The new crop of South Carolina Chef Ambassadors for 2025 is here, freshly appointed by Governor Henry McMaster.
Outstanding in the field for the program’s 11th year is Greenville’s own Jeanne Koenigsberg, executive chef and general manager of Swamp Rabbit Cafe, known for her farm-to-table dishes that highlight local ingredients in a kitchen focusing on sustainability and community engagement. Joining her in this honor are Darren Smith, owner and executive chef of Rivertown Bistro and Bonfire, in Conway, and Shuai Wang, Beijing native and chef/owner of Jackrabbit Filly and King BBQ, in North Charleston.
Throughout the year, the Chef Ambassadors will represent the state through culinary events and promotional opportunities.
“Food is an important part of our state’s history, culture, and economy, and it’s where two of our largest industries—tourism and agriculture—overlap and excel,” said Governor McMaster in a recent press release. “Our world-class culinary talent is highlighted and celebrated through the Chef Ambassador program, showcasing the best of South Carolina chefs, farmers, and locally grown products.”
Sip and Shop
In November, Lisa Suter merged two concepts: the online clothing boutique she launched four years ago with friend Courtney Thompson and their shared love of bubbles. The result? Lili + Koko Boutique & Bubbles in BridgeWay Station.
A curated collection of women’s clothing and accessories fills one part of the space, while the rest is devoted to a lovely quartz-topped bar for sipping Champagne or wine, and a handful of tables for noshing on the likes of truffle fries, pan-seared tuna, and beef brisket sliders.
“The menu is designed to appeal to everyone’s dietary needs,” says Suter, who recently added Sunday brunch with choices from biscuits and gravy to avocado toast. A woman-owned and woman-focused boutique/cafe, Lili + Koko is a “fun and flirty” place to gather, whether you want to expand your wardrobe, sit and chat with friends over a glass of wine, or find an out-of-the-ordinary spot to do date night.
1108 Via Corso Ave., Simpsonville. Closed Mon. & Tues. boutiqueandbubbles.com
Spring Fest
The official ticket launch for euphoria, Spring Fest takes place this month, heralding the 20th anniversary of Greenville’s premier food, wine, and music festival.
According to euphoria’s executive director, Morgan Allen, the four days of Spring Fest will feature both new events and some old favorites. That means you can attend popular experiences like Sip into Spring, the wine tasting at Restaurant 17, and the signature Roast and Toast at the Barn at Sitton Hill Farm that wraps up the weekend on Sunday afternoon.
There will be new classes on Saturday, and a Vietnamese/Mediterranean fusion dinner featuring a James Beard Award nominee from Washington, DC. But the real highlight is announcing the schedule for the main event in September—which promises to be euphoria’s best festival yet.
Various locations in Greenville. Apr. 24–27, Thurs.–Sun., time & prices vary. euphoriagreenville.com
