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Mac and cheese, meatloaf, rice and gravy, what’s not to love about Southern comfort food? A few Greenvillians are working to keep that traditional delicacy alive (yes, banana pudding is a delicacy) as our city grows into a culinary mecca.

Memoirs Fine Catering and Event Planting focuses on soul food and its flavor, inspired by Sunday suppers with family. Greg Johnson, owner of OJ’s Diner on Pendleton Street (a GVLtoday favorite), keeps the traditions and prices in check. OJ’s busiest day is Friday, “cause where else are you going to get ribs with three sides for 10 bucks?”

Spartanburg’s culinary scene is also having a moment. Julius Tolbert works with African-American restaurant owners to help them succeed, developing a six-month program workshop for minority businesses with the Spartanburg Chamber of Commerce. He’s now the proud owner of Greenville’s Toss Pizza Pub.

“Food is a catalyst. What I care more about is the people,” says Tolbert. “I’m a people person and this is a people business.”

Read more via Greenville Journal.