The first question I’m asked after telling people that I have a foodie Instagram and blog is “Where are your favorite places to eat in Greenville?” I realized that I’ve practically memorized this list and it hasn’t changed much over the past year. So, here it is. My 11 favorite restaurants in the Upstate (because I couldn’t just choose 10), in no particular order, determined solely by the frequency I recommend them to others and eat at them myself.
Pita House: I just happen to live about a mile away from Pita House, so it is my go-to place for take-out. Specializing in Middle Eastern food, Pita House is a great healthy-ish option. Just note that they only take cash or check! My usual order: The Middle East Plate with Gyro (comes with hummos, falafel, tahini salad and vegetables) and extra white and red pepper sauce.
Happy and Hale: I’m not sure how I survived without Happy and Hale in my life. Everything on their menu is nourishing, delicious and healthy. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, dinner or just a snack, Happy and Hale has plenty of options. My usual order: The Incredibowl with half kale half mixed greens, golden quinoa, roasted butternut squash, black beans, roasted beets, pumpkin seeds, avocado, mint, lemon tahini dressing and lime.
ASADA: ASADA was my very first spot I wrote about on The Upstate Foodie, so it holds a special place in my heart. Owners Gina and Roberto were inspired by Latin American cooking and flavors, so started ASADA as a food truck serving out-of-this-world tacos. Now, ASADA is a thriving brick and mortar providing us with much more than just tacos. My usual order: Carnita Taco with a side of guacamole.
Sidewall Pizza: Sidewall brings together all of my favorite things: pizza, salads, ice cream and beer. Naturally, I go here every single year for my birthday and many more times throughout the year. It’s pretty apparent from my Instagram page that Sidewall Pizza never loses its charm in my eyes. My usual order: Greek Salad and (depending on who I’m sharing the pizza with) a half Margherita half Protein, or half Margherita half Hawaiian pizza.
GB&D: This may be my most dined at spot of 2017. Everything at GB&D is not only delicious, but also beautiful and inspired, incorporating local ingredients into every dish. Their weekend brunch (ahem…doughnuts!) is incredible, but GB&D is also ideal for a quick lunch or cozy dinner. My usual order: GB&D changes their menu regularly, but I am always drawn to their Bibimbap, any of their salads, or their burger (with THE best fries ever).
Trappe Door: While we’re on the topic of amazing French fries, Trappe Door serves their “frites” with a trio of mayo in the flavors of your choice. Located below Barley’s Taproom with arguably the coziest ambiance in Greenville, Trappe Door specializes in hearty, comfort food and an impressive beer list. After dining here for my birthday dinner, I’ve recommended it to many other people! My usual order: I’ve only been here a handful of times, but adore their Frites, mussels, and Braised Short Ribs.
Jianna: For all the pasta lovers out there, Jianna is the place for you. Located in a picturesque setting looking out on Falls Park, it has become an every-popular destination for a nice, celebratory dinner. You won’t find your traditional lasagna or spaghetti with meatballs on their menu, but instead think fresh oysters, simplistic pasta made by hand, and a Char-Grilled Chicken that will make you wonder why you usually never order chicken at a restaurant. My usual order: Start with the Ricotta Crostini with truffle honey, sea salt and grilled ciabatta…ALWAYS and the Spaghetti TBG (tomato, basil, garlic).
The Anchorage: I love everything about The Anchorage from their handcrafted cocktails to their elegant yet trendy atmosphere. Chef Greg McPhee’s attention to detail is apparent in all of their beautifully designed small plates. Their menu is constantly changing based off what’s in season, but I always start with the “For the Table” charcuterie board…and dessert is a must.
Bacon Bros.: Don’t be fooled. While Bacon Bros. does serve some pretty phenomenal bacon and meats, they have many other fame-worthy dishes on their menu. What I adore most about Bacon Bros. is that they have a little something for everyone, so it’s a win-win with a large group of varying likes and dislikes. My usual order: Devil’s Dust Eggs and The Burger or Shrimp and Grits.
Tsunami: I’ve been going to Tsunami for years, and it is still my #1 spot for sushi in the Upstate. The fish is always fresh and I can order the same thing every single time and be assured that it’s just as good as always. My usual order: Ginger Salad topped with seaweed and the Rainbow Roll–If I’m craving something more indulgent, I’ll convince someone to share the Surf and Turf Roll with me.
Kitchen Sync: The coolest thing about Kitchen Sync is that it’s the first certified “green” restaurant in Greenville. It is also a breath of fresh air as it’s located on Laurens Road so you don’t have to worry about the inconvenience of parking. Kitchen Sync says it best, calling itself a “soulful neighborhood restaurant with farm fresh scratch-made fare”. My usual order: The Shrimp Burger, any of their pizzas or the Tomato Pie (but only in the summer as it’s seasonal).
There you have it. My 11 most recommended and frequented restaurants of 2017. Now, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t many other restaurants in the Upstate that I love, and I can’t wait to see what 2018 has in store for us!
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