Greenville, South Carolina – Greenville, South Carolina, has earned a significant distinction on the national culinary landscape, being named one of the United States’ best small cities for food and drink by Food & Wine magazine. The city secured the 6th position on the magazine’s recent list, a testament to its evolving and acclaimed dining scene.
The recognition from the internationally regarded publication highlights smaller urban centers across the U.S. that offer exceptional gastronomic experiences. According to the Food & Wine writer who compiled the list, the chosen cities distinguish themselves by featuring cooks who skillfully blend culinary heritage with innovative approaches, frequently incorporating fresh, seasonal produce into their dishes.
Highlighting Greenville’s Culinary Scene
The article specifically pointed to several establishments contributing to Greenville’s inclusion on the prestigious list. Among them was Neng Jr.’s, a restaurant described in the feature as offering Filipinx cuisine, adding to the city’s diverse international food options. Good Hot Fish was also highlighted for its approach, providing modern updates on classic Southern fish camp fare.
The magazine also gave a nod to several of Greenville’s long-standing culinary favorites that continue to draw diners. Bobby’s BBQ, Topsoil, and Fork and Plough were noted as perennially popular spots. This mix of innovative newcomers and established institutions, alongside a general emphasis on diverse international fare, underscores the richness and breadth of Greenville’s food and drink offerings.
A National Peer Group
Greenville joins a select group of other small cities recognized by Food & Wine for their impressive culinary credentials. The article specifically mentioned McMinnville, Oregon, as another city featured on this distinguished list, illustrating the magazine’s nationwide search for culinary excellence in smaller settings.
Other notable cities that appear on Food & Wine’s list alongside Greenville are Bozeman, Montana; Burlington, Vermont; Covington, Kentucky; Fredericksburg, Texas; Healdsburg, California; Oxford, Mississippi; Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Traverse City, Michigan. This diverse collection showcases the varied and high-quality food and drink scenes flourishing in communities outside of the country’s largest metropolitan areas.
Impact of the Recognition
This national ranking from Food & Wine is expected to further elevate Greenville’s profile as a significant food destination. It validates the efforts of the city’s chefs, restaurateurs, farmers, and producers who have contributed to building a vibrant and diverse culinary ecosystem. For visitors and residents alike, the recognition confirms that Greenville offers dining experiences on par with those found in larger, more established culinary hubs, reinforcing its appeal as a top destination for food enthusiasts.
