Discover Greenville’s Culinary Gems: A Weekend Itinerary with Top Chef Judges

When you hear “Pack your knives and go,” you know it’s serious. After over two decades in professional kitchens, Kristen Kish—alongside permanent judge Gail Simmons and head judge Tom Colicchio—knows just who to send packing on the hit show Top Chef. With résumés adorned by prestigious establishments like Le Cirque and Gramercy Tavern, their dining recommendations carry significant weight. As Top Chef Season 23 hit the screens on Bravo, the charismatic trio revealed their favorite culinary spots in Greenville, South Carolina—home to much of the season’s filming. Here’s your ultimate food lover’s itinerary inspired by their top picks.

1. Scout’s Doughnuts: A Sweet Start to Your Day

Start your culinary journey at Scout’s Doughnuts, where husband-and-wife team JP and Ryland Rainsford have been crafting unique doughnuts since 2022. From playful flavors like vanilla glaze to sophisticated options like bourbon vanilla pecan, there’s something for everyone. Kish’s standout pick? The 100-layer apple pie doughnut, which she rated a perfect 10/10 on Instagram. The shop, whose name pays homage to Scout from To Kill a Mockingbird, aims to create a welcoming space for all. Whether you’re a local or visiting, don’t miss out on this delightful spot for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

2. Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery: Farm-to-Table Haven

Next, head to Swamp Rabbit Cafe and Grocery, ideally located off the beautiful Swamp Rabbit Trail—a popular spot for biking and running. Here, you can savor fresh baked goods and hearty lunch options. Kish is a fan of the café’s offerings, particularly the daily-baked stecca bread and breakfast Pogacha—a Polish bun filled with egg, cheese, and sausage. With a commitment to the local farm-to-table movement, this community hub features products from over 100 local farmers. Make time to enjoy their weekday happy hours and weekly events like music bingo—it’s more than just a grocery store; it’s a gathering space.

3. Scoundrel: Fine Dining Meets Casual Vibes

On Greenville’s picturesque Main Street, you’ll find Scoundrel, Chef Joe Cash’s French-inspired bistro. This semifinalist for the 2024 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant combines fine dining with a warm and inviting atmosphere, featuring brick walls and leather banquettes. The menu ranges from an affordable $8 Carolina wheat baguette to luxurious caviar service. Kish declares it a standout, praising the highly-acclaimed burger, while Simmons raves about martinis and duck fat fries. Whether you’re in the mood for broiled oysters or a decadent chocolate cake, Scoundrel will not disappoint.

4. Sum Bar: A Taste of Dim Sum Delights

Don’t miss Sum Bar, Greenville’s first dedicated dim sum restaurant that opened its doors in 2023 after a successful pop-up. Owner Khailing Neoh, a first-generation Chinese American, draws inspiration from family recipes, particularly her grandmother’s cooking. At Sum Bar, taste the meticulously crafted chicken wontons and flash-fried green beans accompanied by garlic and rice vinegar. The deconstructed crab rangoon served as a creamy dip is another favorite among the judges. Pair these delightful dishes with a baijiu-based cocktail, like the zesty “Delta Sky Lounge,” and experience a culinary journey through traditional flavors.

5. Pink Mama’s Ice Cream: The Sweetest Finish

No dining experience is complete without dessert, and for that, Pink Mama’s Ice Cream is where you should head. Founded by Jessica and Jon Randall as an ice cream truck in 2009, this beloved local shop now boasts multiple locations in Greenville and Travelers Rest. You can choose your ice cream flavor in a freshly baked waffle cone or, like Kish, go for a classic cup of rainbow sherbet. Adventure seekers can try intriguing house creations like unicorn dream—vanilla with Pixy Stix dust—or the exquisite lavender white chocolate.

6. Explore Greenville: The Perfect Culinary Destination

With its vibrant food scene and community spirit, Greenville is a food lover’s paradise. From doughnuts to dim sum and ice cream, the culinary offerings reflect a blend of local flavors and innovative techniques. Whether you’re visiting for the Top Chef competition or simply looking for a weekend getaway, following the judges’ recommendations will ensure a memorable gastronomic adventure. Don’t forget to plan your itinerary to include these culinary hotspots for an unforgettable experience that celebrates the best of Greenville’s food culture.

Visiting these restaurants not only lets you taste the wonders of Greenville but also supports local chefs and businesses that contribute to the community’s thriving dining scene. If you’re looking for more insights into the Top Chef experience, keep an eye on Bravo for fresh episodes and updates.

Explore, eat, and enjoy this remarkable city, and stay tuned to see which talented chef will ultimately take home the title in this season’s competition.