Imagine That: Get a Taste of Europe in Newberry

If you thought Newberry was just another sleepy little Southern town with predictable dining options, stifle those yawns and absorb this eye-opening news: Culinary adventures are on the upswing in the place best-known as home to Newberry College and Newberry Opera House.

In 2019, Newberry landed on the Travel Channel’s list of “Most Charming Small Towns in America.” We think “Most Exciting Small Towns in America” would be an apt addition, especially considering the kaleidoscope of options for food, wine and spirits.

Imagine European touches and creative approaches, then experience the reality when you visit downtown Newberry.

Tiny Paris Carolina

1109 Caldwell Street
(803) 945-4355

Imagine: You’re strolling the streets of a quaint little town when you turn a corner and voila! Seemingly out of nowhere, an adorable Parisian bistro appears complete with strains of music and sidewalk cafe tables.

Experience: You don’t have to have a passport to feel that Old World vibe. Once inside Tiny Paris Carolina, everything falls away as you immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of this alluring bistro and gift shop.

Taste: Indulge in carefully curated wines and bubbles, crusty warm baguettes with herbed butter and olive tapenade, savory charcuterie and cheeses. Specialty dishes like gazpacho, shrimp bruschetta, fresh berry tarts and heirloom tomato pie from the kitchen are a divine fusion of Southern and European flavors.

Shop: The bistro doubles as a sweet gift shop, too, with lots of unique offerings including bespoke candles in vintage glassware that you can have refilled at the shop.

Note: Hours of operation tend to be limited to afternoons though the bistro often opens at night to accommodate the opera house crowd.

Bar Figaro

944 Main Street
(803) 321-6626

Imagine: You exit the Newberry Opera House after a great show when the glow of a neon light beckons from across the street. “Bar Figaro” it reads. A cold drink and a snack sound good right now but once inside, you realize this is no beer tavern.

Experience: An antique bar, rich wood floors reclaimed from the famed Apollo Theater, crystal glassware, exposed brick and a stunning mosaic dome all work together to make this bar one of the classiest you’ve ever seen—anywhere. The stellar waitstaff and bartenders seal the deal.

Taste: Forget that bowl of bar snacks and pub grub you envisioned. Think instead: Baked French onion soup, beef short ribs over stone-ground grits, a shaved ribeye sandwich, classic cocktails and an impressive bourbon selection.

Note: Watch their social media pages for themed events, live music and more.

Figaro the Dining Room

1117 Boyce Street
(803) 276-0101

Imagine: It’s college graduation day for your kiddo and that calls for a special celebration. Family has joined you for the auspicious occasion, too. Bar Figaro’s big brother has you covered. Figaro the Dining Room is just the place to capture the elevated vibe you’re hoping for.

Experience: Intricate woodwork and elegant furnishings create a relaxed but classy ambiance. Housed in a renovated bank, Figaro embraces its historic roots with an eye toward quiet luxury for dinners that are intimate, memorable and worthy of any occasion.

Taste: Roast duck with blueberry sauce, a bourbon-glazed bone-in pork chop, fresh shrimp and scallops over pasta—you get the drift. Breakfast and brunch are sumptuous, too, with beignets, shrimp etouffee, omelets, a crab cake sandwich and lots of other tempting offerings as well as a comprehensive wine selection and full bar.

Note: Reservations are strongly recommended.

Half Full Cafe and Wine Bar

1402 Main Street
(803) 321-2090

Imagine: It’s a beautiful morning in Newberry, and you are dreaming of a foamy cappuccino in a laid-back but inviting atmosphere. Fast forward to evening. Visions of a fine glass of wine and savory cheeseboard are front and center before you take in a show at the opera house. For either scenario, find your fancy at Half Full Cafe and Wine Bar.

Experience: Exposed brick and cozy seating give this Italian-inspired cafe and wine bar an intimate feel. It’s a soothing, friendly place to begin your morning and end your night. The staff has an expert knowledge of coffee drinks, teas, wines and cocktails, which makes for a top-notch experience.

Taste: Indulge in rich Nespresso coffee, pour-overs and French press brews. Baristas can flavor to your preference. Gourmet deviled eggs come in Greek, pesto, parmesan and other flavors. The Marvelous Spinach Salad with cherries and pecans makes a light, flavorful meal. For a sandwich, think thin-sliced rosemary ham with melted Havarti cheese on a croissant. Prosciutto pops and caprese skewers are also favorites on the tapas lineup.

Note: Wines are sourced from smaller Old-World vineyards and include sparkling, white, rose, orange, red and non-alcoholic varieties. The owners will happily answer any questions and love to make recommendations.