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Level 10

3/2/2018

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location.
225 W. Main Street, Suite 100
10th level of the AC Hotel

hours.
mon-sat 4:30pm - until

what they are known for.
stunning views and shareable dishes

Spartanburg has been elevated…by Level 10. Located at the top of the new AC Hotel by Marriott, Level 10 is an upscale dining experience that (IMHO) Spartanburg has needed. Not only is the food spectacular but the views are unreal. ​
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The restaurant itself is quite spacious, with several semi-separate dining spaces plus the bar which extends onto the “rooftop”. There are both booths and tables – check out these swanky chairs! I love when tables are set before you sit down…really taking it up a notch.
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The dishes are described as shareable, so kind of like tapas. There were 4 of us, so naturally we ordered about 9 dishes in total. It may have been a little much but #noregrets.
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Our first round included the Pomme Frites, Roasted Mushrooms, Grilled Oysters, and the Crab Beignets. The beignets surprised me in that they were denser than I imagined – basically like a tempura battered, deep fried, crab cake ball – no complaints here!  Plus the tempura onion rings served with them were to so light and crispy - a perfect compliment. The grilled oysters are great even for people who don’t love oysters because they are cooked through and sprinkled with cheese. The roasted mushrooms had a delicious complex flavor with parmesan and truffle vinaigrette, and went perfectly with a bite of the creamy polenta. But I’m not going to lie, the pomme frites were probably the hit of the first round. Yes, they are "just" French fries, but they were cooked in a way that made them both soft and crunchy, and the dusting of rosemary, garlic and parmesan…finger licking good. 
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Crab Beignets with Tempura Onion Rings, Pickled Peppers and Herb Aioli
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Grilled Oysters, Barbecued on the Half Shell, New Orleans Style
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Roasted Mushrooms with Creamy Polenta, Poached Egg, Parmesan Float and Truffle Vinaigrette
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Pomme Frites with Rosemary, Toasted Garlic and Parmesan
The second round included our only “For the Table” menu item, which are larger and should be ordered early. The Roasted Chicken Roulade with sage and lemon-caper juice was a great main course dish that everyone loved. We got the Roasted Beets to go along side, and even if you aren’t a huge fan of beets, I implore you to try them! They were sweet and earthy, but mild – perfect side dish.
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Roasted Chicken Roulade, Prosciutto Wrapped, Sage, Lemon-caper Juice
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Roasted Beets with Goat Cheese Fondant, Walnuts, and Blood Orange
Last round included the Gnocchi, Seared Salmon and PEI Mussels. I’m a huge fan of mussels, and these did not disappoint. While the mussels themselves were yummy, the best part is obviously dipping that crusty bread into the coconutty, green curry sauce they were cooked in. The seared salmon is a great dish to share because it is mild yet still has a twist with the celery root puree and fennel. Lastly, the gnocchi, which was heavy on the duck confit, was doughy and complimented well by the duck, apples, walnuts and sage. 
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PEI Mussels with Coconut Milk, Cilantro, Thai Green Curry
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Seared Salmon with Celery Root Puree, Caramelized Fennel, and Roasted Pepper Vinaigrette
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Gnocchi with Duck Confit, Roasted Apples, Walnuts, Sage, and Butternut Squash Puree
Before and/or after your meal, be sure to take time to take in the stunning views. I think we’re all looking at Spartanburg a little differently these days, and the view from Level 10 is definitely one you must take in.
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​And, as always, if you’re looking for more Spartanburg restaurant reviews, look no further!
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HenHouse Brunch

7/13/2017

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location.
201 Wall Street, Suite D

hours.
mon-fri 7:30am - 3pm

what they are known for.
breakfast and lunch dishes, fresh baked pastries

menu.

features.
​outdoor dining

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​New to the Spartanburg restaurant scene, HenHouse Brunch has made a name for itself on Wall Street downtown. The day I visited, I waited in line for nearly 20 minutes and only barely found a seat! This did give me ample time to take in the décor which is quite charming; quirky prints and a chalkboard menu surround the counter where you order. After making my menu decision, plus picking up a pastry for the road, I took a seat and eagerly awaited my order: the Hipster sandwich and a side of She Crab Soup. 
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She Crab Soup $5.50; The Hipster $6.25
When it arrived, I loved the casual presentation right off the bat. The sandwich was served on a waxed paper-lined metal tray with wooden utensils, with the soup piping hot in a plastic container. The Hipster features roasted red pepper, egg, cheddar cheese, scallions, wilted spinach, roasted tomato, and harissa sauce on a brioche bun.  The bread was thick and fluffy and soaked up lots of flavor from the veggies and the spicy roasted pepper sauce.  The star of this particular meal for me was, surprisingly, the She Crab Soup.  The creaminess was unmatched and the roasted corn on top added a sweet and salty crunch that I couldn’t get enough of!
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On another visit not too long after this one, I tried The Benny: poached egg, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise on an open-faced croissant. The sauce and the egg yolk soaked right into the nooks and crannies of that croissant making for delicious decadence in every bite. 
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The Benny $9
​And don’t forget to pick up a fresh-baked pastry for later! Now that summer is here, there’s additional seating outside, so if you happen to visit HenHouse Brunch when it’s busy, sit back and relax…it’s worth the wait.

And if you want more Spartanburg restaurant reviews, look no further!
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RJ Rockers & HenHouse Brunch Beer Dinner

6/2/2017

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RJ Rockers HenHouse Brunch Beer Dinner Menu
​Be sure to keep an eye out for the next RJ Rockers beer dinner because these are events that you Spartanburg foodies do not want to miss!  This collaboration with HenHouse Brunch was the third dinner in the series, the first two being with Southside Smokehouse and The Farmer’s Table.  How I wish I’d been at those!  Included in your ticket price is a pint of beer to enjoy while you wait for the first course to be served, so be sure to get there early to enjoy your pint.
RJ Rockers HenHouse Brunch Beer Dinner
The 5-course dinner featured dishes from HenHouse Brunch paired with delicious local brews from RJ Rockers.  Kate White, Public Relations Manager with Rockers, said they bring the restaurant staff in to taste the beers which they then create dishes to match.  Rockers also created a special beer just for this dinner, one that I’ve already petitioned for them to recreate!
RJ Rockers HenHouse Brunch Beer Dinner
The first course was a trio of deviled eggs – Avocado Lime, Grandmama Style, and Bacon Jalapeno.  The avocado lime egg was super creamy with a slight hint of lime and a bit of spice, while the Grandmama style was on the sweeter side.  I’m a sucker for spice so I saved the bacon jalapeno for last – I could have taken a lot more spice, but there’s nothing like a good egg/bacon combo.  The beer paired with this course was the bestselling Son of a Peach, and those sweet, peachy flavors tied in nicely, especially with the bacon.
Deviled Egg Trio: Bacon Jalapeno, Avocado Lime, and Grandmama Style served with RJ Rockers Son of a Peach
Deviled Egg Trio: Bacon Jalapeno, Avocado Lime, and Grandmama Style served with RJ Rockers Son of a Peach
The second course was a hefty slice of brioche toast topped with a creamy spread cheese and avocado, bacon, tomatoes, arugula, a perfectly cooked duck egg, and lots of honey balsamic drizzle.  There’s nothing better than a runny yolk, folks. The beer paired with this course was the special release, only for this event, and it blew my socks off: a Basil and Blood Orange Saison.  If you’re not familiar with this type of beer, it tends to be tart and citrusy with more carbonation. This one had a heavy note of orange with a slight hint of basil, and I’d love to have it in a bottle by the pool this summer *wink wink*.
Farmers Cheese and Avocado Spread, bacon, roasted heirloom tomatoes, arugula, honey balsamic, and a fried duck egg on brioche toaste served with RJ Rockers Basil and Blood Orange Saison
Farmers Cheese and Avocado Spread, bacon, roasted heirloom tomatoes, arugula, honey balsamic, and a fried duck egg on brioche toaste served with RJ Rockers Basil and Blood Orange Saison
​The third course was a Shrimp Panzanella Salad, loaded with chunks of bread that soaked up the juices of the dressing, tomatoes and grapefruit.  It had a spice that lingered in a good way and was cut nicely with the crisp Palmetto Trail Pale Ale which has notes of grapefruit. Note: proceeds from the sale of this beer support the Palmetto Conservation Foundation’s “mountains to the sea” trail in South Carolina.
Shrimp Panzanella w/ Grapefruit Brule served with RJ Rockers Palmetto Trail Pale Ale
Shrimp Panzanella w/ Grapefruit Brule served with RJ Rockers Palmetto Trail Pale Ale
The fourth and main course was a garlicky brisket and sweet potato hash. The brisket was braised in RJ Rocker beer adding a nice depth of flavor, which was balanced by scooping a few of the pickled mustard seeds into each bite. You could tell they made this for the smooth, dark Brown Eyed Squirrel Ale with its smoky finish.
Beer Braised Brisket with sweet potato and roasted garlic hash, pickled mustard seed, and brown butter served with RJ Rockers Brown Eyed Squirrel
Beer Braised Brisket with sweet potato and roasted garlic hash, pickled mustard seed, and brown butter served with RJ Rockers Brown Eyed Squirrel
Last, and best course in my opinion, was the Espresso S’more Brownie paired with the Half Calf Coffee Milk Stout.  The toasted marshmallow truly smelled and tasted like it had been over a campfire!  The brownie was dense and fudgy with the espresso bringing out the coffee notes in the beer, which is brewed with Spartanburg’s own Little River Roasting coffee.  Served alongside a light and simple vanilla gelato, this brownie was the perfect way to end the meal.
Espresso S'more Brownie with jumbo toasted marshmallow and vanilla gelato served with RJ Rockers Half Calf Coffee Milk Stout
Espresso S'more Brownie with jumbo toasted marshmallow and vanilla gelato served with RJ Rockers Half Calf Coffee Milk Stout
Be sure you are following RJ Rockers on Facebook to get notified of the next beer dinner and buy your tickets quickly! It’s such a treat to get to enjoy a meal in one of our local breweries. RJ Rockers is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3pm-8pm, Thursdays and Fridays from 3pm-9pm, and Saturdays from 12pm-8pm. And of course head on over to Wall Street to try HenHouse Brunch from 7:30am - 3pm, Monday-Friday.  They know how to do a beer dinner right - from the table setting to the presentations of the beers and food – many kudos to the staff at Rockers and HenHouse Brunch for a fun evening!
Full disclosure: I was offered free tickets to this event to cover it on the blog.  Giving me free food and drinks – while always appreciated – does not guarantee a positive review.  All opinions are my own.
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The Crepe Factory

5/15/2017

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location.
137 W Main Street

hours.
Mon-Thurs 8am-3pm; Fri 8am-2pm, 5pm-9pm; Sat 8am-2pm; Sun Closed

what they are known for.
sweet and savory crepes, fresh sides

menu.

features.
​outdoor seating

The Crepe Factory stepped onto the scene in 2016 to an enormous response from the Spartanburg community.  We were craving new and unique restaurants downtown, and boy did they deliver.  From the chalkboard menus on the wall to the wood floors and metal chairs, they created the space to feel warm, cozy and a little bit Parisian.  
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The menu features crepes of all styles including breakfast, savory and sweet, all named for streets in Spartanburg.  Like the Spring St. crepe with chunky chicken, mushrooms and spinach lathered in a rich tarragon gravy.  Or try a breakfast crepe, which are served all day, like the St. John St. filled with scrambled eggs and topped with spicy chorizo sausage, creamy queso fresco, and fresh salsa.  
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St. John St. Crepe ($10.95)
All crepes come with your choice of side, and my favorite is the Signature Roasted Brussels Sprout Hash Browns. The smoky brussels sprouts pair perfectly with chunky roasted potatoes, complimenting your meal whether it is breakfast or lunch.
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Kennedy St. Crepe ($8.95)
And lastly the dessert crepe, the queen of the crepes, to finish off your meal.  After a full meal, I’d recommend something like the Grove St. crepe with a tangy Lemon Crème Anglaise and sweet French Lavender Infused Syrup.  It’s just light enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without leaving you ready to take a nap.  If you’re looking to grab a 3pm pick-me-up, pair a latte with the Magnolia St. crepe (can you say bananas foster?!) for a satisfyingly sweet treat.  
​Next time you are downtown, find time to stop in The Crepe Factory! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Gerhard's Cafe

4/15/2017

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location.
1200 E Main Street

what they are known for.
authentic austrian fare, wood-fired pizza

menu.

features.
outdoor dining
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When you walk into Gerhard’s, you are seemingly transported to a moody Austrian pub with its blend of rustic wood and warm leather.  Feel free to saddle up to the bar for a cold cocktail or German ale while you wait for a table.  There are three distinct seating areas, plus a beautiful patio for warm summer nights.  You have a choice of the formal dining room for fancy occasions, the more casual dining with private booths, and then the Biergarten which has open tables and a cozy fireplace.  
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Bread and Butter Basket ($0 with your meal)
To start your experience, you’ll get a bread basket served with some of the best butter you’ve ever tasted.  It’s spicy, almost cheesy, and simply melts in your mouth!  If you need something else to tie you over until the main course, I highly recommend the fried pickles which are small, battered spears served crunchy and piping hot with a slightly spicy remoulade.  
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Fried Pickles with Remoulade ($7.95)
On the menu for entrees are authentic dishes varying from Mahi-Mahi Kabobs over Rice to Elk Rouladen with Spaetzle and Red Cabbage.  One of my favorites is the Roasted Rack of Lamb with Green Peppercorn Sauce and Fried Potatoes – the sauce is perfectly creamy and spicy, a great compliment to the tender lamb.  For something more traditional, try the Wiener Schnitzel (a thin, breaded veal cutlet) with a traditional Gerhard’s salad (tangy potatoes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and sauerkraut).  
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Roasted Rack of Lamb with a Green Peppercorn Sauce and Fried Potatoes ($36.95)
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Traditional German House Salad (comes with your entree)
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Wiener Schnitzel served with fried potatoes ($24.95)
For a casual night out with the family, try out some of the wood-fired pizzas.  I love the thin and crispy crust and from the traditional pepperoni to the interesting Swiss pizza topped with raclette cheese, you won't be disappointed. And they start at $8!
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​Gerhard’s is a comfortable spot for a variety of occasions, so head there soon to wow a date, relax with your family, or impress out-of-town guests! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Streatery

2/15/2017

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location.
check their facebook page for where the mobile eatery is this week

what they are known for.
chef-driven food, high quality ingredients

menu.

features.
mobile eatery, events & catering, outdoor dining
Spartanburg's first mobile eatery is hitting the streets and making quite a name for itself!  Chef Steph uses the highest quality ingredients to create unique takes on comfort food like Duck Wings in a ginger garlic sauce or the Bacon Brussel Sprout Taco with pickled red onion and a balsamic reduction.

Most Mondays and Wednesdays you can find them parked at North Grove Medical Park from 11am - 1pm.  Otherwise, be sure to follow them on Facebook for when they pop up downtown or other places around town like Club South 29.
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I was able to try it for the first time on a day they were parked next to the Denny's Building in downtown Spartanburg, and boy was it a beautiful day to enjoy lunch outside.  Have you seen this stunning installation? It's part of the Seeing Spartanburg in a New Light exhibit throughout Spartanburg and worth checking out!
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I'd heard that the Shrimp Nachos are a favorite of the "Streat Gang", so I had to try them even though the Queso Philly Cheesesteak was calling my name...next time!  The nachos featured crispy fried shrimp on top of fresh tortilla chips covered with a crunchy corn salsa, spicy sriracha and a cool cilantro cream to balance the spice.  It was a great portion for lunch, and easy to eat on the go.  I found a sunny bench tucked in the Denny's Plaza and took in the fresh air.  Nothing like it!
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Streatery also does catering and events so keep them in mind for your next party or work event!  If you haven't tried them yet, you've got to track them down ASAP.  We are so lucky to have the Streatery team in Spartanburg with our first local food truck! And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Le Spice Restaurant and Bakery

12/5/2016

1 Comment

 
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location.
8881 Warren H Abernathy Highway

what they are known for.
french, thai and southern cooking

menu.

features.
outdoor dining

Le Spice is new on the scene on the West Side of Spartanburg, and it has quickly become one of my favorites in town!  You can tell with each bite that the owners, Nick and Amonrat Dhers, have truly put their hearts into this quaint restaurant and bakery with french and thai influences.

The location is wonderful, tucked back into the woods where you'd never know you're right off of a busy highway.  In the spring and fall, there is an amazing patio where you can enjoy your meal and the surrounding forest. When the weather is not so nice, the inside of what seems like a former residence is warm and cozy.  It is also a great place for a wedding/baby shower, work party, family gathering, etc.
When you arrive, find the pastry case immediately - you'll probably want to get one of these.
The Almond Croissant is one of the most popular for a reason: very light and crispy outside, and an almost decadent inside with almond cream, all topped with toasted almonds and powdered sugar. Paired with a cup of coffee - the perfect breakfast for one.  OR share with some friends as an appetizer for a larger meal...
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Almond Croissant ($4)
After you've chosen your pastry from the case, you'll find the regular menu on the wall in front of you. Choose from crepes, sandwiches, quiche, benedicts, soups, salads, pastas, small plates, or create your own!  Order at the counter, then drinks, silverware, etc. are self service.  Plenty of seating inside, including a great sunroom for a great view.

For brunch, try this cheesesteak crepe: huge chunks of high quality rib-eye smothered with swiss cheese, onions and mushrooms, tucked into a perfectly thin crepe.  Also delicious is the Cuban Chicken crepe which has a creamy mustard sauce that is to die for.
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Cheesesteak Crepe ($11)
For lunch, a cup of soup with a sandwich might be the ticket.  Pair the steaming French Onion Soup with the popular Chicken Pesto Sandwich that features goat cheese, arugula and a balsamic glaze. The fresh, chunky bread is perfectly toasted to compliment the layers of goodness inside.
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French Onion Soup ($6)
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Chicken Pesto Sandwich ($10)
And of course you can't go to a french bakery without dessert.  Choose from the pastry case or find a basket next to the register full of goodies: mini versions of the chocolate croissants, macaroons, and these Bacon Cookies with huge chocolate chunks.
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Bacon Cookies ($6 for 4 cookies)
There aren't many local (non-chain) restaurants on the West Side of Spartanburg (or are there?? Let me know by tagging #hubcitybites!), but this is one that you MUST TRY.  After my first visit, I couldn't wait to make the drive back.

​Welcome Le Spice - we are glad you are here!! And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Lemongrass Kitchen

11/23/2016

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location.
121 Dunbar Street

what they are known for.
authentic vietnamese cuisine

menu.

features.
outdoor dining
The newest restaurant on the scene in booming downtown Spartanburg is Lemongrass Kitchen which boasts authentic vietnamese cuisine, and the next time you are free for lunch, you should check it out.  The pho is particularly fitting for these chilly days!
Lemongrass Kitchen is in the old Cafe Around the Corner space, and you'll find it very similar as they didn't do too much to the interior.  It's a cozy space with about 10 tables, plus a patio which just about doubles the seating capacity.  You'll find a little bit of vietnamese decor, but the real star is the food.

The menu is small but mighty with specials that you can find on their facebook page.  Choose from rice bowls with various meats, sandwiches, spring rolls, and pho.  ​

The spring rolls were obviously made in-house and the sauce was a perfect compliment to the fresh fillings of lettuce, shrimp, cilantro and rice noodles. ​
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Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce ($4.95)
For an entree, I went for the chicken pho.  YUM.  The broth was so flavorful, even before I squeezed that lime and tore some basil into the bowl.  Cilantro adds great freshness to the big chunks of chicken and thin noodles.  The bean sprouts are a great addition too!  They also serve pho with beef which I'll have to try next time.
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Chicken Pho ($7.95)
The service was excellent as each menu item was explained before I ordered, plus they helped me take my leftover soup to-go.  And everything is priced really well for a quick lunch!

​What a unique, new experience to have in town!  Welcome Lemongrass Kitchen! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Dudley's

11/15/2016

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location.
1055B Fernwood Glendale Road

what they are known for.
fresh cut and charcoal grilled steaks, seafood and burgers

menu.

features.
​outdoor dining

Dudleys celebrated its 7th birthday in July, and boy am I glad about that.  This restaurant was exactly what the East Side needed when it arrived on the scene.  The atmosphere is simultaneously perfect for a date night or for the big game, and I regularly enjoy it for both!  When you walk in, you’ll immediately notice the large bar surrounding the grill where you can saddle up, enjoy a beverage, and watch your steak being cooked to perfection.  There is also ample seating on the front patio, plus a back porch which is more for sports-watching.
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Signature Biscuits (Free with your meal)
The menu has evolved slightly over the past 7 years, refined down to the best of the best dishes.  Don’t let them forget to bring you some of the signature biscuits while you peruse the menu; they are loaded with cheesy, onion-y goodness! For an appetizer I highly recommend the Pimento Cheese Fries or the She-Crab Soup.  They also do an outstanding job with calamari which is served with a sweet and spicy sauce that is a yummy update to the traditional marinara. 
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Calamari ($12)
Also from the Starters menu are the wings, which are perfect to order from Hub City Delivery if you are having a group of friends over.  Try the Garlic Parmesan dry rub!

When I’m craving a really good steak, Dudleys is one of the first places I think of.  Whether you go for the 14oz Ribeye or the 8oz Filet Mignon, each steak is seasoned and grilled to your liking, plus the garlic butter they put on top doesn’t hurt!

​On my last visit, I went for another of my favorite entrees: Low Country Boil.  You rarely see this on a menu because it is quite complicated to serve so many types of seafood and meat that are each cooked properly, but Dudleys has it figured out.  There is plenty to share between two people, if you’re willing: 4-5 oysters, 6 mussels, 4-5 shrimp, 1 cluster of crab legs, served over sausage, corn, onions and potatoes in a delicious broth.  Served up with melted butter, lemons, crackers, hot sauce, you name it, this meal is sure to please!
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Low Country Boil ($26)
The sandwiches are great for a smaller meal, and if you’re there on a Thursday, they are ½ off.  One of my husband’s favorite is the brisket sandwich which is to die for with the melty cheese, caramelized onions, and savory au jus complimenting the smoked-in-house brisket. ​
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Brisket Sandwich ($14)
Be sure to check out the Dudleys Facebook page for food specials and other special nights such as Wednesday’s Ladies Night: ½ priced drinks and appetizers.  Dudleys is a staple for the East Side that we are glad has been around for 7 years, and we hope will be for many more! And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery

9/21/2016

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location.
197 E Saint John Street

what they are known for.
brewed-in-house ciders and beers

menu. (this is not the full menu)

features.
outdoor seating, indoor cornhole

Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery (Hub City Tap House) just celebrated their first anniversary, and the past year has been a huge success with tons of support from the Spartanburg community.  I attribute that not only to the great food and drinks, but also to the attitude of the staff and owners - they are all about community, hosting events for various charities and being super easy to work with for private parties.  Located right across from the Chapman Cultural Center, they are in a prime location to get a drink and snack before a show! (If you haven't seen Beauty and the Beast, try to get tickets for this weekend - you won't regret it!!)

When I saw that the brewery was releasing a new menu, I knew I had to try it out because the original menu had some impressive items.  I was glad to see some return, like the curry hummus!  We had a group go on a Tuesday night to try out their trivia for the first time as well.  If you are a trivia buff, you've got to give it a go - it was fairly tough!  
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When you walk in, you'll know you are in a brewery by that signature smell.  The decor is sleek and industrial with concrete floors and high-gloss plywood tables.  There is a seating area with couches, chairs and coffee tables that is great for more intimate get-togethers, and of course the indoor cornhole which is open for anyone to play.  They are also family-friendly, offering apple juice and snacks for the kids, and there is a huge chalkboard near the restrooms to keep them entertained.
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The beer and cider list can be found on the large TV screen over the bar.  It can be overwhelming, so ask for help and samples!!  Another option is to try several by ordering a flight.  One my favorites that they brew in-house is a cider called Ta Tse Dang (unsure of that spelling!) which is fruity and delicious.  You can find an updated beer list on their Facebook page at anytime.  
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Beer Flight
The food menu has about 10 options ranging from the meat and cheese tray which can be shared among friends, to the chicken salad croissant which is more of a one-person meal.  We tried the Curry Hummus, Pimento Cheese, and Boursin with soft pretzels. The hummus is a home run in my book - it is smooth and well-seasoned, served with soft naan bread and a side of olives, tomatoes and cucumbers.  The pimento cheese plate is another great app - the cheese is balanced by a sweet drizzle and served with strawberries, grapes and cucumbers as well as whole grain crackers.  But  my favorite of these three was the boursin - the cheese was creamy with a hint of onion and salty parmesan, and served with warm pretzels that complimented it perfectly.  
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Curry Hummus Plate
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Pimento Cheese Plate
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Boursin Plate
On a more recent visit, I tried the meat and cheese platter, and it may have topped the boursin as my new favorite!!  If you haven't visited the Ciclops Cyderi and Brewery yet, well, I don't know what you're waiting for.  It's great for happy hour with friends or coworkers, grabbing a drink and a bite before a show across the street, trivia night, private parties, work meetings, baby showers, you name it!  Check 'em out!! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Cuzina Grill

9/8/2016

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location.
910 East Main Street

what they are known for.
fresh, authentic greek food

menu.

features.

outdoor dining

Cuzina in Greek means "kitchen", and I always feel like I'm walking into someone's kitchen when I walk into Cuzina Grill.  The open feel allows you to see what is going on behind the scenes, which I always find refreshing.  When it first opened, you ordered at the counter, but now you can just have a seat and wait for a server!

​On a nice day, the shaded front porch has several tables for lunch or dinner, and inside you'll find TVs for watching the game with a beer or glass of wine on the weekends.
Front Porch
Dining Room
Kitchen
Cuzina is one of my go-to's for weekday lunch or also ordering in from Hub City Delivery on a weekend night.  My favorite rotates from the salads, to the gyros, to the meat platters.  If you want to share (or not), I suggest ordering the appetizer platter and add a couple of meat skewers - you get a little bit of everything!
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Lamb Platter ( $12.99) with Athenian Salad, Pita Bread and Tzatziki Sauce
I love the meat platters for lunch because you can get them with a salad (or fries) and just enough warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce - arguably one of the best sauces on the planet, and they do it great justice at Cuzina.  The salad is always fresh with a light greek dressing that compliments the veggies and feta, and the meat is hot and tender, whether you get lamb, beef or chicken.
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Steak Gyro ($8.99) with Fries
The hubs went for the steak gyro which is also a favorite of mine.  It comes topped with onions, tomatoes and tzatziki sauce, and the steak is one of the best meat choices you can make.  The fries are hot and dusted with a cheese and seasoning mixture that takes them up a notch.
Cuzina Grill has been around for a few years, but I get the sense that a lot of folks have overlooked it, so make sure you get in to try it soon! And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Cribb's Kitchen

8/22/2016

1 Comment

 
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location.
226 B West Main Street

what they are known for.
burgers and other creative fare

lunch menu.
dinner menu.

features.

outdoor dining, live music, dog friendly
Cribb's Kitchen started out as a small sandwich shop on Spring Street that quickly became one of the most popular lunch spots downtown.  It evolved into Cribb's Kitchen, which is known throughout Spartanburg to provide excellent meals for lunch and dinner. They have won several local awards, most recently the 2016 James B. Thompson Small Business of the Year Award, and they are known for the Annual Burger Cook Off!  The winning burger is featured on their menu for one year after winning the competition.

Because of all of these accolades, you will most likely find the restaurant quite busy if you arrive during peak hours, but there are lots of tables.  When the weather cools down, get there early to snag a table on the patio!  The decor is funky with graffiti art and produce signs, and definitely check out the sweet background behind the beer taps - its the Spartanburg skyline! If you remember when this was the Salvation Army building, you know how impressive the space is.
If you're there for dinner, it's a great place to bring the family or out-of-town guests, or even go for date night!  Occasionally they have live music, so check out their facebook page for special events.  This particular day we were aiming for a workday lunch, which is a very popular thing to do.  I'm not sure what is typical, but we did end up waiting a decent amount of time for our food (45+ minutes), so if you only have an hour for lunch, try to go a little early or a little late...i.e. not right at noon.  They made up for it by offering a free app and dessert for our next visit!!
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There are a lot of great options for lunch, but I'm not sure it gets better than the burgers.  I went for something I hadn't tried yet: the Barnyard which was the 2015 winner of the Annual Burger Cook Off! Aptly named because the patty is made with lamb, beef, and bacon, and it's topped with a fried egg, goat cheese, jalapenos, horseradish creme, shaved cabbage and tomato.  While quite messy to eat, it was delicious.  Tons of flavor to the burger, plus the tangy goat cheese cut by the spicy peppers, and you can't go wrong with an egg yolk running throughout. Pictured here with the side of cold cucumbers & onions with dill - a great fresh side for these hot summer days.

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The hubs went with one of the most popular burgers, a Cribbs creation: the Fried Green.  As the name would suggest, this is a burger topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese, bacon, chipotle ranch, lettuce, tomato and mayo.  There's a reason it is popular y'all. That crispy fried green tomato is a genius burger topping, and of course is paired perfectly with the pimento cheese.  Pictured here with the side of parmesan fries - a classic that won't do you wrong.

Other notable menu items: the Moroccan burger (my ususal), the Pear salad (tarragon vinaigrette is out of this world), and the Squirrel Nuts (peanuts boiled in RJ Rockers beer!!). 

Cribbs is great for lunch and dinner, an after-work drink or check out their weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.  And always check the facebook page before you go for the creative food specials they are coming up with on a daily basis!!  And if you can't get away from home but want an awesome meal, you can get Cribbs Kitchen delivered with Hub City Delivery! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
1 Comment

Taco Dog

8/5/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
1915 East Main Street

what they are known for.
delicious combo of hot dogs AND mexican

menu.

features.
outdoor seating
Taco Dog has been around for a very long time and is a local favorite for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner on the east side!  As the name suggests, you can find both tacos (and other mexican options) as well as hot dogs with a variety of toppings.  

​The line does tend to get long due to the popularity of this spot, so I'd advise getting there early for lunch.  Hop right in line and order your meal at the buffet-style counter, where you can see your grilled meat and fresh topping choices!  Tip: they have cilantro in the fridge, you just have to ask for it ;)  They'll give you a cup to make your own drink, and word on the street is that they have one of those fancy new touch screen soda machines since I've visited!!
Of the many, many times I've been to Taco Dog, this was the first time that I'd gotten hot dogs, and I was impressed!  They always grill them, never steam. On the left is the "The Grill", which I'd equate to cheesesteak toppings on a hot dog: grilled peppers and onions, mustard, and melted cheese.  And then of course I had to try the "Taco Dog", which comes topped with mustard, slaw, chipotle sauce, and hot pepper relish. Personally, I favored "The Grill", but both dogs were grilled to perfection and served with fresh, hot fries.  My husband also favors their corn dog!
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Most of the time, I head to Taco Dog for a mexican option like a burrito, tacos, or like this day, nachos.  Clearly they do not skimp on the toppings!  With any of the mexican dishes, you get the choice of rice and/or beans, plus their meat options are steak, chicken or ground beef. Finish it off with a wide array of other topping choices like lettuce, cheese, fresh salsa, olives, guacamole, sour cream, etc.  Dishes aside from nachos are served with chips on the side.  Add some queso!!
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There are a few tables outside which fill up quickly on nice days!  This is a great family-friendly restaurant that isn't going anywhere, so try it out today!! ​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Mon Amie Morning Cafe

7/13/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
2601 East Main Street

what they are known for.
crepes, breakfast and brunch

menu.

features.

outdoor dining

If you're looking for a fresh brunch place, look no further than Mon Amie!  There's plenty of parking, but at popular times there can be quite a wait.  One great feature is the shaded patio for outdoor dining, so you can eat outside even on hot days. Another is the bar inside where you can sit and watch your delicious crepe being hand made!

The decor is quaint and makes you feeling like you could be in a Parisian cafe.  They always have daily specials which are typically advertised on their facebook page, so be sure to check that out before you go.  In addition to crepes, their breakfast menu features omelettes, french toast, pancakes, and amazing benedicts - the smoked salmon benedict is worth a try!
For lunch, try one of their fresh salads or lunch crepes!  This particular day, I went for the California BLT Crepe: crumbled bacon, monterey jack cheese, tomato, avocado, lettuce and hot chow-chow with ranch & dill sauce.  A friend of mine joined me and had one of the daily specials which included a small salad, a blueberry muffin, and the day's special mushroom quiche topped with a creamy sauce.

I find that all of the crepes I've had are perfectly light and great for lunch, as are the salads.  If you are looking for something to add, get the Fabulous Frites, which are dusted with herbs de provence, parmesan cheese, and sea salt. And of course, you'll want to add that melted brie!!
The dessert case is constantly brimming with delicious pastries and cakes that look like they are worth a go, but I haven't personally had any (yet!).  If you need something to take home for a crowd, you could find it there for sure.

Mon Amie is only open for breakfast and lunch on Wednesdays through Sundays, so plan accordingly and make your trip there soon! Bonus: not up for the trip? Get it delivered with Hub City Delivery!

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Hub City Scoops

7/9/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
147 East Main Street

what they are known for.
delicious ice cream

menu.
rotating menu of 60-70 flavors throughout the year, 28 at a time.  see pictures below for pricing.

​features.
outdoor dining

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While I was thrilled to spend the 4th of July holiday with my family in Florida, I was quite disappointed to miss the opening of a new ice cream shop downtown: Hub City Scoops.  But don't worry, I made quick time once we got back into town!!

First, the location on main street is great as we need more food options on that side of Morgan Square, plus the building is, frankly, super cool. They've done an awesome job with the decor, and you can tell there is more to come, but the bright stools and wooden tables are so inviting for friends and families to gather around.  And thank goodness for the outdoor seating!  Perfect on a cooler evening, if we get one of those soon, but that didn't stop anyone while we were there.

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When you approach the counter, take the necessary time to browse the flavor options.  It seemed that the more unique flavors were in the left case while the normal flavors were in the right case, but that might not always be true as they will be rotating 60-70 flavors throughout the year.  

As far as ordering, you have an option of cup, cake cone, waffle cone and waffle bowl, and with the cones you can get plain or chocolate-dipped.  We bypassed all of those and went straight for the flight. Yes. AN ICE CREAM FLIGHT.  You know this pregnant lady was elated. For an extra dollar, get a basket of waffle chips! They were a cool addition, but not vital.

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Pictured here from left to right are
  • Exhausted Parent: bourbon-spiked espresso ice cream swirled with bittersweet chocolate chunks (delicious, but beware the fairly strong flavors of both bourbon and espresso)
  • Sticks & Stones: soft cookie dough chunks, crisp chocolate covered pretzels, and a gooey salted caramel ripple all swirled into our rich chocolate ice cream
  • This $&@! Just Got Serious: smooth salted caramel ice cream brimming with rich sea salt fudge and salted cashews (this was our fave)
  • Fat Elvis: sweet banana ice cream all shook up with a salty peanut butter ripple and rich liquid chocolate chips
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Also on the menu are 12 different toppings, sundaes, banana splits, milkshakes, ice cream floats, pints and ice cream cakes.  Something for everyone, and then some!

Hub City Scoops is owned by Kathy and Mike Silverman, who also own The Local Hiker.  While there, Mike told us that there would be a grand opening/ribbon-cutting soon (perhaps on July 11th) with some specials, so please be sure to stay tuned and check it out!​​​

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!

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Mothers

6/27/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
1059 Fernwood Glendale Road

what they are known for.
american and southern fusion food

menu. (not yet available online. see picture below!)

​features.
outdoor dining, live music

Mothers Restaurant on Fernwood Glendale opened TODAY in the space formerly occupied by Lil' D'z.  Good news: they did an amazing job on the up-fit and you'd never know it used to be a smoky bar!

The walls, floors and furnishings are quite dark, giving the space a moody feel, but there's plenty of light coming through the tinted front windows that it's definitely not too dark.  Cool wooden windows give you a view of the kitchen and the bar is fully stocked for nights with friends or a big game.  There are even a few tables out front for an outdoor dining experience, which I love, although it's way too hot these days.
We were greeted by an extremely friendly hostess, and the service only got better from there.  Very attentive, drinks were always full, food came out hot and as fast as you would expect, and our server answered all of our questions.  I've included a picture of the full menu below since it's not available on the web yet.  This is the lunch and dinner menu:
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The first thing I noticed on the menu was "The Cheese" - fried pimento cheese balls.  Yep.  They were clearly handmade and extremely delicious.  Crunchy coating on the outside and perfectly melty on the inside.  ​
​Obviously they don't have "popular" items yet since it is opening day, but the burger was suggested so that's what I went for.  Hubs went for the patty melt, which was partially enticing because it was served on cinnamon raisin bread.  Both were served with fries and a pickle.

So let's talk burgers.  Spartanburg has a lot of great burger places...Ike's, Nu Way, etc. where they really put a lot into their burgers.  This one isn't going to beat those, but it's a good burger for sure.  Juicy, perfectly cooked, great brioche bun and fresh toppings. You can get it with cheddar, provolone, pimento cheese, blue cheese, or american (pictured is provolone).  The fries were right up my alley - crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside with a great seasoning.  The pickle was standard, but an addition I would have missed if it wasn't there.

The patty melt was interesting.  I'm going to be honest with you here.  I love a good sweet/salty combo, but I'm not sure a patty melt should be served on cinnamon raisin bread.  Kudos for the creativity, and please try it for yourself, but if it seems too creative for your taste buds, we were assured you can ask for different bread. 
The atmosphere is great for a group of friends watching a game or even to bring your family!  Coming soon will be daily drink specials, live music and family-friendly entertainment, and inventive food specials (like authentic hummus and pita from a Lebanese staff member!!).

For those of you who were familiar with the space before, you'll see in the pictures that there is a large portion of the building that is blocked off.  Mothers did purchase the whole space that Lil' D'z occupied, but right now the other portion is being used for storage.  Eventually, it will be open as a "fun" space - lots of ideas in the air right now!

I hope you'll out Mothers soon!  It's definitely worth it, and it's great to have another good, locally-owned restaurant in this area of town.  I'm looking forward to trying the wings and wraps in particular, as well as "The Struggler".  Let me know what you think!!

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Twisty's Yogurt and Smoothies

6/17/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
1855 East Main Street #11

what they are known for.
yogurt and smoothies with lots of options for toppings and mix-ins

menu.

features.
outdoor dining


If you're looking for a place to treat the kids after school or take the family on a hot weekend (which let's be honest, they are all hot weekends now), head over to Twisty's for frozen yogurt and smoothies!  The menu is extensive, and the options are seemingly endless with no-sugar-added yogurts and over 80 toppings to choose from.
The frozen yogurt is self served, so grab a cup and get going!  Put as much yogurt as you want, and load up with toppings - you pay by the weight!  I love a good fruity yogurt with chocolate, so this is the Pineapple Upside Down Cake yogurt with mini chocolate chips - YUM. 

Perhaps the yogurt is a bit heavier than I thought - this is the smallest cup they have, which I pretty much filled to the top and it was $6+, so just keep that in mind!  That being said, every bite was worth it.
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Definitely hit them up on Twisty's Tuesday where a small is $5 and a large is $7 - no weighing required!

Twisty's is right next door to Garner's, so you could easily grab a healthy lunch AND dessert. We are lucky to have this great yogurt place in Spartanburg, so head on over to check them out today!  

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Hub Diggity

5/31/2016

0 Comments

 
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location. 
201 Wall Street

what they are known for.
lobster rolls and hot dogs

menu.

features.
outdoor dining

Hub Diggity (formerly Hub Diggity Dog) opened in 2010 on Dunbar Street and has now moved to the beautiful new Wall Street!  I'd had a hot dog back in the Dunbar Street days, but sadly hadn't been back since then, which is a shame.  I'm sure you've also heard about their lobster rolls, and I finally decided it was time to give it a try!

I love Wall Street, and they have a great location there.  Probably about 20 tables total with the outdoor dining, which I highly recommend, even on hot days, as they are mostly situated in shade.  Order and pay at the window where the staff are very friendly, and be assured your food will be out super fast.
Like I said, I went to try the lobster roll, and here it is in all its glory.  It's probably not a weekly lunch order, as it's $13, but for sure worth a splurge every once in a while!  

​The bun is like a mix between a hoagie and a hot dog bun, loaded with delicious butter, and filled with a luscious lobster salad.  It's not mayonaisse-y at all, just lumps of succulent lobster in a light, creamy sauce.

The roll came with a choice of side, and I went with the potato salad.  It's your traditional potato salad with creamy mayo and a little mustard - great compliment to the sandwich.
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As the former name, Hub Diggity Dog, would suggest, they are also known for their hot dogs which is what the hubs went for of course.

This is your standard dog topped with chili, mustard, onions, and a side pickle.  These came out piping hot and they definitely didn't skimp on the toppings.  

If you're looking for a quick hot dog or sandwich, please give Hub Diggity a try!  Even if you're vegetarian, they have lots of options like veggie dogs and burgers, and grilled cheese sammies.

Downtown is booming these days, and Hub Diggity in the new "Market on Wall Street" is one of the most quaint destinations.

​​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Monsoon Noodle House

5/10/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
129 W Main Street

what they are known for.
noodles!  and other yummy pan-asian cuisine

menu.

features.
outdoor dining, hub city delivery

Monsoon Noodle House has been around for many years now, but in 2011 suffered fire damange.  Rumors swirled that they may not reopen and my heart, and tastebuds, were broken.  How could I live without their coconut soup??  There was a collective sigh of relief through town when rebuilding began, and now it's better than ever.

It has tons of seating inside and is one of the several downtown restaurants with sidewalk seating, although it wasn't set up this day (perhaps the 85+ degree temperatures?!).  Very popular with the downtown business community, so you can expect lines out the door on a nice day.  Good thing they are fast!
I LOVE fresh spring rolls, and they may very well have the best in town.  They are packed full of fresh ingredients including perfectly-cooked shrimp, crunchy lettuce and tons of cilantro, plus the peanut dipping sauce is tangy and spicy.  The peanut sauce comes separated from the red spicy sauce, seen here at the top of the bowl, so don't mix it all in if you don't want it hot!!
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Now my usual go-to is the Thai Coconut Noodle Soup with shrimp, but like previously mentioned, it was almost 90 degrees outside so soup wasn't exactly what I wanted.  Instead, I went for the classic Pad Thai with shrimp.  Monsoon's "spice scale" goes from 1-5. I love and can tolerate fairly spicy food, but I went for the 4 once and it lit me up, so now I rarely venture past 3.  Those levels can also be inconsistent over different dishes, so don't assume because you can take the Triple Delight at a 3 that you can also take the Wonton Noodle Soup at a 3.  Personally, I think the soups tend to be spicier, so I might dial it down to a 2 with those.

Okay back to the Pad Thai - as you can see, great portions...I took home one spring roll and about 1/3 of this noodle dish.  You're not going to find a lot of egg as you would at say, Bangkok, but you will find saucy noodles complimented by the crunchy peanuts and bean sprouts.  You can order most dishes with your choice of shrimp, beef, chicken or tofu.  They do tofu really well, so if you're a vegetarian (or not!) it's worth a try.

The rebuilt Monsoon Noodle House is more modern with colorful decor.  Order at the counter when you walk in, make your drink, and sit down at your table where you put your number card in the metal holder so they know where to bring your food.  I always find it clean and bright, and the service is quick and reliable.  For example, it took probably 1-2 mins after I sat down for my spring rolls to come out, and I hadn't finished one before my Pad Thai arrived.  

Lunch or dinner, this place is great, and I've even brought out of town family! Huge plus: you can also get it delivered with Hub City Delivery.

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Health in Hand

5/6/2016

0 Comments

 
Picture
location.
201 Wall Street

what they are known for.
fresh juices and smoothies, healthy meals and snacks

menu.

features.
outdoor dining
Just a few years old, Health in Hand is Spartanburg's first and only raw juice bar.  Whether you're looking for a quick smoothie for breakfast or a healthy lunch, this is definitely a place to check out.  There's cozy seating inside and several tables outside on the beautiful brick-paved Wall Street.  
I was looking for something substantial to get me through until lunch, so I went with the breakfast smoothie with added vanilla vegan protein powder. Banana, blueberries, oats, almonds, soy milk, and flax seeds. Deliciously thick with mostly the banana/blueberry flavor. Let me tell you - not only was it delicious, but it kept me full for much longer than I hoped!

Other smoothie faves: Pineapple Paradise, for the day you long to be sitting on a beach, and Peanut-Butter Banana, a creamy classic!

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Then there's the fresh, raw-pressed juices.  I had every intention of photographing this when it was full, but y'all..It was so refreshing!  If you are a watermelon-lover like myself, you have to try "Pretty in Pink".  The flavor of the watermelon dominates, but the hint of pineapple and ginger makes it.  By the way, if you live or work in downtown Spartanburg, they'll deliver to you with no minimum order!  If you live within 15 miles of 29306, they'll deliver with a $30 minimum.  Plus, you can now buy their juices at the Hub City Co-Op.
Must try juices: ABC Juice (Apple, Beet, and Carrot) is sweet and satisfying, plus a great way to sneak in those veggies, and Ginger Pine-Apple is perfect to pick up as you're strolling downtown on a hot day.  ​

Check out the Health in Hand menu for other breakfast selections (overnight oats anyone??) and lunch options, and be sure to stop in this weekend during Spring Fling! (You can't live on funnel cakes alone...)

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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0 Comments

Farmer's Table

4/29/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
401 East Kennedy Street

what they are known for.
fresh food and high quality, local ingredients

menu.

features.
outside dining, monthly and daily food specials, all-day breakfast, vegan/vegetarian


The Farmer's Table, owned by Joel and Lenora Sansbury, has been open since March of 2012.  The concept: local and fresh.  They work with over 20 local vendors who supply fresh bread, dairy, produce, coffee, and even wine and beer.  The indoor space is bright and airy, and the porch is amazing.  They've packed a lot of tables inside, and I've never seen it NOT busy so be prepared for that.

Tons of places in Spartanburg do great breakfast OR lunch, but this place does both.  Plus, breakfast is served all day long! Breakfast features a wide array of benedicts, omelets, and french toasts and lunch ranges from burgers and salads to tacos and shrimp & grits.  The menu can be a bit overwhelming, so to help, here's what an out-of-town friend and I had...
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My friend got a salad with blackened salmon. You can add all kinds of protein to their salads, but this blackened salmon looks amazing and is a great portion for lunch. Worth noting: my friend had actually ordered the Caesar Salad with salmon, and without her mentioning it, they immediately brought out the caesar to replace this cobb salad when they realized their mistake.  Great service!!

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One of the most popular items is the seafood tacos: sauteed shrimp and salmon with fried onions and guacamole.  If you want to splurge on calories (or have the beer/wine flu), I highly recommend the Southern Dip...its your traditional French Dip BUT with pimento cheese.

The Farmer's Table is a great place for a work lunch, out of town guests, Saturday or Sunday brunch, or a breakfast date!  And don't forget to head out to the porch when the weather is nice.

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Cafe Around the Corner

4/26/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
121 Dunbar Street

what they are known for.
natural, healthy meals with seasonal ingredients

menu not available online - check their facebook page

features.
weekly daily food specials, breakfast and lunch, vegan/vegetarian

UPDATE: Cafe Around the Corner is no longer open at this location.  They now run a food truck!

I was working from home today and found myself wanting something different for lunch, so I headed to Cafe Around the Corner to grab something to bring home.  Their pictures on Facebook have had me salivating for days, so I knew it was time to try!  And it did not disappoint.  

This is a cute little place in the old Hub Diggity Dog location with about 5 or 6 tables.  It's small but bright, and the owner seems to make everything by hand. 


I went with the Organic Veggie Sandwich with a side of the Watermelon, Blueberry and Goat Cheese salad.  The sandwich was served hot, the veggies were fresh and the goat cheese oozed out with every bite.  The salad was fresh, creamy, and minty - perfect for a pre-Fourth of July lunch.
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The menu also featured other sandwiches and a build-your-own salad menu.  Be sure to check the Facebook page for the freshest meals and sides she's thrown together! Personally, I can't wait to try the goat's milk ice cream :)

And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
0 Comments

Growler Haus

4/21/2016

2 Comments

 
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location.
113 N. Church Street

what they are known for.
amazing selection of craft beer

menu.

features.
outside dining, live music, trivia, daily food and drink specials


Growler Haus came to Spartanburg in early 2013 and has been a favorite after-work spot ever since.  Tons of craft and micro beers, plus other drinks as well.  I'm a wine girl myself, so while most of the time I go for beer here, their $7 glasses of wine are most likely the largest pour in Spartanburg ;)

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The location is prime - right at the top of Morgan Square - and they have great weekly specials including 2 pints and 2 slices of pizza for $12 on Mondays and $2 off beer flights on Tuesday's "Flight Night".
Don't forget to check them out for trivia on Wednesdays and Live Music on Thursdays and Fridays!

Update: Growler Haus no longer serves pizza because now Papi's Tacos is in the haus!  Enjoy $2 tacos and $2 off beer flights every Tuesday.

Update: Papi's Tacos has moved out. Growler Haus now has their own "Haus Bites" menu, and it's perfect for bar snacking!

This is the hummus plate, which on this particular night featured Spicy Black Bean, Tzatziki (Greek), and Red Bean with corn relish varieties.  The black bean hummus was creamy with the richer flavor that comes with the black bean versus the traditional garbanzo, plus it has quite a kick! Red bean hummus was new to me, and it was a pleasant surprise.  Almost a bit smoky with the corn relish on top, it felt deeply southern in a comfortable way.  To me, the star of this plate was the greek-style Tzatziki hummus which was heavy on the chunks of cucumber and feta with the bright dill on top - you really needed a spoon to get this one onto the pita, and it is worth the effort!
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From front to back: Spicy Black Bean Hummus, Tzatziki Hummus, and Red Bean Hummus with Corn Relish ($10)
We also tried out the spicy boiled peanuts, called "Roadside Attraction" on the menu - I love spicy food and it was right up my alley so if you have a milder palate, get the regular ones.  Aside from the heat, they were cooked very nicely with a good amount of salt and perfectly juicy.
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Roadside Attraction, Spicy, Tribe Size ($5)
Lastly the "Happy Cappies" which are mushroom caps stuffed with cream cheese, panko, parmesan and parsley.  They give you the option to add proscuitto, so why not get some pork on there.  These really elevated the bar food feel, with the hot and smoky on the tender mushroom - you could make a meal of these!  They tended to cool down fast so pop 'em in quick!
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Happy Cappies, Tribe Size, with Proscuitto ($10)
Love seeing Growler Haus make their way with this new menu, and can't wait to try more! Cheers!!

​And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!
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Velvet Yeti Nitro Stout from Great Divide
2 Comments

The NuWay

4/18/2016

0 Comments

 
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location.
375 E. Kennedy Street

what they are known for.
the redneck cheeseburger

menu.

features.
outside dining, dog friendly, live music, trivia, daily food and drink specials, hub city delivery


The NuWay has been "Spartanburg's favorite bar since 1938", and for good reason.  It is known as a "no-frills roadhouse", which you'll get as soon as you walk in the door.  Mismatched furniture and eclectic wall decor ranging from vintage beers signs to hand-drawn pictures from local children.  Wait-staff is casual and friendly.  Patrons range from families with children to college students in search of grease.  In fact, they may be nursing a hangover acquired at this very bar the night before.  Local bands grace the "stage" on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, plus karaoke on Saturdays.  And don't forget trivia with Donnie on Monday nights, known as some of the most challenging trivia in town.

The NuWay has received numerous accolades.  Most recently it was named the Most Iconic Bar in South Carolina by The Thrillist.  It has been featured in Garden and Gun Magazine. And then of course, there is the Redneck Cheeseburger, which Food Network named the best burger in South Carolina.

I most likely first visited The NuWay on a Friday night in college.  Many other weekend nights (okay and weekday nights) have been spent here.  Go for the karaoke, go for the live music, go watch sports on the big screen, go sit out back and drink a $1.50 PBR after a rough day, bring out-of-town guests for dinner, go for lunch with coworkers. I've done all of these. Whatever your needs are, The NuWay can meet them.

First, you are going to want to order the Fried Green Beans, or my favorite, the Pickle Fries.  If fried pickles are on a menu I'm going to order them, and I've never had anything like these.  Thin strips of dill pickle, battered and deep fried to golden, crunchy perfection. Yes, please.
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Then, if you want to do it right, you've gotta order The Redneck Cheeseburger. all the way. with a PBR. The insane combo of pimento cheese and chili spills out with every bite, so get your napkins ready.
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On the lighter side there is the build-your-own club sandwich.  You choose your bread, meat, and cheese, they add the bacon and veggies. Delish. P.S. They cook and slice their own roast beef.
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Other favorites: philly cheesesteaks, hot dogs, and wings ($0.55 on Wednesdays for Guy's Night Out - ladies are invited too!) Always check out their facebook page for other specials, like this Fatass buger or when the owner, Becky Myers, makes her famous, homemade chicken salad.  

"Come for the food, stay for the friends" is right. Truly, you'd never want to miss the atmosphere of this place, but if you find yourself unable to leave the house, get The NuWay delivered with Hub City Delivery.

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And if you want more Spartanburg Restaurant Reviews, look no further!

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