Soccer is big in Greenville-Spartanburg, SC — so much so that the already popular Thomas Creek Grille at the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport has been rebranded to tie in with the local professional soccer team, the Greenville Triumph.
Operated by Metz Culinary Management, the Triumph Taproom opened recently as a pub-themed venue. The restaurant is decorated in Triumph team colors with team photos, uniforms, and other memorabilia. Its TV monitors are tuned primarily to soccer and rugby matches.
The result of a partnership between the airport and the team, the Triumph Taproom is only the second soccer-themed restaurant to be opened in a North American airport. The first is City Pub at Orlando International Airport, which is tied to the Orlando City Soccer Club (“Orlando City”).
Along with new décor, the rebranding naturally brought significant changes to the restaurant’s menu, according to General Manager Mike Assini. “We wanted to create excitement for local customers and travelers,” Mr. Assini said.
The focus now is on classic pub fare. Menu favorites include:
- Bavarian Soft Pretzel Sticks – Four hot pretzel sticks served with honey mustard and queso for dipping
- Fish & Chips – Three pieces of beer-battered golden cod fillets, served with seasoned fries, coleslaw, and tartar sauce
- Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich – Philadelphia Amoroso roll with shaved steak, roasted red peppers, caramelized onions, and provolone cheese
“We’re also having fun with specialty soccer-themed cocktails,” Mr. Assini added. “One is called the Yellow Card. Another is the Goalkeeper.” The Triumph Taproom continues to feature craft beers from Thomas Creek Brewery.
Since its grand opening, the Triumph Taproom has scored a lot of local attention thanks to the popularity and success of its namesake soccer club. “The community loves their soccer team,” Mr. Assini said. “The team is having a great year, so the Taproom has captured a lot of attention. It’s a destination for local diners as well as airport travelers.”