As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Greenville continues to see an influx of new businesses. This past year brought exciting additions, especially in the downtown area. With warmer weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to check out some of the latest restaurants and shops making waves in our community.

New Restaurants

Greenville’s food scene is thriving, with new spots constantly popping up. Here are a few of our newest favorites:

  • The Ottaray – A raw bar and taphouse offering the freshest ingredients with a Charleston-style approach to the menu. Not a fan of seafood? No problem! The Ottaray serves up steaks, burgers, and more. Opened in mid-December, this spot has already earned glowing reviews.

  • Grazeland – Self-proclaimed as a charcuterie emporium, Grazeland is a go-to for on-the-go lunches or weekend picnics. Their market section features local products alongside house-made pimento cheese and pasta or potato salad. They also craft stunning charcuterie boards for events – check out their website or Facebook for a sneak peek!

  • Comal 864 – If you’re craving authentic birria tacos, this is the place to be. While the menu is smaller than other Mexican restaurants, every dish is packed with bold flavors. Their traditional Mexican breakfast menu is a standout feature that sets them apart from chain restaurants. They’re not technically new, but their second location came alive in 2024, and they are always worth a mention. Plus, chef Dayna is a James Beard finalist, making every bite here even more special.

With an estimated 91,000 people moving to Greenville in 2024, we expect even more exciting dining options in 2025!

Local Small Businesses

A strong sense of community is one of Greenville’s biggest draws, and nothing reflects that better than its locally owned small businesses. Here are a few of our favorite newcomers:

  • Canvas Coffee + Art House – More than just a coffee shop, this cozy space hosts painting tutorials, latte art classes, and creative events to support local artists and makers.

  • Noble Vice Wine Co. – A laid-back wine bar that focuses on comfort and approachability. With knowledgeable staff and wine classes available, it’s perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts looking to expand their palate.

  • Mak & Cheesecakes – Expanding from its Simpsonville location, this new Augusta Road bakery is quickly becoming a downtown favorite. Their customizable cheesecake slices and award-winning ‘Nanner Puddn’ make it a must-visit for dessert lovers. Whole cheesecakes are also available to order for special occasions.

Supporting small businesses helps our local economy thrive – did you know that they create 75% of new jobs and make up over 81% of Greenville Chamber of Commerce investors? Shop small and support local!

Honorable Mentions

Some new businesses don’t quite fit into the above categories but are still worth checking out:

  • PKL Park – Pickleball fever has officially hit Greenville! Located next to Unity Park and Southernside Brewing, this premier outdoor entertainment hub features three micro-restaurants, a full-service bar, and live music from Mark V Studios throughout the warmer months.

  • Uki Bowlz – After an intense pickleball match, refuel at Uki Bowlz. This wellness café offers fresh juices, smoothies, coffee, and more in a bright, welcoming space. Be sure to try the São Paulo Bowl!

Greenville continues to grow as a vibrant hub of innovation, creativity, and community. We can’t wait to see what 2025 brings! Let us know which new spots you’ve tried or are excited to visit