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Clemson’s Best Breakfast Isn’t In A Diner – It’s At A Chic Cafe With Mediterranean Flair

Published: August 24, 2025

  • Attraction: SunnySide Cafe
  • Location: 101 Market St, Clemson, SC 29631
  • Industry: Restaurant
  • Website: oursunnysidecafe.com

In a college town known more for football than fine dining, one charming cafe has been quietly revolutionizing breakfast and lunch for nearly a decade.

Since 2015, SunnySide Cafe has earned a devoted following by transforming classic Southern breakfast dishes with upscale twists and Mediterranean influences.

This isn’t your typical college hangout.

Oh no, it’s a sophisticated yet welcoming space where locally-sourced ingredients meet culinary creativity.

Breakfast Excellence

Award-Winning Eggs Benedict: The signature dish that keeps people coming back features perfectly poached eggs topped with house-made hollandaise sauce that’s described as better than even well-known regional competitors. The execution is flawless every time.

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SunnySide Breakfast: The foundation meal lets you choose two local eggs cooked to your preference, paired with your choice of bacon, sausage, turkey sausage, or veggie sausage, plus home fries or local cheese grits and your choice of bread.

Mediterranean Omelets: Showcasing the cafe’s international influences, these feature feta cheese, kalamata olives, and other Greek-inspired ingredients that elevate the traditional omelet experience.

Pecan Praline French Toast: A decadent creation that transforms ordinary French toast into something special, with rich praline flavors that feel like dessert for breakfast.

Creative Scramblers: The Melted Scrambler combines eggs with onions, mushrooms, three types of meat, and a bagel, creating a hearty meal that satisfies even the biggest appetites.

Lunch Innovation

California Toasted Almond Salad: A generous mix of fresh greens, avocado, broccoli, and other vegetables topped with balsamic dressing and toasted almonds that showcases the cafe’s commitment to fresh, quality ingredients.

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Gourmet Sandwiches: The menu features creative options like the Curry Chicken Salad Melt and Chipotle Avocado Burger that cater to more adventurous palates while maintaining broad appeal.

Thai Chili Fried Green Tomatoes: A perfect example of how the cafe blends Southern traditions with international flavors, creating unique dishes you won’t find elsewhere.

Atmosphere & Décor

Farmhouse Chic: The contemporary, country-casual interior creates a warm, welcoming environment that feels both sophisticated and comfortable. The design strikes the perfect balance for both casual family meals and special occasions.

Spacious Layout: The open dining room provides plenty of seating without feeling cramped, though the moderate noise level reflects the restaurant’s popularity and active atmosphere.

Outdoor Options: Patio seating allows guests to enjoy Clemson’s pleasant weather while savoring their meals, adding to the relaxed, collegiate atmosphere.

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Clean, Modern Appeal: The space feels fresh and well-maintained, with contemporary touches that elevate it above typical college town eateries.

Service & Quality

Exceptional Service: The friendly staff creates a welcoming atmosphere and demonstrates genuine care for guest satisfaction. Many reviews highlight the attentive, helpful service that makes dining here a pleasure.

Consistent Quality: With nearly a decade of operation, the cafe has perfected its systems to deliver reliable, high-quality food and service that meets high expectations every visit.

Accommodating Approach: The kitchen willingly modifies dishes to meet dietary needs and preferences, and the staff is knowledgeable about ingredients and preparation methods.

Other Considerations

Moderate Pricing: The prices reflect the quality ingredients and preparation, positioning the cafe as an affordable luxury rather than budget dining. Most guests feel the value matches the cost.

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Convenient Location: Located on Market Street near The Inn at Patrick Square, the restaurant is easily accessible from campus and provides ample parking for the area.

Dietary Flexibility: The menu accommodates various dietary needs with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options clearly marked and readily available.

Hours and Timing: Open Monday-Friday 8am-3pm and weekends 7:30am-3:30pm, making it perfect for leisurely breakfast meetings, weekend brunches, or late-morning meals.

Local Favorite: The devoted local clientele and staff loyalty create a genuine community atmosphere that makes visitors feel like regulars.


SunnySide Cafe
📍 101 Market St, Clemson, SC 29631

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Writer: Travis McClendon
Contributor

I’ve lived in Asheville for the past 12 years, but North Carolina has always felt like home. And I've always loved traveling! I enjoy taking the long way just to see what’s out there. When I’m not writing, I’m out with my old Nikon, digging through record bins, or planning my next road trip.