Greenville Welcomes a New Culinary Gem: The Ottaray Raw Bar & Taphouse
Hey there, Greenville! Are you ready for some exciting news? If you’re a seafood lover or just enjoy a good meal in a cozy atmosphere, you are in for a treat! The Ottaray Raw Bar & Taphouse has officially opened its doors at 1418 Laurens Rd., and it’s here to serve up some truly delicious dishes!
A Dream Turned Reality
After five long years of planning and dreaming, Taft Wirthlin is thrilled to announce the opening of his seafood haven, The Ottaray. The grand opening took place on December 17. For those who don’t know, this delightful spot pays homage to the historic Ottaray Hotel, which adds a touch of nostalgia and character to the ambiance.
Now, here’s a heartfelt twist: Taft was inspired to create this restaurant in memory of his late fiancé, Alison. The couple had always envisioned bringing the Ottaray to life together, and Taft is determined to make that dream a reality. “That was her dream so I said, ‘we can still do it,’” he shared emotionally.
A Fresh Take on Dining
Located in what used to be The Warehouse at Midtown, The Ottaray spans over 6,000 square feet, offering ample space for diners to enjoy their meals. The team decided to spice things up with an upscale casual dining experience that’s a bit more “chef-driven” than what’s currently available in the area. After all, not every meal needs to be just another taco or burger!
The menu is overflowing with mouthwatering seafood options. Think fresh oyster towers, house-made hushpuppies, and even a tantalizing lobster roll! For those who may not be as keen on seafood, fear not! There are plenty of options for land lovers too, including burgers, fried chicken, and steak frites. Yum!
Chef-Driven Delights
The culinary team includes talented chefs, some with roots in Charleston, who are committed to providing a roster of ever-changing specials. The Ottaray will feature rotating selections of fresh-catch dishes and seven varieties of oysters that’ll keep you coming back for more. Now that’s something to celebrate!
Craft Cocktails and Weekend Brunch
But wait, there’s more! If you’re planning to drop by on a weekend, you’ll definitely want to check out the brunch options. Flaunting a signature “extreme” Bloody Mary that’s piled high with crab claws, shrimp, and all the fixings, this drink is practically a meal itself!
The bar program doesn’t stop there. You’ll find 26 beers on tap, a curated wine list, and a unique cocktail menu that’ll make your taste buds dance. Talk about a perfect way to wind down after a long week!
A Growing Culinary Scene
Greenville has seen an influx of exciting new eateries recently, creating a vibrant culinary landscape. From Kitchen Sync to Willy Taco Feed & Seed, the area is buzzing with delicious options! Taft recognizes the need for a more upscale dining option in this lively area, and he’s certainly delivering.
Join the Fun!
The Ottaray Raw Bar & Taphouse is open for lunch and dinner during the week and offers brunch and dinner on the weekends. Reservations for the private dining space are also available—a perfect idea for special occasions!
Next time you’re in the area, be sure to stop by The Ottaray. It promises to be a fabulous addition to your favorite dining spots in Greenville. Get ready to enjoy fresh seafood, a welcoming atmosphere, and a tribute to a love story that will warm your heart.
Cheers to great food and even better memories!
