After living in Greenville, South Carolina for over a decade, I’ve explored the local food scene extensively. From casual restaurants to fine dining, Greenville is packed with incredible restaurants that cater to every craving. Over the years, I’ve tried countless places, but there are a few that I keep coming back to time and time again for their consistently amazing food, great atmosphere, and standout service.
Whether you’re a local looking for new favorites or just visiting and wondering where to eat, these are the 13 spots I always recommend!
Casual Restaurants
These are all quick, but really good bites.
Golden, Brown & Delicious (GB&D)
They have their name for a reason—all of their food is truly delicious. Since it’s located in The Commons right off The Swamp Rabbit Trail, I love walking or riding my bike there, grabbing a drink from The Community Tap and ordering their Chicken Sando. It’s literally the best chicken sandwich in Greenville, in my humble opinion.
Comal 864
Nominated for a James Beard Award, their birria might just be the key to my heart. The best part? They have big hearts–when Tropical Storm Helene hit the Upstate, they offered free meals to community members in need.
Lewis BBQ
The line here can get long during peak times, but boy, is it worth it! I didn’t even think I liked brisket until I had theirs. It melts in your mouth and is just so dang delicious. Pro-tip: If you’re not in the mood for BBQ, they have Brisket Nachos that are amazing.
Harry’s Hoagie Shop
Also home to Mike’s Cheesesteak and Roast Pork, they have my favorite cheesesteak in the area. After eating it, I have to lie on my couch for a few hours to digest it, so you KNOW that means it’s really good.
Fine Dining Restaurants
These are my go-to’s for when I want to treat myself.
Soby’s
It’s a Greenville classic for a reason. Ever since I moved to Greenville over 10 years ago, Soby’s has been my go-to for celebrations. I simply LOVE their fried chicken and mac n’ cheese, and I’ve never had bad service there. There’s something on the menu for everyone, and it’s the perfect taste of Southern food for when you have company in town looking for a nice dinner.
Scoundrel
Relatively new to Greenville, this spot has already been nominated for a James Beard Award. I’ve only had the opportunity to dine here a few times, but the ambiance is a 10/10 and the duck fat fries are to die for. If you like dinner and a “show,” be sure to order the beef tartare—they make it tableside.
O-Ku
If you’re a sushi lover like me, you’ve got to try O-Ku the next time you want to treat yourself. All of their rolls are delicious, but my favorite is the Acevichado. Pro-tip: they have a happy hour on Mondays and Tuesdays from 4 – 6 p.m., where many of their rolls are discounted. So, if you don’t feel like splurging, aim for the happy hour.
Good for Groups
Whether I’m getting dinner with friends or have family in town, these are my go-to suggestions.
Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint
If you have a casual friend group that likes smash burgers and beer, this is the place for you. It has chill vibes and the 100% American Wagyu beef makes for an amazing smash burger. I’m a sucker for caramelized onions, so I always order the Dr. Gonzo.
Coastal Crust
If you like to split food with your friends and don’t want to meet downtown – try Coastal Crust. They have delicious wood-fired pizzas and have locations in West Greenville and Travelers Rest. The ambiance is great too!
Coral
This restaurant checks all the boxes for group dinners. It has great drinks and food, a friendly atmosphere with a touch of fancy, and it’s located downtown. Their Korean BBQ wings are finger-licking good, and they have a killer espresso martini.
Take-out or Delivery
Sometimes I just want to stay home in my sweatpants…
Asia Pacific
When you get a craving for Chinese take-out, Asia Pacific is the best in town. It’s known for being the most authentic in the area, and it’s so freaking good. If I could eat their scallion pancakes and soup dumplings every day, I would.
Sidewall Pizza
With multiple locations in Greenville, you can’t go wrong with Sidewall Pizza. Their pizza is a Greenville classic at this point, and if you haven’t had their breadsticks, you’re missing out. They typically have a long wait to eat in-person on the weekends, so if you don’t feel like waiting, order it for pick up!
Chef 21 Sushi Burger & Korean BBQ
While I love eating in-person at Chef 21, it’s quickly become my go-to on Doordash. They have quality sushi and their ramen is the best I’ve had in Greenville so far– and the best part? It travels well.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Those are my go-to restaurants in Greenville, SC. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to end your meal, it’s always a good idea to check out a local ice cream shop. And if you’re searching for a restaurant in a specific neighborhood in Greenville, use this map to see where each spot on this list is located.
GVL Foodie Adventures 
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