Maryland Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Seafood

Maryland Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Seafood is a chicken restaurant in Florence, SC, specializing in fried chicken, shrimp, and seafood prepared using a signature recipe passed down through generations. The restaurant serves a traditional menu rooted in a legacy that began in the mid-20th century, with a focus on pressure-fried chicken seasoned with a blend of 21 herbs and spices and cooked in pure peanut oil for a crispy, non-greasy texture. Known for its family-style dining and nostalgic appeal, the restaurant caters to locals and visitors across Florence and surrounding areas. With a 4.2-star rating from 912 reviews, it is recognized for consistent quality, flavorful food, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant’s story traces back to Albert Constantine, a native of Wilmington, Delaware, who launched the Maryland Fried Chicken brand in Orlando in 1959. Inspired by the popularity of Colonel Sanders’ chicken, Constantine developed his own proprietary breading and cooking method, using a broaster to achieve a unique, golden crust. He capitalized on the presence of Baltimoreans in central Florida by branding his restaurant after the state, creating a 35-foot sign that drew crowds eager for a taste of home. Though the original franchise was sold in 1975, the brand continues to thrive in select locations, maintaining ties to Delmarva poultry producers and preserving the image of wholesome, family-oriented meals.

Located on South Irby Street, the Florence location sits about a quarter mile from Florence County Parks and Recreation, near the Hallmark Square Shopping Center and Henry Timrod School. It is also within a short distance of Barringer Street and the Greyhound bus station, placing it in a central, accessible part of the city.

The restaurant is known for its strong reputation, consistent customer satisfaction, and well-documented presence across online platforms. Its website is recognized for clean, search-friendly content and detailed business information, contributing to its visibility and trustworthiness. With a long-standing legacy and enduring menu, Maryland Fried Chicken, Shrimp & Seafood remains a staple of Southern comfort dining in Florence.