Fresh healthy wrap at Pomegranate on Main in Greenville, SC
The wraps are so fresh & healthy

South Carolina does not immediately spring to mind first when thinking of destinations with lots of vegetarian friendly cuisine. However, the popular foodie destination of Greenville has been making headlines in recent years for its’ diverse culinary scene. To date, more than 1000 unique restaurants have opened across this small city. You can find almost everything here, from world-class International fare, to ramen, to homestyle Southern style cuisine, to classic European favorites like Italian, French, & Greek eateries.

More and more restaurants are offering an abundance of options for those following a vegetarian diet, with some even getting in on the vegan or plant-based scene as well. This is really great because having a healthy meal to come back to after a long day exploring the natural beauty of Upstate South Carolina is a must. For all those following a healthy diet, here are my recommended choices in town. I have been a vegetarian for many years and can say that I was impressed with the availability of options for such a small city.

1. Tomato Pie at Kitchen Sync

Amazing tomato pie at Kitchen Sync in Greenville, South Carolina

Kitchen Sync is an eclectic farm-to-table restaurant specializing in healthy seasonal fare. Although there are not a whole lot of vegetarian options on the menu, the few which exist are pretty darn fantastic. The highlight here is the fresh Southern style tomato pie, typically offered during the summer months. This is one of the most delicious dishes you will try in Greenville, or elsewhere for the matter.

A tomato pie is similar to a quiche in appearance, only with savory seasoned tomatoes instead of the eggs. Served with a fresh spring salad, this is the perfect cooling dish to indulge in during Greenville’s hot summer season. Also try the vegetarian friendly zucchini hummus dip for an appetizer, and treat yourself to a decadent S’mores blackout cake for dessert!

2. Half Breakfast at Biscuit Head

Half breakfast deal at Biscuit Head in Greenville, South Carolina

Biscuit Head is a trendy southern style cafe which originated in Asheville. Since 2013, this place has become immensely popular, and thus, has expanded to include locations in numerous southern cities including Greenville. This is the place to go for delicious cathead style biscuits, a traditional southern biscuit named as so because it is “as big as a cat’s head.”

Order your biscuit with gravy (a vegan chorizo gravy is available as a meat-free alternative!), or opt for the self-service jam bar with over a dozen delicious flavors. The Half Breakfast deal which includes eggs, a side, and a biscuit is the way to go. Biscuits are naturally vegetarian, with the option to pay an extra buck for a vegan/GF version. Order a fresh squeezed orange juice or cup of joe (from local roaster Pennycup) to go along with your meal.

3. Veggie on Pita at Greektown Grill

Veggie pita at Greektown Grill in Greenville, South Carolina

Greektown Grill is the most delicious local Greek restaurant in Greenville. This restaurant is located on a side street just off from Main Street, and thus, tends to stay a bit quieter than the more trendy places located right on tourist central. They offer a number of tasty vegetarian appetizers and entrees. Start with the spanakopita appetizer, which is a bit pricey but worth the splurge. The Flaming Saganaki Cheese is another great choice.

The veggie pita is one of the best lunch deals in town. Available daily from 11-3 as part of the special discounted lunch menu, this one is a real steal at just under 10 bucks. This savory pita is stuffed with sauteed onions, peppers, and tomatoes, along with cucumbers, lettuce, feta cheese, and the tastiest tzatziki sauce. The best part of the meal is the perfectly seasoned fries, served Greek style (parmesan cheese) alongside your pita. Go ahead and treat yourself. This is by far my favorite lunch pick in town!

4. Green Vegas bagel at Sully’s Steamers

Steamed "Green Vegas" bagel at Sully's Steamers in Greenville, South Carolina

Sully’s is not your ordinary bagel shop. The bagels here are steamed and gooey and delicious. Sully’s offers a variety of bagel varieties, including a GF millet and flaxseed option. They offer all sorts of creative sandwiches, including several tempting veggie creations. Do consider indulging in the Green Vegas, a savory combo featuring veggie cream cheese, swiss cheese, sprouts, lettuce, avocado, and honey mustard. It’s my favorite quick breakfast in town!

Sully’s serves delicious coffee from local roaster Methodical, another must try while visiting downtown. Order a cup along with your bagel for a great breakfast experience. There are so many wonderful local coffeehouses in downtown Greenville!

5. Coffee and Blueberry Slab Pie at Swamp Rabbit Cafe

Coffee and blueberry slab pie at Swamp Rabbit Cafe in Greenville

Swamp Rabbit Cafe is a haven for coffee lovers, pastry fans, health nuts, and outdoor lovers. This co-op/coffeehouse serves delicious coffee, homemade pastries, and freshly baked stecca bread. Everything here is always wonderful, whether you like chocolate croissants, donuts (vegan!), or cinnamon rolls. Try the Blueberry Slab Pie (pictured above) if it is available (it’s so delicious!). They use local and organic ingredients when possible and everything is always homemade.

Take a seat on the outdoor patio and enjoy the mild Carolina weather as you savor organic coffee and freshly baked treats. If you are up for a bit of exercise, the Swamp Rabbit bike trails starts just behind the cafe. A fitness buff’s dream, this trail runs for 22 miles, connecting various points of interest including downtown Greenville.

5. Garden skillet at Stax Omega Diner

Veggie skillet at Stax Omega diner in Greenville, South Carolina

For the heartiest, most delicious traditional breakfast fare in town, do plan for a stop at Stax Omega diner. This bustling family business has been a favorite of both locals and visitors since opening back in 1998. The menu is huge with something for everyone, including plentiful vegetarian choices.

For breakfast, you will definitely want to treat yourself to the Garden Skillet. This savory bowl includes 2 eggs your way, potatoes, cheddar cheese, and a range of sauteed veggies including mushrooms, tomatoes, peppers, and onions. It’s served alongside fruit and your choice of toast (GF available) or a biscuit. It’s so delicious and so filling – a real treat. Order the endless house coffee (it’s great too!) and save yourself the Starbucks run!