Where to find the best restaurants in Charleston?

Charleston, South Carolina, is well known for its award-winning cuisine and interesting food culture. Home to several renowned chefs, the city offers a wide variety of restaurants and eateries ranging from traditional local fare to refined modern cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there is something for every palate and budget.

Charleston offers a variety of restaurants that cater to all tastes, providing both traditional and modern cuisine. One of the most well-known restaurants in the city is Husk. Named one of Food & Wine magazine’s best restaurants in the nation, Husk serves traditional dishes using locally-sourced ingredients. For seafood lovers, there is The Ordinary. Owned by Berkeley’s Scott Shor, The Ordinary features fresh seafood, oysters, and a raw bar. If you’re looking for a more low-key meal, Poe’s Tavern is a locals favorite. Located on Sullivan’s Island, this pub is known its inventive burgers and rotating selection of craft beers.

For more upscale dining, Charleston has some great options such as FIG and SNOB. FIG serves seasonal menu items that feature local ingredients and flavors. SNOB serves classic French dishes with a modern touch. If you’re in the mood for Italian, Bacco restaurant serves up classic Italian flavors and some of the freshest seafood dishes around.

For those who like to stay late into the night, you can find some unique late night restaurants in Charleston. Leon’s Oyster Shop is popular for its fried chicken sandwiches. If you’re looking for something with a bit more of a Southern flair, Hominy Grill serves up classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Rarebit is known for its selection of gourmet grilled cheese and specialty cocktails.

Finally, for those who are looking for something truly unique, there is The Grocery. Located in a converted grocery store, this restaurant specializes in seasonal menus with offbeat ingredients and unexpected combinations.

No matter what kind of food you are looking for, you can find some of the best restaurants in Charleston. Whether you are looking for traditional Southern fare, upscale dining, greasy late-night snacks or something different and unique, you won’t be disappointed. To uncover even more hidden gems around the city, check out the Charleston City Paper’s Best of Charleston list to learn about some of the best restaurants in town!

An Insider’s Guide to Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina is a city full of history, culture, and delicious food. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there is always something new to discover in this charming coastal city. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best dining spots, attractions, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that Charleston has to offer.

Dining Spots

Charleston is known for its fresh seafood and Lowcountry cuisine, but there are plenty of dining options to suit a variety of tastes and budgets. Some of the best restaurants in Charleston include:

1. Husk – this restaurant takes Southern cuisine to the next level with their farm-to-table approach and unique twists on classic dishes.

2. FIG – FIG stands for “Food is Good,” and this restaurant definitely lives up to its name. Their menu changes daily to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients.

3. The Ordinary – this seafood-focused restaurant serves up some of the best oysters, crudo, and other seafood dishes in town.

4. Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oysters – if you’re in the mood for fried chicken and oysters, this is the spot for you. The casual atmosphere and outdoor seating make it a great spot for a fun night out.

Attractions

Charleston has a rich history and no shortage of things to see and do. Some of the top attractions in Charleston include:

1. The Battery – take a stroll along this scenic waterfront promenade and see some of Charleston’s most beautiful historic homes.

2. Fort Sumter National Monument – learn about the start of the Civil War and take a boat ride out to the fort where it all began.

3. Charleston City Market – browse through stalls featuring handmade baskets, jewelry, artwork, and other unique souvenirs.

4. Magnolia Plantation and Gardens – step back in time and explore the beautiful gardens and historic house at this iconic plantation.

Cultural Experiences

Charleston is steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of ways to experience it all. Some of the best cultural experiences in Charleston include:

1. Charleston Museum – this is the oldest museum in the United States and has exhibits on everything from natural history to local heritage.

2. The Gibbes Museum of Art – see a fantastic collection of American art, including a focus on works from the Charleston region.

3. Spoleto Festival USA – this annual arts festival takes place every spring and features a wide variety of performances, including theater, dance, music, and opera.

Local History

Charleston has a fascinating history, and there are many opportunities to learn about it while exploring the city. Some of the top spots for history buffs include:

1. Middleton Place – this National Historic Landmark features a house museum, beautiful gardens, and a stableyard with demonstrations of historical crafts and trades.

2. The Old Slave Mart Museum – learn about the slave trade in Charleston and see where slaves were once bought and sold.

3. Nathaniel Russell House – take a tour of this beautiful Federal-style mansion and see how Charleston’s wealthiest residents lived in the 1800s.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to get off the beaten path and explore some hidden gems in Charleston, try these suggestions:

1. The Rooftop at the Vendue – enjoy a drink with a view at this rooftop bar, which offers stunning panoramas of Charleston Harbor.

2. Bowen’s Island Restaurant – this rustic seafood joint is located on an island just outside of Charleston and serves up some of the freshest seafood in town.

3. Caw Caw Interpretive Center – if you’re a nature lover, this 600-acre wildlife preserve is a must-visit. Take a self-guided tour and see all sorts of wildlife, including migratory birds, alligators, and deer.

Conclusion

Charleston is a city with something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, history buff, art lover, or adventurer. With so much to see and do, you’ll never run out of things to explore. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Charleston today and get ready to experience all this charming city has to offer.