/ by Sandra Woodward
/ illustration by Tatjana Mai-Wyss
An easy hour’s drive from Greenville, Newberry offers plenty of southern charm. Billing itself as “the city of friendly folks” is neither wishful thinking nor an exaggeration. Hospitality seems to emanate from every storefront and venue. The restoration of the Newberry Opera House about 20 years ago kick-started an infusion of energy in the community, and the Newberry of today has benefited with a city center full of restaurants, shops and attractions. The Newberry Arts Center adds to the downtown mix, with classes and exhibitions by local artists, and the Newberry Museum is undergoing a renovation to expand its offerings.
You will see the name “Figaro” on several downtown locations, including a smart cocktail bar, a gourmet market shop and an excellent fine-dining restaurant. Another favorite eatery is the Cabana, a “storm cellar” wine and cigar bar. The Wells Japanese Garden is a unique feature of the downtown area, the Newberry Community Players is an important part of the community’s mix and there’s always darling Newberry College to stroll.
Just south of downtown, Carter & Holmes offers spectacular orchids and plants so plan to visit their greenhouses. Newberry is fun to visit any day of the year, but there are a number of festivals and special events throughout the year so check out all that Newberry has to offer at cityofnewberry.com.
As Time Goes By
This quintessential antique store is filled with an assortment of old and not-so-old items ranging from large paintings and mirrors to glass stoppers for decanters and cruets.
1304 Main St.
803-276-4715
Books on Main
Book lovers will appreciate the eclectic mix of old and new books, including some first editions. Antique lovers will find an irresistible collection of “Christmas past” treasures.
1209 Main St.
803-321-1920
Carter & Holmes Orchids
The greenhouses of Carter & Holmes have been producing exquisite orchids and other plants since 1947. In addition to the glorious orchids, these plant masters offer a wide variety of other spectacular plants for home decor. Call in advance to tour the greenhouses.
629 Mendenhall Rd.
803-276-0579
carterandholmes.com
Pieces of Time East
This is a refreshingly original shop specializing in vintage furniture painted, decorated and reimagined by the artist/owner and displayed throughout the huge two-floor space, along with other home decor items.
1211 Main St.
707-372-5263
piecesoftimeeast.com
Newberry Antique Mall
Directly across the green from the Newberry Opera House, this small collective of booths offers books, including some lovely editions of vintage children’s books, along with the expected glassware, accent pieces and furniture.
1014 Main St.
803-271-5704
The Carpenter Gallery
New to downtown, this gallery features a small but exquisite collection of fine art, primarily paintings, jewelry and textiles.
1220 Main St.
843-822-7451
carpentergallery.com
Figaro Market
This specialty market and deli offers an extensive selection of wines as well as meats, cheeses and gourmet food items for sale in addition to an eat-in menu of salads, sandwiches, and beverages and an absolutely adorable corner exterior.
1202 Caldwell St.
803-276-0002
C.T. Summer Hardware
American Pickers featured this store and its owner, Bill Shull (grandson of owner C. T. Summer and son of a Nobel Prize laureate whose award is on display). Step back in time to examine the eclectic contents of an honest-to-goodness small town hardware store, from gaskets to turkey cookers, elaborate chrome or gold-plated fixtures and many other items to surprise.
1207 Boyce St.
803-276-2778
Eurolux Home
You have been warned: this shop is open “by chance or by appointment.” Call in advance to make sure the owners are not traveling Europe purchasing an extensive array of antiques. The shop features a knockout collection of exquisite furniture, but also explore their website, a large part of their business is conducted online.
1409 Main St.
803-276-4001
euroluxhome.com
Leslie, Ltd. Antiques
A nicely curated collection of case goods, primarily 19th and early 20th-century oak, walnut or mahogany, in pristine condition, thanks in part to the owner’s commitment to quality and expertise in repair and restoration. The shop also features high quality antique glassware.
1002 Coates St.
803-924-1450
The Gallery & Material Things
This high-end boutique offers something for every taste and interest. From tableware and linens to beautiful home decor and accent pieces, the selection is exceptional. Material Things offers custom design and fabrication of top-quality drapery, bedding, pillows and other home decor.
1104 Caldwell St.
803-276-7822
