I’d defer to Cochise Cowbell here since he’s the local expert
I'm not the only poster from the CSRA and far from an expert, but I'll give it a shot. Most of the best have already been mentioned:
Farmhaus is good. I haven't tried Frog Hollow, yet.
Tbonz' Tommy Fries are worth the trip.
French Market Grille is fantastic. Their peanut butter pie is to die for. The
original one off of Berkman in Surrey Center
not the one in Columbia County.
Rinehart's is a must. Their slogan is "Beyond Casual." Bring your sharpie and write on every surface imaginable (You'll probably find some of my work along the lines of "Hail State" or "MSU: The REAL Bulldogs"). Everything there is good. They have one of the best hamburgers in town, however I've only had it once due to their seafood being so good. Again, like French Market, go to the
original one on Washington Road and
not the one off of Belair Road.
Two other places that I haven't seen mentioned:
T's Seafood off of Hwy 56. Their food is good but not great. However, they have the best hand-made hush puppies. They may look like something Bully left in the back yard, but they taste amazing.
Sportcenter Bar on Broad way downtown by the strip clubs has a great burger and great onion rings. This place is definitely local. They have huge frosted glass goblets of beer. They used to only have two choices Red (Budweiser) or Blue (Bud Light). They do have all of about 4 taps now, though. I think Killians is an option, which is odd. Caveat, this place is smokey as hell. They were either grandfathered in or just didn't give a **** about the local smoking ordinances before. However, as of January 1st a new State Law went into effect. I haven't been since, so I'm not sure about now.
I hope this helps y'all making the trip. Also, you won't see me out and about anywhere. I usually either leave town or avoid Washington Road like the plague.
ETA: There's only one place I go, if I go out that week at all, but I'm going to keep it to myself... for now.