The best place to eat after a day on Lake Hartwell is UP on the Roof, located at 314 S. McDuffie St. in Downtown Anderson, SC — a short, convenient drive from most lake access points. The rooftop restaurant serves fresh seafood, wagyu steak and handcrafted cocktails, with sweeping views of the Anderson skyline to help you unwind after a day on the water.
Lake Hartwell is one of South Carolina’s premier destinations for boating, water-skiing and swimming, and it’s nationally recognized among anglers for its largemouth and striped bass fishing. Whether you spent the day pulling skiers behind the boat, cooling off in the water, or chasing bass on a tournament-grade lake, all that time outdoors works up a serious appetite.
While Downtown Anderson has plenty of casual dining choices, only one rooftop destination draws a crowd for its relaxed vibe and sweeping views of the South Carolina Upstate skyline. This welcoming restaurant sits right in the heart of Downtown Anderson, just a short drive from the water, making it an easy stop on your way home from the lake. Unwind with creative dishes and refreshing drinks after a busy afternoon in the sun — it’s a great option for both locals and visitors ready to trade a day on the boat for an unforgettable dinner.
Quick Facts
- Address: 314 S. McDuffie St., Anderson, SC 29624
- Phone: (864) 224-7663
- Hours: Sun 11am–10pm (brunch 11am–3pm) • Mon 3pm–10pm • Tue–Wed closed • Thu 3pm–10pm • Fri 3pm–midnight • Sat 11am–midnight (brunch 11am–3pm)
- Distance from Lake Hartwell: A short, convenient drive from most Lake Hartwell access points
- Signature dishes: Every Day I’m Brusselin’ crispy Brussels sprouts, Strawberry Field Forever salad, wagyu steak with garlic-parmesan home fries
- Best for: Post-lake dinner, casual meals with friends, family outings after a day on the water
Why Choose UP on the Roof After Lake Hartwell?
After a day of boating, water-skiing, swimming or fishing, you want a comfortable space to stretch your legs and great food to satisfy your hunger… and UP on the Roof does both. The layout features cozy seating throughout, creating a relaxed environment for casual conversation. Sit out on the rooftop terrace and watch the sun go down as a soft breeze drifts across the open space. The restaurant’s easygoing pace works especially well for groups with different appetites and plans, so nobody has to rush off the water and straight into a formal dinner.
What Should You Eat After a Day at Lake Hartwell?
The kitchen team focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients to build a menu full of regional favorites. Start your meal with shareable appetizers like the crispy Brussels sprouts, known on the menu as Every Day I’m Brusselin’.
From there, dive into a main course. Seafood lovers have plenty of choices, from salmon to beer-battered cod and sautéed jumbo shrimp. For something lighter after a day in the sun, try one of the fresh, crisp salads, such as the classic Caesar Salad with fresh romaine, croutons and parmesan cheese or one of the featured seasonal salads.
And if a day on the lake has worked up a bigger appetite, the wagyu steak served with garlic-parmesan home fries is worth the trip alone.
What’s on the Cocktail Menu at UP on the Roof?
A long afternoon on the water calls for proper hydration and a few fun treats. The bar serves creative cocktails made with fresh juices and seasonal herbs, plus craft beers from local breweries that highlight regional talent and refreshing flavor.
Prefer something non-alcoholic? The bar staff mixes equally inventive mocktails with interesting gin and rum alternatives, so everyone in the group has something to sip on.
Best Occasions to Visit UP on the Roof After the Lake
- Post-lake dinner after boating, water-skiing or fishing
- A family outing on the way home from Lake Hartwell
- Casual dinner with friends after a day on the water
- A weekend getaway dinner in Downtown Anderson
- Sunset drinks on the rooftop terrace
Plan Your Visit to UP on the Roof in Anderson, SC
Ready to trade the dock for a rooftop table? UP on the Roof is located at 314 S. McDuffie St. in downtown Anderson, SC, an easy stop after a day at Lake Hartwell. Make a reservation or stop by for walk-in seating during open hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UP on the Roof open every day?
UP on the Roof is open Thursday through Monday. Hours are Sunday 11am–10pm, Monday 3pm–10pm, Thursday 3pm–10pm, Friday 3pm–midnight, and Saturday 11am–midnight. The restaurant is closed Tuesday and Wednesday, but can be available for private events 7 days a week with advance notice.
Is UP on the Roof close to Lake Hartwell?
Yes. UP on the Roof is a short, convenient drive from Lake Hartwell. Located in Downtown Anderson, UP on the Roof is an easy stop after a day on the water.
What is Lake Hartwell known for?
Lake Hartwell is a top Southeast destination for boating, water-skiing and swimming, and it’s nationally recognized among anglers for its largemouth and striped bass fishing. After a day on the water, UP on the Roof in Downtown Anderson is a convenient spot to unwind with dinner and drinks.
Do I need a reservation after visiting the lake?
Walk-ins are welcome, but booking a table online is highly recommended during busy weekend dinner hours, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. You can book a table online or via the Open Table app.
What kind of food does UP on the Roof serve?
The menu features fresh seafood (including Atlantic salmon and beer-battered cod), wagyu steak, shareable starters like crispy Brussels sprouts, crisp salads, handcrafted cocktails and mocktails and more.
Does UP on the Roof have outdoor or rooftop seating?
Yes. The rooftop terrace offers open-air seating with sunset views over Downtown Anderson, in addition to covered, climate controlled outdoor seating and limited indoor seating options at the bar.