News Summary
Soby’s New South Cuisine in Greenville, South Carolina, has made history by receiving the Grand Award from Wine Spectator, becoming the first restaurant in the state to achieve this prestigious honor. Known for its exceptional wine program, Soby’s has continually enhanced its offerings since its opening in 1997, boasting a selection of over 4,000 wines. The restaurant is not only celebrated for its wine but also its contribution to the local community and culinary landscape, as it plans to expand further with new initiatives focused on seafood.
Greenville, South Carolina – Soby’s New South Cuisine has made history by becoming the first restaurant in South Carolina to win Wine Spectator’s prestigious Grand Award. This recognition was announced on June 20, 2025, highlighting its exceptional wine program that warrants a special trip for connoisseurs and visitors alike.
Since its establishment in 1997, Soby’s has emphasized the importance of fine wine to its dining experience. The restaurant has continuously sought to enhance its wine offerings, leading to a renovation of its wine cellar in 2018, which included increased storage capacity and a private dining area.
The Grand Award is a major accolade awarded by Wine Spectator, bestowed upon restaurants with extraordinary wine programs. Since the award’s inception in 1981, only 97 restaurants worldwide have achieved this honor, making it a significant milestone in the culinary community. In 2025, Soby’s was one of only three restaurants to be awarded the Grand Award this year, joining the ranks of notable establishments such as The Angus Barn in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tennessee.
Significant Wine Program Growth
Soby’s dedication to its wine program has been evident over the years. The restaurant transitioned from a modest selection of 1,200 wines to a robust catalog of over 3,100 selections since 2020. Currently, Soby’s wine cellar is home to 4,000 different wines, with a focus on biodynamic and sustainable varieties. The restaurant prioritizes locally-sourced ingredients, featuring specialties such as pimento cheese dip, crab cakes, and shrimp and grits on its menu.
Recognition and Acclaim
During its first year of operation, Soby’s earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence. From 2003 to 2024, it repeatedly received the Best of Award of Excellence, indicating a sustained commitment to quality in its wine offerings. The Grand Award holds a prestige that is likened to Michelin stars, though there are significantly fewer Grand Awards than Michelin three-star restaurants.
Impact on the Local Community
Beyond its accomplishments in the culinary realm, Soby’s has played an influential role in downtown Greenville’s growth and development. The restaurant is noted for its philanthropic efforts and community involvement, addressing various concerns such as public transport, affordable housing, and food security. Soby’s also initiated a Monday wine dinner series in its early days to foster awareness and interest in fine wines in the region.
Continuing the Legacy
As Soby’s continues its operations, the future looks bright with plans to open Jones Oyster Co., a new initiative focusing on fresh seafood. The restaurant’s founder and president of Table 301 Hospitality has expressed a commitment to continual improvement in their wine offerings, reinforcing that the recognition serves not only as a testament to Soby’s but also as a representation for both Greenville and the state of South Carolina.
Greenville’s culinary scene has gained national attention recently, further showcasing the area’s growing reputation. The accolades for Soby’s emphasize the restaurant’s influence and highlight a broader trend of quality dining options available within the region.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Journal: Soby’s Wins Prestigious Wine Spectator Grand Award
- Post and Courier: Greenville’s Soby’s Best Wine Spectator Grand Award
- Wine Spectator: 2025 Wine Spectator Grand Award Winner Soby’s in Greenville, SC
- Greenville Online: Soby’s Restaurant Celebrates 25 Years
- Wikipedia: Soby’s
