Florence’s Heroes Hideout: Where Gaming Meets Ramen Delight
Florence is buzzing with excitement lately, and it’s not just because of the beautiful weather! With abundant sunshine and warm temperatures peaking at a cozy 79°F, locals are flocking to one of the city’s favorite gathering spots: Heroes Hideout.
Located at 1641 W. Palmetto Street, Heroes Hideout is a charming little combination of a gaming store and a ramen shop that has quickly become a community staple. Just last week, on October 9, a group of enthusiastic gamers were deep into a session of Dungeons and Dragons, completely immersed in their adventure while enjoying bowls of delicious ramen. It’s the perfect blend of activity and comfort food that keeps bringing people back.
A New Chapter for Heroes Hideout
Originally opened in 2017, the store faced tough times due to the pandemic, leaving the previous owners struggling to keep the doors open. That’s when current owner Bryson Horne stepped in, refusing to let this community haven vanish. He recalls, “The community is a very tight-knit, family-based community, and I didn’t want to see the local game store disappear.” With his passion and dedication, Horne revitalized the beloved shop, turning it into the successful venue we see today.
What makes Heroes Hideout stand out even more is the addition of the Noodle House, offering authentic ramen created by Chef Tony Carter. Horne recognized that while Florence had plenty of dining options, it was missing a ramen shop. Therefore, he collaborated with Carter, who had been cooking ramen at pop-up events, to bring an exciting menu to the gaming community.
Meet the Team
Horne is supported by an incredible team, including Emmanuel Serrato, Nickie Akers, and Ricky Brown. Together, they ensure that Heroes Hideout is not just a business but a friendly gathering space for gamers and food lovers alike.
Chef Carter’s roots in cooking run deep; he grew up in a family where food played an important role. “My dad’s been a professional cook for a little over 10 years, on and off,” he shares. This culinary background paved the way for his creative approach to ramen, culminating in a menu that recently expanded to include delightful options like wakame seaweed salad, mochi ice cream, and seasonal dessert dumplings.
The Community Connection
Not only has Heroes Hideout become a hotspot for gaming enthusiasts, but it is also making waves in the community by supporting local charities. Horne and his wife actively participate in events, like their collaboration with Mission 22, a nonprofit aimed at helping veterans. Additionally, throughout November, they will run a “charitea” event, donating a portion of boba tea sales to support local high school students for their junior prom and senior class trip.
With another Heroes Hideout location thriving in Sumter, Horne’s commitment to fostering community spaces is evident. He shares, “I think local game stores supply kids and adults with a place where they can go and be themselves. It gives you that kind of interpersonal interaction.”
A Perfect Pairing
As if the charms of a gaming store and a ramen shop weren’t enough, the vibrant atmosphere at Heroes Hideout makes it even more special. Those enjoying their gaming sessions are often tantalized by the fragrant aroma of ramen wafting through the air. You might see a player casting spells while slurping noodles, creating a blend of fun and flavor that’s simply hard to beat. Horne puts it simply, “It’s a space where you can unwind, connect with others, and enjoy delicious food.”
So, if you find yourself in Florence, whether you’re a gaming pro, a casual player, or someone who just loves a good bowl of ramen, head over to Heroes Hideout. It’s a little slice of heaven waiting for you to dive right in!
