2024 Summer Bucket List: OTGG’s Best Summer Bites

As we find ourselves in the midst of what started as a mild summer but has now turned scorching, let’s seize these last moments to check off everything on our 2024 Summer Bucket List.

Let’s be honest. Each school year passes by quickly, leaving us caught up in the daily grind of shuttling kids, figuring out what to make for dinner, and wondering why the sun sets so early. However, this summer is our opportunity to finally experience the people, places, and activities we’ve been meaning to explore.

Introducing the OTGG 2024 Summer Bucket List! This summer, let’s make it a priority to discover new places, connect with new people, and engage in exciting activities we may have missed during the year.

We hope you’ll join us in embracing the heat and participating in some of our top picks!
If you have something notable to add, we’d love to hear about it.

DOUBLE DELICIOUS
Roll the dice and coordinate pickup between Pizza Parco, Greenville’s favorite underground pizza, and Parma Johnny, the newest kitchen bringing NY-style chicken parm to town. This meal combo opportunity will leave you craving more NY nostalgia. Don’t miss out!

Order online from both businesses or book a direct flight from GSP to LGA – it’s your call!

https://www.parmijohnny.com/

https://parcheggio.pizza/order

Do yourself a favor. Experience KOREAN BBQ.

If you live in Greenville, SC, you understand the respect and love we have for our locally-owned spot. If you still need to, we highly encourage you to visit the OG Korean BBQ at the gas station on Miller Road. Family-owned and operated, it’s a GVL Classic with a small dining room and table service. 

Once you have fulfilled that requirement, get ready to feast at Chef 21 Korean BB. Chef 21 is owned by mastermind and owner LeRaina Xiao, who is driven to create and operate 21 different restaurant concepts—and the Upstate benefits from her passion.

With an impressive 10+ BBQ tables equipped with suspicious cooking tools and an abundance of fresh sushi, including an omakase option, happy hour specials, ramen, hot pot, and much more, it’s hard to keep up with everything they offer. Luckily, they’re open seven days a week. Being over the top is the motto at Chef 21!

MORE LOCAL FOOD EXPERIENCES

Dim Sum Delights
Indulge in dim sum at Sum Bar and Asia Pacific Restaurant and Supermarket.

Soby’s Brunch Special
Buy the champagne and get fried chicken at Soby’s for brunch. Beginning Saturday, July 6th, Soby’s will offer a special Fried Chicken & Bubbles feature EVERY WEEKEND (Saturdays and Sundays).

Stella’s Southern Bistro + Stella’s Southern Brasserie
If you haven’t visited either location, you MUST check out both spots because their third concept, ROTIE by Stella’s, is gearing up to open July 10th at Bridgeway Station. 

HeyDay
Spend a couple of hours at 2510 Poinsett Highway, Greenville’s most unique sandwich and cocktail spot, located in the former Oak Hill Cafe. Expect a fun place to unwind with delicious food and exciting drink options. Enjoy outdoor games and check out the Airstream bar parked in the back for an unforgettable experience.

STAYCATION VIBES

Hartness Development Staycation
It might seem like a big trip, but it’s only 20 minutes from Downtown Greenville to the newly growing Hartness development. Go, spend a night, and indulge in a massage. While you’re there, savor the flavors at The One 5 Restaurant, conveniently located at the development entrance. Treat yourself to dessert at The Patterson, now home to pastry chef Tania Cienfuegos.
For more inspiration, check out our June post.

Fine Dining with a View
Experience Juniper at the top of the AC Hotel in downtown Greenville, which has fantastic views of downtown and the foothills. While you’re there, don’t miss their Flushie-worthy restroom, a possible contender for a 2025 Flushie Trophy. 

Craft Beverage Adventure: In the world of craft beer, supporting local friends is key. This summer, explore a few Upstate breweries and distilleries. New South Distillery, right next to Velo Fellow, recently opened under the former Smoke on the Water location.

DAY TRIPS

Cashiers/Highlands
Aim for the tea garden at the Old Edwards Inn and Spa. Shop, drink, and enjoy this famous mountain town.

“The Big Circle”
Cruise up Poinsette HWY to the NC border for cooler temperatures. Make a must-do stop at Flat Rock Bakery for amazing pastries and their legendary post-11 a.m. pizza. Then, head towards Hendersonville’s Bat Cave Exit and Chimney Rock Village for another delightful pit stop! Continue winding through scenic mountain roads to Lake Lure’s public beach and waterfront restaurants, where you can watch boaters while checking out the stunning homes.

With so many incredible places to explore and flavors to savor, this summer in Upstate SC promises endless adventure. From fine dining with breathtaking views to unique local spots and fun outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone. Get out there and make the most of the season!

Keep an eye on our Instagram Stories for more ideas!