While constructing our kayak condo, Laura and I had to head out to Lowes for a few more parts. This put us up on Poinsett Highway around lunch time, so she suggested that we try a new sandwich place in Travelers Rest. Even though it was a bit early, we found ourselves at Upcountry Provisions Bakery and Bistro, just off of Main Street.
Background
The bistro is part of the burgeoning commerce made possible by development of the Swamp Rabbit Trail and revitalization of Traveler’s Rest downtown. According to their logos and signs, the place was established in 2011, and seeks to use locally sourced ingredients for their breads and other recipes. The restaurant even has a vegetable and herb garden out front on the edge of their parking lot.
Atmosphere
The place is fairly small. There are a few tables outside, and most of these were occupied when we arrived. The interior is cozy, with rustic decorative touches throughout. Half of the building is the bakery with a counter out front, and the other half is a dining area with several tables. The tables are made from old boards, doors, etc., and this is the type of place where no chairs match. One orders from the counter, then finds a seat either outside or in.
Even though we were a bit earlier than the noon hour, there were quite a few patrons already there. These were mainly families and couples. Laura said that on weekdays the place is packed with the working lunch crowd.
Menu
There is a breakfast menu that consists mainly of bread-related items filled with various ingredients. Even as I typed that last sentence, it occurred to me that that’s just a convoluted way of saying “sandwiches.” There are croissants, cinnamon rolls, bagels, muffins, and other standard bakery fare. These are mostly under the $5 mark.
As for lunch, one can order from several selections, and have these prepare either as a sandwich, a flat bread wrap, or a salad. These are fairly creative sandwich/deli combinations, and range from $6.50 to $9.00. These include turkey, chicken, roast beef, and a vegetarian option.
Food
Laura and I both ordered “The Upcountry”, as sandwiches. This was turkey, havarti, and a cranberry chutney on a pumpernickel roll. The bread was wonderful, and the sandwich had an excellent combination of flavors. If I had one complaint, it was that the sandwich was a bit too sweet with the cranberry chutney. I was craving pepper or something savory to tone it down a bit. However, that was just a minor flaw in an overall great meal.
Service
The place is mostly self-serve from the counter, but our food did come out quickly and efficiently.
Conclusions
This is a great discovery, and is well within range of folks from Furman who want a good lunch. I enjoyed our lunch here, and want to come back to try one of the other combinations.