Variety Restaurant

My parents grew up in Aiken and recently took me here when we were in town visiting. I thought the seafood was fresh and very fairly priced. I got catfish, oysters, shrimp, scallops and deviled crab for $25. Unsure of the bad reviews about pricing on side items, but the restaurant is older; what else do you expect from a place that’s been there since 1931? Staff was awesome and very friendly. Highly recommended.

Nice local hometown restaurant with a good selection of seafood dishes. The service was attentive and the food was fresh and hot. I had the fried shrimp and my husband had the fisherman's platter, and both were nice portions with good flavor.

Heard about the place for years, so finally decided to give it a try. Was not impressed. I knew the food was expensive but don’t mind if the quality is there. The quality of food is subpar at best paid 38 dollars for a waffle house steak. Oyster stew was good but not 17 dollars a cup good, was obviously canned oysters. I don’t mind paying for good food I just don’t like paying 5 star prices for Captain Ds quality. Only giving 2 stars because service was excellent.

If you want some great local seafood and steak then the Variety is most definitely the place you need to eat!!! It is my absolute favorite! The seafood is always fresh and is amazing! You can not possibly get a better tasting steak from anywhere else! It is so juicy and good! The staff is always helpful and friendly! The drinks are awesome! The owner is always there also.. Great food and atmosphere!

This is definitely one of the "hole in a wall" restaurant you do not want to miss out on. Prices are a little steep but the crablegs were spot on and my husband loved his steak & shrimp. Very pleasantly surprised!!