Wade’s Restaurant in Spartanburg was named a recipient of a James Beard Foundation America’s Classic Award for the Southeast in 2024.
Part of the foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards, the awards recognize “locally owned restaurants that serve quality food, have timeless appeal, and reflect the character of their communities,” according to a news release.
Wade’s Restaurant was founded in 1947 by Wade and Betty Lindsey. It has been continuously operated by the family and is currently owned by Hamp Lindsey, Wade Lindsey III and Anna Lindsey Liles. The business has more than 130 employees. Located at 1000 N. Pine St. in downtown Spartanburg, it serves a Southern-style, meat-and-three menu, It is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Other America’s Classic winners for 2024 include:
- Mid-Atlantic: Vietnam Restaurant in Philadelphia
- California: Mandalay in San Francisco
- Midwest: Pheasant Restaurant and Lounge in Brookings, South Dakota
- New York State: Sylvia’s Restaurant in New York
- Southwest: Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge in Las Vegas
The winners will be honored June 10 at Lyric Opera in Chicago.
“On behalf of the James Beard Foundation, I extend heartfelt congratulations to this year’s America’s Classics winners—national treasures of timeless appeal that reflect the richness and diversity of our country’s food culture,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation. “As cornerstones of our communities, we are honored to recognize your long dedication and contribution to our industry. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”
The James Beard Awards annually recognize culinary and food industry excellence in the U.S. The Restaurant and Chef Awards were created to recognize a wide array of dining experiences.
This story was filed as part of an editorial partnership between South Carolina Public Radio and the Greenville Journal, who is responsible for its content. You can learn more about the Greenville Journal here.