The Spartanburg-based Morgan Square Hospitality Group, responsible for Delaney’s Irish Pub and Gerhard’s Caf, recently opened another eatery that they anticipate will be as popular as the others.
The new restaurant, known as Isla’s on the Square, is located at 113 N. Church St., in an old building that was previously home to The Growler Haus.
“The building is 120 years old with rustic wood and exposed brick,” said Chris Brymer, Spartanburg native and regional manager of MSHG.
When the Growler Haus closed down a couple of years ago, the group decided to bring a new concept to downtown Spartanburg, according to Brymer, who has been in the restaurant business most of his life and describes the concept as “upscale, but not pretentious,” with a focus on seafood.
The Church Street property was picked with purpose, according to Brymer.
“Since COVID, we had seen a major uptick in pedestrian traffic, with a ton of new development, both business and residential. There’s been a huge influx of people, with not enough places to serve them, so this offers the locals a really cool place to eat,” said Brymer.
The restaurant spans about 2,400 square feet and seats approximately 80 customers with bar and window-seating overlooking Morgan Square. Brymer said that MSHG decided on the coastal cuisine concept to take advantage of fresh seafood being only a few hours away from the coast.
“We buy from multiple distributors who sell super fresh seafood harvested in the morning and served in the afternoon,” he said.
MSHG has hired Chef Zach Holland, formerly of Renato’s.
“Chef Holland has been with us for a couple year’s now, doing catering events,” said Brymer, adding that the veteran chef has competed in the March of Dimes Signature Chef’s Auction and has won “Best Taste” in 2022 and 2023 and his hoping to go for a trifecta when the competition is held later this year.
Related: Stella’s owners open French-inspired spot at Bridgeway Station in Mauldin
Related: Greenville hotel named top resort in South Carolina, one of world’s best
On the menu, in addition to raw oysters, is salmon, sea bass, clams and mussels, along with options like chicken and pork for those who may not gravitate towards seafood. Specials will also be available. “If one of our distributors calls us and says he has a really nice cut of tuna, or something like that, then we’ll run a special on it,” said Brymer.
Guests can enjoy libations at not one, but two bars.
“Upstairs is a bit more informal. You’ll see televisions and a raw oyster bar where the staff shucks oysters as the diners look on. Downstairs the bar is the show,” he said, adding that the cocktail menu will change with the seasons.
Among the menu choices now are the Tropic Thunder, made with Maestro Dobel Diamante, Stiggin’s Fancy Pineapple Rum, red pepper, simple syrup, lime and tiki bitters and a drink called Poppy Van Redenbacher, comprised of popcorn-infused Rittenhouse Rye, cherry simple syrup and orange and chocolate bitters.
“During the summer, there is a heavy focus on citrus, tropical fruit, lychee and passion fruit fun, bright ingredients that play well together,” said Brymer, adding that mocktail choices are also available.
Guests who enjoy eating al fresco will soon be able to head outside to dine on a patio that will seat between 12 and 20 patrons.
According to Brymer, the restaurant is off to a great start and has been busy since opening.
“People are enjoying this fresh dining concept in downtown Spartanburg and we’re seeing not only locals, but also out-of-towners visiting us to enjoy the freshest seafood and best service around,” he said.
Copyright © 2024 BridgeTower Media. All Rights Reserved.
Most Popular
Comments / 0