1. Chef Tony Luu and Jimmy Nguyen of Potluck
Private five-course chefs Tony Luu and Jimmy Nguyen are making waves in Greenville with their varied cuisine offerings. The dynamic duo, along with their partner Francisco Cruz, often host pop-up dinners at Vine and Eden. Their chefs’ choice menus showcase their proficiency with different cuisines, including Japanese, Vietnamese, French, Italian, and Indian.
Favorite place to dine: The One5 Hartness (Tony), The Anchorage (Jimmy)
Instagram: @potluckgvl
2. Chef Michael Izzard of Restaurant Lolaceli
Michael Izzard is a fine dining connoisseur who specializes in seafood and fresh vegetable dishes. A legacy passed down from his grandmother forms the foundation of his Restaurant Lolaceli, earning him a reputation as one of Greenville’s rising culinary stars.
Favorite place to dine: Scoundrel
Instagram: @lolaceli.gvl
3. Chefs Beau Owens and Tony Arnold of Tavola
Joining hands with the veteran restaurateur Carl Sobocinski, Beau Owens and Tony Arnold are set to take the culinary scene by storm with their upcoming project—Tavola. The restaurant, promising authentic Italian cuisine and steaks, is a fresh take on Simpsonville-Mauldin’s dining scene.
Favorite place to dine: Greenville Family Restaurant
Instagram: @pastagurugvl and @eat.tavola
4. Chef Aquila Kentish of The Tasti Plate
Boston-born chef Aquila Kentish fuses Southern and Caribbean styles to construct an enticing menu. Her private catering company, The Tasti Plate, provides an intimate gastronomic experience.
Favorite place to dine: Mak n’ Cheesecakes, Lewis Barbecue, Island Fusion
Instagram: @thetastiplate
5. Chef Rafael Alacantar Jr. of Omni
Rafael Alacantar Jr. exhibits his affinity for Asian cuisine through his pop-up restaurant Omni. He utilizes his culinary prowess to bring the deliciousness of Seoul’s street food to Greenville’s food scene.
Favorite place to dine: Cookout
Instagram: @omni.gvl
6. Chef Alex George & Jen Anderson of Take Care
One of Greenville’s most anticipated dining spots, Take Care, is the brainchild of Alex George and Jen Anderson. They are committed to showcasing local farmers’ produce, handmade pasta, and beyond to create a special yet approachable dining experience.
Favorite place to dine: Sushi Masa Japanese Restaurant
Instagram: @takecaregvl