Georgetown, September 13, 2025
News Summary
Georgetown is set to transform its dining landscape with the arrival of at least four new restaurants along Front Street, close to the Liberty Steel Mill. This comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the mill, which recently reopened with limited staffing. Local leaders are pushing for a shift from industrial to commercial, while new eateries aim to boost tourism and culinary diversity in the area.
Georgetown is set to see a significant transformation in its dining scene as at least four new restaurants are slated to open along Front Street, close to the Liberty Steel Mill. This development comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the mill, which recently reopened with limited staffing following pandemic-related closures.
The Liberty Steel Mill, which has been a longstanding industrial presence in Georgetown, faced difficulties during the COVID pandemic and resumed operations in January with just 65 workers. City leaders have expressed concerns about the mill’s future and are urging it to halt operations due to a planned zoning change from industrial to commercial on its 50-acre site. Liberty Steel is currently contesting this decision with the Georgetown Board of Zoning Appeals.
The new restaurants aim to redefine the waterfront area, bringing fresh culinary options and promoting tourism. Tom Hall, who is set to open a restaurant called Between the Antlers next month, noted the central role Front Street plays in Georgetown’s cultural landscape. The restaurant will feature Carolina rice kitchen-inspired cuisine, contributing to the area’s unique gastronomic offerings.
Another notable venture is Trevor Day’s transformation of the former Kudzu Bakery, located at 120 King St., into a brewery accompanied by two additional restaurants. One of the restaurants, Marker 42, is a Lowcountry cantina expected to open in the next four to six weeks. Marker 42 will offer a diverse menu that includes tacos, quesadillas, brisket, pork belly, and a creative take on shrimp and grits. While the cantina will boast a full tequila bar, its primary focus will remain on food.
Day acknowledged how the steel mill’s existing operations may be hindering Georgetown’s tourism potential, echoing sentiments shared by local business owners and leaders. The owner of Augustus & Carolina furniture store, David Kossove, is actively acquiring properties to renovate and lease them to aspiring restaurateurs within Georgetown’s historic district, further expanding the area’s dining options.
The Georgetown County Chamber of Commerce views the new restaurant initiatives as a promising sign for the local economy. They noted an uptick in vacationers relocating to the region for remote work opportunities, leading to increased demand for dining and entertainment options. John Bullard from the Chamber emphasized the necessity of enhancing attractions to entice visitors.
In addition to the restaurants, Winyah Hospitality LLC plans to demolish the old Georgetown Times office to construct a new 56-room boutique hotel, illustrating a broader movement towards tourism-focused development in the city. Mayor Carol Jayroe believes that the economic impact of tourism initiatives centered around the steel mill site could surpass that of the mill itself, should the city successfully transition towards a commercial focus.
As Georgetown moves towards ushering in this new dining era, uncertainties surrounding Liberty Steel’s future stand in stark contrast to the optimism surrounding these restaurant openings. The outcome of the ongoing zoning appeals could significantly shape the city’s economic landscape in the near future.
FAQ Section
What new restaurants are opening in Georgetown?
At least four new restaurants are set to open, including Between the Antlers and Marker 42.
What type of cuisine will Between the Antlers offer?
Between the Antlers will feature Carolina rice kitchen-inspired cuisine.
When is Marker 42 expected to open and what will it serve?
Marker 42 is expected to open in the next four to six weeks, serving Lowcountry-Mex cuisine, alongside options such as tacos and quesadillas.
What is the current status of the Liberty Steel Mill?
The Liberty Steel Mill has recently reopened with only 65 workers and is contesting a zoning change to cease operations.
What are the future plans for the area around the steel mill?
City leaders are advocating for a transition from industrial to commercial, including new restaurants and a boutique hotel.
Key Features
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Restaurants | At least four opening on Front Street, including Between the Antlers and Marker 42. |
| Liberty Steel Mill Status | Reopened in January with 65 workers; facing a zoning change challenge. |
| Tourism Development | Focus on commercial growth, including restaurants and a boutique hotel. |
| Culinary Offerings | Variety including Carolina rice kitchen-inspired and Lowcountry-Mex cuisine. |
| Economic Impact | New restaurants expected to enhance local economy amid tourism growth. |
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Additional Resources
- Community Impact: Jiu-Jitsu Studio Opens
- Wikipedia: Georgetown, South Carolina
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- Google Search: Georgetown restaurants
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgetown, SC
- Washington Post: WP Apps IMRS
- Google News: Georgetown tourism
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