'The Walking Dead' stars open restaurant in downtown Greenville

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Attention Greenville foodies! Another restaurant has popped up in the ever-growing restaurant scene, this time in the West End, at 1 Augusta St. in the former location of Smoke on the Water.

Nic & Normans, partly owned by Greg Nicotero and Norman Reedus, will celebrate its grand opening on August 6. And if the names sound familiar, it's because both Nicotero and Reedus were part of the television series “The Walking Dead,” which aired from 2010 to 2022. Reedus played one of the main characters in the series named Daryl Dixon, and Nicotero served as producer and director.

Nic & Norman's is operated by David Valentine, owner of 3 Keys & Co., an Atlanta-based restaurant management company. This is the fifth Nic & Norman's – others are located in Senoia, Georgia; Chattanooga, Tennessee; Lexington; and Louisville, Kentucky.

“The first Nic & Normans opened in Senoia in 2016 as a place to meet up with friends, colleagues and loved ones after filming. It became a place to share special moments and enjoy great food,” said Alex Allen, Social Media & Marketing, Nic & Normans. The location, reminiscent of a southern speakeasy, became an early hit and soon more were being planned.

The interior of the sprawling building is warm and inviting, with dim lighting creating a cozy atmosphere. Exposed brick walls, crystal-studded chandeliers, and wood accents create an atmosphere that invites relaxation. The walls are adorned with memorabilia from The Walking Dead, and the artwork reflects the owners' aesthetic and artistry.

“As you walk through the restaurant, you'll see framed pictures of Greg and Norman's artwork and accomplishments. We want to celebrate them as artists,” Allen said.

A patio where guests can dine al fresco offers another way to focus on the art, with views of the West End mural and Augusta Street.

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As for the food, guests can choose from a menu that the owners say is both reasonably priced and affordable. Snacks include flatbreads, soups, salads and burgers.

“For those who are gluten-free, we offer gluten-free buns and unbun options that consist of a bowl of fresh, crisp lettuce,” Allen said. Main dishes include dishes such as beef medallions, Coca-Cola pork shank, juicy chicken pot pie, homemade meatloaf, shrimp and grits, steaks and fish and chips.

The creative cocktail menu includes varieties such as the Senoia Sunrise, made with house pineapple moonshine, This Saint, made with house blueberry gin, and That Saint, made with house raspberry vodka.

“We take cocktail making very seriously and make in-house infusions that customers can watch from the bar,” Allen said, adding that mocktails are also available for those who prefer their drinks non-alcoholic.

There's also a selection of craft beer, both on tap and in bottles, and both white and red wine are served by a knowledgeable staff known for offering just the right pairing to accompany a guest's chosen main course. Allen says there's also a space for private parties.

“We pride ourselves on special moments and want to be a place where you can bring your loved ones and come as you are to enjoy great service with a speakeasy ambience and delicious food,” she said.

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