TOWN Magazine - March 2021 by Community Journals

ART, CULTURE, STYLE OF THE PROGRESSIVE SOUTH

A R T

O F

C R A F T

CELEBRATING THE TIME-HONO RED TRADITIONS OF OUR REGIONAL ARTISANS

Scallop platter by Biglou Pottery, page 68

THE MAKERS ISSUE

MARCH 2021

TOWNCAROLINA.COM

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First Glance

Photography by Chelsey Ashford

M A R C H 202 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

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Behind every fashion shoot, many hands gather to produce the magic. (Clockwise from top left) art director Paul Mehaﬀey and editor in chief Blair Knobel discuss a shot; hair and make-up artist Isabelle Schreier puts the ﬁnishing touches on model Mercedes Purington; Isabelle prepares Mercedes for her next look; stylist Chelsey Ashford’s clothing selects; Paul reviews his latest snap. For our March fashion presentation, see page 57.

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Contents

MARCH 2021

66 MATERIAL WORLD

Through these Upstate makers, elegance and function unite across mediums of clay, wood, and fiber. by beth brown ables, m. Linda lee

& ANgie toole thompson

“I want people to look at my art and ponder how it was made. I like that it is art you can pick up and feel. There is warmth and connectivity between humans and wood.”

(cover) A scallop dish from Biglou Pottery; (this page) a piece by woodworker Chris Willey. For more, see “Material World,” page 66.

Cover and this photograph by Paul Mehaffey

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

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FRESH EYES Embrace the new season with open arms by exploring these area art exhibits. by Angie toole thompson

Photograph by Paul Mehaffey

Martin Johnson Heade, Tropical Orchids, oil on canvas. 21 1/8” x 17 1/8”. Photograph of artwork provided by Reynolda House Museum of American Art.

Contents

BLADE RUNNER A Penland School of Craft graduate, bladesmith Andrew Meers welds metal into masterpieces. by kathryn davÉ

35 4555 53 5755 79 16 EDITOR’S LETTER 21 THE LIST 27 WEDDINGS 62 MS. BEA WRIGHT 64 MAN ABOUT TOWN 87 DINING GUIDE 92 TOWN SCENE 96 SECOND GLANCE

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

TOWNBUZZ

ESCAPE

SPORT

STYLE

EAT + DRINK

These renowned museums and galleries are mere miles away; local engineer Tom O’Hanlan gets groovy; Dr. Scott Porter lends a charitable hand through Just Cause Scrubs; shape up in style at these local barbershops.

Southern gem Chattanooga, Tennessee, is an outdoor junkie’s dream; The Wells Hotel in Highlands, North Carolina, is a charming retreat.

Through 11:11 Training, former soccer stars India Trotter and Blakely Mattern focus on wellness as well as performance for female athletes.

As spring color creeps back in, we celebrate this newness in our fashion presentation with an ode to all things green.

The AC Hotel’s Juniper bar brings botanical vibes with gin-focused drinks; area distilleries make worthy gins fit for your favorite cocktail; these fluffy pancakes are an easy labor of love.

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STRUCTURES RISK-BASED TACTICALLY MANAGED INVESTMENT FUNDS INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ACHIEVE OUR CLIENTS’ LONG-TERM GOALS DESIGNING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL PLAN PERSONAL FINANCIAL SITUATION INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND GOALS WORK TOWARDS YOUR GOALS 401K PLANNING FINANCIAL PLANNING RETIREMENT PLANNING INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT TAX DEFERRED SAVINGS WORKPLACE RETIREMENT PLAN TOTAL FIDUCIARY OUTSOURCING INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY OUTSOURCING 3(38) INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY 3(21) INVESTMENT COFIDUCIARY INNOVATION INDIVIDUALS AND INSTITUTIONAL CLIENTS RETIREMENT PLAN STRUCTURES RISKBASED TACTICALLY MANAGED INVESTMENT FUNDS INVESTMENT STRATEGIES ACHIEVE OUR CLIENTS’ LONG-TERM GOALS DESIGNING THE RIGHT FINANCIAL PLAN PERSONAL FINANCIAL SITUATION INDIVIDUAL NEEDS AND GOALS WORK TOWARDS YOUR GOALS 401K PLANNING FINANCIAL PLANNING RETIREMENT PLANNING INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT TAX DEFERRED SAVINGS WORKPLACE RETIREMENT PLAN TOTAL FIDUCIARY OUTSOURCING INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY OUTSOURCING 3(38) INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY 3(21) INVESTMENT 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WHEN YOU LIVE AT HARTNESS, LIFE UNFOLDS IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WAYS.

IT’S TIME TO DISCOVER HARTNESS. HARTNESSLIVING.COM / 864-920-0375

NO OTHER COMMUNIT Y OFFERS YOU MORE. Only minutes from downtown or GSP, Hartness presents a vibrant village created in the Traditional Neighborhood Design — master-planned to celebrate life’s diverse pleasures. Wake up in one of Greenville’s most beautifully crafted homes tailored to the way you live — whether it be a sprawling estate design, a stately manor home, or a rightsized, cozy cottage. Open the door and let yourself wander. Every exceptional amenity is within strolling distance. The pathways along green spaces and courtyards connect to 15 miles of trails through a 180-acre nature preserve. Explore by foot, bike, or kayak. Cast a lure into a lake. Watch and listen for wildlife under a canopy of green. The Grand Lawn is a place for family picnics, frisbee, and community celebrations. The Sports Garden offers bocce, croquet, and basketball, and an awesome play park perfectly designed for kids’ boundless energy. Enjoy tennis or pickleball, swim or sun at the pool, get your hands dirty in the community garden, or toss a ball at the dog park. A walk or golf cart ride to the new Village Center will offer shopping, dining, and conveniences. The Village Kitchen, opening in May 2021 will offer local-fare. Imagine sharing dinner with friends, followed by a lazy stroll home under the stars. As if all this weren’t enough, Hartness will soon open its own boutique hotel and spa.

Information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. All properties are subject to prior sale, change or withdrawal notice. Prices and availability subject to change. All specifications supplied by builder/seller, and subject to change or modification. It is the responsibility of the buyer or buyer’s agent to verify. Equal housing opportunity – Dan Collins, Broker-in-Charge / Collins & Fine, LLC

COT TAGE LIFE: SMALL FOOTPRINTS, HUGE ADVANTAGES Manor and estate homes live side-by-side with charming cottages, connecting neighbors of all ages and interests. Our unique cottage selection offers superior design and luxury appointments usually found in larger homes. The new Somerset Cottages are no exception. This charming group of three homes shares an impressive motor-court entry drive. The 2,130-sq.-ft., three-story floorplans are extremely flexible, offering up to four bedrooms and baths. Expansive living/dining areas offer sweeping views of the adjacent park and gourmet kitchens with all the bells and whistles. While these cottages may be purchased individually, the collection is well suited for a family compound.

This is the neighborhood Greenville has been waiting for. 440-acres of natural beauty — where every square inch is devoted to extraordinary living. As each day unfolds, you’ll find something new to discover and explore. Open now and see what pleasures await.

Editor’s Letter

Photograph by Blair Knobel

Like a paint-by-number template, we’re slowly seeing color come back to our days. The world is awakening and regaining momentum as the flicker of life grows brighter.

NATURAL PROCESS

reating a monthly magazine sometimes isn’t pretty. But creativity is messy. It is a whole-self experience, as most life-moving endeavors are—fueling our passions, directing our course. As sure as our heartbeat, the creative flame burns within us. In this edition, we bring special attention to creativity and to artisans, spotlighting not only their work but their passion for material and process. We also share non-traditional stories of makers, like Dr. Scott Porter, Prisma Health Chief of Orthopedic Oncology, who started a scrubs business to give back to the community, and Tom O’Hanlan, an engineer and inventor who is bringing new life to vintage Leslie speakers. We feature a Highlands inn transformed into a modern boutique hotel; a soccer training camp helping women to discover themselves while sharpening their skills; regional gin distillers crafting varied, small-batch bottles; and Greenville’s first-ever rooftop bar devoted to

gin cocktails. Additionally, we present our local boutiques and jewelry designers in a style feature celebrating shades of green, March’s signature color. Like a paint-by-number template, we’re slowly seeing color come back to our days. The world is awakening and regaining momentum as the flicker of life grows brighter. We’re excited by this energy and thrilled by the opportunity to begin anew. Our goal is to produce the most informative, entertaining, and design-forward publication, so I invite you to reach out to us. What do you enjoy about TOWN? What would you like to see more of? We would love to hear from you, dear reader. You are essential to our creative process—and it’s through collaborative conversation that inspired ideas are born. Meanwhile, we will continue to deliver our best—and we look forward to bringing you along. Blair Knobel, Editor in Chief blair@towncarolina.com

M A R C H 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

UNITED COMMUNITY

David Drake, circa 1800 to circa 1870 storage vessel, 1857 alkaline-glazed stoneware

I wonder where is all my relation Friendship to all and every nation

inscribed: Aug 16, 1857, Dave I wonder where is all my relation Friendship to all and every nation

When the GCMA re-opens, we invite you to experience the powerful story of David Drake, an enslaved African-American who worked as a “turner” in several pottery manufacturing facilities in South Carolina’s Edgefield District. Drake, who was known only as “Dave” before 1865, learned to both read and write, dangerous and even illegal skills for a slave to possess. Drake openly expressed his literacy by inscribing original poems on many of the utilitarian works he created. The identities of millions of enslaved African-Americans, whose talents and labor supported the development of American culture, were disregarded by recorded history. Through the modest wares handcrafted and inscribed by David Drake, at least one remarkable voice remains to speak on behalf of the lives and stories irretrievably lost. The GCMA is home to the largest institutional collection of pottery vessels by David Drake, including single-handle jugs, storage jars, pitchers, a syrup jug, and a rare butter churn. The GCMA annual fund-raising campaign, Art for Greenville 2021, will support the purchase of 29 works by African-American artists, including three vessels by David Drake. The GCMA is grateful for the continuing support of United Community Bank Foundation.

Greenville County Museum of Art

420 College Street Greenville, SC 29601 864.271.7570 gcma.org

Corporate Partner

GCM-21-02-Drake UC TOWN Ad FullPg Feb 4 2021.indd 1

Temporarily closed for construction

2/5/21 1:38 PM

Mark B. Johnston

PUBLISHER mark@communit yjournals.com

Blair Knobel

EDITOR IN CHIEF blair@towncarolina.com

Paul Mehaffey

ART DIRECTOR

Abby Moore Keith

MANAGING EDITOR CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

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CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS, ILLUSTRATORS & DESIGNERS

Chelsey Ashford, Robin Batina-Lewis, Will Crooks, Ian Curcio, Jivan Davé, Rebecca Lehde & Eli Warren Andrew Huang

EDITOR AT LARGE

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MARKETING REPRESENTATIVES

Sangeeta Hardy, Mary Hill & Heather Propp Meredith Rice

SALES OPERATIONS MANAGER

Allison Gambone

ACCOUNT MANAGER CLIENT SERVICE MANAGERS

Lizzie Campbell & Camden Johnson Kristi Fortner

ACCOUNTING & HUMAN RESOURCES

Sue Priester

CONSULTING MEMBER

Susan Schwartzkopf

GENERAL MANAGER

Douglas J. Greenlaw CHAIRMAN

TOWN Magazine (Vol. 11, No. 3) is published monthly (12 times per year) by TOWN Greenville, LLC, 581 Perry Ave, Greenville, SC 29611, (864) 679-1200. If you would like to have TOWN delivered to you each month, you may purchase an annual subscription (12 issues) for $65 at towncarolina.com/subscribe. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA.

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Save

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on select mattresses

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12/8/2020 7:23:11 PM

THE LIST

KYSHONA

From her start as a music therapist, Kyshona has blossomed into a successful singersongwriter who strives to lift up the downtrodden through her soulful vocals. Genevieve’s lounge is the ideal intimate setting to hear songs from her new album, Listen, a blend of roots, rock, R&B, and folk, featuring powerful lyrics that are sure to open your eyes. Space is limited and masks are required. Genevieve’s at the Peace Center, 300 S Main St, Greenville. Thurs, March 18, 8pm. Table for 4, $200. (864) 467-3000, peacecenter.org

Photograph of Kyshona, courtesy of the Peace Center

M A R C H 2021 I

The List EXCELLENCE & EMANCIPATION: AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTISTS & THE HARMON FOUNDATION

MERCYME Founded in another Greenville—this one in Texas—the Christian rockers of MercyMe are making a stop in our Greenville during their Imagine Nation Tour 2021. Expect to hear fan faves from their newest album, I Can Only Imagine—The Very Best of MercyMe, as well as their most recent No. 1 hit, “Even If.” The multiplatinum-selling group will be joined by singer/ songwriter and Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee Mac Powell, and Christian pop music artist Micah Tyler.

As part of its mission to visualize Southern history, The Johnson Collection in Spartanburg is honoring the impact of the Harmon Awards, which were established in 1926 to highlight the work of African American visual artists. Excellence & Emancipation showcases 18 artists, among them Malvin Gray Johnson, Loïs Mailou Jones, and Hale Woodruﬀ, all of whom profoundly inﬂuenced African American art in the early twentieth century. TJC Gallery, 154 W Main St, Spartanburg. Thru Mar 6. Open during gallery hours: Wed–Fri and first Sat of the month, noon–4pm. Free. (864) 594-5834, thejohnsoncollection.org

Bon Secours Wellness Arena, 650 N Academy St, Greenville. Fri, Mar 19, show time TBA. Ticket prices TBA. (864) 241-3800, bonsecoursarena.com

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If the sounds of instruments such as ﬂutes, clarinets, and oboes are music to your ears, don’t blow oﬀ this concert by the Woodwind Quintet of the Foothills Philharmonic Orchestra. An all-volunteer orchestra composed of accomplished amateur musicians from around the Upstate, the Foothills Philharmonic performs a variety of concerts that are always free and open to the public. Greer Center for the Arts, 804 Trade St, Greer. Sat, Mar 20, 7–9pm. Free. (864) 326-5780, foothillsphilharmonic.org

Photograph courtesy of The Media Collective

Autumn Trees by artist William Scott

WOODWIND QUINTET CHAMBER CONCERT

MAKE + SIP CLASS: X BANGLE

Now that you’ve made it through the worst of winter, don’t miss this opportunity to toast to spring with Schug wines. Owner Axel Schug from Schug Winery in Sonoma, California, will be on hand to discuss his family’s hand-crafted pinot noirs and other varietals, which will be paired with hors-d’oeuvres and four seasonal courses expertly crafted by Stella’s chef and owner Jason Scholz. Stella’s Southern Bistro, 684 Fairview Rd, Simpsonville. Tues, Mar 23, 6:30pm. $85 (plus tax and gratuity). (864) 757-1212, stellasbistro.com

First Fridays normally involve visiting open artists’ studios to watch them work, but this month you can show oﬀ your own artistic talent by making jewelry in an artisan-owned studio. No experience is necessary to craft your own X-shaped bangle at MAKE MADE. Join in the fun and learn how to manipulate raw silver to create a graceful bracelet that you’ll be proud to wear. MAKE MADE Jewelry, 241 N Main St, Greenville. Fri, Mar 5, 11am–2pm. $85. (864) 412-8087, makemadejewelry.com

Photograph courtesy of MAKE MADE Jewelry

SCHUG WINE DINNER AT STELLA’S BISTRO

MAINSTAGE ORCHESTRA SERIES: MASTERWORKS III Craving classical concerts? Head over to the Riverside Baptist Church in Greer to catch the continuing season of the talented members of the Foothills Philharmonic Orchestra. Accompanied by students from Blue Ridge High School, the orchestra will perform Dvorak’s New World Symphony. After the performance, stick around to meet and greet the musicians at a reception in the fellowship hall of the church. Riverside Baptist Church, 49 S Suber Rd, Greer. Sat, Mar 27, 7–9pm. Free. (864) 326-5780, tenatthetop.org/event/masterworks-iii

March 2021 S

Greenville’s Salon

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The List

Quick HITS GENESIS—BMW FROM THE BEGINNING

z Gentlemen—and women—start your engines! The most comprehensive exhibit of early BMWs ever presented in North America is now on display in Greer. GENESIS illustrates five decades of BMW’s history through 24 cars and motorcycles. Ranging from the 1927 R47 sport bike to the 1950s-era BMW Baroque Angel sedans, the exhibit pays homage to the innovations of the Upstate’s own German carmaker. BMW CCA Foundation Museum, 190 Manatee Ct, Greer. Ongoing. Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm; Sat, 10am–4pm. Adults, $12; youth (ages 6–17), $6; children 5 and under, free. (864) 3291919, bmwccafoundation.org

SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

Photograph by Eli Warren, titled For All I Know It’s Not a Lie

z During the first week of March, Greenville will become the Women’s Basketball Capital of the South when, for the fourth consecutive year, the city hosts the SEC Women’s Basketball finals at The Well. The single-elimination tournament, which includes all 14 teams in the Southeast Conference, will culminate with the championship game on Sunday night. The winner of the 13-game competition will go on to the NCAA Tournament. Be sure to snag your tickets before they sell out. Bon Secours Wellness Arena, 650 N Academy St, Greenville. Mar 3–7. Wed–Sun, times vary. Ticket prices TBA. (864) 241-3800, bonsecoursarena.com

ARTWALK

z The third Thursday of the month brings art lovers to downtown Spartanburg for an opportunity to take a self-guided tour of participating galleries throughout the city’s Cultural District. In addition to offering access to the artists and their work, galleries will have wine and hors-d’oeuvres on hand to sweeten the experience. Downtown Spartanburg. Thurs, Mar 18, 5–9pm. Free. (864) 542-2787, chapmanculturalcenter.org

FIBER-FILLED EXHIBIT

z Imagine having 1,500 square feet in which to create

a work of art. That’s what Samuelle Green and Liz Miller are doing for this exhibit, which examines the relationship between reality and illusion. Based in Pennsylvania, Green takes inspiration from natural forms such as bird nests and beehives and combines them with human-made found objects in her sitespecific installations, while Miller—a Minnesota native— describes her elaborate installations as “equal parts absurd, menacing, and poetic.” Spartanburg Art Museum, 200 E St John St, Spartanburg. Mar 18–June 30. Open during gallery hours: Tues– Fri, 10am–5pm; Sat, 11am–4pm. Free. (864) 582-7616, spartanburgartmuseum.org

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Shaping Identity Through storytelling and object sharing, photographers Eli Warren (Greenville) and Elizabeth Claffey (Bloomington, IN), along with sculptor Katie Kameen (Graniteville, SC) examine the relationship between cultural identity and personal history. For a more in-depth experience of this thoughtprovoking exhibit, come hear the ARTalk at the GCCA on March 9 at 6pm. Greenville Center for Creative Arts, 101 Abney St, Greenville. Thru Mar 24. Open during gallery hours: Wed–Fri, 1–5pm. Free. (864) 735-3948, artcentergreenville.org

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ARCHITECTURE AND INTERIORS ARE UNIQUE TOOLS TO CONVEY PURPOSE, EVOKE AWE A N D T O M E E T U T I L I TA R I A N N E E D S

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weddings C O U P L E S & C E L E B R AT I O N S

The nuptials of JENNY WOODS & COOPER LEMONS were more than a decade in the making. Photograph by Chelsey Ashford Photography

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Weddings

JENNY WOODS & COOPER LEMONS AUGUST 21, 2020

ooper and Jenny are a prime example of “right person, wrong time.” They met back in 2009 through Cooper’s best friend, who happens to be Jenny’s brother. The pair started dating, but after a year realized they were at different places in their lives. Eight years later, the time was finally right and they reconnected. After three years of long-distance dating, Cooper proposed at Hotel Domestique in Travelers Rest. The pair had everything arranged for their wedding, but COVID-19

derailed their plans and they ended up having their special day at Jenny’s family farm in Laurens, where the two met more than a decade earlier. The day was splendid and intimate, a perfect testament to their love. Jenny is a nanny, and Cooper is a captain in the U.S. Army. The couple will be moving to Nashville.

—Kathryn Norungolo By Chelsey Ashford Photography

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Weddings

HARLEE MILLER & SAM SIEGEL MAY 9, 2020 Sam was studying at Harlee’s apartment with her roommate at USC when they met. After turning down two dates, Harlee finally agreed to go for frozen yogurt with Sam. That must have done the trick, as they’ve been together ever since. The pair loves to hike, so two-and-a-half years after they started dating, Sam figured Table Rock State Park would provide the perfect backdrop for his proposal. As the sun rose and the pair reached the summit of Table Rock, Sam dropped to one knee. After many postponements to their wedding due to COVID-19, Harlee and Sam finally said “I do” in a small ceremony at Wavering Place outside Columbia, where Harlee wore an Essence of Australia gown, and their dog, Annie, acted as the flower girl. The couple, who refer to themselves as “digital nomads,” travel around the States as they work remotely, Harlee as a marketing specialist and Sam as a business consultant.—KN Photography by Mary Catherine Echols

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MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

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MAY 22, 2020

rystal and Jay met on a dating app in 2017. Crystal was living in Greenwood at the time, and the first time they met in person they shared a Thai meal followed by frozen yogurt. Two years later, on Memorial Day Weekend, Jay planned a surprise picnic for Crystal at Twin Falls. As they were sitting on the rocks, bathed in the mist from the waterfall, Jay asked Crystal to be his bride. She quickly said “yes!” just before he lost his footing on the rocks and slipped into the water (guess you could say he really fell for her). At Songhill Reserve in Landrum the couple walked down the aisle hand-in-hand and were married in an intimate ceremony with just their parents in attendance. They now live in Spartanburg and commute to Greenville, where Crystal works as an occupational therapist and Jay as a computer science teacher at Greenville High.—KN Photography by Antonio Modesto Milian

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Weddings

KRISTEN KLINGER & RYAN WALLACE NOVEMBER 7, 2020

In 2014, Kristen was working as a hostess at Portofino’s restaurant when Ryan came in to eat dinner with his dad just after Christmas. He asked for her number that evening and lost no time calling her for a date the next day. Five years later, on the anniversary of the day they met, Ryan led Kristen through Wyche Pavilion by the Reedy River, where he asked her to be his wife. They toasted their engagement over dinner at Hall’s Chophouse and later met friends and family for a nightcap at Foxcroft Wine. The couple was permanently paired in a ceremony at Grace Church Downtown, with a reception afterwards at Green Valley Country Club. Kristen and Ryan live in Charlotte, where she works as an Applied Behavioral Analysis therapist and he as a financial analyst.—KN Photography by Mary Catherine Echols

CAROLINE DILLON & PHILLIP HABIB NOVEMBER 14, 2020 Caroline and Phillip were just a year apart at Wofford College. They had always run in the same social circle, but it wasn’t until the fall of 2016 that the pair realized they had sparked something more than a friendship. They started dating in November, and when Caroline graduated from Wofford and went on to Wake Forest University for graduate school, the pair dated longdistance until ultimately ending up together in Columbia. On an errand to Spartanburg one day, Phillip suggested they take a walk around the Wofford campus. When they reached Old Main, Phillip got down on one knee to pose that all-important question. Their wedding came together seamlessly, even though the guest list had to be cut to only the bridal party and close family. Radiant in a Justin Alexander gown, Caroline married Dillon at Central Energy in Columbia, celebrating afterward with a jazz band and a menu of short ribs, lobster pot pie, and a surprise ice cream truck for Phillip. They now live and work in Columbia.—KN By Katie Hart at Palmetto Duo Photography

SARAH-BRADLEY BESSENT & CAPP HYNEMAN AUGUST 1, 2020 If you ask Capp, he remembers meeting Sarah-Bradley when they were both undergrads at Clemson. Her memory of their first meeting is hazy, but she does recall when he asked her on a date in college and she completely ghosted him. Fast-forward to post-grad life, when they were both living in Greenville and spending time with mutual friends. Their paths finally crossed again, and this time when Capp invited Sarah-Bradley on a date she agreed. They were together for less than a year before Capp asked her another question, this time wondering if she would date him forever. Sarah-Bradley knew months before that her answer would be “yes,” and after Capp’s proposal at Westfield, they celebrated at his parents’ house with close friends and family. They had wanted to get married at Westfield, but that wasn’t reasonable given COVID-19 restrictions, so the pair said “I do’s” in Capp’s parents’ backyard, complete with food trucks and stunning décor. The newlyweds remain in Greenville.—KN Photography by Mary Catherine Echols hearing wedding bells? TOWN Magazine wants to publish your wedding announcement. If you currently live or grew up in the Upstate and were recently married, please write to us at TOWN Magazine, Attn: Weddings, 581 Perry Ave, Greenville, SC 29611, or e-mail weddings@towncarolina.com. Due to space constraints, inclusion is not guaranteed.

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Spring heralds a creative resurgence with a burst of NEW ART EXHIBITS in the Carolinas.

Martin Johnson Heade, Hooded Visobearer, photograph of artwork courtesy of Reynolda House

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FRESH EYES AWAKEN TO SPRING’S ARTFUL ENERGY AT THESE REGIONAL MUSEUMS by Angie Toole Thompson

o season is as emblematic of creativity as spring. Literally, the earth is regenerating—shoots and buds pepper the landscape, often in surprising places. Maybe you feel it, too. The need to make something, do something, clean something, and with it, the need to get out, to see something new, to experience life and art. Renowned regional museums like the Asheville Art Museum or the Gibbes in Charleston offer up spring exhibitions to inspire, provoke, and meet that blooming springtime energy. From nature-themed, early twentieth-century Japanese prints to surreal abstractions bursting with color, here are some exhibits that might tempt you (safely) out of your house and into a museum.

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Greenville County Museum of Art

With the world’s largest collection of works by painter Andrew Wyeth and a significant offering of paintings by South Carolina artist Jasper Johns, Greenville is lucky to be home to the Greenville County Museum of Art. Currently, GCMA is offering free guided tours to groups of ten or more when scheduled three weeks in advance. Experience The Real Thing, a collection of impactful works by African American artists, with the luxury of a docent and the entire place to yourself. To schedule a tour, call (864) 271-7570, ext. 1017. gcma.org

Greenville Center for the Creative Arts

Everyday materials take on a number of their possible manifestations in GCCA’s spring exhibition Shaping Identity. Greenville photographer Eli Warren is joined by sculptor Katie Kameen and photographer Elizabeth Claffey in a show that explores identity and history through object and form. Ends March 24. ARTalk March 9 at 6pm. artcentergreenville.org/upcomingexhibitions

TB • OUTSIDE THE BOX

(opposite, clockwise from left) Utagawa Toyoharu, The Battle of Yashima Dan-no-ura from the series Perspective Pictures of Japanese Scenes, circa 1775, courtesy of The Gibbes Museum of Art; Jasper Johns, Target with Four Faces, 1968. Silkscreen on paper. Art © Jasper Johns/ Licensed by VAGA, New York, NY; Patrick Jacobs, Pink Forest with Stump, courtesy of Reynolda House Museum of American Art; (this page, from left) Beauford Delany, Knoxville landscape, courtesy of the Asheville Art Museum; Elizabeth Claffey, Matrilinear #10, courtesy of the Greenville Center for Creative Arts

From eighteenth-century Japanese prints and nineteenthcentury landscapes (opposite) to twentieth-century paintings (opposite and left) and contemporary photographs (above), regional art museums rake in a new crop of exhibitions.

The Gibbes Museum of Art

Woodblock printing secured its place in Japanese culture at the start of the Edo period, beginning in the mid-1700s. The vivid illustrative works are known as ukiyo-e, and feature highly stylized and direct points of view, often of the wilds of nature or known figures. The Gibbes in Charleston, home to a definitive collection of Japanese woodblocks, presents an exhibition of sixty rare prints from the Read-Simms collection. From the eighteenth to nineteenth centuries, the works feature popular ukiyo-e subjects like Kabuki actors and breathtaking landscapes. April 30–Oct 3. The Gibbes Museum of Art, gibbesmuseum. org/exhibitions/lasting-impressions-japanese-prints-fromthe-read-simms-collection-/114

Reynolda House Museum of American art

The ubiquitous nature of science currently rides front-seat in the American consciousness. We look to it for assurance, as a guiding light. This spring, Reynolda House in Winston-Salem bursts back on the scene with a gleaming tribute to the art of

natural science, shifting a focus toward the clandestine effects of biology. Cross Pollination is a collection of natural specimen paintings from the nineteenth century to the twenty-first, exploring the nature of ecology and the interconnectedness of its life-giving pollinators. Thru May 23. reynoldahouse.org

Asheville Art Museum

Southern-born painter Beauford Delaney moved to Paris in 1955, prompting a friendship with writer James Baldwin and a shift in artistic style. Asheville Art Museum’s exhibition Beauford Delaney's Metamorphosis Into Freedom threads together the intellectual and creative relationship of the two, and the ways that each shaped the other’s emerging worldviews. Delaney’s abstract works pose movement with light, excavating his own identity as a gay man of color, and the freedom that identity opened up for his friend. April 2–June 21. ashevilleart.org/exhibitions/beauforddelaneys-metamorphosis-into-freedom

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TB • PROFILE Owner of local tech company Sealevel Systems, Tom O’Hanlan combines a passion for music and innovation through BookerLAB, which finds modern solutions for utilizing vintage Leslie speakers. For more, visit bookerlab.com.

GOOD VIBRATIONS ENGINEER TOM O’HANLAN PRESERVES THE SOUND OF THE VINTAGE LESLIE SPEAKER by M. Linda Lee • photograph by Eli Warren

hough he’s an electrical engineer by degree, Tom O’Hanlan’s life has long been amplified by music. The owner of Sealevel Systems, a tech company he founded in 1986, O’Hanlan started playing bass guitar at 12 and has been collecting vintage instruments for more than 20 years. In 2017, he combined his knowledge of technology solutions with his passion for music in his latest venture, BookerLAB. “I’ve always collected vintage Hammond organs and Leslie speakers [equipped with vacuum-tube amplifiers], which is what BookerLAB is focused around,” says O’Hanlan, whose collection includes 15 Leslies, three hand-wired Hammond organs, and 18 guitars—a 1955 Fender bass among them. The silver-haired rocker still plays with the members of his high school band, the Soul Sensations, who reunited a few years ago. Designed by Don Leslie in 1941, the speaker incorporates a rotating drum. “The side of that drum would let sound out as it went around,” O’Hanlan explains. “[Leslie] hooked a motor to the drum, so when it spins around, you can hear the sound coming at you and going away from you.” This spinning creates a Doppler effect, like when a train whistle seems to go down in pitch as the train passes. A natural complement to the Hammond, the Leslie speaker made many an

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appearance in churches. “[The Leslie] adds depth and color to an organ’s sound,” notes Tom. In the 1960s and ’70s, it became popular with bands like Cream, The Beatles, Santana, and The Allman Brothers, who coveted its rich, swirling vibes. Modern musicians value old Leslies, but instead of toting around heavy Hammond organs, they now use lightweight keyboards that sound similar. The problem is, they don’t interface directly with the vintage speakers. Enter O’Hanlan, who strikes a chord in the market by making new interfaces for the old speakers. “Our boxes let you hook any kind of Leslie to your system. It’s a little like a Swiss Army knife,” he says. “We bring innovation, utility, and versatility to the Leslie by offering multiple types of connectors.” A self-described inventor, Tom shares the adventurous entrepreneurial spirit of his grandfather, Dr. Lyle Steele Booker, the late surgeon, real estate developer, and owner of the Durham Bulls, for whom BookerLAB is named. Since his childhood, O’Hanlan has always been fascinated with building. “I’ve been messing around for a few years building a miniature Leslie speaker,” the entrepreneur reports. Encased in a wooden cabinet measuring three feet tall and two feet wide, a Leslie isn’t easy to transport. “So my goal is to make one that fits in the back of your car.” In the meantime, Tom rocks on with his contribution to the music world. “Longevity of the sound” is what he calls it. “It’s a preservation thing. It’s a love and a sharing of that music, and just making sure it doesn’t go away.”

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TB • VISIONARIES

PHILANTHROPIC PHYSICIAN DR. SCOTT PORTER EXPLORES AVENUES FOR GIVING BACK THROUGH HIS BUSINESS, JUST CAUSE SCRUBS by Stephanie Trotter • photograph by ian Curcio

veryone gets sick of the daily grind. But what if your nine-to-five involves life-and-death decisions that result in death as frequently as life? Such is the case for Prisma Health Chief of Orthopedic Oncology Dr. Scott Porter. “Oncology surgeons get to do some incredible stuff,” he shares. “But the emotional turmoil on some of us is not without cost. As a guy who cuts out cancer, I hate it with every ounce of my being. There are only so many deaths that you can referee. So, I look for ways in which I can pay myself back.” Over the years, he’s found the secret that replenishes his soul: philanthropy.

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The doctor’s latest charitable work, Just Cause Scrubs, outfits healthcare workers from head to toe, while supporting charities close to his heart. The relatively young business sells scrubs and medical attire, giving half of its profits to various charities. “They’re the same scrubs, from the same manufacturers and the same warehouses that nurses, techs, and ancillary staff already buy,” Porter explains. “The difference is we’re giving 50 percent of the net profits to a charity of the consumer’s choice.” In just a few short years, Just Cause Scrubs has shipped medical clothing from coast-to-coast, while donating more than $11,000 to groups like Project Hope Foundation and Team Fox for Parkinson’s Research. Just Cause Scrubs stitches together Porter’s diverse interests, not only in medicine but in business. “I got my MBA at Kellogg in Chicago about ten years ago,” he reveals. “I’ve always had this love of entrepreneurialism. I wanted to do something that would combine that and philanthropy.” A seamless pattern came together while

“I got my MBA at Kellogg in Chicago about ten years ago,” Porter reveals. “I’ve always had this love of entrepreneurialism. I wanted to do something that would combine that and philanthropy.”

FLOWERS. BUREAU FOCUS: SOAP FLOWER BOUQUETS ESTABLISHED: 2019

JUST CAUSES

Just Cause Scrubs customers select a charity to beneﬁt from their purchase. Charities are always being added to the list, including two that joined just a few weeks ago: South Carolina Nurses Foundation and Toby Keith Foundation. Here are a few more below.

Lucky Pup RESCUE SC When he’s not helping his patients ﬁght cancer, orthopedic oncologist Dr. Scott Porter supports charitable organizations by donating half of the proﬁts from his company, Just Cause Scrubs.

Dobby. Felix. Kai. Just three of thousands of dogs that have made it into the hands of Lucky Pup, as they wait to ﬁnd their fur-ever home. Lucky Pup, a Greenville-based nonproﬁt, rescues dogs from high-kill shelters, and abuse and neglect situations, and provides medical care and physical support through foster homes until the dogs are adopted. luckypuprescuesc.com

National Breast Cancer Foundation

One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer survivor Janelle Hail founded NBCF in 1991 to ﬁll in the gaps of cancer care. When she was diagnosed in 1980, there was little information about the disease. NBCF is dedicated to promoting the importance of early detection, while providing support services, and hope, to patients. nationalbreastcancer.org

Project Hope Foundation brainstorming with friends Laura and Marshall Johnson. Utilizing Porter’s medical connections, Marshall’s textile roots, and Laura’s marketing skills, the trio has created a company that they hope will “change the world, one set of scrubs at a time.” Such philanthropy is not new to the Ohio native, who moved to Greenville in 2009. Porter was the primary force behind South Carolina’s Sarcoma Warriors, which raised a quarter of a million dollars for patients, families, and sarcoma survivors. He’s applying lessons learned from heading that charity to Just Cause Scrubs. “I’ve learned no matter how altruistic a person is, you truly have to have a value proposition,” he says. “Me saying, ‘I will give you something in exchange for what you are giving me,’ is a model that is much more sustainable than saying, ‘Give me. Give me. Give me.’ We hope we’re building a sustainable business that can keep on going forever.” To learn more about Just Cause Scrubs or purchase medical attire, go to justcausescrubs.com.

This unique local organization helps children and young adults navigate life with autism. When founded in 1997 by local moms looking for services, one in 2,500 children were diagnosed with autism. That’s increased to one in 59 today. Project Hope serves those across the spectrum of autism with programs that include ABA therapy, life skills, community outreach, and adult employment. Some participants are even screen-printing T-shirts that are available through Just Cause Scrubs. projecthopesc.org

Shriners Hospitals for Children

Greenville’s facility is one of 22 in an international health care system serving children with wide-ranging orthopedic and neuromuscular conditions. The local hospital features a 50-bed unit, operating rooms, motion analysis center, therapy areas, and a KidZone play area for children from across the Southeast. Greenville’s original Shriners Hospital opened on Pleasantburg Drive in 1927. It moved to the Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Campus in 1989. shrinershospitalsforchildren.org

FLOWERS.BUREAU makes a new trend for 2020-2021, creating unique realistic soap flower bouquets. The owner Julia Krylova brought this idea from Russia when she moved to USA one year ago. It might be hard to imagine, but those bouquets last for more than 3 years and have an amazing fragrance. Such a choice of shades and colors among real flowers simply doesn’t exist. By the way, it is a great alternative to regular bouquets, which, unfortunately, fade very quickly and can provoke an allergy. After many years gentle petals can finally be used for their intended purpose - just like soap. WOW effect is guaranteed despite the fact that you might be far away from the person you want to surprise with the gift. The bouquets can be carefully delivered anywhere in the US. Visit online store to choose the most beautiful bouquet from assortment or customize your own design just by contacting the owner Julia Krylova directly.

PRICE: RANGING FROM $30-$250

FLOWERS-BUREAU.MYSHOPIFY.COM M A R C H 2021 I

TB • AT YOUR SERVICE

barbering services have been around since egyptian times, and barbers even performed small surgical procedures in the middle ages. barbershops have long been gathering places for locals to chat and swap stories.

FOR MORE BARBERSHOPS: TOWNCAROLINA.COM

SHEAR WIZARDS

GREENVILLE’S PROFESSIONAL BARBERS OFFER MORE THAN JUST A SHAVE AND CUT by ruta fox

The Oxford Barber Co. f you’re looking shaggy around the ears, or if you rue the day you let your significant other grab the scissors, spring is the perfect time to get back in the barber’s chair. These local barbershops make the cut when you’re ready to update your look.

Circa Barbershop

With four chairs tucked inside Half-Moon Outfitters, Circa exudes a “less is more” aesthetic. The minimal shop is all white, sleekly modern, and specializes in looks from classic to edgy. Between the five locations in South Carolina, you’ll get consistent service, no matter where you go. The local Circa is run by brothers Jeffrey and Joseph Neely, who offer the brand’s extensive line of products that are vegan, paraben-free, and full of essential oils. 603 E Stone Ave, Greenville; circabarbershop.com

The EDGE Barbershop

The EDGE welcomes everyone from kids to seniors with their new twist on an old-fashioned barbershop. Indulge in a haircut with a razor neck shave, shoulder and neck massage, shampoo, scalp massage, and style— even hair color if you need it. Customers can relax with complimentary cocktails; choose among mixed drinks, beer, bourbon, scotch, or vodka. Getting married? Grooms can reserve the entire shop for a party. 25 Mohawk Dr, Greenville; theedgebarbershopgvl.com

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John Redgrave’s brand-new shop in the Village of West Greenville offers a high-end experience along with on-trend precision cuts. The fireplace adds a warm touch, the bar provides a great whiskey or latte, and their vegan, ethically sourced, Oxford Barber Co. beard balms and oils nourish and soften. Treat yourself to a facial to rejuvenate weary winter skin. 578 Perry Ave Ste, A, Greenville; 1632 E North St, Greenville; 187 N Church St, Spartanburg; theoxfordbarberco.com

The Pristine Barber Co.

Judging by his artwork hanging on the walls, Aaron Ingle is an artist in more than one medium. This intimate shop with just two chairs is barely a year old, but it nonetheless attracts a diverse, multicultural cross-section of Greenville guys who stop in for skin and shadow fades, hot-towel shaves, and beard enhancements. 726D Lowndes Hill Rd, Greenville; book.thecut.co/AaronIngle

V’s Barbershop

Husband and wife owners Ken and Jennifer Stoner appeal to grandfathers, fathers, and sons with their traditional barbershop, decked out in brick and dark wood. Relax in the original 1950s barber chairs, while you get a cut, beard trim, or facial; every station boasts hot lather and a TV. Finish up with a bracing dose of their refreshing V’s Skin Tonic and a complimentary shoeshine. 109 W Stone Ave, Greenville; vbarbershop.com

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ESCAPE R E G I O N A L P L A C E S & G L O B A L D E S T I N AT I O N S

Chattanooga’s Walnut Street Bridge is a pedestrian thoroughfare spanning the Tennessee River.

Art, food, and outdoor majesty collide in CHATTANOOGA, TENNESSEE.

M A R C H 2021 I

Escape • GET AWAY

GET CHATTY THIS REIM AGINED R I VER-A ND-MOUNTA IN CIT Y ENTERTA INS ON M A N Y LEVELS by Libby McMillan Henson

o matter why you visit Chattanooga—art, architecture, hiking, or food—its layers are best discovered on foot. Like Greenville, this former industrial city has cleverly reinvented itself, leaning into wildly diverse architectural bones and stellar terrain, albeit with a Tennessee riverfront setting. Peel back the layers and you’re bound to find one, if not several, that speak to you.

FIRST EVENING Chattanooga’s proximity lures me on short notice; I arrive downtown at happy hour. My first stop—even before checking in—is the Bar and Billiards Room at The Read House. A resident mixologist crafts what turns out to be one of the best cocktails in the city, his “Chattanooga-twisted old fashioned.” Lobby views from the mezzanine are nothing short of dazzling. Whether or not you stay at this sexy Prohibition-style hotel, it’s a must-see.

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Photograph (Alleia) courtesy of Chattanooga Tourism Co.

(from opposite left) Market Bridge spans the Tennessee River in downtown Chattanooga; find modern Italian dishes at neighborhood spot Alleia; the Chattanooga area abounds with outdoor offerings, like this waterfall view at nearby Lookout Mountain.

From there, it’s only a few steps up to the West Village’s festive Chestnut Street. This small district’s colorful Umbrella Alley tempts me to snap some playful selfies, but my ultimate destination is foodie favorite Easy Bistro, run by James Beard Award nominee Chef Erik Niel (reservations recommended).

DAY ONE The next morning is dedicated to exploring the aptly named Bluff View Arts District. I enjoy a sunny patio with happy patrons of Rembrandt’s Coffee House before whiling away some time in the rambling River Gallery. The Bluff View enclave also holds a large bed-and-breakfast compound and an impressive cliffside sculpture garden, brimming with works by a variety of notables. It’s mere steps to the Hunter Museum of American Art, which punctuates the city’s riverfront cliffs with metallic drama. Due to

pandemic restrictions, the Hunter is issuing timed tickets (as are most large attractions). Plan on losing track of at least an hour or two viewing works from the Hudson River School and the intriguing Ash Can School, as well as original works by modern, contemporary, and regional artists. Chattanooga is designed for pedestrians. A transparent skywalk connects the Hunter to the popular Walnut Street Bridge, which traverses the river. I enjoy the trek across to Chattanooga’s North Shore neighborhood. Working my way along Frasier Avenue—buying handmade goods at Locals Only, and witty gifts from Blue Skies—I eventually refuel and rest a bit at Taco Mamacita. Adventure Sports Innovation, down below Frasier Avenue, is a mind-blowing stop for outdoor recreation junkies, many of whom may have initially come to town for climbing. The company’s spider-like off-road vehicles are available for adventure tours on nearby Lookout Mountain. My imagination now on fire, I juice up my step count along the River Walk (which spans both sides of the Tennessee). After crossing the bridge again, I arrive at The Edwin Hotel, its crown The Whiskey Thief rooftop lounge. Here I look down and across to every place I’ve just explored. My favorite meal—worth the drive to Chattanooga— is an evening at Alleia in the Southside district. The restaurant’s patio is full; indoor tables are spaced but humming. Between sips of my cocktail, I watch deft open-kitchen choreography. My grilled romaine salad with house-made guanciale is so good, I briefly consider eating two and skipping an entrée. Luckily, I order (and savor) a prosciutto, fig, and arugula flatbread, before forcing myself to leave the soothing ambience.

M A R C H 2021 I

Escape • GET AWAY

The Read House offers guests Prohibition-style vibes (above and right), while Lookout Mountain Incline Railway is an ideal way to catch wide views of the area (above right).

ty miles of trails crisscross this recreational playground, favorites departing from Cravens House and the Glen Falls trailhead. I fully admit to enjoying famed Rock City at the mountain’s crest, its self-guided trails and footbridges wind through massive boulders and crevasses, and culminate at the spot where seven states are visible at once. After driving past the inviting Café on the Corner and parking near the top of the Incline Railway, I stroll through a striking neighborhood to reach historic Civil War site Park Point. Epic views of the river’s horseshoe bend and all of downtown are well worth the cost of entry. I drive back down the mountain for a snack at HiFi Clyde’s, a game-filled pub. The bohemian Southside district, with its murals and highly imaginative repurposed buildings, is—like so much of the city—ripe for wandering on foot. At The Hot Chocolatier, I stock up on artisanal sweets for friends and family. Then I set off to explore the historic Chattanooga Choo-Choo Hotel complex (where guests can sleep in renovated train cars still on the tracks); Gallery 1401; Terminal Brewhouse; Wanderlinger Brewery (which stages socially distanced live music events); and several eye-popping new apartment buildings. At day’s end, I grab an open-air barstool at the industrial-style Flying Squirrel, devour a bowl of ramen, and wash it down with favorite local brew Hutton & Smith. As night falls over the city, I make one last detour to marvel at the head-turning High Point Climbing facility, variant LEDs backlighting its multistory, climbingwall exoskeleton. Then and there, I realize Chattanooga is a fusion of Greenville’s great urban design and Asheville’s funkiness. It will take several more visits just to absorb the architecture and public art peppered across this Southern dynamo, but I’m up to the task.

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STAY

PLAY

EAT

The Edwin hotel

Riverwalk

Alleia

Stretching for miles along the Tennessee, the Riverwalk connects to area attractions.

Rustic Italian fare crafted from local ingredients scintillates and satisfies diners at this popular neighborhood hub.

Walking distance to riverfront and the Bluff View Arts District make this new boutique hotel a winner. 102 Walnut St. (423) 713- Riverfront Parking, 160 Riverfront 5900, theedwinhotel.com

Pkwy. (423) 648-4034

The Read House

Lookout Mountain

This historic hotel has wide-ranging price points and makes a sexy home base. 3107 Martin Luther

Drive or hike up Lookout Mountain for trails, Rock City, and Park Point overlook.

King Blvd. (423) 266-4121, thereadhousehotel.com

Chattanooga Choo Choo Book your very own train car for lodging within walking distance of Southside restaurants and breweries. 1400 Market St. (423) 2665000, choochoo.com

Incline Railway top station, 827 E Brow Rd, Lookout Mountain. (423) 821-4224, lookoutmountain.com

25 E Main St. (423) 305-6990, alleiarestaurant.com

Easy Bistro This upscale dining experience could be the best place to make new foodie friends. 801 Chestnut St. (423) 2661121, easybistro.com

Flying Squirrel An open-air setting provides lots of seating options at this popular Southside hangout.

55 Johnson St. (423) 602-5980, flyingsquirrelbar.com

Photographs courtesy of Chattanooga Tourism Co. and The Read House

DAY TWO Lookout Mountain beckons me early the next day. Thir-

LU XURY S E RVIC E AT E VE RY PR ICE POI N T

1209 MOUNTAIN SUMMIT ROAD CLIFFS VALLEY $2,250,000 | MLS# 1417882 Shannon Donahoo 864.329.7345

600 N GLASSY MOUNTAIN ROAD LANDRUM $1,795,000 | MLS# 1427018 Damian Hall 864.561.7942

15 WINDFAIRE PASS COURT GREENVILLE $1,395,000 | MLS #1419849 Holly May 864.640.1959

MOUNTAIN VIEWS

136 HIGH ROCK RIDGE DRIVE THE CLIFFS AT GLASSY $975,000 | MLS# 1346118 John “Clark” Kent 864.784.9918

51 LAKE FARM COURT TRAVELERS REST $789,500 | MLS# 1428130 Rex Galloway 864.630.1111 Kary Galloway 864.901.2204

3 SOUTHBOURNE COURT PARKINS MILL $774,500 | MLS# 1434252 Della Scott 864.363.5722

119 LEESBURG PEAK GREER $649,900 | MLS# 1432423 Michael Mumma 864.238.2542

19 WILD CHERRY CIRCLE MINK CREEK ESTATES $419,500 | MLS# 1436302 Anna Workman 304.646.9515

10 BELGIAN BLUE WAY FOUNTAIN INN $415,000 | MLS# 1436637 Holly May 864.640.1959

27 CARRIAGE DRIVE GREER $329,900 | MLS# 1434482 Anna Workman 304.646.9515

339 SCOTCH ROSE LANE THE TOWNES AT THORNBLADE $329,500 | MLS# 1432252 BK Vernon 864.542.5804

117 N LAWN DRIVE THE RESERVE AT LAKE KEOWEE $225,000 | MLS# 1414552 Kim Crowe 864.888.7053

(864)-920-0303 | 20 Overbrook Ct, Ste 400 | Greenville, SC

ESCAPE • TOP BUNK Welcome spring in Highlands, North Carolina, at The Wells Hotel, a renovation of the former Chandler Inn.

SCANDINAVIAN REBOOT THE WELLS HOTEL IS A CHIC REIM AGINING OF THE FOR MER CHA NDLER INN IN HIGHL A NDS, NORTH CA ROLINA

s we’ve recalibrated our lives, local getaways have risen to the forefront—and delightful places like The Wells Hotel have emerged from the fog. I came to The Wells for a pandemic escape and to sample the culture of our close mountain neighbor near the Nantahala National Forest. Highlands reminds of a quaint Alpine village, a perfect weekend getaway in serene nature with abundant shopping and restaurants filling Main Street. The Chandler Inn, a former Highlands mainstay less than a mile from downtown, changed hands in November 2019. Its new owner gave the inn a facelift in “mountain-chic Scandinavian style,” along with a name change. The renovation is equal parts woodsy and elegant, rustic and modern, perfectly homey but also appealing to city dwellers with a refined eye. Each of the hotel’s 12 stylish suites, unique in character and layout, are appointed with luxurious linens, fine bath products, and Nespresso machines. Like a Danish dream, hardwood floors, modern furnishings, and monochromatic accents lend an airy feel, while

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picture windows bring the outside in. The larger suites have gas fireplaces (a fire in Highlands can always fit the bill, no matter the time of year) and small kitchen areas with a microwave and mini fridge. Many rooms are adjacent to an interior courtyard and have private sitting areas. The lobby doubles as a gathering space and will evolve into a public café called The Stag Bar later this year. Until then, wine, coffee, and draft beer from local Cashiers spot Whiteside Brewery, a sister property of the hotel, are for guests’ enjoyment. Spring is on its way, reminding of renewal—which is something we all could use these days. Take your beverage outside to sip by the fire pit. It is a perfect way to wind down or continue your evening in this charmer of a mountain town. The Wells Hotel, 790 N 4th St, Highlands, NC. (828) 4827736, thewellshotel.com

Photography courtesy of The Wells Hotel

by Blair Knobel

Compassion & Dedication Mike Reynolds Funeral Director Mackey Funerals & Cremations

M EAT

PLAY

Four65 Woodfire Bistro + Bar

Sunset Rock

Neapolitan-style pizza is the star at this Main Street restaurant, though smoke and flame are the backbone of the menu’s Italiandriven dishes. 465 Main St, Highlands, NC. (828) 787-2990, four65.com

mountain Fresh Grocery

For a hearty Southern breakfast, look no further than this popular spot, where you can sate your hunger with homemade biscuits, then shop for gourmet groceries. Don’t miss the freshbaked doughtnuts. 521 Main St, Highlands, NC. (828) 526-2400, mfgro.com

The Ruffed Grouse Tavern

Tucked inside the new Highlander Mountain House, this stylish spot pays homage to field and stream. With a focus on regional produce, Chef Charles Hudson crafts inspired, seasonal dishes. 270 Main St, Highlands, NC. (828) 526-2590, highlandermountainhouse. com/the-ruffed-grouse-tavern

This is a popular Highlands trail and birding area. Only a little more than half a mile to the top, you can settle into natural granite slabs in the rock to watch the sunset. Take a picnic or bottle of wine for an amplified experience. highlandhiker.com/ sunset-rock-trail

ike Reynolds, a funeral director and celebrant, has a passion for walking with people through life’s challenges. He spent many years honing these skills while serving as a minister and children’s counselor before moving to South Carolina to be near his grandchildren. A certified Life Tribute Specialist, Mike has additional training that allows him to conduct highly personal, individualized funeral services, tributes and memorials. His care for people and his dedication to providing meaningful experiences shows as he creates services that reflect the lives of loved ones. He also enjoys Duke basketball, Appalachian State football, fishing tournaments and spending time with his beloved grandchildren Lindsay and Bella.

SHOP

Downtown Highlands brims with boutiques, gift shops, and galleries. A few standouts include home-décor emporium Bardo, artsy gift and plant store Citizen Wilder, and Highlands Wine Shoppe, featuring tastings, accessories, and a vast selection of bottles. Bardo, 460 Main St, (828) 526-4020; Citizen Wilder, 219 S 4th St; Highlands Wine Shoppe, 269 Oak St, (828) 526-4080

311 CENTURY DRIVE (291 BYPASS AT I-385) GREENVILLE

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Offering affordable, compassionate care to the Upstate since 1872. Now also offering virtual funeral, cemetery and cremation arrangements and live-streamed memorial services.

MackeyCenturyDrive.com | MackeyWoodlawn.com M A R C H 2021 I

TAKE CONTROL. LIVE PAIN FREE. At Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates, we are committed to getting you back to doing what you love. Our fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeons, Neurosurgeons, Pain Specialists, and Physical Therapists understand and cater to your unique needs. From sports injuries, to joint replacement, to advanced spine surgery we can offer you a care and rehabilitation plan that gets you the results you want. Call today for an appointment with one of our highly trained specialists at one of our three convenient upstate locations. We also offer Ortho Urgent Care at our Greenville and Spartanburg locations from 8 am – 4 pm Monday through Friday for unexpected orthopaedic injuries.

CAROLINA AROLIN ORTHOPAEDIC & NEUROSURGICAL ASSOCIATES 864-583-CONA | www.cona.care Total quality care, now with multiple convenient Upstate locations

Spartanburg 1330 Boiling Springs Road, Suite 1600 Spartanburg, SC 29303 Greenville 220 Roper Mountain Road Extension Greenville, SC 29615 Duncan 115 Deacon Tiller Court Duncan, SC 29334

SPORT T H E B E S T S T O R I E S O F L A N D & W AT E R

More than honing soccer skills, 11.11 TRAINING helps young women discover the best of themselves.

Photograph by Eli Warren

M A R C H 2021 I

Sport

LIVING A MISSION GREEN V ILLE’S 11.11 TR A INING STR I VES TO HELP YOUNG FEM A LE ATHLETES REA LIZE THEIR F ULL POTENTI A L ON A ND OFF THE FIELD by Ronnie Musselwhite • photography by Will crooks

here’s a small, modestly furnished room tucked in a corner of 11.11 Training where select groups of female soccer players sometimes gather, if only momentarily, before or after workouts. It’s a mini sanctuary, a tiny transition zone that India Trotter and Blakely Mattern designed exclusively for students of 11.11, a Greenville-based training center the two athletes-turnedentrepreneurs launched in January 2016 to provide specialized soccer instruction for girls between the ages of 10 and 22. This section of the 11.11 facility pales in comparison to the centerpiece of the 6,200-square-foot indoor complex: a workout space that stretches 30 yards from end to end and is covered with thick artificial turf. Yet when considered in the context of 11.11’s

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mission, which is “to help female soccer players transition into the truest and best versions of themselves,” the players’ lounge can and should be viewed as a place where they’re free to laugh, cry, unwind, or unload anything that might be on their hearts or minds, whether it relates to life on the field or life in general. As such, it’s an integral component of a larger transformational hub for young athletes who are on a journey of self-discovery. “This is an environment where it’s safe to make a mistake,” says Mattern, a former J.L. Mann soccer standout who went on to play for the University of South Carolina and later joined forces with Trotter to start 11.11 after competing on several professional teams. “We provide a place where you have the opportunity to try, and it’s okay to fail.”

A DIFFERENT APPROACH At the core, 11.11 strives to help students realize who they are and who they can be, both as young women and as players. Trotter and Mattern use their proprietary Infused Training Method, an innovative program that blends intensive technical work with speed, strength, agility, and fitness training, to hone soccer skills, and rely on their collective life experiences to reach each student on a personal level.

COAST APPAREL FOCUS: APPAREL & ACCESSORIES • EST.: 2009 ADDRESS: 324 S. MAIN STREET | GREENVILLE

“First, it helps that Blakely and I were those girls—we were female soccer players, so we know what they’re going through and can relate to them,” explains Trotter, a South Florida native whose playing résumé includes Florida State, stints with domestic and international professional clubs, and years on the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team roster. “The second thing is, we’ve found that most of the time with girls, there are a lot of rooted issues.” For instance, the underlying cause of a technical mistake like not keeping a toe pointed down when striking the ball might be linked to low self-esteem or a lack of confidence. Addressing the emotional issue removes a mental barrier that, more often than not, leads to improved athletic performance. “The longer you’re with certain girls and spend time with them, you become more than just a trainer,” adds Trotter, who also served as an assistant coach at USC Upstate from 2011–2013. “You invest in them, and they confide in you because this is a safe place—not just with soccer, it’s a safe place with life.” If this sounds a bit metaphysical, it is—and that’s exactly how Trotter and Mattern intended 11.11 to be. Both are professed “believers” who’ve competed as, with, and against elite athletes throughout their own journeys. They understand the connection between body, mind, and spirit, and weave these elements into their training strategies. Even the name itself, 11.11, has spiritual undertones, signifying a doorway to divine guidance. “It isn’t only about soccer,” Mattern says. “That’s just a tool we use that allows us to say, ‘It’s okay to fail.’ It’s more about the girls learning who they are and being able to grow towards that.”

Since starting 11:11 Training ﬁve years ago with about a dozen “guinea pigs” who helped Blakely Mattern (above left) and India Trotter (above right) test and reﬁne their Infused Training Method, their roster has grown to more than 350 female soccer players. Of those,156 athletes train weekly in 12-person sessions that are subdivided into groups with a 6:1 student-to-teacher ratio.

COAST APPAREL COLLECTIONS bring ease, style, charm, and dignity to men’s dressing.

We do this by designing capsule collections that: • Care deeply for the details • Are grounded in classics and tethered to color stories • Are sensible for any situation • Are delivered with ease to fine men’s retail, through online experiences, and our own retail stylists. This spring we’ve crafted a line that embraces the seasons’ colors. The line will play perfectly through summer too. The products span from buttery soft slub tees and Pima cotton tees, to a range of fresh woven button downs, new 5 pocket stretch twill pants, jackets, vest, polos, quarter-zips and more. Coast Apparel FA/WI19 collection is available at our own Main St. and Augusta St. locations as well as over 40 preferred shops. To find a location near you go to CoastApparel.com

PRICE: VARIES BY PRODUCT

COASTAPPAREL.COM M A R C H 2021 I

RELIVING LIFE'S SPECIAL MOMENTS IN THE...

Remember the moments.

Losing a loved one is never easy... We can help you celebrate the life, the memories and the moments that made them special.

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864-467-0085 | MARCHANTCO.COM | INFO@MARCHANTCO.COM PHOTO CREDIT: CHRISTY HOLLYWOOD PHOTOGRAPHY

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

RobinsonFuneralHomes.com Proudly serving Greenville, Pickens, Anderson and Oconee Counties

STYLE

ALL THINGS STYLISH / UNIQUE / EXTRAORDINARY

Special thanks to model Mercedes Purington (Millie Lewis) and Isabelle Schreier (Belle Maquillage) for hair and make-up

A. Calin by Flying Tomato off the shoulder polyester top, $45. From Southern Sisters Boutique; paper clip necklace, $35. From Monkee’s of the West End; Verasite earrings, $900; chrysocolla malachite ring, $5,750. Both from llyn strong fine art jewelry.

On the cusp of brighter days, create your own COLOR STORY in the season’s best hue.

Photograph by Paul Mehaffey

M A R C H 2021 I

STYLE • THE LOOK (left) Everly olive drawstring jacket, $46. From Traveling Chic Boutique; green tourmaline 18k gold bar necklace, $3,450. From llyn strong fine art jewelry; Federicka Padula earrings, $135; Alexis Bittar bracelets, $95 each. Both from Monkee’s of the West End.

GREEN SCREEN

WELCOME A NEW MONTH IN SPRING’S HOT COLOR styled by Chelsey Ashford • photography by Paul Mehaffey

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

riginally from Colombia and now making her home in Savannah, Georgia, designer Ana Barragan has created

(this page) Anna Cate Myers maxi dress, $218; snake charm bracelet, $45. Both from Monkee’s of the West End. 18k yellow gold lens cut green tourmaline jacket earrings $4,500; 18k yellow gold mint tourmaline ring, $8,200. Both from llyn strong fine art jewelry.

agan has created the stylish ecological brand,

M A R C H 2021 I

STYLE • THE LOOK

(above) Olive & Pique Jessie beret, from Traveling Chic Boutique; Mignonne Gavigan mini Madeline earrings, $125. From Monkee’s of the West End; Karlie satin puff-sleeve top, $78. From Prowse with Moore.

Special thanks to model Mercedes Purington (Millie Lewis) and Isabelle Schreier (Belle Maquillage) for hair and make-up

(right) Sheila Fajl Irene hoops, $70. JKT-Josey novelty leather jacket, $695. Both from Monkee’s of the West End; Just Black pants and Béljoy necklace with agate + horn pendant, from Traveling Chic Boutique; Sam Edelman flats, $145. From Muse Shoe Studio; Old Money Corp leather cuff, $50. From Southern Sisters Boutique; Lucy Paris sweater tank, $66. From Prowse with Moore.

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

riginally from Colombia and now making her home in Savannah, Georgia, designer Ana Barragan has created

agan has created the stylish ecological brand,

(above) anchor beads necklace, $65. From Monkee’s of the West End; Ces Femme top, $54. From Prowse with Moore; BuDhaGirl fringe bracelet, $45. Listicle tassel pants, $45. Both from Southern Sisters Boutique; Silent D sandals, $120. From Muse Shoe Studio.

M A R C H 2021 I

Ms. Bea Wright

GROUND RULES MS. BEA OFFERS A MUCH-NEEDED REFRESHER ON HOW TO PL AY NICE

aybe it’s the pandemic or the aftermath of a volatile political campaign season, but my tolerance for fussing and fighting, over things big and small, is dwindling. Respect, kindness, and generosity of spirit have gone out the window, as if we’ve never known better. So, how about this idea—let’s all plan to meet at the playground and have a kindergarten teacher give us a refresher course on playground rules. You may remember some different schoolyard norms, but from my recollection, the basics are this: Be kind and helpful to each other; play nicely; take turns; listen and respect one another; and keep hands and feet to yourself. When I was growing up, my two favorite things to play on at the park were the swings and the seesaw. I am sad that you don’t see seesaws around much anymore, primarily for safety concerns. Swinging can be enjoyed as a solitary endeavor, but it is impossible to enjoy a seesaw alone. Thus, the emblematic seesaw is the ideal place to learn and practice each one of the playground rules. And there is an added bonus—playtime on a teetertotter introduces us to important life lessons. Here are my teetertotter takeaways: Life is full of ups and downs. Riding a seesaw up and down reminds us that some days will be better than others, some more challenging, others more joyful. To fully appreciate the highs, we have

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

to experience a low or two in our lives. Acceptance of this principle will lead to a more fulfilled life where we are grateful for the good days while not letting our bad days define us. Bullies. Ugh. Seesaw-savvy people know that one of the worst teetertotter experiences imaginable is when a bully either keeps you suspended and stranded midair without a way to get down or jumps off the seesaw so you crash down to the ground. Bullies can and will take all of the joy out of play, so learn how to spot and deal with them now. Cooperating with others is rewarding. Since it is not a solo activity, the seesaw teaches the value of teamwork. With a common objective of mutual seesaw enjoyment, there must be give and take on both sides of the plank for it to work and for it to be fun. As in life, sometimes you have to give more (pushing off the ground) just so the other person can enjoy the ride, and vice versa. Cooperating is a win-win! Achieving balance is hard. Have you ever tried to balance on a seesaw with someone so neither of you is touching the ground? It doesn’t just happen. The effort requires concentration, cooperation, core strength, and more. All of these lessons can be applied to the workplace and in our personal relationships. So, the next time you pass a playground, let it be a reminder of the value of playground rules. Now, play nice, y’all. I’m here if you need me. Until then, y’all behave.

Man About TOWN

SOCIAL DISTANCE DUR ING THE PA NDEMIC, THE M A N LEA NS F URTHER INTO A LREA DY ESTA BLISHED TENDENCIES by Steven Tingle

f there is any silver lining to the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s that being antisocial is now considered respectable behavior. Last spring, when health officials first advised everyone to avoid crowds, stop shaking hands, and stay home as much as possible, I thought: Whew, I won’t have to change a thing. Other guidelines fit neatly into my lifestyle, as well. Wash your hands multiple times a day: Been doing that for years. Stay six feet apart from other people: Way ahead of you. Repeatedly disinfect doorknobs, phones, and other frequently touched surfaces: C’mon, please, who doesn’t? It’s also taken a considerable amount of pressure off of saying no to things. In the past I’ve scrambled for ways to avoid birthday parties, family reunions, children’s dance recitals, and weddings with a cash bar. I’ve used the same flimsy, but tried-and-true excuses for years: stomach bug, traffic court, debilitating agoraphobia. But now if I’m invited to something, I simply shrug and say, “Sorry. Pandemic.” I used to feel a bit of a jerk for always sending my regrets. Now I feel polite. However, there are some things I do miss, especially dining out. I’ve ordered countless restaurant meals over the past year, picked them up, and then wiped down the bags and boxes with enough sanitizing wipes

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

to disinfect a crime scene. But I do miss eating in an actual restaurant. I know outdoor dining is considered safer and many restaurants are attempting to facilitate this option. But an outdoor area, completely encased in plastic, that you have to walk through an entryway to access, seems to me the very definition of “indoors.” So, for now, I’ll stick with to-go and enjoy restaurant meals in my hermetic bubble. Don’t get me wrong, I’m as eager as anyone for this pandemic to end, and thankfully, it eventually will. And when that time comes I understand many people will go back to their carefree ways and return to enjoying things I’ve never been comfortable with, like eating a slice of birthday cake someone has just blown on to extinguish its candles, or wearing rented shoes and sticking their fingers into the murky holes of a bowling ball, or patronizing a salad bar. But post-pandemic I’ll be the same guy I’ve always been. A guy who keeps a travel-sized pack of sanitizing wipes in his pocket and wears gloves when he pumps gas. A guy who fakes a stroke to get out of attending your daughter’s college graduation ceremony. A guy who absolutely loves dining out, but wishes he could bring his own silverware. A guy who really wants to socialize, but just can’t seem to relax.

You can’t get anything past Matt.

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864.906.1052 | mattnocks.com | Realtor® Matt.Nocks@JHA-SothebysRealty.com M A R C H 2021 I

THE UPSTATE-BASED ARTISANS

IN OUR ANNUAL MAKERS ISSUE

CRAFT PIECES BOTH FUNCTIONAL AND BEAUTIFUL,

INSPIRED BY THE INHERENT POSSIBILITIES

IN CLAY, WOOD, AND FIBER.

BY BETH BROWN ABLES, M. LINDA LEE & ANGIE TOOLE THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY WILL CROOKS & PAUL MEHAFFEY

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Woodworker Chris Willey crafts elegant sculptures and bowls; for more on Willey, turn to page 70.

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ceramicist L O U I S A H E N R Y

A S A K I D LO U I S A H E N RY H A D I D E A L NEIGHBORS. They lived right around the corner, and invited her with open arms into their world of art and making. Those neighbors were her grandparents. “On Wednesdays in the summer I would go with them to the senior-citizen center,” Louisa recalls, “My grandfather made the forms from molds and ran the ceramics kiln while the ladies flirted with him.” She got to choose the forms she would paint—“raw bisque-fired angels or cartoon characters that I would later gift to my mom.” Those early family memories stuck to Louisa, and so did the transformative nature of clay. Today, Louisa is the hands and heart behind Biglou Pottery, creating elegant, free-form ceramic pieces. Clay is ubiquitous throughout history. In fact, historians believe that pottery was likely discovered independently and often accidentally in many different locations. Religious texts and folklore are rife with stories and metaphors about clay—in the Bible and the Qur’an, man is created from clay; in Greek myth, Prometheus molds men out of water and earth; Norse legend tells of humans being formed of sand from tree trunks. To put it simply, clay is a

powerful player in human history. “In any culture,” Louisa says, “you can see the evidence of clay being used for function and beauty together. Sometimes the function itself is the beauty, but oftentimes both are seen working to give a snapshot of a culture that was once fully alive.” Louisa’s devotion to the material is rooted in its humanity, through her own history and the history of humankind. “It’s a beautiful reminder of the commonality we have with [all] humans.”

W T

he pieces that Louisa makes in her studio blur the lines of utility and beauty. Her platters and vessels combine different techniques and materials, adding depth and texture to what might be a straightforward piece of serveware. A large platter could just as easily hang artfully on the wall as it could hold crudités for guests. Each Biglou piece begins with a white-bodied clay that fires to a cream color. “It’s a great standard clay that is strong yet refined,” Louisa says. For her signature scalloped dishes, she adds a speckled brownstone clay. Louisa loves “the magic” of firing the speckled clay, seeing “little dots appear that make freckles.” Like countless ancient cultures before her, Louisa marvels over what makes clay come alive.

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Louisa Henry (opposite) began unraveling the mystery of clay as a child with the help of her grandparents, an exploration that has grown into a passion and a line of pottery.

From the humble senior-center origin of Louisa’s clay habit came a life-giving practice. Her grandparents’ generosity of spirit opened her eyes and her hands to the magic of making, the beauty inherent in utility. For validation in her practice, Louisa references the ancient Roman phrase “we eat first with our eyes.” “It sums up the human heart’s desire for beauty in the world around us. You see the beauty, and it draws you even deeper into appreciation of the function.” Biglou’s plates and platters marry beauty and utility, just as they marry smooth white clay with speckled brownstone. Louisa knows that after her hands form the pieces, they don’t need much to make them shine. “I prefer the simple ornamentation of a white glaze,” she says, emphasizing the importance of allowing the clay to emit its own warmth and character. “[It] feels like magic to me.” —Angie Toole Thompson Find Louisa Henry’s pottery online at bigloupottery.com.

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woodworker C H R I S W I L L E Y

A T R E E H O L D S I TS H I S TO RY W I T H I N . Growth rings mark the passage of time, striations tell of dry seasons and disease or springtime’s sap rising. Through the hands of a skilled woodworker, these imperfections become art. Woodcraft is an art form that dates to the sixth century. The use of wood is an element so primal, it’s virtually impossible to imagine how our lives would exist without it. Working with wood is not simply fashioning lumber into a shelter or a chair. Yes, wood can build a table, a house, a bookshelf, but in the hands of an artist, it also can be carefully and creatively manipulated into bowls, sculptures, and singular works of art. Eight years ago, Greenville resident Chris Willey, longtime woodworker and tinkerer, had grown tired of his typical cabinetry projects and purchased a $300 lathe to fiddle around with, hoping to spark inspiration for his engineering brain. After getting the hang of creating round objects from solid wood, he couldn’t help thinking, “How many wooden bowls can a person use, anyway?” There had to be more.

YouTube video by woodturner Malcolm Tibbets introduced him to the concept of segmented turning, which satisfied Willey’s longing to apply geometry to his latent creativity. “Segmented turning involves taking smaller pieces of wood to make larger structures,” he explains. “Typically, a series of wedge-shaped pieces are glued together to make a polygon ring, and this ring can then be turned on the lathe. Stacking multiple rings forms the overall object, and the possibilities are endless.” Segmented wood turning is visible math, an optical illusion. Observing someone using a lathe is as satisfying as watching a potter on a wheel. As if by magic, a clunky chunk of maple morphs into smooth, curving silhouettes as the wood shavings fly—the hard dry wood seems as malleable as wet clay. What was once angular and splintered becomes impossibly silky, rich, and undulating—the mind can’t compute: How on earth did they do that?

“It is very comforting and relaxing to work with wood, and I never get tired of someone asking me if they can pick it up, and how in the world did I make it,” Willey says. “It is fun to explain the process and see their ‘aha

moment’ when it finally clicks.” It’s that spark of wonder that elevates Willey’s work into an approachable art form. And with such delight too—he has fun with the work, attempting new ideas just for the sake of trying. His engineer brain is used to great advantage as he figures out inlays and structures: a giant egg, a baby rattle, a wooden football. It’s impossible not to reach out and touch the smooth surfaces, to marvel at the unique grains and natural color variations in each piece: a deeper layer, another story. “I hope that my art communicates possibility and creativity. I want people to look at my art and ponder how it was made, especially the organic shapes like a double torus or a ribbon shape. I like that it is art you can pick up and feel. There is a warmth and connectivity between humans and wood.”—Beth Brown Ables See more of Chris’s work at greenvillearts.com/artist/chris-willey.

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Combining an engineer’s brain with an artist’s eye, Chris Willey (opposite) transforms small segments of wood into bespoke pieces of art.

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basket maker E R I N N B A G G O T T

BETWEEN CARING F O R H E R T WO S M A L L B OYS (ages two and ten months) and working part-time from home, Erinn Baggott has more than enough to keep her busy. A couple of years ago, however, the young mother unintentionally planted the seeds for a budding business as she was scanning Pinterest for some basic storage options for her home. “I saw a basket that was sewn together and thought ‘Oh, I could make these,’” she recalls. Her first attempt at sewing a basket was rough. “It had a lot of missed stitches, and you could pull the rope apart,” Erinn confesses. But she soon got the feel of it, and started posting her baskets on Instagram, eventually offering them for sale. In 2019, she began selling her wares on Etsy. “I just went out on a ledge to see how it would go.”

o far, so good. Using a sewing machine, the artist creates freestanding baskets and hanging plant baskets out of natural-hued fibers. She starts by coiling braided cotton rope around itself and binding it together by stitching the base with a cross, a symbol of her faith. Then she switches to a zigzag stitch, spinning the rope around to attach each row to the base. When she’s ready to make the edges of the basket, she flips the base up to create the basket’s sides. “It’s like pottery the way you have

to form it,” she says. “But unlike pottery, I can’t just mush it and start over.”

Funny that she likens her craft to pottery, since both are nearly as old as the history of man. Before early man discovered clay, he plaited natural fibers together to form containers for storing food and other items. From those utilitarian beginnings, the craft of basketmaking has evolved into an art form. Textures are what captivate this artist: the smooth touch of cotton, the scratch of natural jute. “If there’s one thing I just can’t get enough of, it’s clothes,” reveals the artisan, who studied fashion for a short time in college. Her love of neutral colors expresses itself in the natural fiber she uses, often juxtaposing the rough texture of jute with soft 100 percent cotton in her popular hanging plant baskets—a form that stemmed from her personal affinity for plants. “I try to be pretty basic in most things that I do. I’m not, as people say, ‘extra.’ I

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

The variety of coiled baskets that Erinn Baggott (opposite) creates with her sewing machine arises organically from her love of natural fibers and neutral colors.

love basic, clean décor, and that’s why I lean toward natural colors.” Bolder tones enter the picture in the different colors of thread she uses to sew the coils together, and in the monograms and other personalization she may add to her baskets. Although Erinn has no formal training in art or sewing, as she looks back now, she realizes that nourishing her creative self has always been satisfying. “[Making baskets] gives me a creative outlet to realize my ideas and make something with my hands,” she says. “I love to sit at my sewing machine and watch the baskets come alive.” Out of her own fundamental need for places to stow baby paraphernalia, The Alabaster Basket Co. has taken shape. Even with occasional breaks from basketmaking, like her recent one after her second son was born, the Lord, she maintains, keeps leading her back to fiber art—back to an avocation that feeds her soul. —M. Linda Lee Erinn hopes to place her wares in local retail shops this year. For now, you can find her baskets online at thealabasterbasketco.etsy.com.

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bl ade run ne r

A S A YO U NG A RT IS T, A N D R E W M E E R S WAS CAPTIVAT E D BY M E TA L — NOW HE ’ S D E D IC AT E D HIS C A R E E R TO M A S T E R ING IT by K ATHRYN DAV É

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

photography by PAUL M EH A F F EY

Carl Sobocinski, recipient of this year’s Visionary Leadership Award, leads his company and city through his commitment to generosity, encouragement, and an unwavering focus on the success of others.

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in IN THE BEG INNING, SPARKS F LE W. T HE I NI T I A L THRILL OF A CH ALLENG E S E T T LE D I NTO A SL OW B URN AS WH AT WAS NE W BE CA ME MOR E FA MILIAR AND MORE DIFF I CU LT, F I NDI NG I T S TRUE EX PRESSION T HROU G H F R I CT I ON. If this sounds like the unfolding of a long-term relationship, well, it is— only this time, it’s the relationship of a maker to his medium. Metalsmith and bladesmith Andrew Meers did not set out as a young artist to work with metal, but when knifemaker J.D. Smith took Meers under his wing, Meers traded painting and sculpture for an exploration of metal that would change the course of his life. “At first, it was the challenge that attracted me. I was really not intrinsically good at metalworking,” he explains. In the course of his early trying and failing, he became captivated by the drama of metal (the fire of the forge, the hammering!) and the ways it could be manipulated. Now, he acknowledges that working with metal can be frustrating: the tools are heavy; the work is slow and dirty. “I have a love/hate relationship with it. At times, it can be really static and stable and other times, really plastic and able to be manipulated in very specific ways,” Meers says. Still, his interest in the medium has held for the last sixteen years. Meers moved on from the initial challenge to a fascination with the technical precision of metallurgy to where he is now, a more personal pursuit of metal’s expressive qualities. Along the way, the Boston native received an MFA in metalsmithing/blacksmithing, earned his Master Smith certification from the American Bladesmithing Society—a ranking only a couple hundred others in the world share—and completed two stints at North Carolina’s renowned Penland School of Craft, first as an instructor and then as artist-in-residence from 2017–2020. His work—which ranges from delicately engineered folding knives and intricately patterned daggers to small reliquaries or vessels—is united by his interest in pattern and the personal. Meers is reinventing the idea of a reliquary, building knives around or creating containers for tiny relics whose meanings come from Meers’s own life, not a holy tradition. A fox tooth found on a walk, for example. A ladybug. In the same vein, the embellishments that adorn his knives replace traditional cultural motifs with unexpected yet mundane images, such as a cat chasing a ball of yarn, or a mouse and mousetrap. “For me, the meaning is that it is intentionally sort of banal. Just nice little moments from life,” he says.

M A R C H 20 2 1 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

While Meers describes his style as “playful” and “less refined,” the skill demonstrated in his craft is serious. Over the years, he’s been refining his perspective on the ancient art of pattern welding, which fuses different metals together to create exquisite patterns on the blade. And yet, the patterns—some cloud-like and ethereal, some graphic and bold—make up just one component of a knife. The multistep process for creating one of Meers’s more involved pieces can take years to complete. Bladesmithing is an art that traces its origins back across millennia. And reliquaries have an ancient history all their own. Andrew Meers uses these noble, time-honored traditions to elevate the everyday, the useful, the personal. He sets the medium free from cultural mythologies and bends it to his own self-expression. He takes the old and makes it new. See more at andrewmeersstudio.com. FOR more details on andrew’s knives: TOWNCAROLINA.COM Bladesmith Andrew Meers (below) plays with pattern and personal experiences to design visually striking knives, like the Mosaic Utility knife (left), crafted with Damascus steel and Thuya Burl wood, and a kitchen knife of Damascus steel, gold, copper, silver, burl with a snow monkey inlay (opposite).

"At first, it was the challenge that attracted me. I was really not intrinsically good at metalworking. I have a love/hate relationship with it. At times, it can be really static and stable and other times, really plastic and able to be manipulated in very specific ways." —Andrew Meers

Based in Western North Carolina, Meers, who holds both an MFA in metalsmithing/blacksmithing and a rare Master Smith certification from the American Bladesmithing Society, creates knives, daggers, and small vessels with creative prowess forged from his sixteen years of exploring metallurgy.

ART SCHOOL PENLAND SCHOOL OF CRAFT EMPOWERS ARTISTS AND MAKES CRAFT EDUCATION ACCESSIBLE

The eternal quest for artists is the search for the time and space and resources to make their art. Penland School of Craft, an arts education center tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, gives creatives a way to find all three. In addition to workshops in fields that range from textiles to printmaking to metalworking, the school offers three-year artists’ residencies, galleries, and ready access to a thriving community of craftspeople. The residency program aims to empower artists with the support, collaboration, and freedom to focus their next step. Perhaps most importantly, the communal design of the program ensures constant interaction between Penland’s students, other artists-inresidence, and visitors. Metalsmith Andrew Meers, a recent Penland resident artist, says the shared creative energy was one of the most valuable parts of his Penland experience. His most recent work actually incorporates glass vials that were created by a fellow resident artist. “You know your neighbors are doing the same thing,” he says. “So you can always walk next door and talk to them about your practice.” Penland School of Craft, 67 Doras Trail, Penland, NC. (828) 765-2359, penland.org

PENLAND SCHOOL OF CRAFT EMPOWERS ARTISTS AND MAKES CRAFT EDUCATION ACCESSIBLE

M A R C H 2021 I

Brewpub - 91 Biltmore Ave. Funkatorium - 147 Coxe Ave. Asheville, NC @wickedweedbrewing

@wickedweedfunkatorium

Brewpub - 91 Biltmore Ave. Funkatorium - 147 Coxe Ave. Asheville, NC @wickedweedbrewing

@wickedweedfunkatorium

eat drink FOOD FINDS & CAN’T-MISS DISHES

When Juniper opens this April, it will offer patrons an amplified experience of gin and a select food menu.

JUNIPER at the new AC Hotel promises inventive gin cocktails and a stunning view.

Photograph by Rebecca Lehde

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E D • CITY DISH

A NEW LEAF JUNIPER, GREEN V ILLE’S FIRST GIN-CENTR IC BA R, BLOSSOMS AT THE NEW AC HOTEL by ruta fox • photography by Rebecca Lehde

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in, once the notorious spirit that personified the Roaring Twenties, is set for a trendy resurgence, and Juniper, Greenville’s first and only gin bar, is leading the way. A discreet elevator next to the AC Hotel’s lobby transports patrons to a magical garden-in-the-sky. Walk through an enchanting ivy-and-flower-filled trellis entrance, and Juniper reveals its expansive vistas— astounding views in every direction—the Blue Ridge Mountains, Reedy River Falls, Main Street, and Cleveland Park. The 16,000-square-foot, open-air rooftop is at once sprawling but ingeniously designed to flow into four locations, each with its own greeneryinspired vibe: The Secret Garden (for al fresco cocktails on the lawn), The Fire Box (for late-night pizza around fire pits), The Greenhouse (for eclectic smallplate dining), and Jasmine Hall (for sophisticated events).

A crown atop downtown Greenville’s new AC Hotel, Juniper offers more than a stellar gin-focused cocktail scene. The bar’s garden-centric décor and panoramic views offer patrons a memorable experience.

NOT JUST GARDEN VARIETY A well-stocked bar cart allows bartenders to go from table to table to mix an array of gin-centric drinks, offering spirits like bar hill gin from Vermont, distilled with raw honey, and Nikka Coffey Gin from Japan, which has a limited production of only 12,000 bottles.

Try the Empress 75, a new spin on the traditional French 75 made with Empress 1908, an indigohued, handcrafted, small-batch Canadian gin exclusive to Juniper and not found anywhere else in South Carolina. Or imbibe a Rich Girl made with The Botantist gin from Scotland, raspberry liqueur, a rich vanilla bean syrup, and fresh lavender.

Gin-forward cocktails are the standouts at Juniper. Master mixologist and beverage director Baileigh Wilson brings her training at the Culinary Institute of America to the innovative bar program featuring dozens of gins along with her house-made syrups, cordials, and shrubs. A gin tower graces the actual bar, and a tiered trolley will enable bartenders to mix custom cocktails tableside, featuring a wide variety of infusions and garnishes. Mixology classes and gin tastings will also be offered, and Wilson’s wine list will have an old-world European focus. Chef Fernando Coppola will bring his international creativity to the food, formed by his impressive global career cooking in some of the finest kitchens in the world. Juniper’s decorative touches abound, including botanical prints, authentic French bistro chairs, seasonal flowers, and huge planter boxes containing towering trees, which add to its indoor/outdoor year-round appeal. Follow the brick path to the bright green and white striped lounges on the veranda. You’ll find Juniper’s intoxicating garden atmosphere is the perfect entrée to the Twenty Twenties. Opening in April 2021. Juniper, at the AC Hotel by Marriott Greenville. 315 S Main St, Greenville. (864) 720-2950, junipergvl.com

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E D • OPEN BAR While gin’s predominant flavor comes from juniper, many other botanicals and herbs nuance how the spirit tastes, allowing distillers to flex their creativity when crafting their varieties.

Chemist Spirits Chemist founders Debbie Word, her pharmacist daughter, Danielle (aka “the chemist”), and Danielle’s husband, James Donaldson, spent time at Strathearn Distillery in Scotland before formulating their three keystone gins. In a fragrant Scottish style Debbie calls “soft and refreshing,” their creations include clear, citrus-forward American Gin; Barrel-Rested Gin, which derives its nose of molasses and clove from time in new oak barrels; and Navy Strength Gin, a golden-hued overproof (57 percent ABV) spirit infused with Thai ginger and sweet orange from Spain. Opened in 2018 on Asheville’s South Slope, Chemist sources 20 different botanicals from local farmers to create a unique expression of Appalachia. While not yet available in South Carolina, Chemist gin is sold at ABC stores throughout North Carolina, as well as at the distillery’s on-site bottle shop. 151 Coxe Ave, Asheville, NC. (828) 263-6943, chemistspirits.com

High Wire Distilling co.

KINDRED SPIRITS THESE LOCA L DISTILLER IES PRODUCE STA NDOUT SM A LL -BATCH GINS by M. Linda Lee

tanding strong on the piney, peppery back of juniper berries, gin is not just your parents’ libation anymore. All the rage in the years before Prohibition, gin has experienced a resurgence since the turn of the millennium, inspiring mixologists to jigger with new gin cocktails beyond the classic martini. Depending on who’s making it, gin is distilled in a potion of different botanicals that infuse each brand with its own signature magic. Sample these small-batch gins from the Carolinas.

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Gin was one of the first spirits that Scott Blackwell and his wife, Ann Marshall, made after they opened their distillery in Charleston in 2013. Pending some research and experimentation, the couple crafted their Botanical Gin using fresh lemon and orange peel, along with fresh licorice root, angelica root, and local lemongrass and lavender. The backbone relies on the floral nuances of fresh juniper berries. They followed their Botanical Gin with Barrel-Rested Gin, the same formula aged in toasted virgin oak barrels. “Like in whiskey, the wood rounds off the juniper so the gin picks up the orange and cardamom,” explains Blackwell. “It’s more what I call a wintertime or a sipping gin.” Mixed in cocktails, both versions of High Wire’s gin play well with citrus flavors. Available in Greenville at Bouharoun’s Fine Wines & Spirits, Empire Spirits, Green’s Beverages, and Total Wine. High Wire Distilling Co., 311 Huger Ave, Charleston, SC. (843) 7554664, highwiredistilling.squarespace.com

Sutler’s Spirit Co. Standing out on the shelf in its striking black ceramic bottle, Sutler’s Gin pays homage to the sutlers, or civilian merchants, who sold supplies—including alcohol—to soldiers during the Revolutionary War. Scot Sanborn, who founded Sutlter’s Spirits in 2015, attended The Citadel, which is where

SPRING IS ALMOST HERE!

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Yield: 1 cocktail

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(from High Wire Distilling Co., Charleston)

Ingredients

1½ oz High Wire Botanical Gin ¾ oz Cucumber/Bell Pepper Juice (recipe follows) ¼ oz fresh lime juice ¾ oz agave syrup Shake all ingredients over ice and strain into a Collins glass. Top with club soda and garnish with a slice of salted cucumber.

Cucumber/Bell Pepper Juice 1 green bell pepper 3 cucumbers (unpeeled) 250ml water ¾ oz High Wire Botanical Gin Pinch salt

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Juice bell pepper and cucumber. Strain through a ﬁne strainer or chinois, then add water, salt, and gin.

SPEED BOAT RENTALS

YACHT RENTALS

he first came across this military term that dates back to 1599. Out of the three different gin flavor profiles he first developed, the distiller released the one that dials back the juniper in favor of a “heart of lavender and coriander” brightened by notes of lemon and bitter orange. Sanborn says, “Sutler’s Gin is great in a Negroni, and it nails a classic martini with a lemon twist.”

SAILBOAT RENTALS

Available locally at Bouharoun’s Fine Wines & Spirits and Total Wine. Sutler’s Spirit Co, 840 Mill Works St, #120, Winston-Salem, NC. (336) 565-6006, sutlersspiritco.com

KAYAK RENTALS

Vicario Liqueurs Renowned for the liqueurs they hand-craft at their facility in Greer, Renato Vicario and his wife, Janette Wesley, added Vicario Gin to their lineup early last year. Their version is not distilled a second time; instead it is macerated with a combination of 27 herbs and spices, including lemon verbena, French tarragon, lavender, sage, and rosemary grown in the couple’s six-acre organic garden. The painstaking process involves adding specific botanicals in succession for varying periods of time. “You have to be extremely careful about how long you leave the spices in,” Renato cautions. “Nothing stays in for more than three days, in order to balance the taste.” During this process, botanicals soften the juniper, yielding a rounded and well-balanced gin that’s sippable on its own. Available locally at Bouharoun’s Fine Wines & Spirits and at Vicario Liqueurs Tasting Room (open by appointment). 800 Old Jones Rd, Greer. (864) 420-0225, salutellc.com

CANOE RENTALS

www.HydroShare.com @hydroshare

FISHING RENTALS

ALL TYPES OF

WATERCRAFT RENTALS

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E D • KITCHEN AID

HIGH RISE THESE CL ASSIC, NO-FR ILLS PA NCA KES COME OUT PER FECTLY FLUFF Y by Kathryn Davé • photography by Jivan Davé

do not remember being born / or how I knew my mother’s face. / Only that we woke to the sound / of pots banging against the stove, / knowing she would be downstairs,” writes contemporary poet Kate Baer. A thread runs between these lines and Robert Hayden’s famous poem, a son remembering how his father braved the “blueblack” dawn cold to warm the house for his family: “What did I know, what did I know / of love’s lonely and austere offices?” The kind of love these poets are describing is parental, elemental. It is not a fiery first kiss or a proposal by moonlight or even a mother leaping into oncoming traffic to shove her toddler out of the way. It is basic, like cotton—the fabric of our lives and all that. Both the hardest and the easiest thing to give, its impact compounds with time and yet, somehow still needs to be replenished every day. It is just pancakes on a Saturday. Fat, golden pancakes for my children at an hour when I’d rather be in bed or sitting in silent sunlight with a cup of coffee. Because I perfected the fluffiness of these pancakes long ago on slower, sexier weekends, I can make them in my sleep. Who am I kidding, I am asleep, standing bleary-eyed in front of this stove, tuning out cartoons. I won’t pretend that feeding my children breakfast—a most basic caregiving obligation—is heroic. But I am furnishing the rooms of their memories. Cloud-like pancakes, crisped on the edges from butter, studded with blueberries. Drizzle of pure maple syrup, tumblers of orange juice that slops over the side—sticky, everything. Maybe they will remember the pancakes. Maybe they won’t, moving through life, their steps cushioned by the love of this Saturday morning and all the ones like it.

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Master these pancakes for weekends with the people you love.

FLUFFIEST NO-FRILLS PANCAKES Yield: 8–10 pancakes

INGREDIENTS: 1 3 1 2 1 1 3

½ cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp. baking powder ½ tsp. kosher salt Tbs. sugar ¼ cups whole milk egg Tbs. butter, plus more for pan

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, whisk all the dry ingredients to combine.

SESAME TUNA WITH SPICY SOBA NOODLE SALAD Serves 4

2. Melt 3 Tbs. butter and pour into a medium bowl. Add the milk and egg and whisk together. Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently, just until combined. Lumps are okay—do not overmix! 3. Heat a well-seasoned cast-iron skillet or heavy nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. When skillet is hot, add a bit of butter to the pan, gently lifting and turning to distribute melted butter evenly around. 4. Use a ¼-cup measure to drop pancake batter into circles in the skillet. Cook pancakes undisturbed until bubbles form and pop around the edges, about 3 minutes. When the pancake is golden brown, use a spatula to quickly flip it and cook the other side, about 2 minutes more. Add more butter to the skillet as needed and work in batches until all the batter has been cooked. 5. Serve hot on demand with fresh fruit and maple syrup, or keep pancakes warm on a sheet pan in a 200°F oven so you can serve all at once. FOR MORE RECIPES: TOWNCAROLINA.COM

to avoid dairy or * Need want to mix things up?

Because I perfected the fluffiness of these pancakes long ago on slower, sexier weekends, I can make them in my sleep.

Swap the whole milk for your nut milk of choice and the butter for coconut oil, and enjoy delicious results.

text here

M A R C H 2021 I

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Dining Guide

T HE BE S T B A R S, C A F É S & RE S TAUR A N T S

AMERICAN The Anchorage With a focus on local produce, Chef Greg McPhee’s globally influenced menu changes almost weekly. A hoard of fresh harvest arrives daily from area growers, like Horseshoe Farm in Travelers Rest, which informs McPhee’s creative dishes. The restaurant’s menu and stellar cocktail program is updated regularly, and now The Anchorage is offering a weekly online market featuring pantry items, take-home dinners, and more. $$-$$$, D, SBR. Closed Mon–Tues. 586 Perry Ave. (864) 219-3082, theanchoragerestaurant.com

Augusta Grill Augusta Grill is a Greenville institution featuring upscale comfort food. At the bar or in the intimate dining room, patrons can enjoy dishes such as the wild mushroom ravioli with pancetta and roasted garlic cream, or the sautéed rainbow trout with crabmeat beurre blanc. The lineup changes daily, but diners can always get Chef Bob Hackl’s highly sought-after blackberry cobbler. $$$-$$$$, D. Closed Sun &

Mon. 1818 Augusta St. (864) 242-0316, augustagrill.com

Bacon Bros. Public House You might think you know what meat lover’s heaven looks like, but if you show up at Bacon Bros. Public House gastropub, you’ll know for sure. From a board of cured, smoked, and dried meats, to a specialty sandwich, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering selections. The drink menu mirrors the food, featuring whiskeys, bourbons, bacon-infused liquors, and even smoked sorghum syrup. $$-$$$, L, D.

Foxcroft Wine Co. Charlotte-based Foxcroft Wine Co. transformed the West End space vacated by Brazwells Pub into a lovely wine bar decorated with warm woods, a barrel-vaulted ceiling, and racks of wine. On the menu are tasty flatbreads and truffle fries, as well as signature lamb sliders and pan-seared scallops to pair with a generous list of wines by the glass. $-$$, D. Closed Mon. 631 S Main St. (864) 906-4200, foxcroftwine.com/ greenville

GB&D The restaurant’s description itself— Golden Brown & Delicious—tells you all you need to know about this joint. Locally sourced dishes of American favorites—like the killer burger on a house-made brioche bun—star at lunch. Check out the extended menu at dinner, which features an impressive repertoire of creative dishes, from its new location at The Commons. $$-$$$, L, D, SBR.

147 Welborn St, Ste B1. (864) 230-9455, eatgbnd.com

Halls Chophouse The renowned Charleston steakhouse puts down roots along the Reedy River with a selection of wet- or dry-aged steaks (USDA Prime beef flown in from Chicago’s Allen Brothers). Try a Durham Ranch elk loin with root vegetable hash, and don’t miss the lavender French toast at brunch. $$$$, L (Fri–Sat), D,

Closed Sunday. 3620 Pelham Rd. (864) 297-6000, baconbrospublichouse.com

SBR. 550 S Main St. (864) 335-4200, hallschophousegreenville.com

The Burrow The comfort of a home-cooked meal, plus the ease of an elevated dining experience: the newest restaurant from Josh Beeby of Barley’s and Trappe Door fame does it all. A cozy setting encourages conversation and gathering, while artful dishes and cocktails serve a sense of indulgence. You can’t miss with the chargrilled octopus or the whiskey sour. $$, D,

N E W Husk Smokin’ Barbeque After spending a few months off the docket, this West End staple returns with a refreshed menu focused on all things meat. Continuing in their sustainable partnerships and quality craft, pitmaster David Jensen throws out ribs, brisket, pulled pork, and more, plus a host of scrumptious sides. Expect a heavy tribute to bourbon and whiskeys at the bar, and don’t worry, you can still order a side of those famous pork rinds. $-$$. L, D,

SBR. 2017A Augusta St. (864) 412-8677, theburrowgville.com

Fork and Plough The quintessential farm-to-fork partnership between Greenbrier Farms and Chef Shawn Kelly, with its casual, familyfriendly feel, Fork and Plough brings a butcher shop, market, and restaurant to the Overbrook neighborhood. Chef Kelly masterminds an ever-changing roster of locally sourced dishes. $$$, L, D, SBR. Closed Tues. 1629 E North St. (864) 6094249, forkandplough.com

SBR. 722 S Main St, Greenville. (864) 627-0404, huskbbq.com

Larkin’s on the River Located between the Peace Center and the Reedy River, Larkin’s balances upscale dining with comfort. Start with the she-crab soup, then select an entrée from the day’s offerings—or opt for an aged filet mignon with mashed potatoes and asparagus. Enjoy the river view on the enclosed outdoor patio and the extensive wine

list. $$$-$$$$, L (Mon–Fri), D (daily), SBR. 318 S Main St. (864) 467-9777, larkinsontheriver.com Northampton Wine + Dine Linger in the relaxed atmosphere of Northampton’s wine bar, where elegant bar bites accompany wines by the glass or bottle. Or, stay for dinner and select from an ever-changing menu, which includes seafood, beef, and wild game. The outdoor patio is a relaxing location for a meal or a glass of wine. $$-$$$$, L, D. 211-A E Broad St. (864) 271-3919, northamptonwineanddine.com

Oak Hill Café & Farm A former faculty member in Furman University’s environmental science department, Lori Nelsen blazes a new trail in the restaurant world with co-owner Chef David Porras. The duo fulfills a long-time dream of creating a healthy, sustainable, and quality dining experience with an on-site farm and culinary research lab. Lovers of food innovation will not want to miss their multicourse tastings, an ode to nature’s bounty. $$-$$$$, D (Wed–

Sat); L, SBR (Fri–Sun). 2510 Poinsett Hwy. oakhillcafe.com

Soby’s Local flavor shines here in entrées like crab cakes with remoulade, sweet corn maque choux, mashed potatoes, and haricot verts. Their selection of 700 wines guarantees the perfect meal complement. Featuring different weekly selections, the Sunday brunch buffet showcases the chefs’ creativity. $$$-$$$$, D,

SBR. 207 S Main St. (864) 232-7007, sobys.com

Tandem Creperie & Coffeehouse Tandem lures Swamp Rabbit cyclists with aromas of Counter Culture Coffee and a happy stomach guarantee. Try The Lumberjack (cornmeal crêpe, ham, bacon, eggs, cheese, bechamel, and maple syrup) or the tasty banana nut crêpe. Stuck between savory and sweet? Split one of each with a friend in the Tandem spirit: “Together is best.” $, B, L, SBR. 2 S Main St, Travelers Rest. (864) 610-2245, tandemcc.com

Topsoil Kitchen + Market If they can grow it, locally source it, or make it in-house, they will. Located in the former Williams Hardware space in Travelers Rest, and just off the Swamp Rabbit Trail, this restaurant and market combo serves up fresh and modern veggie-driven dishes. Find unique wines and cocktails on the menu, too. $-$$$, D. Closed Mon–Wed. 13

N E W Reid’s Fine Foods Whether it’s a salmon plate, a bottle of wine, or a delectable pastry, Reid’s has everything a foodie heart could desire. Newly opened in the former Caviar & Bananas space, this Charlotte staple is a one-stop shop for breakfast, lunch, and a last-minute dinner party cheese board. Grab anything on the menu to go, or settle into the likes of a flat-iron steak with squash & Brussels sprouts hash, chimichurri butter, and a truffle cabernet sauce. B, L, D.

S Main St, Travelers Rest. (864) 517-4617, topsoilrestaurant.com

$-$$. 1 N Laurens St. (864) 283-0940, reids.com

$$$-$$$$. D. Closed Tues. 116 N Markley St. (864) 867-1081, urbanwrenwinery.com

Restaurant 17 Restaurant 17 blends contemporary European bistro with Blue Ridge bliss. The menu changes seasonally, but expect dishes from Executive Chef Haydn Shaak (formerly of The Cliffs) like the woodfired octopus with pine nut romesco, baby beets, and Georgia olive oil or the Johnny Cake with country-style prosciutto. $$$-$$$$, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 10 Road of Vines, Travelers Rest. (864) 516-1254, restaurant17.com

Rick Erwin’s West End Grille Traditional surf-and-turf meets upscale dining at Rick Erwin’s. The dining room is decorated in rich, dark woods that, along with low lighting, create an intimate, stylish atmosphere. Entrées from Chef Scott Kroener range from sashimi-grade tuna and panseared sea bass, to certified Angus beef. $$-$$$$, D. Closed Sun. 648 S Main St. (864) 232-8999, rickerwins.com

Urban Wren This newcomer in the historic Markley Station fashions a chic city atmosphere where the food takes its cues from the restaurant’s carefully curated wine selection. Round up some friends and share a selection of seasonal small plates, such as cauliflower drop dumplings and rye whiskey beef short ribs.

Woodside Bistro Down-home comfort food gets a fresh spin here, where portobello burgers, wedge salads, pesto chicken sandwiches, and rainbow vegan bowls color the menu. A casual go-to spot, Woodside aims to be a welcoming dining destination for all—whether you’re a vegan or meat lover. $, L. Closed Sun. 1112 Woodside Ave. (864) 203-2333, woodsidebistro.com

KEY: Average price of a dinner entrée (lunch if dinner isn’t served): Under $10 = $ $10-$15 = $$, $16-$25 = $$$, $25+ = $$$$ Breakfast = B Lunch = L Dinner = D Sat or Sun Brunch = SBR

M A R C H 2021 I

Bar Margaret This craft-cocktail bar has a funky fresh vibe and an eclectic variety of drinks, paired with elevated bar food. Mixologists Sarah Cochran and Chris George shepherd the cocktail program, and while curated creations are their speciality (try the cOlá fashioned), patrons can find approachable brews, wine, and non-alcoholic bevs. $-$$.

L, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 1269 Pendleton St, Greenville. barmarg.com

Carolina Bauernhaus Enjoy the delights of autumn with good friends and good beer at Carolina Bauernhaus. Now open in the new Poe West area, this brewery sports an impressive tap list, as well as wicker picnic tables, hanging chair swings, and a smorgasbord of yard games. Take a load off in their outdoor patio space while sipping your favorite ale. $, L, D. Closed Mon & Tues. 556 Perry Ave. (864) 553-4371, carolinabauernhaus.com

The Community Tap / Tap Trailside Convenience, expertise, and atmosphere collide at The Community Tap. Choose from a wide selection of local, national, and international brews—or have a glass from one of the ever-rotating beer and wine taps. Check out their second location at The Commons and enjoy a glass with food from Automatic Taco, GB&D, or Methodical Coffee. 217 Wade

Hampton Blvd. (864) 631-2525; Tap Trailside at The Commons, 147 Welborn St. thecommunitytap.com

TWICE THE EXPERIENCE. TWICE THE SERVICE. TWICE THE SATISFACTION! LET US HELP YOU WITH ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS.

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864.630.4708

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

864.590.4441

N E W EXILE There’s a new bar in town, with nary a television or wing in sight. If you’re craving an expertly crafted cocktail (or a local beer) in a space with style, this will become your go-to spot. Ideal for a predinner stop, an after-work drink, or for a nightcap. Closed Sun–Tues. 9 Anderson

St. exilegvl.com

Fireforge Craft Beer Fireforge brings a boozy twist to the phrase “small but mighty.” The smallbatch craft brewery made a home for itself in downtown Greenville in late June 2018, and founders Brian and Nicole Cendrowski are on a mission to push the boundaries of beer. We recommend The Fixer Smoked Baltic Porter—a smooth lager with a hint of cherrywood-smoked malt. 311 E Washington St. (864) 735-0885,

freely here, so stake out a seat at the bar to discover your new favorite. Of course, you’ll want to pair it with menu items such as bretzels, wurst platters, and more authentic Saxon fare. $. L, D. Closed Mon. 109 W Trade St, Simpsonville. (864) 7571660, servusgreenville.com

Swordfish Cocktail Club The term cocktail club calls to mind a time in history when pre- (and post-) dinner drinks were not only expected but revered among friends for an evening of fun. Swordfish resurrects this perspective in downtown Greenville, with a classic collection of handcrafted cocktails and small plates that are as stunning as they are delectable. $$, D. 220 E Coffee St. Wed–Sat, 5pm–12am. (864) 434-9519, swordfishcocktails.com

Tasting Room TR Wind down on the weekend at this combination gourmet wine shop, beer tap, and sampling space. With nearly 200 wines and 150 craft beers for sale, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Not sure what vino revs your engine? Taste-test a few by the glass and pick up a favorite. Enjoy cheese and charcuterie while you sip. $$, L (Sat–Sun), D (Wed–Sat), Closed Mon– Tues. 164 S Main St, Ste C, Travelers Rest. (864) 610-2020, tastingroomtr.com

N E W Taxi House Wines The bright yellow sliver of a building in the Village’s plaza was once the neighborhood taxi stand, hence this curated shop’s moniker, Taxi House Wines. Now, in collaboration with The Anchorage, the vino destination offers more than 80 unique wine selections, chosen from small, familyowned wineries that focus on sustainability.

Closed Sun & Mon. 586 Perry Ave. Tues–Sat, noon–8pm. (864) 207-0685, taxihousewines.com

The Whale Originating in Asheville, this craft joint comes to South Main with a plethora of whale brews—rare and sought-after beers like the exclusive Spreadsheets and Deadlines hazy IPA, brewed just up the mountain in North Carolina. Having a hard time choosing? Knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you find the beer just for you. 1108 S Main St, Ste #116. (864) 263-7529, thewhalegvl.com

fireforge.beer

CAFÉS

Quest Brewing Co. Eco-minded Quest satisfies your beer cravings and environmental enthusiasm in a single sip. Grab a pint of QBC’s signature West Coast–style Ellida IPA, packing a punch of flavor, or venture to the dark side with the Kaldi imperial coffee stout (crafted with locally roasted beans). Stop by for an afternoon tour, then follow up with an evening full of food truck fare and live music. Wed–Sat. 55 Airview Dr, Greenville.

Bridge City Coffee A coffee shop with a mission, Bridge City’s philosophy is all in the name. The local roaster seeks to uphold community values by partnering with area organizations to offer employment opportunities for underresourced teens and adults. The fresh space presents a variety of drinks crafted with in-house roasted beans. Getting hangry? A selection of treats is also available. $-$$. B, L. Closed Sun. 1520

(864) 272-6232, questbrewing.com

Wade Hampton Blvd. bridgecity.coffee

N E W Servus Biergarten Housed in a former feed and seed in downtown Simpsonville, Servus Biergarten adds an international accent to the new Warehouse at Vaughns, a smorgasbord of family-friendly eateries with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. From doppelbock to dunkel, German beers flow

Coffee Underground Coffee Underground boasts a wide selection of specialty coffees and dreamy desserts like the peanut butter pie with graham cracker crust and a peanut butter and vanilla mousse. If you’re craving more substantial fare, choose from a splendid breakfast-anytime option, sandwiches, soups, salads, and more.

$-$$, B, L, D, SBR. 1 E Coffee St. (864) 2980494, coffeeunderground.info N E W Dobrá Tea Tea is the new coffee at this cheery café in the Village of West Greenville, where you can choose among more than 100 different types of tea from around the globe. Pair your favorite cup with a gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian snack from the list of sweets and savories. $-$$. B, L, D. 1278 Pendleton

St. (864) 520-1832, dobrateasc.com

Due South Coffee Roasters Birds Fly South Ale Project no longer has a monopoly on cold brews now that Due South has set up shop in Hampton Station. In their new digs, the coffee shop sports a café vibe, with baked goodies like Swamp Fox Doughnuts complementing espresso drinks and cold brew nitro (infused with nitrogen). Beans, sourced from around the globe, are roasted on-site. $, B, L. 1320

Hampton Ave Ext, 4B. (864) 283-6680, duesouthcoffee.com

Grateful Brew A brew joint where you can enjoy both the non-alcoholic and alcoholic varieties, Grateful Brew provides guests with made-to-order Counter Culture espressos, pour-overs, and locally crafted brews. Enjoy food trucks most nights, or bring your own grub. The Brew welcomes every member of the family, even those of the four-legged sort. $, B, L, D. Closed Sunday. 501 S Pleasantburg Dr. (864) 558-0767, gratefulbrewgvl.com

Kuka Juice Created by nutrition mavens Abigail Mitchell and Samantha Shaw, Kuka doles out coldpressed craft with health-minded passion. Grab the ginger binger juice, or dig into the Taco ’Bout It bowl with romaine, walnut meat, salsa fresca, black beans, avocado, and pepitas with cilantro lime vinaigrette. Paninis, bowls, soups, toasts, smoothies, and more are also available. $, B, L. 580 Perry Ave,

Greenville. (864) 905-1214, kukajuice.com

Methodical Coffee Whether it’s the white marble countertops or the gleaming Slayer espresso machine, Methodical is a coffee bar built for taste. Coffee guru Will Shurtz, designer Marco Suarez, and hotelier David Baker ensure there’s plenty of substance to go with style. With single-origin espressos, wine varieties, and now a café menu, it’s all worth the rave. $-$$, B, L. 101 N Main St, Ste D; 207 Wade Hampton Blvd; 147 Welborn St. methodicalcoffee.com

Mountain Goat Greenville A destination for brews and bikes, Mountain Goat proudly serves Methodical Coffee, along with more than 40 types of beer and wine. The sleek, industrial space provides a friendly atmosphere to sip on your beverage of choice, but be sure to check the food truck schedule. Plus, every purchase helps provide tutoring, mentoring, and job opportunities for at-risk youth in the community. $-$$. B, L, Closed Sunday. 120 Shaw St. mountaingoatgvl.com

O-CHA Tea Bar A trip to O-CHA will have you considering tea in an entirely new light. This sleek space, located right on the river in Falls Park, specializes in bubble tea—flavored teas with chewy tapioca pearls. For a more intense cooling experience, try the mochi ice cream. The dessert combines the chewy Japanese

confection (a soft, pounded sticky rice cake) with ice cream fillings in fun flavors: tiramisu, green tea chocolate, mango, and more. $, B, L, D. 300 River St, Ste 122. (864) 283-6702, ochateabaronline.com

Old Europe Located in the West End, Old Europe satisfies your sweet tooth with dozens of decadent pastries and desserts. Éclairs and cookies pair well with an extensive coffee selection, while savory breakfast items are always on hand. Sink into a slice of opera cake, paired with a glass of Champagne. $, B, L, D. 716 S. Main St. Sun–Thurs, 8am– 9pm, Fri–Sat, 8am–11pm. (864) 775-0210, oldeuropedesserts.com N E W The Spatula Café It can be challenging to find a lunch spot that satisfies both meat-lovers and vegans, but Spatula Café does, and then some. Open for breakfast and lunch, seven days a week, Spatula offers dishes like a tofu scramble wrap alongside a prosciutto bagel, and duck alongside marinated tempeh. Don’t just focus on the meals, though, because their baked goods truly shine. Check out the vegan cinnamon roll, it’s delectable to any type of eater.

$, B, L. 118 Smythe St, Greenville. (864) 2367467, thespatulacafe.com

Southern Pressed Juicery A healthy-eaters haven, Southern Pressed Juicery offers super-food fans organic smoothies, bowls, juices, and more. Try a power-packed energy bowl like the dragon blood, a hot-pink concoction of dragon fruit, almond milk, banana, layered with buckwheat granola, raw honey, coconut chips, kiwi, and bee pollen. $-$$,

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B, L. 2 W Washington St. (864) 729-8626, southernpressedjuicery.com

Sun Belly Café Week by week, the full plant-based menu at this westside spot changes to accommodate seasonal dishes and fresh, wholesome ingredients. The wild mushroom pho is all the rage, but if you’re on the go, pick up a tasty $6 vegan salad. Options for meal prep and family-sized lasagnas mean healthy cooking is always on the table. $-$$, B, L. Closed Sunday.

1409 West Blue Ridge Dr. (404) 309-7791

Swamp Rabbit Café & Grocery Grocery store, neighborhood café. Local produce, delicious food. These intersections are what make the Swamp Rabbit Café a staple. But new to the operation is wood-fired pizza. Sourcing every ingredient from area vendors, the ever-changing toppings feature local cheeses and fresh-from-the-farm produce. Beer taps flow with excellent local suds. $, B, L, D. 205 Cedar Lane Rd. (864) 2553385, swamprabbitcafe.com

The Village Grind Tucked between art galleries and eclectic shops in the heart of Pendleton Street, The Village Grind is a cheerful, light-filled space for java lovers. Emphasizing community, the coffeehouse brews up beans by a variety of local roasters and serves flaky treats. $, B, L.

1258 Pendleton St. (864) 915-8600

Two Chefs Catering & Café Count on this deli for fast, high-quality food, from homemade soups to a traditional grinder and a turkey melt. Grab “crafted carryout” entrées and sides, or impress last-minute guests with

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M A R C H 2021 I

roasted turkey and Parmesan potatoes. Choose from the menu, or check back for daily specials. $-$$, B, L, D. Closed Sun. 644 N Main St, Ste 107. (864) 370-9336, twochefscafeandmarket.com

Upcountry Provisions Serving up gourmet sandwiches on freshmade bread, Upcountry Provisions is well worth a trip to Travelers Rest for breakfast or an extended lunch break. Snack on the shop’s daily crafted cookies, scones, and muffins, or bite into a devil dog BLT with hormone-free meat on just-baked white focaccia. $, B, L, D. Closed Sundays. 6809 State Park Rd, Travelers Rest. (864) 8348433, upcountryprovisions.com

ETHNIC

THANK YOU SPONSORS! VISIONARY Sponsor ($1000) Alma Rose Medical Spa

INNOVATING Sponsors ($500) Chandler Insurance Debbie and Donnie Thompson Dhillon Family and Cosmetic Dentistry ProCore Pest Control

ADVANCING Sponsors ($200) Kate Carlyle Moe’s Original Bar-B-Que Muse Shoe Studio Pink Bee Sharp Brain Consulting

VIBRANT Sponsors ($100) Augusta Twenty Brittany Jones Nutrition Group Extreme Color Auto Spa Greenville Drive MAKE MADE Jewelry Samantha Grace Designs The Wine House Todaro’s Pizza

LEAGUE Sponsors ($50) Bleckley House Gifts Cotton Rouge Photography Pinkney Paper Splash on Main LLC Stretch Lab

We appreciate your support of the Junior League of Greenville and its Community Impact partners and their programs: Jasmine Road • SWITCH • Pendleton Place The Family Effect

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Asada Asada, a brick-and-mortar taqueria on Wade Hampton Boulevard, serves traditional Mission-style fare. Grab a bite of flavor with the grilled sweet potatoes & leeks sopes, a savory vegan dish served on scratch-made sopes topped with homemade charred red peppers and guajillo romesco salsa, and queso fresco for the dairy-inclined. $-$$, L, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 903 Wade Hampton Blvd. (864) 770-3450, asadarestaurant.com

Asia Pacific Deemed the largest Asian supermarket in Greenville, Asia Pacific also doubles as a restaurant with a host of authentic cuisine. The menu is pages long, with more than 100 options and a multitude of soups, noodles, and combinations. If you’re planning a visit, be sure your stomach is as big as your eyes. $-$$, L, D, Mon–Sun

10am–9pm. 420 N Pleasantburg Dr. (864) 603-1377, asiapacificgreenville.com

Kairos Greek Kitchen This Charleston-originated spot serves up heaping portions of traditional Mediterranean cuisine, like slow-roasted kabobs that explode with flavor even before you dip them into the tzatziki sauce. Their choose-your-own approach leads to creative salad combos, and you can also turn any meal into a pita wrap, bowl, or platter. $-$$, L, D. 1800 Augusta St. (864) 520-1723, kairosgreekkitchen.com

Mekong Taste the nuances of fine Vietnamese cuisine at Mekong. Favorites include the grilled pork vermicelli: marinated pork, lettuce, cucumber, bean sprouts, mint, cilantro, peanuts, and crispy shallots, and the spring and summer rolls. Also try the Vietnamese crêpes or the pho, which is flavored with fresh herbs from the restaurant’s home-grown herb garden. $, L, D. Closed Mon. 2013

Wade Hampton Blvd. (864) 244-1314, mekongrestaurantgreenville.com

Pita House The Pita House has been family-operated since 1989. Inside, it’s bare bones, but the cognoscenti come here for tasty Middle Eastern fare such as hummus, falafel, kibbeh, and shwarma. And save room for baklava and other Mediterranean sweets for dessert. Also, check out the grocery in the back of the restaurant for some homemade inspiration. $, L, D. Closed Sun. 495 S Pleasantburg Dr, #B. (864) 271-9895, pitahousesc.com

Sacha’s Café Bright walls and a long, inviting bar make a sunny backdrop in which to chow down on authentic Colombian food, like arepas and patacones, at Sacha’s. Hungry groups can order the fiesta platter, a sampler that serves six people. To drink, try one of the natural fruit juices, or the imported cervezas. $. L, D. 1001 N Pleasantburg Dr. (864) 232-3232, sachascafe.com

Swad Tucked off of Laurens Road, this venerable family-run Indian restaurant hones in on vegetarian cuisine. South Indian specialties such as idli (steamed rice cakes) and dosas (thin rice crepes) served with sambar (lentil stew) delight regulars, while those biding their budget go for the value meals that come with basmati rice or naan. $, L, D. 1421 Laurens Rd. (864) 233-2089

TruBroth TruBroth takes healing arts and blends them seamlessly into deliciously crafted meals. Appease your curiosity with a visit to this Travelers Rest gem, which offers a varied mix of Vietnamese staples, health-happy bites, and coffee. $$, L, D. 36A S Main St, Travelers Rest. Sun– Thurs. (864) 610-0513, trubrothcoffee.com

EUROPEAN Bake Room The final addition to The Commons food hall, Bake Room provides a tasty touch. Naturally leavened breads and handmade pastries are baked in Wade Taylor’s German deck oven and Swedish rack oven, and are the perfect complement to a coffee from Methodical, strategically placed right next door. $, B, L. 147 Welborn St, Greenville. Wed–Sun, 8am–3pm. @sc_bakeroom

Jianna With stellar views of Main Street from its wrap-around terrace, this modern Italian osteria offers patrons daily house-made pastas, the region’s freshest seasonal ingredients, and, of course, oysters—all led by famed chef Michael Kramer. Grab a cocktail or a glass of wine from the 40-foot bar, and nosh on pasta dishes like potato gnocchi, radiatori, or tonnarelli with local tomatoes, corn, and chanterelle mushrooms. $$-$$$, L (Sat– Sun), D. 207 S Main St. (864) 720-2200, jiannagreenville.com

The Lazy Goat The Lazy Goat’s tapas-style menu is distinctly Mediterranean. Sample from the Graze and Nibble dishes, such as the crispy Brussels sprouts with Manchego shavings and sherry glacé. For a unique entrée, try the duck confit pizza with a sour cherry vinaigrette and a farm egg. An extensive variety of wine is available in addition to a full bar. $$-$$$, L, D. 170 River Pl. (864)

679-5299, thelazygoat.com

Limoncello This latest Larkin’s spot serves up Italian cuisine on the corner of River and Broad streets. The menu ranges from pesto pizzas to chicken marsala to classics like spaghetti and meatballs—but the real

winner is an all-Italian wine list, curated from award-winning vineyards across the region. After you’ve had your glass, grab a bite of the housemade limoncello gelato. $$-$$$, L, D. 401 River St. (864) 263-7000, limoncellogvl.com

Pasta Addict This Italian haven satisfies at West End outdoor food hall Gather GVL. From gnocchi to tortellini, indulging in cheesy goodness is easy out of their iconic cone containers. Pair your favorite bottle of vino with a bowl of fresh spaghetti alla chitarra, featuring San Marzano D.O.P. tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, toasted breadcrumbs, and Addict oil. $, D, Sun lunch. Closed Mon. 126 Augusta St. (864) 404-0095, pastaddict.com

Ristorante Bergamo Open since 1986, Ristorante Bergamo focuses on fresh produce and Northern Italian cuisine: fresh mussels sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and white wine, veal with homegrown organic herbs, and pasta creations such as linguine with shrimp and mussels. The bar fronts 14-foot windows along Main Street, making it a prime location for enjoying a glass while people-watching. $$$, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 100 N Main St. (864) 271-8667, ristorantebergamo.com

Stella’s Southern Brasserie Boasting French flair and fare, this sister to Stella’s Southern Bistro is the second of Jason and Julia Scholz’s eateries. Stationed in Hollingsworth Park, French staples like blue-black mussel shells with smoked tomato broth, Marsala-spiked onion soup gratinée, and roasted game hen are served up daily in a lively, chic environment. Don’t miss the breakfast pastries. $$-$$$. B, L, D, SBR. 340 Rocky Slope Rd, Ste 100, Greenville. (864) 6266900, stellasbrasserie.com

PIZZA Coastal Crust Now in the Village of West Greenville, these Neapolitan-style pizza pies are baked in a wood-fired brick oven and topped with local produce from Reedy River Farms. Check out the aptly-named West Village pie, a classic pepperoni pizza punched up with burrata, caramelized onions, sautéed peppers, and sausage.

$$, L, D. 1254 Pendleton St. (843) 654-9606, coastalcrustgreenville.com

D’Allesandro’s Pizza Hailing from Charleston, D’Allesandro’s brings dough heaven to Greenville. The D’Allesandro brothers’ philosophy is simple—if the pizza is good and the beer is cold, people will come. The shop pushes out pies in the North Main area, where guests can enjoy savory pizzas, calzones, and signature CalJoes. $$, L, D. 17 Mohawk

Stone Pizza Serving both Neapolitan- and New York–style pizzas, this spot is ideal for a classic family outing or catching the game with a few friends. Stone and its fireinspired pies are crafted with house-made mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo flour, and baked in a wood-fired oven. $$, L (Sat & Sun), D. 500 E Park Ave. (864) 609-4490, stonepizzacompany.com

World Piece From the owners of downtown’s beloved Coffee Underground, World Piece brings Chicago-style pizza to Stone Avenue. Offering a line-up of draft beers and menu features like buffalo chicken wings, salads, burgers, french fries, and, of course, savory pies, this pizza joint ensures there’s something for everyone. $-$$. L, D. 109 West Stone Ave, Ste A1. (864) 568-5221, worldpiecemenu.com

TA C O S Automatic Taco Since 2015, Nick Thomas has delivered new wonders and old favorites from his food truck, treating the tortilla as a work of art. From its new brick-and-mortar spot in The Commons, Auto continues to serve up creative takes on tacos, with standout chips and guacamole, salsa, sides, and cocktails. $-$$, L, D. 147 Welborn St. (404) 372-2266, automatictaco.com

Papi’s Tacos Jorge “Papi” Baralles brings family tradition and the familiar childhood flavors of Cuautla, Mexico, to this walk-up taqueria on the Reedy River. The menu is short and to the point. Get your tacos with shrimp, barbacoa, al pastor, carne asada, carnitas, or chicken and chorizo, or sample some gelato in the display case. $, L, D. 300 River St. (864) 373-7274, eatpapistacos.com

White Duck Taco Shop White Duck sets up shop at Hampton Station in the Water Tower District, and feels right at home next to Birds Fly South Ale Project. Try the Bangkok shrimp taco or the mushroom potato with romesco, and pair with their fresh peach sangria or an ale from Birds Fly South’s rotation. $-$$, L, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 1320 Hampton Ave, Ext Ste 12B. whiteducktacoshop.com

Willy Taco Much like its Spartanburg-based sister, Greenville’s Willy Taco is a straight-up Mexican fiesta. Housed in the former Feed & Seed, the atmosphere pairs perfectly with its festive food presentation. Choose from a variety of taco flavors; we suggest the mother clucker—topped off with a margarita. $-$$, L, D. Closed Mon. 217

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Laurens Rd. (864) 412-8700, willytaco.com

Dr, Greenville. (864) 252-4700, dalspizzagvl.com

Sidewall Pizza Company This pizza joint is a fast favorite with its handcrafted, brick-oven pies made from local ingredients. But their salads are nothing to ignore, not to mention dessert: the homemade ice cream will make you forget about those fellas named Ben & Jerry. $$, L, D. Closed Sun & Mon. 35 S

Main St, Travelers Rest, (864) 610-0527; 99 Cleveland St, (864) 558-0235; 3598 Pelham Rd, (864) 991-8748, sidewallpizza.com

TOWN accepts no compensation for Dining Guide reviews and selects entries by its editorial discretion. Reviews are conducted anonymously.

Maggie Aiken Toler

M A R C H 2021 I

Ongoing

GENESIS—BMW FROM THE BEGINNING Gentlemen—and women—start your engines! The most comprehensive exhibit of early BMWs ever presented in North America is now on display in Greer. GENESIS illustrates five decades of BMW’s history through 24 cars and motorcycles. Ranging from the 1927 R47 sport bike to the 1950s-era BMW Baroque Angel sedans, the exhibit pays homage to the innovations of the Upstate’s own German carmaker.

Excellence & Emancipation: African American Artists and the Harmon Foundation l | Thru March 6

BMW CCA Foundation Museum, 190 Manatee Ct, Greer. Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm; Sat, 10am–4pm. Adults, $12; youth (ages 6-17), $6; children 5 and under, free. (864) 329-1919, bmwccafoundation.org

TJC Gallery, 154 W Main St, Spartanburg. Open during gallery hours: Wed–Fri and first Sat of the month, noon–4pm. Free. (864) 594-5834, thejohnsoncollection.org

Thru 24

SHAPING IDENTITY Through storytelling and object sharing, photographers Eli Warren (Greenville) and Elizabeth Claffey

Family Owned, Family Focused. Our commitment to the families we serve is reflected in everything we do. Let us help you create a meaningful experience that best fits your needs. Downtown Chapel (864) 232-6733

Northwest Chapel & Cremation Center (864) 294-6415

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Southeast Chapel (864) 688-1600

thomasmcafee.com

Reservoir necklace by Katie Kameen

MARCH

Thru 6

EXCELLENCE & EMANCIPATION: AFRICAN AMERICAN ARTISTS AND THE HARMON FOUNDATION As part of its mission to visualize Southern history, The Johnson Collection in Spartanburg is honoring the impact of the Harmon Awards, which were established in 1926 to highlight the work of African American visual artists. Excellence & Emancipation showcases 18 artists, among them Malvin Gray Johnson, Loïs Mailou Jones, and Hale Woodruff, all of whom profoundly influenced African American art in the early twentieth century.

Mississippi Landscape by Hale Woodruff, courtesy of the Johnson Collection, Spartanburg, SC

Town Scene

Reservoir necklace by Katie Kameen

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SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE WOMEN’S BASKETBALL CHAMPIONSHIP During the first week of March, Greenville will become the Women’s Basketball Capital of the South when, for the fourth consecutive year, the city hosts the SEC Women’s Basketball finals at The Well. The single-elimination tournament, which includes all 14 teams in the Southeast Conference, will culminate with the championship game on Sunday

Bon Secours Wellness Arena, 650 N Academy St, Greenville. Wed–Sun, times vary. Ticket prices TBA. (864) 241-3800, bonsecoursarena.com

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Greenville Center for Creative Arts, 101 Abney St, Greenville. Open during gallery hours: Wed–Fri, 1–5pm. Free. (864) 735-3948, artcentergreenville.org

night. The winner of the 13-game competition will go on to the NCAA Tournament. Be sure to snag your tickets before they sell out.

cult

(Bloomington, IN), along with sculptor Katie Kameen (Graniteville, SC) examine the relationship between cultural identity and personal history. The thought-provoking exhibit at GCCA in the Village of West Greenville reveals how the clothing we wear informs our understanding of the past. For a more in-depth experience, come hear the ARTalk on March 9 at 6pm.

MAKE + SIP CLASS: X BANGLE First Fridays normally involve visiting open artists’ studios to watch them work, but this month you can show off your own artistic talent by making jewelry in an artisan-owned studio. No experience is necessary to craft your own X-shaped bangle at MAKE MADE. Join in the fun and learn how to manipulate raw silver to create a graceful bracelet that you’ll be proud to wear.

MAKE MADE Jewelry, 241 N Main St, Greenville. Fri, 11am–2pm. $85. (864) 412-8087, makemadejewelry.com

HEART BALL Virtually toast the American Heart Association’s efforts to make our community a healthier place at the

Shaping Identity | Thru March 24

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Sat, 6–7pm. Free to register. (864) 627-4158, heart.org/en/affiliates/ south-carolina/upstate#events

ARTWALK The third Thursday of the month brings art lovers to downtown Spartanburg for an opportunity to take a self-guided tour of participating galleries throughout the city’s Cultural District. In addition to offering access to the artists and their work, galleries will have wine and hors-d’oeuvres on hand to sweeten the experience.

Downtown Spartanburg. Thurs, 5–9pm. Free. (864) 542-2787, chapmanculturalcenter.org

18–June 30 Fiber-Filled Exhibit | Mar 18–June 30

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

FIBER-FILLED EXHIBIT Imagine having 1,500 square feet in which to create a work of art. That’s what Samuelle Green and Liz Miller are doing for this exhibit, which examines

the relationship between reality and illusion. Based in Pennsylvania, Green takes inspiration from natural forms such as bird nests and beehives and combines them with human-made found objects in her site-specific installations, while Miller—a Minnesota native—describes her elaborate installations as “equal parts absurd, menacing, and poetic.” Spartanburg Art Museum, 200 E St John St, Spartanburg. Open during gallery hours: Tues–Fri, 10am–5pm; Sat, 11am–4pm. Free. (864) 582-7616, spartanburgartmuseum.org

MERCYME Founded in another Greenville—this one in Texas—the Christian rockers of MercyMe are making a stop in our Greenville during their Imagine Nation Tour 2021. Expect to hear fan faves from their newest album, I Can Only Imagine—The Very Best of MercyMe, as well as their most recent No. 1 hit, “Even If.” The multi-platinumselling group will be joined by singer/ songwriter and Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee Mac Powell, and Christian pop music artist Micah Tyler.

Bon Secours Wellness Arena, 650 N Academy St, Greenville. Fri, show time TBA. Ticket prices TBA. (864) 241-3800, bonsecoursarena.com

Courtesy of MAKE MADE Jewelry

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annual Heart Ball, which goes beyond the ballroom this year. Hosted by Miss South Carolina, Morgan Nichols, the reimagined online experience will capture the essence of the traditional ball by highlighting stories of local survivors, while adding a live auction and surprise entertainment.

Fiber installation by artist Liz Miller, courtesy of Spartanburg Art Museum

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Town Scene

WOODWIND QUINTET CHAMBER CONCERT If the sounds of instruments such as flutes, clarinets, and oboes are music to your ears, don’t blow off this concert by the Woodwind Quintet of the Foothills Philharmonic Orchestra. An all-volunteer orchestra composed of accomplished amateur musicians from around the Upstate, the Foothills Philharmonic performs a variety of concerts that are always free and open to the public.

Courtesy of MAKE MADE Jewelry

Greer Center for the Arts, 804 Trade St, Greer. Sat, 7–9pm. Free. (864) 326-5780, foothillsphilharmonic.org

MAKE + SIP CLASS: BOTANICAL BAR NECKLACE Bring a bottle of wine to loosen up your creative muscle as you craft a botanical bar necklace. The pendant design takes the shape of a leaf—a fitting motif for spring—which you will saw, drill, and finish, with help from the instructor. A variety of templates and metals (sterling silver or brass) will be available to assure that your finished necklace will be a unique statement piece.

MAKE MADE Jewelry, 241 N Main St, Greenville. Sat, 2–5pm. $65. (864) 412-8087, makemadejewelry.com

SCHUG WINE DINNER, STELLA’S BISTRO Now that you’ve made it through the worst of winter, don’t miss this opportunity to toast to spring with Schug wines. Owner Axel Schug from Schug Winery in Sonoma, California, will be on hand to discuss his family’s hand-crafted pinot noirs and other varietals, which will be paired with hors-d’oeuvres and four seasonal courses expertly crafted by Stella’s chef and owner Jason Scholz.

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Stella’s Southern Bistro, 684 Fairview Rd, Simpsonville. Tues, 6:30pm. $85 (plus tax and gratuity). (864) 757-1212, stellasbistro.com

Riverside Baptist Church, 49 S Suber Rd, Greer. Sat, 7–9pm. Free. (864) 326-5780, tenatthetop.org/event/ masterworks-iii

Mainstage Orchestra Series: Masterworks III | Mar 27

If you can dream

it we can build it

OASIS POOLS, INC.

864.882.3333 • 123goswimming.com

• 10239 Clemson Blvd #320, Seneca • Monday-Friday 10am-5pm; Saturday’s 10am-1pm M A R C H 2021 I

Second Glance

RUN OF THE MILL THE BR A NDON STORE IN THE V ILL AGE OF WEST GREEN V ILLE OUTFITTED FA MILIES OF THE FOR MER TEXTILE NEIGHBORHOOD

Find snapshots of Greenville’s textile past, like this shot of the Brandon Store, in the Greenville County Historical Society’s extensive photo collections at greenvillehistory.org.

Photograph by William B. Coxe provided by the Greenville County Historical Society.

n its heyday, the two-story brick building at 1320 Pendleton Street served as one of four company stores for Brandon Mill, which contributed to Greenville’s rise as a textile town in the early twentieth century. Built in 1949, Brandon Store is where the employees who lived in the adjacent mill village would have shopped for food, clothing, and other wares. The mill and its mercantile shut down in 1977, and nearly 25 years later, artist Diane Kilgore-Condon saw potential in the then-decrepit Brandon Store and brought it back to life. Once a lively commercial hub for mill village residents, the building hums anew—these days with modern makers in its incarnation as ArtBomb Studio, a warren of creative spaces for local artists in the Village of West Greenville.—M. Linda Lee

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

Second Glance

RUN OF THE MILL THE BR A NDON STORE IN THE V ILL AGE OF WEST GREEN V ILLE OUTFITTED FA MILIES OF THE FOR MER TEXTILE NEIGHBORHOOD

Find snapshots of Greenville’s textile past, like this shot of the Brandon Store, in the Greenville County Historical Society’s extensive photo collections at greenvillehistory.org.

Photograph by William B. Coxe provided by the Greenville County Historical Society.

MARCH 2021 I t o w n c a r o l i n a . c o m

appily

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HALE’S SIGNATURE BRIDAL COLLECTION

761 Verdae Blvd, Greenville, SC 29607 864.297.5600 • www.halesjewelers.com