Core 450: A Chef-Driven Restaurant in Travelers Rest, SC

The Core 450 Story

Cherokee Valley owner Matt Jennings dreamed of Core 450 before acquiring the course and club in 2017. A seasoned entrepreneur and golf operator, Jennings had witnessed first-hand the value a vibrant, casual dining venue adds throughout his nearly two decades in the industry.

In relocating to Greenville, he pursued his passion of creating a place where folks from all walks of life could converge and experience a true sense of community.

Not long after purchasing Cherokee Valley, Jennings lured Executive Chef Todd Warden away from The Cliffs at Glassy to lead the Core 450 team. Warden’s charge: devise an innovative, full-service restaurant and gathering place like no other in Upstate South Carolina.

“Chef Todd” studied under James Beard award-winning and pioneer chef Bob Kinkead, one of the fathers of modern cuisine in Washington D.C. He has cooked for Julia Childs, Thomas Keller, Hollywood stars and even former Presidents.

“Food is both a reflection and celebration of life,” Chef Todd says. He loves for people to gather in his own kitchen as he whips through course after course (with a few libations, of course). It was this inviting and comforting open kitchen concept that emerged as the starting point and inspiration for Core 450.

The Core 450 Story

Core 450 is a standout dining destination just north of Greenville, SC, offering stunning mountain views, an inviting outdoor patio, and our signature open kitchen that brings guests closer to the craft of cooking. Led by owners Matthew and Renee Jennings and Chef Gene Magliaro, we showcase world-inspired flavors, expertly prepared custom-cut proteins, and dishes created with intention, creativity, and care. Each plate balances comfort and sophistication, complemented by handcrafted cocktails and a thoughtfully curated wine list — all designed to deliver a memorable, elevated dining experience in the Upstate.  

Core 450 grew from Matthew Jennings’ vision of creating a place where people could gather, connect, and celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. After purchasing Cherokee Valley in 2017, he saw the potential to create something truly special — a destination that would redefine the idea of a traditional clubhouse and attract guests whether they were members, golfers, or simply searching for exceptional food in Greenville, SC. 

Inspired by the warmth of his own home kitchen, where friends naturally gather as he cooks, Matthew set out to build a welcoming space for celebrations, milestones, date nights, and unforgettable meals shared with friends and family. 

Join us for dinner or stop by for a casual drink and appetizer on our scenic patio. At Core 450, serving the Greenville community is at our Core — and we can’t wait to welcome you. 

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Core 450

Reviews

The new menu is fantastic. We actually had trouble deciding on an entree. I had the venison chops cooked as suggested by the Chef. They were delicious. My guests shared the 50 oz tomahawk steak. Cooked to a perfect medium. And the service was excellent, as usual. 

Brian McGuire

Resy

From making the reservation to the end of dinner, everything was exceptional. Loved using the salt stone and loved the variety of craft cocktails. Will definitely recommend it to others. We'll be back to try the duck since you were out when we were there. 

Kelly Anderson

Resy

We had such a wonderful experience at Core 450. From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel genuinely welcomed. The food was outstanding—beautifully prepared, full of flavor, and served at just the right pace so we could really enjoy each course. What truly set the evening apart, though, was the service. Every member of the team went above and beyond to make our dinner feel special, and their kindness and attention to detail really stood out. 

Robert Klein

Resy

Incredible food. Chef Gene is a genius and his menu reflects the creativity and talent behind this team. Valentino was an incredible host as GM and his staff provided first-rate service. If you’ve never been, you’ve missed a culinary gem in Greenville’s dining scene. 

Travis McConkey

Resy

Plan Your Visit to Core 450 

If you’re searching for restaurants in Travelers Rest, SC that offer exceptional food, mountain views, and an elevated dining experience, Core 450 delivers all three. 

We’re Near Downtown Greenville 

Located just 20 minutes north of downtown Greenville on the grounds of Cherokee Valley Golf Club, our restaurant sits in the scenic Tigerville area of Travelers Rest, surrounded by the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Conveniently accessible from Highway 25 and the Swamp Rabbit Trail corridor, it’s one of the best scenic drives around. The drive itself becomes part of the experience as you leave the city behind and enter one of the most beautiful corners of Upstate South Carolina. 

You Don’t have to Be a Member of Cherokee Valley to Dine With Us

One question we hear often is whether guests must be members of Cherokee Valley to dine with us. The answer is simple: Core 450 is open to the public, and no membership is required. Whether you’re a local resident, visiting Greenville, or exploring Travelers Rest restaurants for the first time, everyone is welcome to join us for dinner, drinks, and special occasions. 

We Offer a World-Inspired Culinary Approach

We blend modern American cuisine with global influences, creating a menu that stands apart from many other restaurants in Travelers Rest. From our open kitchen, Chef Gene Magliaro and his team prepare custom-cut proteins, seasonal entrées, and thoughtfully crafted dishes designed to showcase both technique and flavor. 

 

Guest favorite dishes include: 

 

  • The impressive 50-ounce Tomahawk Steak 
  • Venison Chops 
  • Maple Bourbon Salmon 
  • Duck entrées 
  • Buldok Carbonara Risotto 
  • Our signature Himalayan salt-stone dining experience 

 

Every meal can be paired with selections from our handcrafted cocktail menu and curated wine list, making Core 450 one of the area’s premier chef-driven restaurants. 

A Dining Experience Worthy of a Special Occasion 

The atmosphere is equally memorable. Our open kitchen places culinary craftsmanship on full display, while the outdoor patio offers sweeping views of the Cherokee Valley Golf Course and the Blue Ridge foothills beyond. Guests frequently choose Core 450 for date nights, anniversaries, birthdays, business dinners, milestone celebrations, and special events, while others stop by for a casual cocktail and appetizer while enjoying the scenery. Whether you’re planning an intimate evening or a gathering with friends and family, you’ll discover why many diners consider us among the top restaurants near Greenville. 

Reservations Recommended and Smart-Casual Attire Is Encouraged 

For the best experience, reservations are recommended and can be made online through Resy or by calling 864-977-8444. Smart-casual attire is encouraged, and guests will find ample on-site parking options at the Cherokee Valley clubhouse. Dinner service is available Wednesday through Saturday. If you’re wondering where to eat in Travelers Rest, we invite you to experience everything Core 450 has to offer.