Meet the Locals: Best Cafes, Breweries, and Eateries Along Our Favorite Routes

Photo: City of Greer, SC

Upstate South Carolina offers more than winding mountain roads and scenic lakes—it’s a place where small-town charm meets world-class riding. At New Dawn Motorsports, we believe the perfect day on two wheels should include more than just the ride. It's about discovering the places locals love—hidden cafes, breweries, and eateries that make every stop memorable. Ready to explore? Here are a few must-visit spots along some of our favorite routes.

Start Your Ride with a Local Favorite: Flying Fox Coffee, Greer

Before the throttle opens and the road stretches ahead, every great ride starts with a great coffee. Flying Fox Coffee in Greer is one of those places that feels like a best-kept secret. Locally owned and community-focused, Flying Fox serves up handcrafted coffee, house-made pastries, and warm, small-town hospitality. It’s the ideal spot to fuel up, check your route, and ease into the day. Plus, its location near some of the Upstate’s best scenic routes makes it a natural starting point for your adventure.

Breweries Worth Slowing Down For

After carving your way through the foothills or cruising toward the Carolina mountains, few things hit the spot like a craft beer. Birds Fly South Ale Project in Greenville is a rider favorite, offering a laid-back vibe, live music, and expertly brewed farmhouse ales. If your ride carries you toward the North Carolina line, Oskar Blues Brewery in Brevard combines live entertainment, mountain views, and bold, refreshing beers to complete your Upstate loop.

Eats That Locals Swear By

Great food and great riding go hand in hand. If you’re exploring Lake Keowee, Highway 11, or the scenic Blue Ridge routes, plan a stop at The Hungry Drover near Travelers Rest for authentic, hearty Southern cooking with a side of rustic charm. For those winding back into Greenville after a day in the saddle, Soby’s New South Cuisine delivers upscale takes on regional classics, making it the perfect spot to toast a ride well spent.

Let’s Make Your Ride One to Remember

At New Dawn Motorsports, we’re passionate about delivering more than just premium motorcycles. We provide the keys to the full Upstate experience—from expertly maintained machines to insider recommendations on where to eat, drink, and explore along the way. Whether you're visiting for a weekend escape or planning an unforgettable riding vacation, our team is here to help you experience South Carolina like a local—with style, performance, and the perfect stops built in.

Ready to ride? Reach out to New Dawn Motorsports today to reserve your premium motorcycle rental and let’s start planning your next unforgettable adventure.