Restaurants

The Lemonade Stand and Cafe

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

2164 University Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801, United States $10–20
4.8
22 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Located in the heart of Aiken, South Carolina, The Lemonade Stand and Cafe is a charming gem that proudly serves up classic Southern comfort food with a heartfelt twist. This unpretentious spot at 2164 University Pkwy has quickly become a beloved destination for locals and travelers craving genuine, soul-satisfying meals paired with some of the freshest lemonade you'll find anywhere.

The cuisine here leans heavily into down-home Southern flavors, showcasing dishes crafted with care and authenticity. From the moment you bite into their legendary bacon cheeseburger, as praised by multiple delighted customers, you’ll understand why diners rave about the perfectly juicy, melt-in-your-mouth patties. Crisp, golden fries that accompany the burger deliver the perfect balance of texture and flavor. For those seeking a taste of traditional Southern fare, the pork chop dinner is a standout—fried to a delicate, crispy perfection and accompanied by savory sides like fluffy rice with rich gravy and baked mac n’ cheese that tastes just like homemade comfort on a plate.

One cannot speak of The Lemonade Stand and Cafe without highlighting their namesake beverage. Every glass of lemonade is incredibly refreshing, vibrant, and perfectly complements the hearty meals—offering a bright, tangy counterpoint that refreshes the palate. This is no ordinary lemonade; it’s the kind that instantly transports you back to an easier, sweeter time.

Walking into The Lemonade Stand and Cafe feels like stepping into a warm, friendly neighborhood diner where the staff’s kind greetings add to the overall welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where you don’t just get a meal; you experience genuine Southern hospitality. The modest building may not boast fancy décor, but it’s the food and the heartfelt service that truly leave a lasting impression. The kind of spot where Andrew Medlin finally took a chance after driving past for ages, and found his new favorite burger. Or where April S. discovered a pork chop sandwich so soul-stirring it made her pause and savor every bite.

Whether you’re stopping in for a quick, satisfying lunch or craving a comforting home-cooked dinner, The Lemonade Stand and Cafe delivers with passion and authenticity. This is a restaurant that doesn’t just serve food—it serves memories, warmth, and a taste of Southern tradition that keeps customers coming back, again and again.

For anyone passing through Aiken or locals eager for a genuine culinary hug, The Lemonade Stand and Cafe is an absolute must-visit. Don’t miss out on this heartfelt culinary experience—call +1 803-262-5670 or stop by to taste what real Southern comfort food should be.

03 Notes from regulars

22 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.8
Based on 22 verified notes
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Andrew Medlin.
2 month ago
Ive been driving by this place for a while now and something told me to go try it today. I went in and was greeted very kindly and I ordered the Bacon Cheeseburger with a Lemonade. After I paid I sat and waited for a few minutes until it was ready! Went home and sat down to eat and Holy Cow! The burger melted in my mouth and the fries were amazing! The lemonade was fresh and tasted so good I was tempted to drive 20 minutes back to get some more! If you dont mind a little wait I recommend this place for everyone wanting a good meal!!!
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April S.
3 month ago
This very definition of a dive is worth making the stop, even if it means detouring off the interstate a ways. The building may not look like much, but the food was fresh, made with love, and 100% delicious. I had the porkchop sandwich. I felt it in my soul and my taste buds went straight to heaven. I don't think I'll ever want one that isn't just like the one I just ate. It was perfectly paired with deliciously sweet lemonade. My husband had the patty melt and we also had the spicy Italian wings. I will be back for another porkchop, even if I have to drive from Columbia to get one. Don't judge this book by its cover. Lord forgive me, but it is an altar to southern soul food, especially with chitlins on the menu. GO!
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Michele Pappagallo.
3 month ago
Great down home southern food. I tried the pork chop dinner and was not disappointed! The pork chop was fried perfectly and the sides were fresh and flavorful. Definitely a great place when you need some good ol' comfort food!
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Bruce Wingate.
4 month ago
I just had one of the most amazing hamburger I've had in a long long time. How good was it, it started falling apart after I took the 1st bite!!! I shall return. Was gonna take a picture of it but I couldn't stop long enough to take one
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Annie Bonilla.
4 month ago
Sweetest lady taking my order and the food is down right perfect. Got porkchops with rice and gravy and mac n cheese. The rice and gravy is just like my moms and the baked mac n cheese is exactly what I look for in some southern comfort food. Lemonade is fresh and pairs great with my meal. Will be back!
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Sr Andrew Joyner lll.
5 month ago
Sweetest lady in the world just reminds me of home! And the best food in the south
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KupkakeQT.
6 month ago
Hidden gem. I was greeted by the kindest lady who happens to be the owner and amazing chef. I Thoroughly enjoyed my meal. I got the Patty Melt, Fries, chili dog and lemonade. Everything was home made, cooked hot and fresh and the lemonade was delicious and refreshing. I could’ve drank a gallon. I recommend this mom & pop style restaurant to anyone who wants a good local meal. Id go back for sure.
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Teej Trojan.
6 month ago
The place is in need of TLC and cosmetic repair, but service and food stellar. The owner is lovely , friendly, kind and a great cook. Recommend you call order in for pickup to save waiting time. Will be ordering from here every time I cheat on my "healthy" diet and need a burger and fry fix. Best in Aiken.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Tuesday (today) 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Wednesday 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Thursday 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Friday 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Saturday 11:00 AM - 07:00 PM
Sunday Closed
Finding the door

2164 University Pkwy, Aiken, SC 29801, United States

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • No Delivery
Popular for
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Quick bite
Dining options
  • Lunch
  • Dessert
Atmosphere
  • Casual
Crowd
  • Family-friendly
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
Children
  • Good for kids
Parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Free street parking
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