Between the Trees — Restaurant in Greenville

I’ve been meaning to give Between the Trees a fair shot since they opened in Greenville, but every time I stopped in for a drink, I was left unimpressed. So, for my 10-year anniversary with my wife, we thought we’d finally try it out for dinner, hoping the full experience would redeem my past visits.

We made a reservation through Resy and showed up on time, but right from the get-go, things started to go downhill. We walked in at 7:30 PM on a Friday, and it took a solid minute before the hostess noticed we had arrived. Not exactly a great first impression. When she finally acknowledged us, her comment about our server being a “bartender too” set off immediate alarm bells. We were seated in a tight corner next to other couples, where the romantic vibe quickly evaporated as the couple next to us seemed to be auditioning for a reality show.

At this point, we thought, "It’s Friday night. How bad could it be?" Well, when our waitress finally came over, things went from awkward to cringeworthy. We mentioned we were celebrating a special occasion and were interested in the more expensive options on the menu, but she made no attempt to steer us or give us any helpful info. Not once did she ask about the special occasion or offer any suggestions.

We ordered a cocktail each, plus a couple of appetizers: Smoked Ricotta Dip and Bison Tartare. The food arrived quickly, but neither the waitress nor anyone else asked about our entree choices, and we weren’t prompted for a wine selection. The food itself? Let's just say that "presentation" was the best part. The Smoked Ricotta Dip tasted like blueberry jam on crackers that broke at the mere touch, and the Bison Tartare was smothered in mayo so thick it tasted more like a sauce than the meat. The cocktails? Well, let’s just say I’ve had better drinks from a vending machine.

We waited another 30 minutes for our waitress to check in, but she seemed to have forgotten we were there. Meanwhile, we watched other tables get the attention we were hoping for. Finally, we flagged down a manager to express our dissatisfaction. We were comped for the meal, thanked the staff, and left.

But wait, there's more. As we were leaving, our waitress—who had shown zero interest in us all night—decided to accuse us of trying to "run out" on the tab and began yelling at us in front of other guests. The manager had to physically step in and pull her away. It was like a scene from a bad reality show.

I asked for a manager to contact me, but after 72 hours of silence, I’ve concluded that Between the Trees is no longer on my list. We’ve frequented Grand Bohemian hotels and restaurants throughout the Southeast, and there’s a pattern—poor service, rude staff, mediocre food, and high prices.

So, if you want a truly enjoyable dining experience, do yourself a favor and head over to Halls Chophouse. At least they know how to treat customers. As for Between the Trees? I think this will be the last time I ever step foot in that place.

EDIT: Have had multiple coworkers in town this week and will be visiting...

An Ode to Thy Fine Repast at Ye Glorious Eatery

Hark, fair denizens of epicurean delight! Last eve, I did venture forth to a most resplendent dining hall, whose name I shall withhold lest the masses rush to besiege its doors and rob me of a future seat at its fine table. Lo, let me recount the feast that graced my palate and the comely visage of the chef, whose hands craft wonders with a deftness that might rival the angels themselves.

First to arrive was the Mushroom Toast, an ambrosial plate that didst present whipped goat cheese as if clouds had been churned and spread upon crisp bread. The mushroom conserva and cioppolini onion aigre-doux danced upon mine tongue like woodland nymphs, while basil did crown the dish with herbaceous splendor. A veritable toast of triumph, I daresay!

Next, the Jumbo Lump Crab Tart, a creation so decadent I feared my heart might burst from joy (or bearnaise). The bone marrow custard, rich as the coffers of a king, wove its way through tender crab and caramelized onions, with spinach offering a gentle reprieve from the opulence. 'Twas a tart fit for nobility—and yet, I alone devoured it like a heathen.

Then came the Scallops, seared to golden perfection, their tender flesh resting upon barley risotto more comforting than a woolen cloak 'pon a wintry night. The parsnip purée sang sweetly, whilst pomegranate jewels and bitter orange oil lent brightness to the dish. It was a harmony of land and sea, and verily, my taste buds did rejoice.

To conclude this most blessed feast, the Sweet Potato Cake arrived, an architectural marvel of spiced mousseline, meringue kisses, and toasted marshmallow, with pecans scattered as if by the hand of autumn herself. I wept silent tears of joy as I consumed this confection, for truly, no words could capture its divine essence.

And yet, dear reader, I must needs confess: it was not the victuals alone that enchanted me, but the chef, whose visage was fairer than the dessert before me. With each dish presented, their roguish grin and twinkling eyes spoke of confidence and culinary prowess. Methinks I fell not only for the food but for the artist behind it. Pray, couldst thou blame me?

In summary, this dining establishment hath captured my heart and stomach alike. I bid thee visit posthaste, but beware—thou may find thyself smitten, as I, with both the food and the chef who wields the ladle with such...

This was my 1st visit, my daughter and her bf went for brunch Friday and recommended I go.

Food: The dish I ordered read eloquently was plated beautifully but lacked flavor and was a little tough. It came out in a fair amount of time but was warm at best. 6.8/10

Service: Our server, Kara, was sweet and attentive. She made suggestions and was patient with us. 10/10

Ambiance: Very nice. Very much downtown #yeahthatGreenville-ish. We sat outside bc the AC was still set for a sunny 85+ degree day. I'm ALWAYS cold. I'm glad we did bc the sound of the waterfall is very relaxing. *The restaurant is in between the trees. Trees and water everywhere. I did NOT see one bug, fly, mosquito, gnat nothing. I didn't see or smell lemongrass, lavender, or anything that would deter insects, so I'm sure they have an awesome service to come ensure guest are not swatting over their food. * 10/10

Design: Cute. Guest can enter from the Bohemian Lodge Hotel or the courtyard. They have a huge bar in the center with seating all around. I didn't use the bathroom, so I'm not sure about it, but I'm sure it won't disappoint. *kind of mad I didn't walk in there. I love that the restaurant is tucked away in plain sight. Very easily accessible from the Liberty Bridge in Falls Park or Camperdown Way. 8.5/10

Value: I think pricing is fair for the area. They offer fresh pressed drinks and premium coffee options, those are a little pricey, but the prices are similar to what you'd see anywhere. We spent $50 for the 2 of us. A typical breakfast downtown for us is easily $35+. 9/10

Overall, I'm definitely going back. We were there at 9 am on July 5th. 🤷🏾‍♀️ Of course, you'd expect everything to be on point, but I'm realistic. People celebrated last night. My daughter said her dish was seasoned well. Mine was not. Maybe a prep person called out, who knows? I like to try new restaurants 3x's. Next time I'll go for brunch and have a drink. Then I'll go for dinner. 8/10 would...