Around the World on Morgan Square
Nothing brings you closer to a country’s people and culture than partaking in traditional cuisines, and Spartanburg’s vibrant and diverse community of over 80+ countries is reflected in its ever-growing international restaurant scene.
From Italy to Thailand, Japan to the Mediterranean, Mexico to France, experience global cuisine across over 10 countries in just two square blocks in Downtown Spartanburg-- no ticket to Epcot needed.
Italy
We begin our global tour at the corner of West Main and Spring Street, at Sophia’s Restaurant (155 West Main St.) Savor traditional North Italian dishes in this small but elevated eatery, and save room for appetizers and dessert, such as prosciutto and burrata, cannoli, and bombolone cream-filled doughnuts.
As we continue eastward towards Morgan Square, the intersection of Magnolia and Wall Streets holds three potential directions.
Japan
If you’re looking for Japanese cuisine, specifically sushi, there’s several choices countywide. (We have a whole article, here!) Miyako Sushi Group (118 Magnolia St) is downtown’s longest running central for fine sushi craft. Choose from over 50 specialty rolls on the menu, fried rice and noodle bowls, seafood plates, hibachi, and more.
Eastern Mediterranean
In the opposite direction a short walk down pedestrian Wall Street, find Mediterranean-inspired casual fare at Ali Baba (201 Wall St.) In addition to large Gyro platters and handheld lamb, chicken, and falafel gyros, enjoy hummus platters, baklava, loaded potatoes, and more.
France, New Zealand, Portugal, Italy & Beyond
Poised on the corner of Morgan Square, surrounded by a Parisian courtyard of bustling cafe tables and patio lounge sets, Bond Street Wines (145 West Main St) offers a boutique selection of the finest global pours. From California Cabernets and Oregon Chardonnay, to French Brut and New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, choose from pours by the glass or bottle.
Our next five stops on the international tasting tour follow West Main Street, each offering indoor and outdoor seating on the pedestrian Morgan Square.
Mexico
Whether you prefer tacos, tamales, ceviche, or carnitas, Mezcal Taberna Mexicana (143 West Main St) offers a fusion Tex-Mex and Latin-American menu with a mix of traditional tapas-style dishes and larger combination plates. Mezcal hosts downtown’s annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Festival.
American Southwest
If your ideal meal includes a salted rim and tequila, head to Tex-Mex-influenced eatery Burgär (253 Magnolia St) for a margarita flight with seasonal flavors, paired with toppings-laden burgers, salads, fried flautas, wings, triple dip Cajun fries, and more. The restaurant is a sister location to Burrito Hub.
China & Thailand
Monsoon Noodle House’s (129 West Main St) menu is not only broad, but diverse! From noodle bowls and stir fry dishes, to spring rolls and cheese wontons, customize your spice level on traditional and fusion dishes.
Ireland
No need to wait for the annual St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans on the Square festival; Delaney’s Irish Pub (117 West Main St) offers up a full menu of classic Irish pub fare and comfort food year round. Fan favorites include Guinness Pie, Fish & Chips, Wadding’s Reuben, and more. Don’t forget the pint of Guinness on the side!
American South
Our walking tour ends at the corner of Church Street, with music venue, competitive BBQ champion, and one of the newest restaurants on Morgan Square, Smoking Butt Heads BBQ, (111 West Main St.) Menu items range from pulled pork sandwiches and smoked chicken wings, to "plates" piled high with St. Louis ribs, hot links, cornbread, brisket, and more. The 720 Room on level two hosts ticketed musician tours.
Beyond Morgan Square…
While our geographic tour covers just these two blocks on foot, there’s several more local restaurants to expand your global palate with! Here’s seven more eateries, near and far.
Austria: Gerhard’s Cafe, (1200 East Main St)
Colombia & Honduras: Sabor Latino: (8047 Asheville Hwy)
France: Mon Amie Morning Cafe, (2601 East Main St)
Germany: Deli Korner, (1445 Fernwood Glendale Rd)
India: Garlic & Ginger, (464 East Main St)
Puerto Rico: El Chinchorro Boricua, (910 East Main St)
Vietnam: Lemongrass Kitchen, (121 Dunbar St)