Archive for the ‘Things to Eat’ Category

Your Holiday Table: Here’s Where You Can Find Delicious Food for the Holidays Near Greenville, SC

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Are you looking for something delicious and festive to add to your holiday table this Christmas? In Greenville, Spartanburg and Upstate, SC we have lots and lots of holiday food menus, sides, and treats from Greenville’s amazing food proprietors.

Local restaurants are serving up special dine-in holiday meals, as well as fabulous catered meal deals you can bring home for the holidays. Local bakeries are offering everything from freshly baked pies to cookie and cupcake kits. Local cafes and grocery stores are selling pre-made sides and desserts making your holiday preparations a little easier. Want something a little different? Try a festive charcuterie board or dig into the Mexican tradition of Christmas tamales. We know where you can find all this and more in Greenville!

Your holiday table, Greenville, SC

These Greenville, SC Restaurants Are Open For Christmas

Dine-in, take-out, catering, these Greenville restaurants have everything you need for your holiday meal. Get a full meal, or order a few sides and desserts. This a huge list and there are lots of option!

Charcuterie Boards in Greenville

Add a perfect charcuterie board of meats, cheeses, pickled vegetables, nuts and more to your holiday festivities. Greenville has a number of local charcuterie board makers with delicious and unique boards ready for your table!

Christmas Tamales Near Greenville

Christmas tamales are a Mexican tradition you can enjoy right here in Greenville. Here’s where you can order tamales in Greenville.

Papi Taco Tamale

Holiday Pies

Pies are the time-honored tradition for holiday desserts. Plus, they make pretty spectacular breakfast in my humble opinion. Here’s where you can buy holiday pies in Greenville.

Greenville’s Custom Cookie Bakers

If you’re looking for some delicious and adorable holiday cookies, check out what these custom cookie bakers in Greenville are baking!

Find fun holiday things to do, events, places to see Santa and more in our Holiday Guide to Greenville.

At the Chef’s Table: A Unique Way to Experience Greenville’s Food and History

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🌟 Looking for a creative date-day idea or a local experience in Greenville, SC? At The Chef’s Table from Greenville History & Culinary Tours offers an unforgettable way to explore Greenville through delicious food and interesting history.

At The Chef's Table

I’ve lived in Greenville my whole life, and I thought I knew every nook and cranny of downtown Greenville. That is, until I took one of Greenville’s history tours, At The Chef’s Table, with John Nolan. This 2.5-hour walking tour blended the rich history of downtown Greenville with some of downtown’s most delicious restaurants.

It turned out to be one of the best date days my husband and I have ever had! It’s easy, fun, and absolutely delicious, the kind of food tour that will make anyone, from lifelong Greenvillians to first-time visitors, fall in love with the city. We loved the Saturday afternoon tour, but John also offers an At the Chef’s Table Tuesday Night tour as well!

Special thanks to John Nolan of Greenville History & Culinary Tours for inviting us on this tour.

The Storyteller Guiding Greenville’s History Tours

Local author and historian John Nolan has combined two of his greatest passions, Greenville’s rich history and booming culinary industry, into one unforgettable experience. His At the Chef’s Table tour takes guests on a walking culinary adventure through some of downtown Greenville’s best restaurants, complete with fascinating stories, historic photos, and relaxed conversation. After over 18 years of providing historic tours of Greenville, John has gotten really good at his job!

Greenville’s food scene has absolutely taken off in recent years. The city is now home to talented, creative chefs who blend local and international flavors to craft dishes that are as memorable as the stories behind them. All of the stops on the tour feature Table 301 restaurants, known for shaping Greenville’s modern dining culture with innovation and heart. John has created something special and unique, really showcasing how wonderful downtown Greenville is. It’s really interesting to think about the massive transformation the area has gone through in a little over a century.

At The Chef’s Table Tour: A Bite-Sized Preview

Dining at the Lazy Goat
Dining at The Lazy Goat

The Lazy Goat: Mediterranean Flavors to Start

Our first stop was The Lazy Goat, and from the moment we walked in, we felt like VIPs. The sous chef personally introduced the menu, describing how each course had been curated just for our group; many items weren’t even on the regular menu.

We started with tender lamb served with harissa sauce, creamy goat cheese, and a perfectly paired wine (I don’t drink wine often, but I trust that the flavors melded well). Then came one of Lazy Goat’s signature dishes: fried goat cheese balls with pistachio. Crispy, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth perfect, these were so good! The staff shared how the restaurant takes inspiration from Mediterranean flavors with the idea that the flavors are meant to heighten one another. When Kristina went on the tour a couple of years back, her experience had her asking for “Just. One. More. Bite. My eyes were fighting with my full stomach as I stared down the dark chocolate tart at The Lazy Goat.”

It was the perfect way to begin our Greenville culinary experience. We learned about the various clocks that line the wall of The Lazy Goat behind our table, and were reminded to take the time to enjoy the our meal and the people we are sharing it with.

Strolling Through History on the Riverwalk

Between restaurants, John guided us on short, easy walks through downtown Greenville, pointing out pieces of history you’d probably miss on your own. We learned about the original Duke’s Mayonnaise plant, an old cigar factory, and how the area along the Reedy River once had train tracks running right through what’s now the Riverwalk, where artist studios and the Swamp Rabbit Trail collide.

He brought a binder along full of old photos and stories that made it feel like we were walking through time. I have lived in the Greenville area my entire life, and I learned things I’d never heard before, which made me appreciate Greenville’s growth even more. This part of the Greenville history tour made the day feel just as enriching as it was delicious, and John snuck in little tidbits of knowledge throughout each stop of the tour.

Entrance at Soby’s

Soby’s: A Taste of Transformation

Next up was Soby’s New South Cuisine, a literal Greenville staple. One of the most interesting parts about how Soby’s came to be is how many times the building transformed over the past century (I’ll let John tell you more about that). Now, Soby’s is one of Greenville’s top restaurants. Table 301’s vision to revitalize the building that houses Soby’s helped spark downtown’s culinary revival, beginning in the 1990’s, and it’s easy to see why.

Here, we were served one of our favorite dishes on the tour, which included a Southwestern-inspired breakfast dish with the softest short rib and a yummy runny egg; it was so savory! The meal was paired perfectly with the sommelier’s chosen wine. The chef came out to tell us about the ingredients and inspiration, and it was fun learning about why he chose the flavors he did. Our seat at Soby’s was right near the kitchen, so we could sneak a peek at what was going on behind the scenes while we ate.

Shrimp and Grits at Nose Dive in Downtown Greenville
Shrimp and Grits from Nose Dive

Take a Nose Dive into Elevated Southern Food

A short stroll later, we found ourselves at Nose Dive, where comfort food meets creativity. We were served a true Southern classic, but with a twist. Shrimp and grits, but with a rich, savory gravy that had my mouth watering a little when they sat in on the table in front of me. We had little mini mimosas on the side, one of Nose Dive’s specialties! 

While we ate, John pointed out nearby architecture and how the building transformed into what it is today, and how you can still find some of the original building’s massive cabinetry right across the street. It was the perfect blend of storytelling and dining, exactly what makes this Greenville culinary tour such a unique way to see the city.

Apple tart from CAMP
Dessert at CAMP

CAMP – A Sweet Finish

Of course, my favorite meal was the dessert to end our tour. Every good meal deserves a grand finale, and CAMP delivered. For one thing, CAMP is so gorgeous and modern inside. It just felt so cozy, which I feel like is a very hard combination to achieve, but they did it! We were seated near the kitchen entrance and immediately greeted by the pastry chef. They served us the most delicious warm apple tart topped with apple sorbet and crumble. It was the perfect balance of tart, sweet, and cozy. Between the flavors and the friendly atmosphere, it felt like the perfect ending to a wonderful afternoon. Plus, John even mentioned that CAMP may be one of his favorites. Adding it to the future date night list!

Why At the Chef’s Table Stands Out

What makes At the Chef’s Table special is how personal it feels. Each restaurant welcomed us so warmly and treated John like they were old friends (which I am sure they truly are). The chefs and staff took time to share their stories and inspirations. Then, John tied it all together with the history that shaped Greenville into the food city it is today.

We had a great time conversing with the other couple we were dining with, enjoyed thoughtful wine pairings and a specialty cocktail, and felt like we were seeing Greenville through a whole new perspective. Nothing felt forced, it was truly inviting. It’s easy to understand why over 25,000 guests have taken this tour, and why many do it more than once. Every restaurant’s menu is curated just for your tour, often with off-menu dishes. Plus, John regularly refreshes the restaurants, so if you try it out another time in the future, you may get a totally new experience altogether. 

It’s a great time, whether you’re a local looking for a fun date or unique gift experience, a newcomer eager to learn about Greenville’s culture and flavors, or a visitor wanting to taste the best of the city in one afternoon.

Kristina also said that the tours are “perfect for date nights or getting together with friends. It doesn’t matter if you are a local or just visiting Greenville – you will enjoy this and learn just a little more about this wonderful place.”

Know Before You Go

At The Chef’s Table has both a Tuesday night option and a Saturday afternoon option. Both are great for a date night, or would make a fantastic gift to a family member or friend who loves food and culture. For the At the Chef’s Table tour, you should know: 

  • Duration: About 2.5 hours
  • Walking Distance: Just a few blocks — easy and accessible
  • Stops: Four top downtown restaurants
  • Includes: Food tastings, wine pairings, one specialty cocktail, and water
  • Can accommodate food allergies and special dietary needs if given a heads up.
  • Cost: Around $79 per person for the Saturday Afternoon tour
  • Book your Culinary Tour ticket here.

More Tour Options with Greenville History & Culinary Tours

John has a van! And he is ready to take you on a food and history adventure throughout Greenville. Aside from At the Chef’s Table, John also offers a couple of other tours you may want to check out that range from $49 – $79 per person. Culinary tours include:

If you’re looking to learn more about Greenville’s history, John also offers shorter tours that are primarily history-based, but he is really good at making things interesting. These include a Falls Park Walking Tour, Historic Neighborhoods driving tour, Photographic Journey of Old Greenville, just to name a few. These tours start around $25.

Give the Ultimate Experience Gift

Want to gift a tour as a gift, but not sure what will fit? You can get a gift card, so that whoever you’re looking to surprise with an amazing experience gift can choose which tour they would enjoy most! I highly recommend this experience as the ultimate gift for the foodie in your life; I have no doubt that they will love it.

Learn more about Greenville History Tours

864.567.3940
greenvillehistorytours@gmail.com
Greenville History Tours Website
Greenville History Tours Facebook

Have you ever been on the Culinary Tour in downtown Greenville?

Qahwah Palace: Middle Eastern Treats, Lounge Seating, and Private Work Spaces

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We recently visited Qahwah Palace downtown and felt like we were walking into a first-class airport lounge in Dubai (not that we’ve ever had that actual experience). We were really impressed by this unique new establishment in Greenville – from the luxurious decor to the tasty drinks and treats to the expansive extra seating and work spaces. Read more about our full experience below.

Qahwah Palace: Ambiance, Seating & Work Spaces

What surprised us the most about this place was its luxurious feel and the extra spaces that you don’t immediately see from the entrance. There is definitely more to this coffee shop than meets the eye! When you walk through the door, you are greeted with elegant Arabic decor – large white marble counters, green velvet seats, and gold accents. Keep walking toward the back to find a separate room with more tables, benches, and chairs, bringing the total to over 100 seats (according to their website). Walk even further back, and you will find a cozy space with six oversized lounge-style chairs and coffee tables. They call some of this “Moroccan seating”.

The additional basement study spaces are such a bonus for working and collaborating. Downstairs, you will find three first-come-first-serve group study rooms with tables, outlets, free WiFi, and private glass doors. There is also one large conference room that can be reserved for bigger team meetings. If the spaces aren’t already full, it’s the perfect place to take your laptop to work remotely.

Quiet work spaces at Qahwah Palace in Greenville, SC

Food and Drink Offerings

Beverage options include timeless Middle Eastern classics like Turkish coffee and large pots of Chai, along with modern and seasonal offerings like banana matcha and pumpkin lattes. Their website mentions that they pride themselves in sourcing coffee beans directly from terraced farms in Yemen, making the coffee rich and complex. With branded wooden trays, gold forks, and clear teapots on top of candle warmers, the fancy decor mentioned earlier carries all the way through to what you are served.

Qahwah Palace

Finally, staring at you from a large display case, just calling your name, are their unique sweet treats as well. It’s hard to pass up something like a pistachio danish or rose milk cake when they look so indulgent.

Treats at Qahwah Palace

Other Information

More than just coffee, Qahwah Palace considers itself a cultural gathering spot. Its doors opened in September of 2025 in Greenville (106 N Main St, right next to Coffee Underground), and it’s already slated to open three more locations soon: Columbia, SC, Charleston, SC, and Charlotte, NC.

Celebrate At Home With A Charcuterie Board in Greenville or Spartanburg, SC

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Ever considered enjoying delicious food in a festive way with a charcuterie board? There are plenty of places to hire a local charcuterie artist to make a celebratory charcuterie board in Greenville, SC. While they’re not one of the easiest things to pronounce, they’re easy to look at (and even easier to eat). 

The delicious french trend of displaying meats, cheeses, and other delectable morsels together might be tricky to say. But with our help, finding a local charcuterie artist won’t be difficult. We’ve listed out some local places where you can order full charcuterie boards, ingredients, and hand-crafted boards that are a work of art even by themselves.

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10 Family Friendly Breweries: Greenville, SC

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If you are looking for a family friendly brewery, Greenville, SC and the Upstate have quite a few! As the Upstate’s craft beer scene continues to grow, Kidding Around has tried and tested some of these breweries and found them quite family-friendly. We decided it’s high time to give parents a guide to places where they can kick back and enjoy some brews as their littles run around on the lawn. Here’s a list of breweries and taprooms that do just that. We’ve included their Instagram account handles so you can keep up with their latest events.

family friendly breweries

(Though these places welcome families, please use parental care when inside their premises. We don’t expect all of their bathrooms to have diaper-changing tables, so come prepared.)

Find A Family-Friendly Brewery: Greenville, SC

Yee-haw Brewery Company

307 East McBee Ave Suite C, Greenville | @yeehaw_greenville
Right smack in the heart of downtown Greenville, this microbrewery has thought of everything you ever wanted in a brewery. It recently converted its parking lot into a green space with an impressive wall of TVs to catch your favorite team.

A convention of lawn chairs lines the grass for your outdoor viewing pleasure. We’ve seen locals troop here even in the middle of winter, huddled under their heated covered patio. They have a kid’s menu and signature items such as burgers and wings to keep you properly fed. On the weekends, they have live music and lawn toys to keep everyone entertained.

By the Swamp Rabbit Trail

Double Stamp Brewery

819 Laurens Rd. (Holland Park), Greenville | @doublestampbrewery
A 90’s themed inspired brewery located in Holland Park, which is another coup for developers in making family-friendly mixed-use spaces. Double Stamp Brewery has tons of outdoor space and a rooftop patio. We’ve included them in this list since they are right beside Flying Rabbit Adventures, Greektown Express, and Home Team BBQ.

We recommend you gather all your brews and fixings and head on to the picnic tables under the oak trees. Access to the Swamp Rabbit Trail is simple through the SRT extension.

Kidding Around Review of Double Stamp Brewery

Southernside Brewing Co.

25 Delano Drive, Unit D, Greenville | @southernside_brewing
Southernside Brewing Co. gets high marks for its expansive indoor and outdoor space (formerly the site of El Thrifty). It’s right beside the Swamp Rabbit Trail and also has ample car parking. It has a spacious covered patio and an outdoor green space bedecked with numerous picnic tables with umbrellas for shade creating a neighborhood type of atmosphere.

They have lots of yard games to keep your younguns busy. We like that their menu goes beyond bar chow and also features a kids’ menu. Definitely a great spot for chilling out on the weekends with kids or fur babies in tow. A recent addition to their space adds a bowling alley and arcade to their premises, making this a perfect spot for drinks, food, and entertainment. During the holidays, they tend to outdo themselves on decorations (especially for Halloween and Christmas) and regularly host family-friendly events. So, keep a lookout on their calendar, especially in those October-December months.

Carolina Bauernhaus Greenville

556 Perry Ave. (Poe West), Greenville | @carolinabauernhausgvl
Carolina Bauernhaus in Greenville is the second location of its mothership in Anderson SC. It features locally sourced yeast, hops, fruits, and grains in its farmhouse brewery. They don’t have a full dine-in menu but they do have an array of grazing options: a charcuterie board, chips and salsa, pretzels, and something a little more hearty, the Haus Bratwurst on a hoagie bun.

As a tenant of Poe West, Carolina Bauernhaus’s storefront plays host to numerous community events. Carolina Bauernhaus lends its space to its neighbors including the Village Launch Third Saturday Market, which features women and minority-owned vendors that begins each May.

Lots of kid-friendly activities here, picnic tables, hammocks, yard games, and live music on the weekends.

Traveler’s Rest, SC Family-Friendly Brewery

Swamp Rabbit Brewery and Taproom

26 South Main Street, Travelers Rest | @swamprabbitbrewery
A family-run business, Swamp Rabbit Brewery is well known in the craft beer industry, having won past awards for their beer. Though they don’t serve food, they do have a rotating food truck schedule such as Daddy’s Cookout Food Truck and Local Pie Pizza Co.

It’s a skip and a hop from the Swamp Rabbit Trail and a great pit stop for a family weekend bike ride. The backyard has picnic tables: a perfect place to have lunch and unwind. Patrons are allowed to bring food from other restaurants.

Simpsonville, SC Family Friendly Breweries

BridgeWay Brewing Co.

610 BridgeWay Blvd, Mauldin | @bridgewaybrewing
Get in some games of Duckpin bowling with the family or watch the game on one of BridgeWay Brewing Co.’s 15 televisions. Whatever you decide, you can do it while enjoying beer made in-house, craft cocktails, or wine plus burgers, nachos, wings, salads, and more. They are both a bar and a full-service restaurant.

Check out our Kidding Around review of BridgeWay Brewing Co.

The Warehouse at the Vaughn’s Food Hall

109B W Trade St, Simpsonville | @warehouseatvaughns
You have to check out the Vaughn’s Food Hall in Simpsonville, SC! They have a taproom, but they also have several restaurants, an ice cream shop, and an arcade museum all in one place. We added the Warehouse because you can grab a brew and head to the humongous outdoor seating lot, where you’ll find picnic tables, live music, and more.

The inside of the hall can get a little loud. So, if you have young kids, a parent or friend might want to grab drinks while they play outside or grab some ice cream from Yogi’s Cups and Cones.

Fountain Inn, SC Family Friendly Breweries

The Mill at Fountain Inn

101 Ellison Street, Fountain Inn | @themillatfountaininn
We love the Mill at Fountain Inn for their huge outdoor space, awesome food, and packed lineup of events. They have outdoor movies, game watches, and lots of seasonal events that are perfect for families.

The Mill at Fountain Inn

Asheville, NC

Sierra Nevada

It’s not exactly the Upstate of South Carolina, but Asheville, NC is definitely an easy day trip away. They are home to Sierra Nevada Brewery which offers a lot of family-friendly features.

Gorgeous gardens, a full menu, games, and music are just a couple of things you can expect to find at Sierra Nevada in Asheville, NC.

Sierra Nevada Family friendly brewery
Sierra Nevada in Asheville, NC

What family-friendly brewery is your favorite near Greenville?

Celebrate Thanksgiving Around Greenville, SC

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Are you ready for Thanksgiving in Greenville, SC? We are! We have some fabulous ideas for your Greenville Thanksgiving including dine-in restaurants, take-out meals, things to do Thanksgiving week, plus where you can find fabulous pie. We have all the things you need to plan your perfect Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Greenville, SC

Thanksgiving Pies

Pie and Thanksgiving just go together. But, when the oven is loaded with a turkey and the cook is busy stirring the potatoes, sometimes it’s just easier to purchase your Thanksgiving dessert. Don’t wait, pre-order your pies!

At Kidding Around we have you covered with our list of Greenville’s Best Holiday Pies.

Where to buy pies in Greenville, SC

Things to Do Thanksgiving Week

No matter who is coming to visit this Thanksgiving, there is something to do in Greenville that will keep them entertained. Not sure what will interest the family? There are lots of family-friendly things to do, events, and Thanksgiving-themed things to do over the holiday week.

Don’t worry, we have a whole list of Things to Do Over Thanksgiving for you!
Plus, Things to Do Over Thanksgiving Break in Spartanburg, SC.

Visit Home Depot for the Kids Workshop to build a free Teddy Bear Ornament on November 29th, 2025.

Thanksgiving at Greenville’s Restaurants

Many of Greenville’s fabulous restaurants are open on Thanksgiving with both dine-in and take-out options. Plus there are lots of restaurants and stores where you can pick up a couple of delicious sides to add to your home-cooked meal. Make Thanksgiving dinner a little easier this year!

Holiday Guide

If you’re ready to add a little “ho-ho-ho” and jingle bells to your Thanksgiving festivities, you’ll want to check out our Greenville Holiday Guide. We have places to find Santa, holiday events, places to get fabulous gifts, and more.

Go to the Holiday Guide

If you’re in Spartanburg, don’t miss the Spartanburg Holiday Guide.

2025 Halloween Meal Deals and Kids Eat Free: Halloween Deals Near Greenville, SC

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Hooray for Halloween deals! With trick-or-treating in the forecast, you will need to know where the best spots are to take little superheroes & princesses out to eat. Here’s our list of everywhere we know from Greenville to Spartanburg that is offering a Kids Eat Free special, free treats, or meal deal on Friday, October 31st, 2025.

We do our best to publish accurate information, but readers should always double-check with the restaurants mentioned before making plans. All locations may not be participating in these deals.

Halloween meal deals in Spartanburg and Greenville South Carolina

Halloween Guide, trick or treat in Greenville, SC

Find all the epic Halloween happenings in our Ultimate Guide to Halloween in Greenville, SC.


Halloween Meal Deals and Free Treats

Dumont Creamery & Cafe

Free single scoop for kids with a double scoop purchase. October 31st, 2025, 5 pm and later.

Chipotle

This annual Halloween meal deal is always a popular one. Wear your Halloween costume and visit Chipotle on October 31st, 2025 after 3 pm. Scan your rewards member ID to receive an entree item for $6 with their BOORITO deals.

Southern Weaving

Kids in costume eat free with purchase of an adult meal.

Myles Pizza Pub

Kids in costume get a free cookie when they come for lunch or dinner October 28th – 31st.

Chuck E Cheese

Greenville & Spartanburg
Enjoy a month-long Halloween celebration at Chuck E. Cheese! Score 500 bonus tickets if your kid wears a costume. They’ll also have enjoy the Pumpkin-shaped Pepperoni Pizza and the nightly DJ Munch Haunted House Party live show.
More information about Chuck E Cheese’s Halloween Boo-tacular can be found online.

Sonic

At participating locations
Get 50-cent corn dogs at Sonic all day on Halloween. You can also get ½ priced Sonic Cheeseburgers on October  31st, 2025.

Wendy’s

At participating locations
From September 4th through October 31st, 2025, you can purchase a Frosty Boo! Book from Wendy’s for $1 and receive 5 coupons for a free Jr. Frosty! Proceeds from the books go to a good cause (Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption®). You can purchase the books online or at a Wendy’s location. Coupons can be used through December 31st, 2025.


Kids Eat Free on Halloween: Every Friday Deals

These are the kids eat free or cheap deals every Friday. These locations are throughout the Upstate. Please contact the location ahead of time to confirm their deals before dining.

Mutt’s BBQ

Offer: Kids under 3 ALWAYS eat free!
Time: All day, Every Day
101 West Road, Greer
1030 Powdersville Rd, Easley
E. Butler Rd, Mauldin

Discounted Kid’s Meals on Friday

Cici’s Pizza

Offer: free kids meal with adult buffet purchase
Time: all-day, every day
Age: 3 and under only
583 Haywood Road, Greenville

S & S Cafeteria

Offer: Kid’s Meals are $2.99, dine-in only, and for kids 10 and under.
Time: all day, Every Day
1037 N Pleasantburg Dr, Greenville



A Guide To Restaurants in Simpsonville, SC

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Are you looking for a restaurant near Simpsonville, SC? Whether you are looking for a restaurant for a specific meal or occasion, this guide can help. We also broke down our list into sections of Simpsonville due to it’s size.

Spread across the lower half of Greenville County, getting from one end of Simpsonville, South Carolina to the other can be time-consuming if you’re not familiar! Locals know to ask for more details when someone says, “Meet me in Simpsonville” because that could mean several different sides of town. We’ve sorted out our restaurant list into sections of Simpsonville: Fairview Road, Five Forks, Downtown Simpsonville, and Fountain Inn.

Where In Simpsonville, South Carolina Are You Headed?

There are three major areas within Simpsonville:

  • Downtown Simpsonville is precisely what it sounds like and includes a park, a cute open-air ice cream shop, and plenty of dining options.
  • The Five Forks area will be the Eastern end of Greenville’s busy Woodruff Road, and people forget that this is part of Simpsonville.
  • Lastly, the Fairview Road area is the Simpsonville central retail hub area. There’s a movie theatre, several shopping centers, and nearly every kind of dining option you can imagine.

Fountain Inn, SC: Not to be forgotten, but just outside of the Simpsonville border is Fountain Inn. This small town in Greenville County is just five and a half square miles and includes some of our favorite places to grab food.

Breakfast in Simpsonville

Big Apple Doughnut Cafe – Fairview Road
Learn more from Kidding Around – Big Apple Doughnut & Cafe Is A Doughnut Lovers Dream Come True.

Maple Street Biscuit Company  – Five Forks
Delicious biscuit sandwiches, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and more are on the menu for breakfast. Come hungry because the portions are enormous! Go early because they can get swamped on the weekends.

Exchange Coffee Co. – Downtown Simpsonville
Exchange is a casual cafe in Simpsonville serving coffee, crepes, and baked goods for breakfast & lunch. They also are allergy friendly and serve some of the best gluten free allergen friendly treats we’ve eaten.

rack of glazed donuts

Lunch in Simpsonville

Uncle Bertos Burritos – Five Forks
A delicious spot to grab some authentic Mexican Food!

Henry’s Smokehouse – Downtown Simpsonville
Pull up a chair and enjoy some delicious BBQ!

The Sheriff Burger – 1020 Northeast Main Street, Simpsonville
Delicious and unique fusion burgers that locals are loving.

Southern Catch – Fairview Road
A no-frills southern-fried-seafood restaurant. It’s only open three days a week, so plan to have lunch at this off-the-beaten-path cafe. It’s past all of the commercial areas on Fairview Road.

Chef 21 Sushi Burger– Fairview Road
Specializing in sushi. It’s the only place you can order a sushi burger. They also serve ramen and other asian dishes. All incredibly flavorful.

Tacos at Uncle Bertos Burritos

Dinner in Simpsonville

Shortfields – Downtown Simpsonville
In business for over a decade, Shortfields serves everything from burgers and fries to grilled salmon. They also have a reasonably priced kid’s menu in addition to the extensive menu.

Golden Llama – Five Forks
Healthy and delicious Peruvian cuisine is an exotic way to enjoy dinner without offending the pickiest eaters in your family. Golden llama’s menu includes grilled meat dishes, salads, and more.

Lin’s Asian Cafe – Five Forks
The menu at Lin’s includes sushi, Chinese-American dishes, Thai cuisine, hibachi, and more! They also have several lunch specials that make them an excellent choice for that meal.

Vaughn’s Food Hall – Downtown Simpsonville
Check out our Kidding Around Review of the Warehouse at Vaughn’s, voted as a top date night spot in Greenville, and is also extremely family-friendly with space to play. This food hall-style space has something for everyone.

The Slice – Downtown Simpsonville
If you are looking for a New York pizza look no further. The Slice is an amazing thin crust pizza packed with flavor. They also serve pasta and a variety of Italian dishes.

Warehouse at Vaughn's
Backyard of the Vaughn’s Food Hall

Romantic Restaurants in Simpsonville

Stella’s Southern Bistro – Fairview Road
An area favorite, this southern bistro utilizes the local farmers to inspire the food on the menu.

Unterhausen – The Castle Cellar Pub – Downtown Simpsonville
This hidden gem of Simpsonville is tucked away in the basement of a castle. OK, maybe not a castle, but pretending is fun, right? Once you enter, you’ll forget that you didn’t cross a moat to get in—the intimate size of Unterhausen. The German beer and the delicious Bavarian food will have you wondering how it took you so long to discover this place.

Places With Delicious Food In Fountain Inn

Bobby’s BBQ & Seasonings
Learn more from Kidding Around – Bobby’s BBQ & Seasoning in Fountain Inn, SC Will Have You Begging For Seconds.

Gio’s Bakery
Learn more from Kidding Around – Gio’s Pastry Shop: An Edible Trip To Italy Is Just Around The Corner in Fountain Inn, SC.

More spots to try out in Fountain Inn

A meal from Bobby's BBQ

Best For Young Kids

Vaughn’s Food Hall – Downtown Simpsonville
This food hall venue not only has a selection of different food vendors to order from (so everyone gets what they want), there is a large outdoor seating area with plenty of space for kids to run around.
Bourbon Street Burgers | Tacos and Bla Bla Bla | Anchor Raw Bar | Southern Freight | Humble Pie Pizza Co | Pineapple Express | Crazy Cow Creamery | The Peanut Co.

Bova Pizza – Five Forks
With a menu including brick oven pizzas, pasta dishes, and even chicken tenders, it’s the holy trinity of picky-eater options.

Ice Cream Station – Downtown Simpsonville
This walk-up ice cream shop is suitable for kids (and kids at heart) of all ages! Plus, they have Dole-Whip, for you Disney World fans!

Ice cream station in SImpsonville, SC

Best for Business

Exchange Coffee Co – Downtown Simpsonville
Enjoy an early morning meeting with coffee or a meal of crepes at the Exchange Coffee Co.

Budget Friendly

Coach House Family Restaurant – Fairview Road
This Greek/Diner-style restaurant has an extensive menu with an all-day breakfast menu, burgers, gyros, salads, seafood, and more. You’ll be hard-pressed not to find something you’re craving on this menu, and it’s all reasonably priced.

Take Out

Mei Mei House – Fairview Road
Chinese take-out is always a good idea! Mei Mei house has been in that location for over a decade, and locals love the food here!

Top 10 Cozy & Cute Coffee Shops: Hendersonville, NC

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So, you’re ready to sit back and enjoy the perfect cup of coffee? Hendersonville, NC has a lot of fabulous coffee options, which means you really can’t go wrong. But, having tried quite a few of the coffee shops in Hendersonville, NC, here’s a rundown of some of our favorites and a few other unique spots you might want to check out the next time you’re looking for coffee in Hendersonville, NC.

Hendersonville, NC is a Great Place to Be for Coffee

I spend a lot of time in Hendersonville, NC, particularly in coffee shops. One of my kids volunteers at Team Ecco Aquarium, so pretty much every weekend I head to Hendersonville with my laptop packed up and ready to get some work done. After I drop him off at the aquarium, I pick a coffee shop and settle in to catch up on some work. It’s safe to say I’ve seen lots of coffee shops in Hendersonville, inside and out.

My current favorite is Southern Streams. Shhh…don’t tell any of these other amazing Hendersonville NC Coffee Shops!

Black Bear Coffee

Located beside the Hands On! Children’s Museum on Main Street, Black Bear Coffee is a popular option for both locals and parents visiting the museum. They serve Counter Culture coffee, and you can purchase coffee beans here as well.

In addition to coffee drinks, they have a menu with breakfast options and sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as cookies and pastries. Some of the pastries are especially kid-friendly, like the homemade strawberry pop tart with sprinkles.

My personal favorite lunch item is the Greek salad, while my daughter’s favorite item on the menu is the soft pretzel.

Lots of seating is available indoors and outdoors.

Salad at black bear coffee

318 North Main Street, Hendersonville
Black Bear Coffee

Art & Coffee Bar

Also in the Main Street area, just a block off Main Street on 5th Avenue is the Art & Coffee Bar. This Hendersonville coffee shop is one of the smaller options, with cozy seating and lots of artwork to enjoy on display. If you’re looking for a quiet, calm option, this is the coffee shop to try! They have all the favorite coffee and espresso beverages, plus homemade pastries.

Art & Coffee Bar in Hendersonville, NC

Art & Coffee Bar
118 5th Avenue, Hendersonville

Southern Streams Coffeehouse

I discovered this coffee shop on my way up to Jump Off Rock. It’s amazing, gorgeous inside and out, with coffee, tea, espresso beverages, and homemade pastries. They also have breakfast sandwiches, lunch sandwiches, and salads.

There’s a plethora of indoor seating with tables and comfy options upstairs as well as in the downstairs backroom. That room has a big rolling garage door-style door that opens to the outside. Or if you’d rather enjoy some sunshine, the great big back deck is the place you’ll want to find a seat.

Sometimes on Saturdays, you’ll find live music at Southern Streams Coffeehouse.

Parking is free and there’s plenty of it!

Southern Streams Coffeehouse is located at the former location of Appalachian Coffee Company.

1628 5th Avenue West, Hendersonville
Southern Streams Coffeehouse

Hendough

This one isn’t 100% a coffee shop. But, they do serve coffee, good coffee. Plus they have all the coffee shop favorites: hot chocolate and espresso beverages. And of course, they serve the famous Hendough donuts, breakfast sandwiches, and chicken. This is the original Hendough location with both indoor and outdoor seating. Don’t forget to check upstairs if you’re looking for indoor seating!

532 Kanuga Road, Hendersonville
Hendough

Ecusta Market & Cafe

Located behind the trailside brewery this coffee shop and market sits along the Ecusta Trail. Serving everything from your favorite coffee to local pastries. We especially enjoyed their tallow fries served with their lunch menu.

877 Lennox Park Drive Hendersonville
Ecusta Cafe & Market

Sharewell Coffee Co.

Technically this coffee shop is in Flat Rock, but it’s pretty much right on the border between Hendersonville and Flat Rock. They are a roastery and espresso bar, serving espresso beverages, pour-overs, local teas, and local pastries.

2698c Greenville Highway, Flat Rock
Sharewell Coffee Co.

The Local Brew

We checked out Local Brew just recently. The shop is very cozy, with all your favorite espresso and coffee beverages plus pastries. Take your coffee to go or snag one of a couple of indoor tables. There is also outdoor seating available both out front and outback. The back seating is adjacent to a tiny stream, though the deck area is quite rustic.

The Local Brew
1800 Four Seasons Blvd, Hendersonville

Jeter Mountain Farm

Hear me out on this one. Coffee tastes better on a farm with beautiful views. Although the coffee at Jeter Mountain would be good all on its own minus the views. You’ll have to make sure they are open, as the coffee house is only open when the rest of the farm is open, seasonally June through October.

But, right beside the coffee house is the kids’ indoor play area. That’s a pretty great combination if you ask us!

We have a whole review of Jeter Mountain Farm where you can find out more about what the farm has, in addition to coffee!

1126 Jeter Mountain Road, Hendersonville
Jeter Mountain

More Coffee Shops in Hendersonville, NC

We’re looking forward to trying these coffee shops soon!

The Ugly Mug
2024 Asheville Hwy, Hendersonville

Don’t miss our guide to all of the awesome Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC.

Enjoy a Meal at These Restaurants in Travelers Rest, SC

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Are you looking for restaurants in Travelers Rest, SC? TR, as the locals call it, has many delicious places to enjoy a meal. You’ll find everything from a super kid-friendly coffee shop to a smokehouse, fine dining, and amazing crepes in Travelers Rest. Check out our list and don’t miss our guide to Travelers Rest.

Complete Restaurant Guide to Greenville, SC

Looking for more great restaurants?

Here are the best restaurants near Greenville, SC.

Breakfast at Tandem Creperie
Breakfast at Tandem Creperie

Breakfast in Travelers Rest

Tandem Creperie: Delicious crepes and coffee. Read more about them in our review of the best places to get breakfast in the Upstate.

TREEhouse Cafe: Breakfast sandwiches, pastries, paninis and lots of coffee options

Upcountry Provisions: Breakfast options like breakfast sandwiches, frittatas, eggs, pastries, avocado toast, kids plates are available

Lunch in Travelers Rest

Sidewall Pizza: Traditional and unique pizzas, homemade ice cream, great breadsticks

TREEhouse Cafe: Lots of delicious sandwich and panini options, and coffee, in a kid-friendly art bar setting with lots of crafts and art you can make for a small fee.

Whistle Stop: train themed cafe

Upcountry Provisions: Unique sandwiches, salads, soups, sides and kids meals are on the menu.

Dinner in Travelers Rest

Sidewall Pizza: Traditional and unique pizzas, homemade ice cream, great breadsticks, indoor and outdoor dining

Farmhouse Tacos: Super unique tacos with locally sourced ingredients. Try the fried chicken taco, you won’t be disappointed.

Topsoil Kitchen and Market: Farm-to-table restaurant and market with sandwiches, soups, salads, and several entrees to choose from. The menu varies based on what is fresh and available at local farms

Restaurant 17: Italian and Mediterranean-inspired menu with locally sourced ingredients, located at Hotel Domestique with a beautiful mountain view

Chicora Alley Firehouse Bar & Grill: wings, nachos, street tacos and quesadillas

Shortfields: Sandwiches, salads, burgers and entrees include steak, grilled salmon, pork chops, shrimp and grits, and lots more. This menu is very large with many options.

Owners and Food at Topsoil Kitchen
Topsoil Kitchen and Market

Dessert in Travelers Rest

Pink Mama’s Ice Cream: Cute ice cream shop with lots of options. There are even a few dairy-free options available. Enjoy your ice cream and frozen treats at tables outside along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Romantic Restaurants in TR

Restaurant 17: Italian and Mediterranean-inspired menu with locally sourced ingredients, located at Hotel Domestique with a beautiful mountain view

Hotel Domestique's Restaurant 17 in Travelers Rest, SC
Restaurant 17

Restaurants on Main Street, Downtown TR

Best Restaurants For Young Kids in Travelers Rest

TREEhouse Cafe: Enjoy your coffee while your kids paint and make a mess somewhere that isn’t YOUR kitchen. Need we say more?

Whistle Stop: This restaurant is train-themed and offers kids’ meals.

Whistle Stop restaurant Travelers Rest SC
Outisde the Whistle Stop Cafe

Best for Business

Need a restaurant for a business meal or a social gathering of co-workers? Try these restaurants in Travelers Rest!

Shortfields: If you’re looking for a menu with lots of options and good variety, Shortfields is what you want in TR.

Farmhouse Taco: It’s a little loud, so this wouldn’t be the place if you needed to hammer out that business deal, but Farmhouse Taco has flexible seating and can accommodate a larger group (definitely recommend reservations), plus their a la carte menu style means everyone should be able to find something they’d like to eat.

Budget-Friendly Places to Eat in TR

Sidewall Pizza: Traditional and unique pizzas, homemade ice cream, great breadsticks, indoor and outdoor dining. Their birthday club coupons and other promotions that benefit the community can make a meal at Sidewall very economical.

Take Out Restaurants in TR

While most restaurants offer their menus for take-out, some restaurants offer specials or other take-out friendly advantages.

What’s your favorite restaurant in Travelers Rest?

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