Swordfish Cocktail Club

Located in the heart of Greenville, SC, Swordfish Cocktail Club masterfully blends the art of fine dining with an exceptional cocktail experience, making it a must-visit destination for lovers of elevated small plates and craft libations. This pre-prohibition-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant invites guests into a dimly lit, intimate atmosphere where every detail—from the expertly curated menu to the skilled bartenders—speaks to a refined yet welcoming vibe that encourages lingering and discovery.

The cuisine at Swordfish is a delightful journey into sophisticated flavors with a focus on shareable, thoughtfully prepared dishes. The extensive menu highlights an array of creative small plates and bar favorites that truly impress. Signature offerings like the Bone Marrow, rich and luxuriously roasted with shallot, herbs, black salt, frisée, radishes, and lemons, create a deep umami sensation that melts on the palate. The Pork Belly Steam Buns offer an earthy, succulent bite with a perfect steamed bun enveloping tender pork belly, balancing richness and texture brilliantly.

Charcuterie is elevated here, with the Large Charcuterie Board and the Charcuterie Melange showcasing an artful blend of cured meats and accompaniments that pair exquisitely with their cocktail selection. The well-crafted Pomme de Terre —layered roasted red potatoes with Gruyère and cream, accented by malt vinegar and garlic—offers a comforting yet elegant dish that lingers with each buttery bite. The wings come in two remarkable styles: a fiery Very Spicy Buffalo with cooling cucumber and yogurt lime sauce, and a zesty Parmigiano Reggiano and Garlic Chicken Wings kissed with parsley and lemon, satisfying both heat seekers and refined palates alike.

Desserts are a testament to their attention to flavor harmony and indulgence. The Bittered Truffles, a trio blending ruby chocolate with Montenegro, dark chocolate mingled with Angostura bitters, and a dark chocolate infused with house-made bitters, provide a bittersweet finish with nuanced complexity. For a nostalgic yet elevated touch, the Milk and Cookies trio, served with steamed brandy milk, offers warmth and richness that soothes the soul.

But what truly sets Swordfish apart is its cocktail program—described by patrons as "the best in town." The menu shies away from common vodka drinks in favor of pre-prohibition classics and inventive concoctions that highlight quality ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship. Notable cocktails include the Vesper Martini, the robust and aromatic SF Espresso Cocktail (their dark rum take on an espresso martini), and signature drinks like Powder Keg and Poor Little Rich Girl. The bartenders are not only skilled mixologists but also enthusiastic guides; their expert recommendations and thoughtful service provide a personalized experience each visit. Many guests, like Sophie Anderson, rave about bartender Abbey’s charming counsel, and others praise the knowledgeable Shepherd for crafting the perfect drink pairing.

The overall ambiance blends a cozy, low-lit space perfect for a date night or intimate gathering, with the buzz of cocktail artistry at the bar’s core. Reservations are highly recommended, especially if you want a seat at the center of the action, where bartenders craft each drink with precision and passion. The presence of welcoming touches, such as hot towels provided during the meal, underscores Swordfish’s commitment to thoughtful hospitality.

Whether you are a cocktail aficionado on the hunt for new favorites or a food lover eager to savor elevated small plates, Swordfish Cocktail Club offers an unforgettable experience that balances sophisticated flavors and genuine warmth. For anyone seeking a genuine, artful cocktail destination free of pretension but full of flair, Swordfish stands out as an absolute gem in Greenville’s vibrant dining scene.