The Beaufort area is full of fantastic restaurants and one of them is standing above all the rest across all of South Carolina. La Nopalera was selected as the Best Mexican restaurant in South Carolina in a recent online article by online magazine, 5ReasonsToVisit.com.
South Carolina is a melting pot of international cuisine, and that’s no secret. We have a massive treasure trove of talented chefs to thank for making South Carolina such a great place to venture beyond our own kitchen for a meal.
According to a list compiled by 5 Reasons To Visit of the Best Mexican Restaurants in each state, the best Mexican restaurant in all of South Carolina is La Nopalera.
“La Nopalera in Beaufort, South Carolina, offers an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine that is both vibrant and flavorful,” the article said.
“The restaurant is renowned for its fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, providing a culinary experience that transports diners straight to Mexico. Signature dishes are complemented by a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for families and friends.”
“For those seeking a memorable dining experience in the Lowcountry, La Nopalera should not be missed, it added.”
As you may know, La Nopalera has two locations around Beaufort. One on Ribaut Road and another on Sams Point Road on Lady’s Island.
Opening its doors back in 1998 by Javier Valencia and Abraham Cruz, the restaurants’ day-to-day operations are currently managed by the Cruz Family, while the brand itself is operated by the Valencia Family along with other locations in both Georgia & Florida.
The Lady’s Island La Nopalera location opened in 2017 and is now the only larger Mexican restaurant on the island.

Locals are quite fond of the combination dinners offered for their simplicity and quickness. Their most popular dish, according to management is the Molcajete, which comes with grilled steak, chicken, and shrimp, with grilled veggies and grilled cactus.
The restaurant prides itself on making its rice, beans, and sauces in house daily, guaranteeing freshness.
We’ve enjoyed La Nop several times, personally, and want to congratulate it’s staff on getting some of the recognition they deserve.
Here’s a link to the full article.

See more about Beaufort’s restaurants here.
See more local food here.