Walking Dead
No, the zombie apocalypse hasn’t descended on Greenville. But it is true that two cast members from The Walking Dead TV series (which ended in 2022 after 11 seasons) headline the ownership group that recently opened Nic & Norman’s in the West End. The concept, the fifth location for the chain, is named for Norman Reedus, who starred on the show for all 11 seasons, and Greg Nicotero, the show’s director and Emmy-winning special effects makeup artist. Inside the historic building that housed Smoke on the Water for the past 20 years, you won’t find zombies, but you will find photos from both artists’ professional careers lining the brick walls.
The space has been reconfigured with a long bar in front, while crystal chandeliers and curtained booths suggest a speakeasy vibe. Flatbreads, salads, and gourmet burgers (Frito Chili Smashburger, anyone?) head up the menu, with Southern accents popping up in the likes of Pickle Fries, Brisket Barbecue Flatbread, and sides of Cajun cream corn and fried okra. Entrees—Brisket Mac and Cheese, Fried Chicken Pot Pie, and Homemade Meatloaf, to name a few—take their cues from American comfort food.
Pumpkin Patches
October’s the time for carving those spooky jack-o’-lanterns for Halloween, so head to these spots for pumpkin picking and more fall fun.
Denver Downs Farm
Picking out pumpkins is just one of myriad activities at the Denver Downs Fall Festival. Check out the hayrides, corn maze, petting zoo, festival food, and live entertainment.
1515 Denver Rd., Anderson, thru Nov. 10, Fri.–Sun., denverdownsfarm.com
Golden Strip Pumpkin Patch
This pumpkin patch in Simpsonville celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. Go early to get the best pick and support local nonprofits while you’re at it.
301 N. Main St, Simpsonville, thru Oct., daily, thelittlewhitehouse.org
Stewart Farms
You’ll find pumpkins of all sizes and shapes in Stewart’s 10-acre patch. Wagon rides and a corn maze add to the festivities.
6600 Hwy. 92, Enoree, thru Oct. 27, Fri.–Sun., stewartfarms.net
Strawberry Hill USA
Strawberry Hill boasts one of the largest selections of pumpkins in South Carolina, not to mention fresh-churned ice cream.
3097 Hwy. 11 W., Chesnee, thru Oct. 27, Fri.–Sun., strawberryhillusa.com
Thompson Family Farms
Wander through the pumpkin field, then get lost in the sunflower maze, where you can pick flowers to take home.
13830 SC Hwy. 11, Campobello, thru Oct., Wed.–Sat., thompsonupick.com
