Downtown/West End

Addy’s Dutch Cafe
Addy’s combines the best features of a neighborhood bar with simple yet elegant dining, fostering a comfortable, intimate atmosphere of uniquely European charm. Choose from an eclectic selection of lighter fare: assorted cheese platter, sate (glazed, spicy chicken kabobs), Swedish meatballs, and more paired with a glass of wine or a premium beer at the bar. Or head upstairs to dine on Dutch entrées with an Indonesian tinge such as the Chicken Bahmi (chicken kabobs with sautéed vegetables, pasta, and spicy peanut sauce). Closed Monday. 17 E. Coffee St., 232-2339. $$-$$$; D.

American Grocery Restaurant
This newcomer offers refined seasonal American cuisine (and a frequently changing menu) that emphasizes the freshest, highest-quality ingredients from local, regional, and national producers. A fresh starter includes spinach, fresh strawberries, cracked almonds, and white balsamic vinaigrette. Try an entree such as Asparagus Risotto, Preserved Lemon and Grilled Spring Onion; and a dessert such as Crêpes with Apple Compote, Pecan Brittle, and Sweet Crème Fraiche. Closed Sunday and Monday.
732 South Main St., 232-7665. $$$-$$$$; D.

Blue Ridge Brewing Company
Inspired by brew pubs throughout the Pacific Northwest, the Blue Ridge Brewing Company caters to Upstate beer connoisseurs. The large copper kettles prominently located up front attest to pride in local craftsmanship. Try one of their popular perennials—a Colonel Paris Pale Ale, Kurli Blonde Ale, Total Eclipse Stout, and more—or one of their seasonal offerings. Pair it with a slow-roasted cut of beef, pork, or chicken. Or for the adventurous, choose selections from the Wild Game Sampler (venison, antelope, quail, rabbit, buffalo, wild boar, or duck breast). 217 N. Main St., 232-4677. $$-$$$; L, D, SBR.

The Bohemian
As if the name weren’t enough, the purple benches outside should be your first indication that this restaurant offers something a little different. The relaxed atmosphere sets the scene for some delightful culinary explorations. Choose an Indonesian curry, a Moroccan dish, or a good old rib-eye steak. This is great spot to hang out with friends and snack on jalapeño pimento cheese, try a high-gravity beer, and listen to some eclectic music. Closed Monday. 2B W. Stone Ave., 233-0006. $$-$$$$; L, D, SBR.

Cantinflas Mexican and Vegetarian
Cantinflas strives for an inviting, authentic Mexican dining experience that draws you in and urges you to linger. Sit on the raised patio looking out onto bustling Main Street during the languorous days of spring or summer. Pair an appetizer such as Casa Nachos or spinach dip with one of the house favorites: Shrimp Fundido, Pollo Al Portobello, or Chipotle Soy Meatballs. And remember: the margaritas are award-winning. 10 South Main St., 239-3971. $$-$$$; L, D.

Chicora Alley
This restaurant and bar serves a menu of traditional Mexican cuisine infused with Caribbean influences. Choose a seat at the bar, an intimate table along a wall lined with art, or a choice spot with a picturesque view of Falls Park. Begin with the chef’s signature Caribbean Crab Cakes, then feast on an entrée: roast chicken (with plantains, spinach, avocado, and roasted red peppers) or Black Angus beef medallions. For dessert: Chicora’s chocolate cake, “Chocolate Paradise,” says it all. 608B South Main St., 232-4100. $-$$$; L, D.

Devereaux’s
Housed in a century-old cigar factory, Devereaux’s offers new American cuisine prepared in an open-air kitchen. Exposed brick and warm interior colors balance with the space’s more modern furnishings and contemporary art. An intimate patio offers outdoor dining for those warm Carolina nights. Breast of Muscovy duck and Maine Diver Scallops are local favorites. For a savory surprise, try the Devereaux’s Ultimate Menu: 10 spontaneous courses created by chef Steven Devereaux Greene. A smaller version is also offered in the five-course chef’s tasting menu. Reservations recommended. Closed Monday.
25 E. Court St., 241-3030. $$$-$$$$; D.

Handi Indian Cuisine
This relative newcomer to Greenville’s burgeoning ethnic dining scene has quickly distinguished itself: a spacious, elegant dining area with attentive, friendly servers offering delicious meals. At lunch, sample items from a reasonably priced lunch buffet with abundant, plentiful choices offered seven days a week. From the menu, don’t miss out on a tandoori specialty (chicken, lamb, fish or shrimp marinated overnight in spices and broiled in a special clay oven). Or try the Handi Special: a sampler of tandoori chicken, lamb kabobs, lamb or chicken curry, and vegetable korma served with basmati rice and naan.
18 N. Main St., 241-7999. $$-$$$; L, D.

High Cotton
This River Place establishment, with its three levels looking out of large, elongated windows onto the Reedy River, combines mainstays of American cuisine—meats, game, and fish—with a festive spirit and dash of Charleston flavor. Try the Buttermilk Fried Oysters or Local Shrimp and Grit Fritters followed by the Carolina Rabbit or Bourbon Glazed Eden Farms Pork Chop. Or choose a steak with a bourbon bacon sauce and a side of sweet corn succotash. 550 South Main St., 335-4200. $$$-$$$$; D, SBR.

Island Blend Jerk & BBQ Grill
With its welcoming staff and simple menu, this downtown spot boasts the only authentic Jamaican fare in Greenville. Traditional Caribbean jerk chicken or pork is offered alongside the more exotic specialties of curried goat or oxtail. All entrées are served with a generous helping of rice and peas and vegetables. Vegetarian dishes are also available. For a quick and economical bite, try an island favorite: a pattie filled with beef, chicken, or vegetables. Round out your meal with homemade Sorrel or Irish Moss drinks or imported sodas, including Ting and Kola Champagne. Closed Sunday. 28 S. Main St., 298-0013;

$-$$; L, D.

Larkin’s on the River
Located fortuitously between the Peace Center and the Reedy River, Larkin’s seeks to balance upscale dining with comfort. Start with a she crab soup and choose an entrée from the day’s selections opt for an aged filet mignon with crab and asparagus or encrusted with blue cheese. From the sea, try the Chilean Sea Bass with Shrimp Soffrito. 318 South Main St., 467-9777. $$$-$$$$; L, D.

Latitude
Since 1999, Latitude has been presenting creative cuisine to Greenville residents. In an enviable location with a view of Liberty Bridge and Falls Park, Latitude entertains guests in a simple-yet-upscale open dining area surrounded by windows and nature photography. A courteous staff serves up entrées such as Herb Bread Crumb Crusted Calamari Steak and Roast Rack of Lamb with Fresh Herb Crust. Stop for a drink in the entry bar and get a behind-the-scenes glimpse through the open kitchen window. Sunday brunch is also served. 631 S. Main St., 467-1101; $$$-$$$$; L, D, SBR.

The Lazy Goat
Overlooking the Reedy River, The Lazy Goat features tapas-style dining and the promise of “time well wasted.” The menu is distinctly Mediterranean with Greek, Persian, and Italian influences receiving shared billing. Begin with a meat-and-cheese selection and sample from the Graze and Nibble dishes, featuring such unusual pairings as trout spanikopita and polenta fries. Going beyond the tapas portions are the To Share or Not to Share selections—favorites include the Moroccan lamb, fried goat cheese, and Lazy Paella with prawns, mussels, and snow peas. An extensive variety of wines—focusing on the Mediterranean—is available in addition to a full bar. Closed Sunday. 170 River Pl., 679-5299.

$$-$$$; D.

Lemongrass
What’s your spice style? Mild, medium, or hot? When it comes to Thai food, Lemongrass brings together diverse spices and tastes sure to please any palate and spice preference. The unassuming atmosphere belies the extraordinary culinary temptations. Choose from Thai curry, noodles, and fried rice, or vegetarian dishes. Offerings from the Bangkok Street Cuisine menu include Siam Chicken (grilled, marinated chicken breast with chunks of pineapple, carrots, bell pepper, cashew nuts, and mushrooms) and Prik King (chicken or pork sautéed in spicy chili sauce), while the chef’s specialties offer even more choices. Closed Sunday. 106 N. Main St., 241-9988. $$-$$$; L, D.

Liberty Tap Room & Grill
Located next to Fluor Field at the West End, Liberty Tap Room and Grill is as popular a pregame watering hole as it is an after-work hangout for downtown professionals. With a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many people come here to unwind. Dinner choices range from the classic burger and juicy steaks to a spinach pizza with mushrooms, tomatoes, mozzarella, asiago, and fresh spinach. Gather with friends around the long bar and enjoy one of the nearly 50 brews on tap, or settle into a booth for some camaraderie. 941 S. Main St., 770-7777. $-$$$; L, D, SBR.

Luna Rosa Gelato Café
From the cobbled streets of Italy to the hustle and bustle of New York, gelato has found a new home in Greenville. Indulge in this creamier, healthier, Italian version of ice cream, in a selection of satisfying flavors. Gelato is made fresh daily by the staff, ensuring tasty, authentic quality. Don’t forget to save room for an artisan lunch, dinner, or snack, such as tortellini soup, a hand crafted salad, or eggplant panini. Closed Sunday. 9 W. Washington St., 241-4040. $-$$; L, D.

Mary’s Restaurant
Located in historic Falls Cottage, Mary’s offers brunch and lunch. Bordered by landscaped gardens and the lush Falls Park, Mary’s quaint surroundings include two dining rooms and outdoor seating on the round tile ceiling. The menu includes Ultimate Reuben and Chicken Salad Croissant, as well as Southern comfort favorites such as the Cheddar cheese biscuits and Mary’s Pimento Cheese.

615 S. Main St., 298-0005. $; L, SBR.

Never on Sunday
With 42 years of experience serving Greek food, this Upstate mainstay is as authentic as it comes. Entrées range from dolmades and pastichio to the popular souvlaki. You’ll feel like you’re in your grandmother’s kitchen—your Greek grandmother, that is. The intimate dining establishment brings home the feeling of being in Greece, right down to the enticing aromas coming from the kitchen. A selection of wine is also available. 210 E. Coffee St., 232-2252. $-$$$; L, D.

Northampton Wines and Wine Café
Northampton Wines offers a unique wine experience. Linger in the relaxed atmosphere of the wine bar. Choose a bottle from the thousands for sale, open it for a corkage fee (no fee before 6pm), and enjoy it with a selection of cheese. Then venture to the dining area for dinner from the ever-changing menu that typically includes seafood, beef, and wild game, such as venison, quail, or wild boar. The art gallery feel of the dining area sets it apart from the wine bar. Enjoy lunch on Saturdays. The wine bar is open 9am-9pm. Closed Sunday. 211-A E. Broad St., 271-3919. $$$-$$$$; D.

Oysters on the West End
A visit to Oysters on the West End is like taking a trip to the coast without the drive. Wooden floors, picnic table-style seating, and ocean décor set the scene for a seagoing dinner. Along with an expansive selection of oysters (fried oysters, raw or steamed oysters, oysters Rockefeller, crawfish oysters, and more) the menu includes crab legs, Lowcountry boil, burgers, seafood, chicken po’ boys, and grilled meatloaf. Oysters on the West End is a great hangout after a baseball game or just any time you have a craving for seafood. Lunch is served Friday-Sunday. Closed Monday.
11 W. Camperdown Way, 242-0099. $$-$$$$; D.

Paris Café
Paris meets Greenville on North Main Street with a taste of French entrées and pastries. Light brick, wooden floors, and an exposed ceiling combine with low lighting to create a comfortable, homey feel. For lunch, choose from sandwiches, panini and quiche, while dinner offers prix fixe and à la carte selections that let you choose an appetizer, an entrée, and dessert. Entrées range from Pan Seared Duck Breast to Lobster à la Parisienne. Be sure to leave room for a homemade dessert, such as lemon tartlets. Sunday brunch is also served. Closed Monday. 116 N. Main St., 242-6121. $$$-$$$$;

L, D, SBR.

Rick Erwin’s West End Grille
A traditional surf and turf restaurant meets upscale West End dining at Rick Erwin’s. The dining room is decorated in rich, dark woods that, along with low lighting, create an intimate, stylish atmosphere. Oversized round booths at the back of the restaurant make you feel like a VIP, while an adjacent wine cellar is sure to offer something to suit your taste. Entrées range from sashimi-grade tuna, lobster tail, and Chilean sea bass to certified Angus beef. À la cârte sides round out any entrée nicely.

Closed Sunday. 648 S. Main St., 232-8999. $$-$$$$; D.

The Rio Grille
Adopting the churrasco grilling techniques of the historic gauchos (Southern Brazilian ranchers in the early 1800s), diners are offered the finest cuts of beef, pork, and poultry, served Rodizio-style, or, “all around.” Meats are presented in rotating fashion on cooking skewers and then cut and plated at the table. Choose from a generous selection including linguica, Brazilian sausage; peito de frango; chicken breast with bacon; and cordeiro, leg of lamb. Also take advantage of the hot and cold buffets, serving a variety of native side dishes, as well as fresh salads, fruits, cheeses, and vegetables.
802 S. Main St., 335-5055. $$-$$$; L, D.

Ristorante Bergamo
Ristorante Bergamo invites in passersby with large windows and the aroma of modern Northern Italian cuisine. A staple along Main Street, Ristorante Bergamo takes full advantage of high ceilings to showcase its extensive wine selection. Open only for dinner, the menu highlights seafood such as New Zealand mussels in light saffron broth, hearty meat such as veal, and pasta creations such as fettuccini with shrimp and arugula. Closed Sunday and Monday. 100 N. Main St., 271-8667. $$-$$$$; D.

Saffron’s Sidewalk Café
Interested in a casual, deli-style lunch? Saffron’s Sidewalk Café at the West End Market offers a large selection of salads, burgers, sandwiches, and more. Some selections, such as the Westend Spa Plate and the Emporium Wrap, have been named after nearby businesses. Exposed brick and black-and-white checkered floors set the tone inside for a respite from the day’s hectic pace, or eat in the sun at one of the sidewalk tables. On-site and off-site catering is also available. 1 Augusta St., Ste. 101,

241-0401. $-$$; L.

Sassafras Southern Bistro
Located adjacent to the Piazza Bergamo, Sassafras Southern Bistro offers traditional Lowcountry cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant maintains an air of old times with wooden floors, brick and a friendly wait staff. A large bar area makes meeting friends easy while the outdoor seating provides a great spot to gather with a boisterous group of friends. Southern culinary creations abound on the menu, ranging from rainbow trout, Lowcountry shrimp and grits, and crab cakes to filet and rib-eye steaks, quail, and more. Closed Sunday and Monday. 103 N. Main St., Ste. 107, 235-5670.

$$-$$$$; D.

Smoke on the Water
Located in the West End Market, Smoke on the Water has a homey feel with plenty of brick, wood accents, and tile flooring. A separate street-side dining area with large windows offers a view of the West End and outdoor tables are great for sunny days. Choose something from the smoker (Beer-Butt Chicken) or pick from sandwiches, burgers, or salads. Smoke ’n sides vary from mac ’n cheese to bowl of greens and even spinach casserole. A full bar is also available. 1 Augusta St., 232-9091. $-$$$; L, D.

Soby’s
Specializing in putting new twists on Southern favorites for more than 10 years, this relaxed venue combines the comforting and the creative. Local ingredients play a large role in the menu, including blue cheese produced at Clemson University, Carolina Gold Rice, and South Carolina farm-raised bass. Pimento Cheese Hush Puppies, Clemson Blue Cheese Fondue, and Fried Green Tomato Napoleon are favorite starters. Entrées popular with the locals include crab cakes with remoulade and meatloaf with maple Creole mustard glaze. You can’t miss the perfect vintage to complement your meal with an astonishing selection of 700 wines. 207 S. Main St., 232-7007. $$$-$$$$; D, SBR.

Takosushi
Boldly combining Japanese and rustic Mexican-style cuisine, Takosushi offers something for those who love sushi—or don’t. Start with local favorites Green Chile Queso Dip or Southwestern Tuna Tartare. Move on to Takos and enchiladas or choose from more than 20 sushi rolls. The cozy surroundings mirror the New Mexican influence with richly colored walls decorated with Kachina dolls and pottery. Sample specialties like the Chile Relleno (breaded and deep fried New Mexican style), Posole, the Crazy Roll, or Cary’s Roll—also deep fried. Sauces are handmade, including the signature Takosushi and Teriyaki. Full bar menu and specialty martinis available. Closed Sunday and Monday. 34 S. Main St., 271-5055. $-$$$; L, D.

Trattoria Giorgio
White tablecloths, warm wall colorings, and soft lighting make this a great spot for a romantic dinner. Trattoria Giorgio is also one of the few spots on Main Street to offer outdoor dining in a private courtyard that feels like a garden oasis. Entrées range from Pappardelle Bolognese and Spaghetti ai Gamberi (spaghetti with shrimp) to Petto alla Piemontese (duck) and Veal Scaloppine Piccata al Formaggio. A selection of Italian desserts rounds out the evening. Closed Sunday.
121 S. Main St., 271-9166. $$-$$$; D.

Trio: A Brick Oven Café
Trio’s expansive dining room, open kitchen, and Italian-made brick oven balance a casual, festive environment, high-quality cuisine, and affordable prices to appeal to both families and the business-casual set. The broadly Italian menu highlights 14 varieties of wood-fired pizza, numerous pasta dishes, and calzones. Try one of Trio’s house specialties such as Penne-goat (sautéed spinach, shiitake mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, goat cheese, pine nuts, and penne pasta with either chicken or shrimp). Choose from an extensive list of both foreign and domestic wines. Finish dinner with tiramisu, crème brûlée or a cup of the Trio House Blend coffee. Closed Sunday.
22 N. Main St., 467-1000. $-$$; L, D.

Tsunami
Tsunami has grown from a small location on East North Street into a popular lunch and evening stop downtown. For lunch variety, try the bento boxes with combinations featuring sushi rolls, wasabi dumplings, salad, tempura, and sushi nigiri. Dinnertime offers specialty sushi rolls and hibachi for non-sushi-lovers. Try a sampler entrée for an assortment of flavors with sushi and sashimi combos and weekly sushi specials. For a mix of dishes, try the Tsunami Special Bento, which includes sushi, soup, salad, and a main dish. 106 E. North St., 467-1055. $-$$; L, D.

Two Chefs Deli & Market
This award-winning restaurant offers a daily menu of great variety with flexible combinations, making it a perfect quick-lunch destination for the time-strapped business person or for those needing a classy, spur-of the-moment take-out dinner. For lunch, choose a light entrée salad, a bowl of the soup du jour, a specialty sandwich (from a traditional Reuben to the Pita Quesadilla), one of the “simple singles,” or a half-and-half combo. For dinner, choose from more substantial featured entrées (Chicken Masala, Salmon Filet, and more) and side dishes (daily fresh vegetables, mashed potatoes, etc.) on the

Meals-to-Go menu. 104 S. Main St., 370-9336. $-$$; L, D.

Brick City Grille
Brick City Grille specializes in steaks and seafood, catering to the sports bar party-goer and the urban sophisticate alike. For dinner, start with an appetizer (Bay Crab Cakes, Chicken Tendertinis, Shoot ‘em’ Up Shrimp, and more) or a salad. Kick back with a Certified Angus steak or the Legendary New York Style Baby Back Ribs, a seafood, chicken, and pasta selection, or a brick oven pizza. Drinks include a wide variety of wines as well as signature martinis and a full bar. 215 Pelham Rd., 232-6100. $$-$$$; L, D, SBR.

Café Paulista Grille
When the usual pizza, pasta, and steak simply won’t do, head straight to Café Paulista. Brazilian cuisine is not exactly well represented in the Upstate, so this is a welcome addition to the scene. Fair warning: it will take several visits to fully appreciate everything on the menu. Savor as many of the appetizer croquettes as possible, but don’t skip the main course—skewers of grilled steak or chicken, with an array of sides like feijoda and fried bananas. If you can still stomach dessert, the sweet fried pastels
are awesome. Closed Sunday. 2703 Wade Hampton Blvd., 244-2100. $-$$; L, D.

Fonda Rosalinda
This diamond-in-the-rough offers a treasure trove of homemade dishes, both traditional Mexican and other globally-influenced fare. Appetizers include fresh guacamoles, pico de gallos, and choriqueso. For dinner, choose an Old Time Dinner Favorite such as Enchilada Verdes o Rojas. The chicken breast in ginger sauce is as delicious as it is unexpected on a Mexican menu. 1124 N. Pleasantburg Dr.,

292-7002. $-$$$; B, L, D.

Italian Market and Grill
Italian Market and Grill strives for family-friendly, rustic comfort combined with a diverse menu of traditional pastas and market specialties. At lunch, enjoy a Bruschetta Montrachet or Sauteed Mussels before choosing from among sandwiches, or more filling fare (rotisserie chicken, salmon “Pico,” and other specialties or variety of pizza, calzone, or pasta). For dinner, indulge yourself: Try a Filet Allo “Madison,” Veal Milanese, or Blackened Pescatore consummated with a chocolate ganache or tiramisu.
534 Woods Lake Rd., 234-8464. $$-$$$; L, D, SBR.

Pho Noodleville
This small, family-owned spot boasts healthy (no MSG), traditional Vietnamese cuisine, including 14 vegetarian items, such as Lemongrass Curry Tofu or Sauteed Bean Sprouts with Basil. Choose from a wide variety of noodle dishes, rice platters, and entrées (chicken, beef, or shrimp), such as Spicy Beef Sate or Crispy Salty Shrimp. Don’t forget to try one of their specialty soups, or pho.
21 Orchard Park Dr., 288-8809. $$; L, D.

Saskatoon
This dining lodge takes its décor, cuisine, and inspiration from the wild, rustic life of the Northwest. True to form, the menu offers signature wild game appetizers, entrées and lodge specialties (Wild Game Sausages, Elk Tenderloin, Ostrich Filet, Buffalo Flank Steak) as well as more conventional fare such as steaks, salmon, chicken, pork, and duck. Test your adventurous palate with Saskatoon’s Mixed Grill, a sampler of three meats accompanied by seasonal vegetables. Choose from a variety of domestic wines or domestic and premium beers, including locally produced Thomas Creek Amber.
477 Haywood Rd., 297-7244. $$-$$$$; D.

Stax Peppermill
The Peppermill offers a reasonably priced upscale dinner menu that is a versatile melange of Greek and regional Southern fare as well as sushi, premium steaks and lamb chops, chef features, and seasonal variations. Begin with a flourish: Saganaki Flambe. Then have a salad followed by lamb chops marinated in olive oil and Greek spices and served with a lamb demi-glace. Also, The Peppermill offers culinary alternatives for individual and group dining with several preset menus. Closed Sunday.
30 Orchard Park Dr., 288-9320. $$$-$$$$; L, D.

SWAD Vegetarian Restaurant
SWAD distinguishes itself from all other Indian restaurants in the Upstate in quite a few ways: it is strictly vegetarian; it specializes in the cuisine of southwest India; and it is truly a mom-and-pop eatery. Though located in a modest storefront shop, the menu items are savory comfort food for Indian food enthusiasts. Eschew the tandooris and heavier kormas for Pau Bhaji (onions, tomatoes, peas, and potatoes cooked in spicy veggie curry) or Baingan Bartha (eggplant cooked with curry and fresh herbs), one of various Dosas, or a sampler platter. A refreshing Lassi is not to be missed. Closed Sunday.
1421-A Laurens Rd. 233-2089. $; L, D.

Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine
This modest, family-owned restaurant, located in the Pelham at 14 Shopping Center, features authentic, traditional Thai food. For dinner, choose from a wide assortment of noodle and fried rice, curry, or stir-fry selections with chicken, pork, or tofu—beef or shrimp is extra—as well as Red Curry or Basil Duck, vegetarian, and seafood dishes. Start with an order of Sweet Basil Rolls. For milder palates, follow with Pad See-U or, perhaps, the Ginger Lover. Heartier diners may prefer a curry, Spicy Basil, or the Basil Seafood. Cool down with Thai or lemongrass iced tea. For dessert: a custard or Fried Banana with Ice Cream. Closed Sunday. 8590 Pelham Rd. #15, 627-4151. $-$$$; L, D.

Woodruff Road Brixx Wood Fired Pizza
This trendy pizza joint offers an American favorite with a contemporary vibe. You won’t find your average pie here. Quattro Fromaggio (mozzarella, parmesan, gouda, and goat cheese with sun-dried tomatoes) is as close as you’ll get to a classic cheese pizza. More adventurous selections include Pear & Gorgonzola and Spicy Shrimp. The restaurant is nonsmoking until 10pm. Patio seating during nice weather is a plus. 1125 Woodruff Rd., 286-1070. $-$$; L, D.

JuJu’s Mediterranean Bistro
If you have a taste for freshly made grape leaves, falafel, shawarma, or kafta, JuJu’s offers all that and more in an intimate and inviting oasis. The colors and atmosphere complement the authentic music, inviting you to try something new. You’ll feel like you’re sitting in your grandmother’s kitchen, except the flavors and spices are Lebanese. For dessert, enjoy a slice of chocolate cake with homemade frosting made the Lebanese way. Closed Monday. 1631 Woodruff Rd., 213-9884. $-$$; L, D.

Korean BBQ
Hidden at the corner of Woodruff and Miller Roads, this is a favorite dining spot among those who like Korean food. With an intimate and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant serves up authentic Korean dishes such as galbi (prime beef short ribs marinated in Korean sauce) or dak-bulgog (grilled chicken marinated in a spicy sauce). Or stick closer to home with BBQ chicken or chicken teriyaki. Reasonably priced lunch-box specials are also offered Tuesday–Saturday. Closed Monday. 1170 Woodruff Rd.,

286-0505. $$-$$$; L, D.

Lieu’s Chinese Bistro
The entry into Lieu’s Chinese Bistro feels like walking through a Chinese garden. But once inside, don’t let the minimalist interior fool you, Lieu’s offers an expansive menu with everything from chicken lettuce wraps to Chengdu Shrimp (pine nuts, celery, carrots, and raisins with chili oil). Choose from delightfully hot and spicy selections, vegetarian fare, or even noodle dishes. Lieu’s also has a separate full bar. 1149 Woodruff Rd., 675-9898. $-$$$; L, D.

Mimi’s Café
From the feel of the French Quarter to a Paris café, Mimi’s offers an expansive menu and a family-friendly atmosphere. Whether it’s fried dill pickles, pasta jambalaya, a veggie stack sandwich, or country-fried steak, there’s something for everyone, and generous portions mean extra for later. Enjoy a savory bread basket with lunch and dinner or a freshly baked muffin with breakfast. End your meal with an espresso, bread pudding, or Bananas Foster mud pie. A low carb, low fat Lifestyle menu is also available. 1133 Woodruff Rd., 297-9545. $-$$; B, L, D.

Mimi’s Steakhouse of Japan
Enjoy a little entertainment with your dinner at Mimi’s Steakhouse of Japan. Choose from a full sushi menu, or allow Mimi’s chefs to put on a show while they cook dinner at your table. Hibachi entrées—topped off with a secret recipe sauce—are available for both lunch and dinner. Plenty of room between tables and an intimate bar area ensure no one is disturbed by all the hoopla. 1791 Woodruff Rd., 987-9030. $-$$$$; L, D.

Saffron Indian Cuisine
Warm lighting, soothing colors, and an upscale atmosphere complement Indian food offerings at Saffron Indian Cuisine. Comfortable booths and delightful aromas entice diners. A lunch buffet is a great way to get your tastebuds in tune with the wide variety of menu offerings. Or customize your selection to your tolerance for spiciness. Lamb and goat round out a menu that also includes tandoori selections and vegan and vegetarian fare. Wine and Indian beer are also available. 1178 Woodruff Rd., 288-7400.

$-$$$; L, D.

Travinia Italian Kitchen
Whether dinner for two or a night out with a group of friends, a jaunt to Travinia Italian Kitchen sets the mood with its rustic, Tuscany-style colors and the sounds of crooners on the stereo. Start off with some Italian Nachos and a Granny Smith Apple Salad. Pair a glass of white wine with Sinatra Chicken for your entrée. Many of the dinner choices are also offered for lunch. A separate bar area offers a comfortable spot for a predinner cocktail. Closed Sunday. 1625 Woodruff Rd., 458-8188. $$-$$$; L, D.

Bin 112

Brother-sister team Jason and Allison Clark have a winner on their hands. Their contemporary restaurant is incredibly well-conceived: a variety of seating arrangements, a creative menu with diverse flavor cues, and an incredible wine list. Just about every dish is available in both appetizer and main course portions—sampling and sharing is the way to go here, and unique, multi-layered tastes and textures are the norm. Standouts: the Bin Stack (grilled filet mignon medallion, a crab-avocado cake, a fried green tomato slice, and a potato flata, accented with greens and a truly astounding lobster sauce), and Candy of the Sea (pan seared scallops in an intriguing marinade of roasted garlic and coconut).
Closed Sunday and Monday. 112 Trade St. 848-2112. $$-$$$; D.

Bistro 107

At first glance, Bistro 107 may seem a bit contradictory. The dining room is solidly industrial chic, complete with exposed brick walls and ductwork. But then there’s the elegant baby grand perched atop a traditional Oriental rug. Similarly, chef Apolonio Mojarro isn’t satisfied with just one cuisine, preparing a lengthy menu of internationally influenced dishes. Thus, along with pastas, pizzas, and steaks, you’ll find Asian specialties such as the impressive Tuna-Tini (diced tuna, soy and sesame seeds, wasabi cream, pickled ginger, and wakame), and island-style options like a tender Caribbean spice-rubbed pork chop with mango-horseradish glaze. Closed Sunday. 107 S. Main St. 879-1107. $$-$$$; L, D.

Great Bay Oyster House

GBOH has a fun, friendly vibe and a carefully crafted tropical Florida atmosphere accented with potted palms and lazily turning ceiling fans. You’ll want to start with oysters. Raw, steamed, fried, or doused in a rich sauce, they’re tasty little nuggets that’ll surely whet your appetite. The menu includes steak, chicken, and pork chops, but the kitchen excels with seafood preparations. Go homestyle with fried catfish or shrimp and grits, or contemporary with brown sugar-mustard glazed salmon or grilled shrimp with penne. Daily specials, always a solid choice, range from Lowcountry boil to half-price steamed oysters. Closed Sunday. 109 E. Poinsett St. 879-1030. $-$$$; L, D.

Justin’s Steakhouse

Great things do come in small packages, at least if you’re talking about diamond earrings, or Justin’s Steakhouse. The diminutive dining room takes a minimalist approach to décor, with lots of wood and white linens. Focus is squarely on top-notch food and exceptional service. Steaks are the main attraction, each perfectly grilled to your specifications and accompanied by potato and vegetables. Not in the mood for steak? Give the rack of lamb or nut-encrusted salmon a try. Classy martinis and an exemplary wine list, too. Closed Sunday. 109 Trade St. 801-8884. $$$$; D. Additional locations at 40 Rushmore Dr., Greenville; 111 N. Main St., Simpsonville; 148 W. Main St., Spartanburg.