Property Overview:
Located at 107 Country Creek Dr, Pickens, SC, this ±8,000 SF iconic roadside destination sits on approximately ±7.23 acres along the heavily trafficked SC Hwy 11 (Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway), just minutes from Table Rock State Park. Since 1984, Aunt Sue’s has served as a hub for local families, tourists, and adventurers exploring the South Carolina mountains.
Current Business Breakdown:
The property features multiple revenue-generating components:
A full-service restaurant, Ice cream parlor, Coffee Shop, General store Bakery and Boutique shops
Massive Smoker in a Smoke House
Event stage and outdoor seating, Large parking area with potential for expansion or reconfiguration
Financial Highlights:
2024 Revenue: $474,211.75
2025 YTD (as of May): $193,570.08 (seasonal operations and Wild Fires on Flat Rock, Days of operations this year projected at 300 days)
Projected 2025 Revenue: ±$700,000
All profits are currently reinvested into staffing, marketing, and property improvements.
Key Strengths for Buyers:
Turnkey Business with Immediate Cash Flow: All operational systems are in place, with a loyal customer base and recognizable brand.
Owner-Operated Business is currently managed by the ownership team, with no corporate backing.
Expansion Potential: 7+ acres offer space for new cabins, RV sites, food truck pods, event hosting, or repositioning into a destination-style outdoor venue or wedding location.
Underserved Market: Pickens County lacks modern mixed-use food and entertainment venues, giving Aunt Sue’s a first-mover advantage with branding already in place.
Strategic Location: Positioned between Greenville, Table Rock, Lake Keowee, and the Blue Ridge Mountains—capturing both local and tourist traffic.
Resilience Story That Sets It Apart:
While over 23,000 small businesses in South Carolina closed from 2020–2022—including many rural restaurants and roadside stops—Aunt Sue’s never shut its doors.
The business endured:
COVID-19 economic impact
A major hurricane
An EF-5 tornado
Local fires and forced closures
Yet through it all, the owners stayed invested—retaining staff, improving the property, and building back stronger each year. Their commitment preserved not just a business, but a cherished community landmark.
Repositioning or Growth Opportunities:
For buyers with vision, this property can be transformed into a true mountain-side retreat. Concepts such as:
Destination-style outdoor food and music venue
Expanded retail village
Cabins or Airbnb-style stays
Event/wedding venue with restaurant catering
Brewery or distillery with mountain views
are all viable given the land size, visibility, and traffic on Hwy 11.
Summary:
This is more than a restaurant—it’s a landmark with operational upside, physical expansion space, and an unmatched story of resilience. Whether you're an investor, operator, or dreamer, Aunt Sue’s is ready for its next chapter.
Reach out for financials, tours, or to discuss the path forward.