If you’ve ever wished for a grocery stop that felt more like visiting a neighbor than tackling a big box store, Willow Whole Health Market & Coffee Shop might be just what you’re looking for. This little shop on Locust Hill Road, tucked next to Sushi Shack in the Taylors/Greer area, offers a slower, friendlier kind of shopping — and a cozy place to sip a warm drink, too.
We stopped by recently and loved the experience.
Quick Summary: The Willow
Willow Whole Health Market & Coffee Shop 📍 Locust Hill Road, Taylors/Greer (next to Sushi Shack) 🛒 Organic groceries, local milk, eggs, and meats ☕ Organic Coffee and tea with dietary-conscious options 🪑 Cozy indoor seating in the back of the shop
A Tiny Market Full of Local Finds
Willow is a small shop, but every shelf is full of something fabulous. During our visit, we noticed a steady stream of regulars popping in — many heading straight for the fridge stocked with local milk, butter, and Happy Cow dairy. A few were greeted by name. It’s that kind of place.
In addition to the usual healthy staples — natural pantry goods — we found:
Local eggs and sourdough bread
Southern Oaks butter (so good!)
Frozen local meats
Jams, pickles, and grits made nearby
The market also caters to folks with food sensitivities, offering gluten-free, sugar-free, and dairy-free options throughout the store.
The space is small but bright, and the staff couldn’t have been more helpful. They answered questions, gave us tips on favorite products, and were genuinely kind — no big-store rush or pressure.
I left the shop with a loaf of local sourdough and some fresh butter from Southern Oaks dairy. Let me tell you, add a local egg, and that’s 100% a championship breakfast kind of thing right there. I’m layering on that butter like it’s cream cheese. So good.
A Quiet Spot to Sip and Stay Awhile
Toward the back of the market, you’ll find a warm little seating area and an organic coffee counter offering lattes, teas, and bakery treats. It’s relaxed and unpretentious — the kind of place you could bring your laptop or a friend and settle in.
One of us ordered a gingerbread cookie latte made with oat milk, and it hit the spot — not too sweet, with a cozy spice flavor. We also shared a cinnamon roll (definitely worth it). The coffee menu includes options for different dietary needs, and it felt good to enjoy something that didn’t come from a chain.
The back seating area has soft chairs and a laid-back vibe, perfect for quietly getting things done or just enjoying a peaceful pause in your day.
We spent about 2 hours getting some Kidding Around teamwork accomplished, and we enjoyed our time so much that we knew we had to share this spot with you! (See, we’re always looking out for our readers!)
We’ll be back: The Willow Whole Health Market
Willow isn’t flashy, and that’s kind of the point. It’s small, friendly, and focused on real, good-for-you food — the kind that supports local farmers and leaves you feeling taken care of.
Whether you’re picking up a jug of raw milk, browsing for a thoughtful food gift, or just stopping in for a quiet cup of coffee, Willow Whole Health Market & Coffee Shop is a sweet little stop worth knowing about.
Looking for information on the brand new BridgeWay Brewing Co. opening in Bridgeway Station? You’ve found it! BridgeWay Brewing Co. is a family-friendly spot with something fun for everyone, including good food, duckpin bowling, and more, perfectly located at Mauldin’s Bridgeway Station. And trust us, you are not going to want to miss this one.
About BridgeWay Brewing Co.
Located in beautiful Bridgeway Station, BridgeWay Brewing Co. offers families and friends a place to hang out, relax, and have fun together. It’s a place to catch the big game with other fans, play a few rounds of duck-pin bowling with the family, or just kick back and enjoy some delicious food and a house-made beer. If that’s not your thing, they also offer wine and other adult beverages.
Sights & Sounds: A Video Review
Take a peek at what you’ll find at Bridgeway Brewing.
BridgeWay Brewing Co. Menu
Let’s talk food, becuase it was delicious. There’s a full menu with appetizers, wings, salads, sandwiches, burgers, and lots more. We tried several items and they were all fabulous, especially the nachos. These were not your average nachos with a little cheese and a few toppings. They were loaded with toppings, rich and full of flavor, not to mention one of the biggest plates of nachos I’ve seen in a long, long time.
We also enjoyed a fried chicken sandwich and a bacon jam burger, both of which were perfectly cooked. My chicken was crunchy on the outside, and juicy on the inside, with just the right amount of sauce and toppings, as all excellent friend chicken sandwiches should be. Both came with fries that were nice and crispy.
Beer at BridgeWay Brewing
I am a fan of darker beer, so I picked the seasonal Winter Warmer at BridgeWay. I really enjoyed the holiday flavors, and the beer was not overly heavy, so I had plenty of room to enjoy my meal. My husband enjoyed a glass of prosecco instead of a beer.
The bar at BridgeWay is unique in that addition to the house-made beer, they offer wine, prosecco, and a full bar of spirits and craft cocktails. So no matter your preference, you’ll find something excellent that you’ll enjoy. Their taps have their beer made in-house, and in the future will also have ciders and a few other options of brews they aren’t currently able to make, like sours.
Duckpin Bowling
Just what is duck-pin bowling? It’s kind of like a miniature version of bowling. Think of a shorter lane, a much smaller ball you can hold in one hand, and every pin is connected to the alley by a string. The mechanisms in the game raise and lower each pin by its string.
You don’t need bowling shoes, you don’t need bumpers, and most importantly, you don’t need to be good at bowling to enjoy this one. I am not a good bowler, and I beat my husband in duckpin bowling. Ok? It was icing on the cake right there.
What ages will enjoy duckpin bowling at BridgeWay?
Ball control is the key here. So anyone who can roll a ball roughly down the center of a lane, avoiding gutters, can enjoy duckpin bowling. This is probably not the best activity for the very youngest of kiddos, as these lanes aren’t meant for hard-core toddler ball lobbing and thunking. So, we’d recommend this family activity for about ages 5 and up.
Bowling: How to get a lane
There are 4 duckpin bowling lanes at BridgeWay Brewing Co. You can make a reservation online, at a cost of $40 per hour or $20/half hour rental of the lane (prices may vary by time/date). You can also reserve by calling. The lane fits up to 4 people, and theirs a cozy booth with a table at the front of the lane. So, you can rent your lane, order your food and beverages, and play! Once your food comes, you can enjoy it while you take turns at the lane.
Of course, if your group is larger, you could additional lanes. The tables and lanes are side by side.
The Future of BridgeWay Brewing Co. at Bridgeway Station
Speaking of the future, BridgeWay Brewing also plans to offer birthday parties and other private parties. Located right at the front of Bridgeway Station, the brewery has a huge and gorgeous outdoor space that will be totally perfect as the weather warms up. We also noticed there were some heaters in the space, so, you likely won’t have to wait long to enjoy that area.
If you haven’t visited Bridgeway Station, it has a very upscale European feel with lots of pretty brickwork and even a waterfall into a little decorative pool. Right now, it’s all lit up with beautiful Christmas Trees and Christmas lights. So if you’re looking for a lowkey Christmas outing with the kids, go grab yourself a bowling lane, get some delicious food and drinks, and then go walk through the pretty lights.
Is it time for a steaming cup of hot chocolate in Spartanburg, SC? Luckily, Hub City is full of places where you can find a delicious cup of cocoa. We asked our readers for their favorite cocoa spots, and they did not disappoint. So load up the kids and find your perfect cup of hot chocolate in Spartanburg, SC.
If all things pumpkin spice usher in fall time, then hot chocolate signals in winter. But not just any cup of Swiss Miss. We are looking for places to get a hot creamy cup of chocolate goodness, and there’s no shortage of them in Spartanburg.
Grab a cup of hot cocoa, and sink into a comfy sofa among the plants at Botanical Brew. You will most likely leave with a cup of cocoa and a new leafy green baby to tend to.
There are several locations in the Little River Roasting company to choose from, and they serve up a creamy cup of hot cocoa!
Peppermint bark hot chocolate (mix of dark and white chocolate) is so rich and perfect, and the only hot chocolate I drink year round. Made with dairy or preferred milk alternative- no watery cocoa here.
Served with a heaping helping of whipped cream, the hot chocolate from Eggs Up is a fantastic beverage to enjoy with breakfast! In addition, they have a hot mocha chocolate that is out of this world!
Bella Latte’s is yummy AND they will only lighty steam to make it warm if you tell them it’s for your kid so you don’t have to wait for it to cool down or have them burn their mouth.
Crystal
Bella Latte at Drayton Mills. It’s really tasty!
Christy
Starbucks white hot chocolate is wonderful!
Meghann
Hot Chocolate Worth the Drive in Asheville, NC
There appear to be quite a few specialty chocolate shops in Asheville, just waiting to satisfy your winter drink craving.
Folks, as of publication time, I have no idea what “liquid truffle sipping chocolate” is, but I fully intend on finding out ASAP. Whatever it is, it sounds glorious, and it’s on the menu here.
If you are up for a trip The Chocolate Lounge in Asheville is every bit of amazing. But I would go with Little River Roasting
Looking for an amazing mug full of hot chocolate in Greenville, SC? Hot chocolate can be incredible – warm, chocolatey goodness and if you’re lucky, with a hefty helping of tiny marshmallows. Our Kidding Around Greenville readers recently revealed where their favorite places to find hot chocolate in Greenville.
220 North Main St, Greenville This cozy place is right next to the Hyatt on Main Street. They serve really good ice cream and make their own waffle cones. You should really treat yourself to some fresh chocolate fudge to go with that hot cocoa! You have our permission.
Kilwins Greenville has THE best hot chocolate I’ve ever had. The seaside caramel hot chocolate is my go to
113 A South Main Street, Fountain Inn Readers are recommending Steam Coffee and Cream in Fountain Inn for hot chocolate. They also offer a variety of kids arts and crafts events and games, so you really can’t go wrong.
1939 Woodruff Rd, Greenville | 31 August St, Greenville You can’t really go wrong at a place where breakfast is served all day. For some extra pep in your step, try the mocha hot chocolate!
205 Cedar Lane, Greenville Everything that Swamp Rabbit Café bakes and brews and sells is amazing. No surprise their hot chocolate is any different. Go get some.
1 East Coffee St, Greenville Located at the corner of Coffee and Main, this chill place is literally underground and serves up great coffee, hot chocolate, and sweet treats.
2702 E North Street, Greenville 14 Halton Road, Greenville This is our team member Erin’s favorite place to grab a hot chocolate on the go for her kids, with whipped cream and at kid temp, while she grabs herself some coffee.
Looking for a great coffee shop in Greenville, SC? If you’re craving the perfect cup of coffee, espresso, or your favorite coffee-based beverage, this list of local coffee shops near Greenville, SC should have just what you need. We’re pretty sure the best coffee in Greenville, SC is on this list.
Most places on this list offer drip or pour-over coffee, unique specialty lattes, or a fabulous view and relaxing atmosphere to hang out. Each of these Greenville coffee shops is locally owned and unique. No chains here!
1520 Wade Hampton Boulevard, Greenville | 864.373.9150 164D South Main Street, Travelers Rest 200 West Washington Street, Greenville Bridge City Coffee offers three cafe locations in the area. Two in Greenville, one in Travelers Rest. Whichever you choose to visit, you will find friendly baristas and excellent in-house roasted coffee.
301 Airport Road Unit I, Greenville Grab a cup of coffee in Greenville, SC from Cohesive Coffee, and enjoy their literal works of art in your cup. The cafe’s atmosphere is inviting and vibrant; it is perfect for grabbing and cup and hanging out.
locally sourced pastries, sauces, Kombucha, and coffee beans
3527 SC-153, Greenville | 864.509.0334 1035a South Pendleton Street, Easley | 864.850.1287 117 West Main Street, Pickens | 864.507.3378 894 Tiger Blvd suite 800, Clemson | 864.780.2580 With four locations in the Upstate, this locally owned coffee cafe, Coyote Coffee, offers some of the best coffee in Greenville. Their Greenville location is in Powdersville but is worth the drive for espresso, hot coffee drinks, and delicious specialty combo drinks.
over a dozen specialty coffee drinks in hot, cold, and frozen
non-coffee and kid-friendly drinks
breakfast bagels, croissants, and muffins are available
1320 Hampton Avenue Unit 4B, Greenville | 864.283.6680 If you haven’t made your way to Hampton Station in Greenville, SC, then you are missing out on one of Greenville’s favorite coffee shops. The laid-back atmosphere, in-house roasted beans, and friendly Baristas make Due South Coffee Roasters one of the best coffee roasters in Greenville.
110 South Main Street, Simpsonville | 864.757.1670 Exchange Co. Coffee Bar is the perfect place to have a date, meet with friends, or enjoy a simple cup of some of the best coffee in town. In addition to coffee, they sell delicious crepes, salads, biscuits, and more that keep patrons returning.
113 A East Main Street, Fountain Inn | 864.409.2364 You can grab a delicious cup of coffee with breakfast or lunch at Steam Coffee and Cream. The coffee shop is perfect for gatherings and is kid-friendly due to its selection of non-coffee based drinks, ice cream, and treats.
a kid-friendly coffee shop
serves a variety of breakfast and lunch items
offers both cafe blend drip coffee and pour-over coffee
120 Shaw Street, Greenville | 864.735.0821 Mountain Goat Greenville slings all that coffee for a wonderful cause! Fully 100% of their profits go to support at-risk youth. They are a family-friendly cafe, bike shop, waffle eatery, and bar all wrapped into one.
501 South Pleasantburg Drive, Greenville | 864.558.0767 Hand-crafted beverages, an espresso bar, and fresh pastries? Yes, please! Grateful Brew is one of Greenville’s favorite coffee shops and is a cozy combination cafe and craft brew taproom in Greenville, SC.
1431 Laurens Rd, Greenville | 864.417.9808 With the same owners as the martial arts-minded fitness center next door, Musou Movement, this coffee shop aims to be a space for positivity and mindfulness. With plants lining the walls like a botanical garden oasis, comfy couches, and an area for floor seating, these hippy vibes will be sure to put you in a peaceful headspace.
hippy vibe
drinks and food have no processed sugars or preservatives
325 Rocky Slope Road #101, Greenville 110 East Curtis Street, Simpsonville Located beside Legacy Park in Greenville, SC, Chestnut Coffee House and Market offers sustainably sourced coffee and clean ingredients. They offer the classics such as espresso shots and drip coffee in addition to more interesting drinks like oat milk-based lattes.
2702 E North Street, Greenville, SC 14 Halton Road, Greenville, SC This local coffee shop is fantastic. They have several Greenville-themed drinks along with smoothies, blended/frozen drinks, and just an all-around great staff. They do not have indoor seating, only a drive-through, but it is perfect for a quick coffee fix. We love a blended 385!
1 East Coffee Street, Greenville | 864. 298.0494 Coffee Underground in Downtown Greenville is a staple of the coffee scene and one of Greenville’s most well-known local coffee shops. Along with their great coffee, they regularly host events, live music, and Theatre Underground.
sandwiches, burgers, and other meal items are available
social coffee shop in the heart of Downtown Greenville
101 North Main Street, Greenville | 864.735.840 147 Wellborn Street, Greenville | 864.362.1779 207 Wade Hampton Boulevard, Greenville | 864.280.7194 Methodical Coffee has some of the best coffee in Greenville, SC. They sell a large variety of bagged coffees, many of which other cafes utilize. With three locations throughout the Greenville area, its not too far of a drive to grab a cup of coffee and savor it! Their Tres Leche latte is highly rated! Their espresso machine is hand built, so you know this coffee shop means business.
531 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.242.6355 One of the most popular coffee shops in Greenville, SC, Spill the Beans offers a gorgeous view of Falls Park as you enjoy great coffee, ice cream, and other specialty drinks.
family-friendly coffee shop and ice cream parlor combination
106 N Main St, Greenville | 864.203.2326 Experience Arabic luxury, specialty food and drink offerings, and various work and hangout spaces at this large and unique establishment downtown.
indoor seating with tables, lounge chairs, and private study rooms for working
640 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.520.1555 Want to pair your coffee with a fresh croissant or other artisan bakery item? Then you’ll definitely want to stop by Le Petit Croissant in Greenville, SC.
coffee roasted locally by Mozza Roasters
serves a variety of breakfast items
Great Coffee in the West Village in Greenville, SC
556 Perry Avenue – Suite b116, Greenville | 864.263.7695 Want to try a foodie adventure but with coffee? Unlocked Coffee Roasters located in the West Village in Greenville, SC offers coffee flights, allowing you to test out multiple flavors at once! In addition to pour-over and cold brew coffee, they offer Aeropress brews using a piston-style brewer, and Tinto-drip coffee. Check out our Kidding Around review of Unlocked Coffee Roasters.
1258 Pendleton Street, Greenville Much more than a coffee shop, the Village Grind located in the arts district in West Village in Greenville, SC is a vibe! A relaxing environment, plants everywhere, and delicious treats to go along with your great coffee make it an excellent choice to grab a coffee. The Village Grind is quickly becoming a local favorite coffee shop in Greenville, SC.
578 Perry Ave Suite B, Greenville As a small micro shop multi-roaster, this west village spot showcases beautiful and expressive coffees from near and far.
301 Simply Less Circle, Greer This adorable coffee shop is a true gem for coffee in Greenville, SC. Located near Lake Cunningham in the Lake Walk Tiny Home Community, the coffee house itself is a tiny structure! There is cozy seating both inside and outside, and the shop offers traditional coffee drinks, espresso, pour-over coffee, single-origin and filter coffee, and some seasonal specials.
10 Moorlyn Lane Suite G, Greer Yes, you read that right. This coffee shop is located inside a laundromat. But when we tell you this isn’t your normal laundromat, we’re not kidding. You don’t have to do your laundry while you sip your coffee , but you absolutely can if you’d like to. They serve a wide variety of beverages from regular drip coffee to cappuccinos to specialty coffees and even smoothies.
outdoor seating
wide variety of beverages
ability to do your laundry in an eco-friendly laundromat
208 Trade Street, Greer 14 S Main Street, Greenville Flying Fox Coffee has two locations now! One is in Downtown Greenville, and another is a fantastic shop in Downtown Greer. They offer coffee, specialty coffee beverages, along with pastries. I highly recommend the Violet Eyes – I grab that at least once a week. Plus, there is free parking in the back of the shop!
1711 Old Spartanburg Rd, Greer A former children’s art school, this historic building turned coffee shop is vintage, cozy, and unique. Walls lined with plates, a piano in the corner, and comfy chairs, the ambiance and decor here really feel inviting. Third Place also hosts many events throughout the week and month. Check their Instagram for what’s going on.
Serves methodical coffee
Vintage, artsy, cozy, and unique decor
Lots of special events – fall fest, mom’s discounts and workout classes, featured artists, etc.
2 South Main Street, Travelers Rest | 864.610.2245 Delicious coffee alongside a plate of savory or sweet crepes? Say no more. Tandem Creperie and Coffeehouse offers sustainably sourced coffee by Counter Culture coffee based out of North Carolina
drip coffee available
nitro on draft cold brew coffee
tea, Kombucha, and handcrafted sodas are available
403 North Poinsett Highway, Travelers Rest | 864.834.5500 Leopard Forest Coffee House, located in Travelers Rest, SC, offers in-house roasted beans and an excellent cup of coffee. This hidden gem is popular with local residents and is a great stop when visiting downtown Travelers Rest. Be sure to pick up some bagged coffee before you leave!
140 East Main Street, Easley Old Post 1940 is both an organic coffee bar and a wedding venue. It is located in an old post office from the 1940s (hence the name) that has been beautifully renovated!
121 Bellew Carver Rd, Spartanburg, SC 121 Coffee has delicious treats, excellent coffee, and a great pond view that will help you relax while you enjoy. What use to be an old bait shop has truly transformed into something special.
Are you looking for restaurants on New Year’s Eve in Greenville, SC? A traditional Southern New Year’s Meal is meant to help you ring in a little luck! So start 2026 with some good fortune and a wonderfully prepared meal from a local restaurant!
We’ll explain where good luck comes into play, and honestly, who couldn’t use some of that?
Looking for restaurants open on Christmas in Greenville, SC? We have a list of places to eat that are open on Christmas Day! If a catered Christmas meal or dinner out in Greenville/Spartanburg this Christmas would make your holiday a little merrier, this is the list for you. Consider dining out or ordering in from a local restaurant for all of your fixings!
Our list has restaurants offering dine-in service, full take-out meals, and even restaurants where you can just grab a turkey, a ham, or a few sides to supplement your own home-cooked meal. There are lots of great restaurant options in Greenville to make some delicious Christmas dreams come true. Most of our local grocery stores are also offering Christmas items for pickup.
*We are currently editing for 2025 and will continue to update as menus become available*
Celebrate the holidays in Greenville! Find holiday events, restaurants, pies, and more in our Holiday Guide.
Fill your table with amazing food for the holidays from local restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and more. We have desserts, sides, charcuterie, tamales, cookies, take-home kits and so much more!
Many restaurants are finalizing their menus and plans. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back soon. We’ll be updating this list with more restaurants and details as available.
Restaurants Open On Christmas Eve
We’re barreling toward a grand holiday and, frankly, many of us want to take a break. So, support a local business AND take the stress off of preparing a holiday meal!
Christmas Eve Menu 32 East Broad Street, Greenville | 864.467.9777 Larkin’s for Christmas Eve this year includes an amuse-bouche and three-course selections. Tickets are $85 per person
116 S Main Street, Greenville | 864.373.7300 Nose Dive Restaurant Christmas Reservations This gastronomic-centered restaurant is open on Christmas Eve and will serve its regular menu along with special featured items. All menu items are also available for to-go orders.
207 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.232.7007 Holiday Reservations Soby’s will offer its regular menu and some featured items on Christmas Eve. The menu is also available for pick-up.
2025 Holiday Hours Undecided as of Publication Date please check their website for more details 805 Spartan Boulevard, Spartanburg | 864.913.1212 Heirloom is open on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve for dine-in. They will have a special menu, and reservations are requested.
National Chain Restaurants Open on Christmas Eve in Greenville
Christmas Eve (open until 2 pm) There are several Cracker Barrel locations in the Upstate. Cracker Barrel is open on Christmas Eve and is serving its regular menu. You can also order a meal online that serves 10 people or a meal that serves 4-6. Sides and pies are also available for pre-order. Their regular menu is also available for curbside pick-up and in-store pick-up.
Restaurants Open On Both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
220 North Main Street, Greenville | 864.298.2424 Roost Restaurant Holiday Reservations Serving a limited menu, Roost is open both Christmas day and Christmas Eve. Guests can also enjoy the Festival Of Trees in the Hyatt before or after their meal.
Christmas Eve & Christmas Day 250 Riverplace, Greenville | 864.242.4000 Up On The Roof Restaurant Holiday Reservations Up on the Roof will offer its regular menu with some featured items on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The menu is also available for pick-up and delivery. Reservations requested for dine-in.
120 South Main Street, Greenville | 864.421.9700 ext. 4100 Located at the historic Westin Poinsett hotel in the heart of downtown Greenville, Spoonbread is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day for brunch. Reservations required.
Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day Ruth’s Chris’ dining room is open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, during which their regular menu will be available for dine-in or pick-up. There are two Ruth’s Chris locations in Greenville: one downtown at the Embassy Suites Hotel and another at Congaree Road at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. Reserve your table at Ruth’s Chris.
Where to Get a Catered Holiday Meal
The restaurants below offer catered meals or individual pieces of a meal like smoked turkey or delicious sides and desserts. Use them to supplement your home-cooked meal and make the meal preparations a little easier!
1629 E. North Street, Greenville | 864.609.4249 Fork and Plough has released their Christmas menu. This year they are offering Roasted Beef Tenderloin and Ham with all the sides and even dessert! Place your orders online.
1301 N. Main Street, Fountain Inn | 864.403.2379 Grab smoked turkey breast or brisket from Bobby’s BBQ for a delicious centerpiece to your holiday meal. Orders can be placed online or in person. Pickup will be Wednesday December 24th, 2025 go to Bobby’s BBQ website for all the details.
Chef360 is offering meals this year they are offering 2 menu’s both feed 6-8 people. Pick up will be December 23rd, 2025. They offer both Gluten free and Vegan options.
2144 E Main Street , Duncan | 864.249.6078 While they are not open Christmas Day, they are offering meals that can be ordered and picked up by 6 pm on Christmas Eve.
205 Cedar Lane, Greenville The Swamp Rabbit Cafe sells local turkeys and ham every year, as well as delectable pies and sides. They almost always sell out so if you want something, order it quickly. Turkeys are not cooked.
2440 Due West Highway, Belton | 864.296.3316 | Social media for Holiday menu updates One of my family’s favorites is New Orleans-inspired Grits and Groceries. This year they are offering bourbon glazed honey ham, whole smoked turkeys, smoked brisket, seasonal sides, and homemade desserts.
1000 North Pine Street, Spartanburg | 864.582.3800 Wade’s offers holiday meals that you can cook at home. There are no preorders — items are first-come, first-serve.
255 John B. White, Sr. Boulevard, Spartanburg | 864.585.9387 The legendary Beacon is offering their usual Holiday Meal with your choice of turkey or ham, dressing, cranberry sauce, your choice of 2 sides, 30 rolls, 2 pies, and 2 gallons of tea. The meal will serve 18-20 people. You can also order items a la carte. Be sure to order at least 2 days in advance.
1 Augusta Street, Greenville | 864.232.9091 A downtown favorite that offers Southern comfort foods, Smoke on the Water traditionally offers a Holiday Dinner at Home. They are only opened for catering right now.
1800 Drayton Road, Spartanburg | 864.310.4177 Dray Bar & Grill in Spartanburg is offering a traditional Christmas . Orders must be placed by noon on December 21st, 2025. They have 2 options for 3-6 people and 6-10.
130 South Church Street, Spartanburg | 864.586.2344 Blue Moon Specialty Foods is making scratch-made dishes for Christmas. Preorder deadline is December 17th, and pickup is December 22nd or 23rd.
2144 E Main Street, Duncan | 864.249.6078 While their 2025 holiday hours haven’t been released as of publication, Flavorshack Hot Chicken & Ribs traditionally offers a full holiday take-home menu.
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!
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!
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.
🌟 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.
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!
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
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 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Want to find more excellent coffee shops in the Upstate?
