Furman 101: Let's Eat!

From now until the start of school, we're introducing the Class of 2018 to best of Greenville and Furman through our new Buzzfeed series, Furman 101. First, let's talk food. Greenville and Upstate South Carolina have steadily become a foodie’s dream, with a range of Southern cuisine, tastes from the Carolina coast, and a variety of ethnic flavors. Here's where our students love to eat.

Favorite Late Night: Cookout

Cook-Out | Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

For most Furman students, Cookout is the ultimate stop for a late-night study break. With more than 20 different milkshakes, including banana pudding and strawberry cheesecake, it’s less than five minutes from Furman’s campus. When you visit, it’s possible to see the football team’s offensive line. Just ask New York Jets rookie and Furman alum, Dakota Dozier.

Location: 1513 Poinsett Hwy Greenville, SC

Favorite BBQ: Mike & Jeff’s

Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

Mike & Jeff’s is a no frills BBQ joint, known for it’s smoky flavor and friendly owners. The focus here is pork, with outstanding ribs and pulled pork sandwiches. The small, diner-style restaurant is among the Top 10 best restaurants in Greenville, according to TripAdvisor. Furman students love the food so much, some have asked Mike and Jeff to cater their wedding.

Location: 2401 Old Buncombe Road Greenville, SC

Favorite Ice Cream: Spill the Beans

Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

Whether your first time to Spill the Beans is during an admissions welcome reception or a study session with your classmates, their ice cream hits the spot. It’s a prime spot for first dates, study dates or coffee dates. Best of all, Spill the Beans offers a gorgeous view of the Reedy River Falls Park.

Location: 531 S Main St Greenville, SC

Favorite Date Night Spot: Soby’s

Soby's New South Cuisine

Special Occasion? Furman students love Soby’s for the southern flare on upscale dishes. From the Gullah shrimp and grits to some of the finest fried green tomatoes in Greenville, Soby’s is a favorite. It also boasts some of the best people watching in downtown Greenville, with it’s open windows and patio. It’s perfect for those breezy summer nights.

Location: 207 S Main St Greenville, SC

Favorite Burger Joint: Grill Marks

Grill Marks

Voted the best burgers in Greenville, Grill Marks is a go-to for Furman students. Add some white truffle Parmesan cheese fries and a decadent milkshake, and you may just have a slice of heaven. Did we mention more people watching? Since it sits right next to Soby’s, you can enjoy the view of Main Street.

Location: 209 S Main St Greenville, SC

Favorite Place to take out-of-towners: Smoke on the Water

Foursquare | Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

A favorite for Family Weekend. Smoke on the Water is the go-to spot for out-of-town guests. The menu offers a wide variety, featuring everything from smoked ribs to beer butt chicken. Most Furman seniors are known to spend their time there before commencement as one last hoorah!

Location: 1 Augusta St Greenville, SC

Favorite Tacos: Local Taco

Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

A Furman favorite located in the Augusta Road area, this restaurant boasts a plethora of local everything, from local art to all local ingredients. We recommend the Korean BBQ taco!

Location: 15 Conestee Avenue Greenville, SC

Favorite Coffeehouse: The Forest Coffeehouse

Jeremy Fleming via Furman University

Take a short bike ride down the Swamp Rabbit Trail to Travelers Rest and you’ll find this local coffeehouse. With fresh coffee and the bonus of a friendly staff and serene atmosphere, it’s easy to stay focused here when you’re studying.

Location: 26 S Main St Travelers Rest, SC

Favorite Food Truck: Asada

Greenville Online | Gap Creek Gourmet

One of the first food trucks in a booming food truck town, Asada offers their mission style tacos to the masses. The actual food truck, named “Lola,” is known to have lines. We recommend bringing a lawn chair, sitting back and enjoying the food!

Location: 1237 Pendleton St. Greenville, SC