Seasonal ingredients and handcrafted preparation take center stage at Lucy Anne's in downtown Spartanburg, where the menu combines Southern comfort food with Italian inspiration. Photo courtesy of Megan Michalowski
Downtown Spartanburg’s dining scene has welcomed an exciting new addition with the opening of Lucy Anne’s, a restaurant that blends Southern comfort, Italian influence and heartfelt family tradition into an experience that feels both familiar and refined.
Located inside the historic Citizens and Southern Bank building at 148 W. Main St., Lucy Anne’s is the long-awaited brick-and-mortar home for Chef Michael, whose culinary journey began years ago with pop-up dinners, brewery events and catered gatherings across the Upstate. After building a loyal following, opening a permanent restaurant in Spartanburg felt like the natural next step.
“I was inspired to open here in Spartanburg because we need more restaurants,” Chef Michael said. “It’s currently my hometown for the past four, almost five years, and starting something in my own community just made sense.”
While the food is certainly a draw, the story behind the restaurant’s name is perhaps its most meaningful feature.
Lucy Anne was the name Chef Michael and his girlfriend, Caity Guthrie, had chosen for the daughter they tragically lost during a miscarriage. The name was meant to honor both of their grandmothers, women who played an important role in raising them throughout their childhoods. Today, Lucy Anne’s stands as a tribute to family, love and the people who helped shape their lives.
That same spirit carries through the restaurant’s menu, which the team describes as a modern interpretation of the comforting meals found in Grandma’s kitchen. Seasonal ingredients from local farmers help shape a menu that evolves throughout the year, ensuring no two visits are exactly alike.
Rather than recommending just one signature dish, Chef Michael encourages first-time guests to embrace the full experience.
“If someone is visiting for the first time, they should try a little of everything,” he said. “Our menu rotates with the seasons and the farmers. If they want an authentic representation of our food, I’d recommend a pasta or two, our Caesar salad, another appetizer and a dessert or two.”
Stepping inside Lucy Anne’s, guests will find a thoughtfully restored space that honors one of downtown Spartanburg’s historic buildings while creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming instead of intimidating.
“I want guests to feel like they’re stepping into something familiar, like Grandma’s house,” Chef Michael said. “I don’t want it too stuffy, but the vibe to be Grandma’s food with the upscale restaurant touch.”
That philosophy is reflected in every detail, from handcrafted pastas and elevated comfort dishes to attentive hospitality that encourages guests to slow down and enjoy time around the table.
The restaurant is also looking ahead with several exciting additions already in the works. Chef Michael shared plans for collaborative wine events with Bond Street Wines, an intimate tasting menu experience in the restaurant’s pasta room and what he hopes will become “a killer wine program to rival the best programs in the state.”
As Spartanburg continues to establish itself as one of the Upstate’s emerging culinary destinations, Lucy Anne’s adds another distinctive chapter to the city’s growing restaurant scene. Built from years of hard work, inspired by family and rooted in community, the restaurant offers far more than a meal. It invites guests to gather, celebrate and create memories around the table.
Lucy Anne’s is located at 148 W. Main St. in downtown Spartanburg. For current menus, reservations and upcoming events, visit www.lucy-annes.com or follow Lucy Anne’s on social media.
