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Welcome to Ward's Fish Market

Ward's Fish Market in Lake City, SC, is a beloved cornerstone of the local seafood scene, renowned for its freshness and quality. Since its inception, it has become a go-to spot for both locals and travelers seeking the best in fried seafood. Customers rave about the consistently delicious dishes, like crispy whiting, succulent shrimp, and the intriguing Lowcountry delicacy, shad roe. The market’s friendly, community-oriented atmosphere enhances the experience, inviting diners to select their seafood and witness the cooking process firsthand. At Ward’s, the commitment to freshness and customer satisfaction shines brightly, making every visit memorable and satisfying.

LOCATIONS

Welcome to Ward's Fish Market, a cherished culinary gem nestled in the heart of Lake City, South Carolina. Known for its dedication to serving up the freshest fried seafood, this market has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. If you’re searching for a place that embodies Southern hospitality and culinary excellence, Ward's is a must-visit.

The moment you step into Ward's Fish Market, you're greeted by the enticing aroma of fried seafood, expertly crafted right before your eyes. The market prides itself on its freshness, allowing patrons to pick their seafood before it's cooked to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned seafood lover or a newcomer to the delights of the ocean’s bounty, you can expect consistency that has earned rave reviews from happy customers.

  • Customer Praise: Renowned for their commitment to quality, one satisfied patron, XL Singletary, enthusiastically declares it as “South Carolina’s best fresh fried fish.” This sentiment echoes throughout the reviews, where many acknowledge the market’s consistency and high standards regardless of the size of your order.
  • Signature Dishes: Diners can indulge in a variety of offerings, including crispy fried whiting, succulent shrimp, and flounder, all prepared on the spot with a delightful cornmeal coating that has become a favorite among customers.
  • Cultural Experience: For those seeking more than just a meal, Ward's offers a glimpse into the rich Southern seafood culture. Patrons have shared experiences of discovering unique delicacies such as Shad roe, highlighting the market’s role in preserving the culinary heritage of the Lowcountry.

The atmosphere at Ward's is inviting, characterized by a clean, hometown feel that makes diners feel right at home. Many reviews speak not only of the delicious food but also of the warm interactions with the staff. While a few isolated incidents reflect a need for improvement in service, the overwhelming majority of feedback showcases the team's commitment to excellent seafood and customer satisfaction. A local, Tonda Kelley, even mentioned driving from Conway just to enjoy a fried shrimp dinner, a testament to the market’s reputation and allure.

If you're ready to embark on a culinary adventure that brings the taste of the South directly to your plate, Ward's Fish Market is waiting for you. With their blend of traditional flavors, commitment to quality, and a dash of Southern charm, it's an experience that will leave you craving more. I, for one, can’t wait to return for another round of their “slap yo momma good” seafood! Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this local treasure at 123 N Acline St, Lake City, SC 29560, or give them a call at +1 843-374-9996.

START YOUR REVIEW OF Ward's Fish Market
XL Singletary (Lilflash1126)
XL Singletary (Lilflash1126)

South Carolina's best fresh fried fish. Consistency is their best attribute. I haven't had an order that I was not satisfied with. Large order for family get-together or just 1 personal order the quality is the same. This needs to be a franchise so that they can share their great seafood with the rest of the state and beyond.

Jennifer Kingwood-Weldon
Jennifer Kingwood-Weldon

Husband and I came from Sumter to this fish market in Lake City, SC and love the food, rest of staff was nice, except this one older black lady who wears glasses. She was helping out over the raw fish, and she ask us: ' Is this on the same ticket?' I replied yes, so my husband wanted crocker fish-which they did not have, so my husband ordered whitings, the older black lady picked up the fish and threw it back down on top of the other fish like somebody did something to her. She even looks mean, and she needs an attitude adjustment. There is always somebody somewhere that lowers an establishment ratings.The food was delicious that is why I give this place a 5 star ratings.

Rodney McFadden
Rodney McFadden

Very clean hometown fish market that serves customers fresh or fried seafood daily, except Sundays are closed. The BEST fresh fried seafood on the spot, you pick, and they do the rest. A great place....

Miss Rosie Ogden
Miss Rosie Ogden

Whilst on one of my southern adventures in the small town of Lake City, I discovered this SOUTHERN DIAMOND purely by accident. To my delight, I've learned of a South Carolina Lowcountry seafood delicacy Shad roe (caviar). Thank you to the young ladies working that evening for your friendliness and for educating Queenie's Daughter in things Lowcountry Southern. The food I came back to order with my brother was wonderful. The prices are more than reasonable. And yes I will be back again

Sheryl Herring
Sheryl Herring

They have a great staff and you get to be at the 'fresh catch' and they cook it 'Slap yo momma good'!

Tonya G
Tonya G

This place been around since i was a little girl. Still the same. Love this place. Florida Brim...... …

Tonda Kelley
Tonda Kelley

I drove from Conway to Lake City just to enjoy a fresh fried shrimp dinner. The seafood is consistently fresh. The employees and other customers are courteous and friendly. As much as I am drawn to Ward's Fish Market for the fresh seafood, I am equally drawn by the cultural experience. I'll be back.

Dave O'Rear
Dave O'Rear

So glad we stopped by. This place is unique, clean and welcoming. Plus the food is exact. We had crispy fried whiting, shrimp and flounder. Each of which cannot be improved upon. We selected the cornmeal coating. You can pick out the seafood to be cooked.