June 4, 2025

Eggs Up Grill Expands to James Island

News Summary

Spartanburg-based Eggs Up Grill is opening a new restaurant in James Island as part of an expansion strategy that includes six new locations across multiple states by 2026. This will be the fifth Eggs Up Grill in the Charleston market, enhancing dining options for locals. With a rich history dating back to 1986, the chain has seen significant growth under new ownership, including the recent opening of 22 new restaurants and 80 more in development. The restaurant is set to cater to breakfast and lunch enthusiasts in the area.

James Island – Spartanburg-based Eggs Up Grill is set to expand its presence with the introduction of a new restaurant location in James Island. This move is part of a larger development strategy, as the breakfast-and-lunch chain has signed franchise agreements for six short-order locations across multiple states, all anticipated to open by late 2025 or early 2026.

The James Island restaurant will mark the fifth Eggs Up Grill in the Charleston market, joining existing locations in Ladson, Summerville, and West Ashley. This expansion comes after a prior location in Mount Pleasant was closed in 2021, following nine years of operation.

Eggs Up Grill traces its origins back to 1986 in Rhode Island, though the chain moved its base of operations to South Carolina in 1997. Since then, it has grown significantly, establishing a foothold in the breakfast and lunch dining sector. Currently, the chain operates from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., catering to early risers and lunchtime patrons alike.

In 2018, the brand transitioned to new ownership when it was sold to WJ Partners, a private equity firm based in Spartanburg. This change has spurred notable growth for the company, as evidenced by the opening of 22 new restaurants in the past year alone. The chain has expanded to 94 locations across nine states, predominantly in the Southeast, and boasts 39 locations in South Carolina. Additionally, approximately 80 more restaurants are currently in various stages of development.

The latest addition to the Eggs Up Grill family opened in Seneca, South Carolina, on June 2, further diversifying the menu of available dining options in the region. CEO Ricky Richardson credits much of the brand’s recent momentum to the involvement of experienced, multi-unit operators who are driving successful business strategies.

As Eggs Up Grill continues to grow, its presence in the Charleston area is expected to strengthen, offering locals and visitors alike additional choices for breakfast and lunch. The brand’s commitment to quality and customer service has resonated with patrons, which is evident through its rapid expansion and positive reception. With the upcoming restaurant in James Island, the community can anticipate another vibrant spot for enjoying beloved breakfast staples.

Overall, the future looks bright for Eggs Up Grill as it seeks to enhance its presence across several states while maintaining its roots in the South Carolina dining scene.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.