Andrea Royko Greenville SC Obituary, Death: In Loving Memory Of Renowned ABYSS General Manager

The Greenville, South Carolina, hospitality community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Andrea Royko, a respected hospitality executive, James Beard-nominated beverage professional, and beloved General Manager of ABYSS. Andrea passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 19, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and unforgettable connections.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Andrea dedicated more than two decades of her life to shaping the culinary and beverage landscape across the Southeast. She was admired not only for her remarkable professional achievements but also for her infectious personality, sharp sense of humor, unwavering professionalism, and the genuine kindness she showed to everyone around her.

Throughout her career, Andrea became known as a true leader in hospitality—someone who understood that exceptional dining experiences were built not only through great food and beverages but also through meaningful human connections. Her passion for service, teamwork, and creating memorable moments for guests made her a respected figure throughout the restaurant industry.

Andrea’s journey in hospitality was marked by dedication, creativity, and an extraordinary commitment to excellence. After earning her degree in Business Management from Georgia State University Perimeter College, she developed a reputation as an accomplished operational leader in upscale dining.

In Greenville, Andrea became a cornerstone of the local culinary community. During her time as General Manager at Husk Greenville under The Neighborhood Dining Group, she helped elevate the standards of fine dining and hospitality in the region. She later spent more than seven years at Jianna Modern Italian as General Manager and Managing Partner, where she built a culture centered on exceptional service, strong leadership, and genuine care for both guests and team members.

In early 2026, Andrea took on the role of General Manager at ABYSS, a premier downtown Greenville raw bar and ocean-to-table concept. She brought her experience, passion, and leadership style to the restaurant, quickly becoming an important part of its identity and success.

Andrea’s expertise in wine and spirits also earned her national recognition. Her dedication to beverage excellence led to her being named a 2026 James Beard Semifinalist for Outstanding Professional in Beverage Service, a distinction that reflected her knowledge, passion, and commitment to her craft.

To those who worked alongside Andrea, she was far more than a manager. She was a mentor, a trusted friend, and a source of encouragement. Colleagues remember her as someone who led with grace, kindness, humor, and strength. Her ability to inspire others while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism made her a truly unforgettable presence in the hospitality world.

The team at ABYSS shared heartfelt words honoring Andrea’s impact, describing her as a leader whose passion for hospitality, community, and dedication to her work touched countless lives. Her influence extended far beyond the workplace, leaving a lasting impression on employees, industry peers, guests, and friends throughout Greenville and beyond.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Andrea will be remembered for the love she shared with her family and the joy she brought into the lives of those closest to her. She is survived by her loving husband, Stephen Royko, whom she married in June 2021, her cousin Michael Drukman, extended family members in Boston and beyond, and the many people who considered themselves part of her restaurant family.

Her legacy will continue through the teams she mentored, the friendships she built, and the countless guests whose experiences were made more meaningful because of her dedication and care.

As the Greenville community reflects on Andrea’s life, many are remembering not only an exceptional hospitality professional but also a remarkable person whose warmth, humor, and generosity made the world around her brighter.

A Celebration of Life honoring Andrea Royko will be held in Downtown Greenville in the coming weeks. Details regarding the date and time will be announced by her family and ABYSS as arrangements are finalized.

Heartfelt condolences are extended to Andrea Royko’s husband, family, friends, colleagues, and everyone in the hospitality community mourning this tremendous loss. May they find comfort in cherished memories, strength in one another, and peace in knowing that Andrea’s impact will continue to live on.

Andrea Royko’s passion, kindness, leadership, and unforgettable spirit will never be forgotten. Her legacy will remain a lasting inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her.