unite at this whimsical spot. Sip on a local cold brew while nibbling scones or avocado toast, and browse the shelves for a literary treat.
Conclusion: A Neighborhood with a Big Heart—and Even Better Eats
Whether you’re searching for a quiet bakery, a lively food truck market, or a memorable dinner out, Country Club Forest in Conway, SC, serves up experiences as unique as the community itself. With creative chefs, family-run eateries, and a growing roster of international tastes, this neighborhood promises something delicious at every turn. Bring your appetite and explore—it’s the kind of place where new favorites are always around the next corner.