Food Frenzy in Darlington County
This weekend my adventure was to be exposed to various barbecue in the area, which I hadn't tried in a while. Now, that is not to say there may be other great "cue" places but he is how it went down.
As a South Carolina Judge and Marshall for BBQ events, I enjoy the art of cooking BBQ and the enthusiasm of people who do this for a hobby or as a living. I started this adventure with relatives coming from Charlotte and knowing that they to were BBQ fanatics.
We started on Saturday going to a place in Lydia that I had been told about but had never visited. It's an old service station that cooks BBQ for takeout. You might not realize something called Tommy's Self Service would be such a place. Upon driving up to the location the gas pumps are out front and there are 5 cars parked along side. Now let me tell you this, Lydia is a speed trap overseen by Darlington County Sheriff's Office. I would suggest you adhere to the 35 mph or you will see the "blue light special". Exactly what you don't want to see.
Upon walking inside it's like the old time convenience stores out in the countryside that has gone by the wayside. Not Tommy's. locals were standing in line. In looking around, there were no menus to be found. I looked over the hand printed specials on the meat case and because absolutely confused as to what I was going to get so I definitely got more than I needed. I started out with 2 rack of pork ribs. Asked if I wanted them cut or whole and whether I want a mop sauce on them. I had the sauce put on the side and had them cut. My sides included: sweet potato fries, baked beans, dirty rice (yum), dinner rolls and dessert. I got there just in time as the gun class was just letting out to join them for lunch.
Heading back home, the aroma coming from the back seat was phenomenal. Upon arrival everyone was excited to try my new find. I can't tell you how good it was. Everyone commented about everything they were eating and the best was yet to come - dessert.
We were all so full we decided to leave dessert until a little later. When it was time, we opened up the container(s) and it was addictive. Fresh banana pudding that just melted in your mouth. Fresh bananas, vanilla wafers that still had a little crunch and banana pudding. A great finish to a day of pure enjoyment.
Next time your headed around Highway 15 South of Hartsville, you need to make your stop at Tommy's Self Service. They are open on Monday thru Saturday 7am to 6pm. If you stop in, tell the Judy with Eye on Detail sent you.
ENJOY!
