I went to Greenville, SC last weekend to preview the site for the 2012 NorthStar Marriage Retreat. While we were there, we checked out a few establishments, several of which were top-notch. Here’s the short list of places we hit:
Smoke on the Water – This is a great place on the Historic West End known primarily for it’s BBQ items, such as Beer Butt Chicken, pulled pork, (incredible) baby back ribs, and beef brisket. But, as solid as those carnivorous items are, the true find here are their side items. The squash casserole – baked and smothered with cheese; sugar snap peas sprinkled with spices; rich and creamy mac and cheese; loaded potato cake – topped with crisp bacon crumbles and a drizzle of sour cream – and many more! Clearly an “A” here.
The Chocolate Moose – This place serves all kinds of cupcakes and desserts, such as parfaits and “cake-pops” (round piece of cake covered in chocolate and served on a stick). With it being opening night for the new Harry Potter movie, they were serving Butter Beer cupcakes. They were incredible! A tad expensive ($2.75 per cupcake), but very good. I’d give this a solid “B+.”
Grille 33 at the Channel – This is a cool little joint. It’s located across from the Hyatt Regency on Main Street (where we’ll be holding the retreat). On UrbanSpoon
, it had a 93% “like” rating, which is outstanding. And, after eating there, I can see why! They specialize in burgers, and I had to try the signature “Stone Burger,” which is Angus beef stuffed with American cheese, and served on a warm grilled glazed donut (see picture). The sweet potato fries were also delicious, and they serve homemade potato chips as well. Great vibe, and amazing food. Another “A” here.
Luna Rosa Gelato Cafe – Also highly recommended for it’s Italian delicacy – gelato – this cafe was a hit with our group. They serve sandwiches as well, but you cannot possibly go inside without trying the gelato. They had probably 20 different flavors, and we must have sampled half of them! You have to pay first, but once you hand over the dough, you can sample as many flavors as you like! I ultimately ended up with one scoop each of Bananas Foster and Bailey’s Irish Creme. Will definitely be back! Yet another “A.”
Trio – This is a family-owned brick oven Italian & pizza place, also on Main Street (everything is on Main Street – which is very nice). We had eaten here a couple years ago on a visit, and decided to come back. The pizzas are outstanding – I had the portabello mushroom pizza, which was terrific. Amy had the shrimp & roasted red pepper pesto, which was also very good. The bread they bring out as an appetizer is unreal. It is a warm, round loaf, sitting in a small pool of olive oil, and smothered with fresh grated Parmesan cheese. I’d give it a solid “B.”
