Greenville, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse is taking over the former Urban Wren space at Markley Station in downtown Greenville. With 6,226 square feet, the steakhouse aims to enhance local dining options and is part of the Happy Fork Hospitality Group. The exact opening date is yet to be announced, but the community is optimistic about this new addition following Urban Wren’s closure.
Greenville Welcomes Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse to Markley Station
Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse is set to take over the former Urban Wren space at Markley Station in downtown Greenville. The restaurant will occupy 6,226 square feet in the building, which is located at 114 N. Markley St. The transaction was handled by the commercial real estate agency Colliers, representing both Cork & Cleaver and the landlord, Taylor Capital. No specific opening date has been announced for the steakhouse yet.
The decision to bring Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse into the Markley Station space follows the closure of Urban Wren, which ceased operations in January after nearly five years. Rob Taylor, managing partner of Taylor Capital, expressed optimism about the new addition, citing the success of Cork & Cleaver in other markets. According to Taylor, the steakhouse is expected to enhance the dining options available at Markley Station and contribute positively to the overall energy of the property.
Cork & Cleaver will occupy the downstairs suite while the upstairs area will be leased out for office space. In an effort to maximize this new layout, an internal stairwell will be removed to create a more inviting atmosphere for diners. Cork & Cleaver is part of the Happy Fork Hospitality Group, which also operates Bakon Southern Eatery and Chophouse of Chapin. The original Cork & Cleaver location is in Lexington, South Carolina, and is renowned for its house dry-aged steaks as well as a diverse menu that includes various appetizers, entrées, and desserts, accompanied by a selection of wines and spirits.
Ron Pereira, CEO of Happy Fork Hospitality Group, shared excitement about the restaurant’s expansion into the Greenville market, indicating that the community will benefit from its arrival. As the restaurant prepares for its launch, Cork & Cleaver looks to become a staple in the Greenville dining scene, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking quality steak and a vibrant atmosphere.
In summary, Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse’s entrance into the Markley Station is viewed as a promising addition to the area’s culinary landscape, especially following the closing of Urban Wren. With a strong focus on high-quality dining and a dynamic menu, the steakhouse aims to attract a wide range of customers.
### FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse?
Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse is a restaurant known for its house dry-aged steaks and a diverse menu that features appetizers, entrées, desserts, and an array of wines and spirits.
Where will Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse be located?
The steakhouse will occupy the former Urban Wren space at Markley Station, specifically at 114 N. Markley St. in downtown Greenville.
When will Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse open?
An official opening date for the new steakhouse has not yet been announced.
What company operates Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse?
Cork & Cleaver is part of the Happy Fork Hospitality Group, which also runs Bakon Southern Eatery and Chophouse of Chapin.
What changes are being made to the space?
The restaurant will occupy the downstairs suite of the building while the upstairs will be leased for office space. An internal stairwell will be removed to enhance the dining experience.
What was the previous tenant at this location?
The previous tenant was Urban Wren, which closed in January after operating for nearly five years.
Key Features of Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 114 N. Markley St., downtown Greenville |
| Size | 6,226 square feet |
| Previous Tenant | Urban Wren |
| Ownership | Part of Happy Fork Hospitality Group |
| Menu Highlights | House dry-aged steaks, assorted appetizers, desserts, wines, and spirits |
| Opening Date | TBA |
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Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse Opening in Downtown Greenville
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Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
