Restaurant in downtown Greenville announces closure

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, October 28th 2025 at 21:13 GMT by WYFF

Foxcroft Food & Wine Shuts Its Doors in Greenville, Leaving a Void for the Community

On a quiet Friday morning, the long‑established culinary staple of Greenville – Foxcroft Food & Wine – announced its permanent closure, a decision that has reverberated through the city’s food scene. The restaurant, a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, had earned a reputation for its farm‑to‑table menu, carefully curated wine list, and intimate dining atmosphere. Its closure, confirmed in a press release issued by the owners on March 14, 2024, marks the end of a decade‑long chapter of Southern hospitality and culinary innovation.

A Brief History of Foxcroft Food & Wine

Founded in 2015 by husband‑wife duo Emily and Michael Thompson, Foxcroft Food & Wine quickly became a beloved institution in Greenville’s downtown. Located on Main Street, the 1,200‑square‑foot space was designed to blend rustic charm with modern elegance. The Thompsons’ vision was simple: create a menu that celebrated local farmers and artisans while offering an extensive wine program that paired perfectly with each dish.

From the beginning, Foxcroft was known for its commitment to seasonal ingredients. The kitchen’s signature dishes included a wild mushroom risotto, slow‑cooked pork shoulder, and a vegetable medley that highlighted the region’s bounty. Each plate was accompanied by a wine pairing selected by resident sommelier Laura Kim, who had previously worked at several high‑profile establishments in New York and Chicago. Her expertise drew wine lovers from across the state, making Foxcroft a hotspot for both casual diners and connoisseurs.

The Decision to Close

Despite its popularity, the Thompsons revealed that a combination of rising operational costs, fluctuating supply prices, and the lingering effects of the COVID‑19 pandemic had made continued operation unsustainable. In their statement, Emily Thompson remarked, “We have always prided ourselves on being a community‑focused, sustainable restaurant. However, the market conditions have changed, and we simply can’t continue at the same standard we’ve set for our guests.”

The decision was not taken lightly. The Thompsons engaged in an extensive internal review, consulting with their executive chef, financial advisors, and loyal customers. They also considered a possible sale or partnership, but ultimately concluded that the best path forward was to close the restaurant and preserve the quality and integrity that had defined Foxcroft for nearly a decade.

Impact on Staff and Community

Foxcroft’s closure has left many of its 15‑person team—chefs, servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff—unemployed. The Thompsons announced they would provide severance packages and job placement assistance for all employees. Several of the staff members have already secured positions at nearby restaurants, such as The Oak Bistro and Riverfront Grill, thanks to the network and goodwill fostered by Foxcroft’s long-standing presence.

The local community has reacted with a mix of sadness and gratitude. A Facebook post from the restaurant’s official page, which garnered over 500 likes and countless heartfelt comments, expressed appreciation for the experiences shared over the years. A local food blogger, Hannah Lee, noted on her Instagram story that “Foxcroft was more than a restaurant; it was a gathering place where friends celebrated milestones and families shared laughter.”

Future Plans for the Space

The building that housed Foxcroft Food & Wine is set to undergo a renovation to accommodate a new venture by the Thompsons. The couple has hinted at a concept that will continue their passion for locally sourced cuisine but with a more flexible format that could include a taproom and seasonal pop‑up events. In a brief interview with the Greenville Herald, Michael Thompson mentioned, “We’re excited to explore new ways to bring people together. The space will still be a hub of culinary creativity, just in a different form.”

The property’s address—101 Main Street—will remain in the same block, and city officials have indicated that zoning permits will allow for the proposed changes. The local planning commission is scheduled to review the renovation plans next month.

The Legacy of Foxcroft Food & Wine

While the restaurant’s doors are closed, its legacy lives on in the community it served. Foxcroft’s commitment to sustainable sourcing, artisanal craft, and exceptional hospitality set a standard that many local eateries continue to emulate. The Thompsons’ decision to prioritize quality over profit underscores the challenges faced by small, independent restaurants in today’s economic climate.

For many in Greenville, the closure of Foxcroft Food & Wine is a reminder of the fragility of the culinary landscape. Yet, it also highlights the resilience of a community that has always rallied around its favorite local establishments. The Thompsons’ promise of a new, yet-to-be‑named venture suggests that the spirit of Foxcroft will soon return in a fresh and exciting form, continuing to enrich Greenville’s dining culture for years to come.