19 March 2024
Welcome to Charleston, South Carolina – a city known for its historic charm, picturesque cobblestone streets, and vibrant culinary scene. With its blend of traditional Southern cuisine and modern culinary trends, Charleston has become a mecca for food lovers from around the world. If you’re planning a trip to Charleston and want to experience the best that the city has to offer, be sure to check out these top 10 must-try restaurants:
1. Husk
Located in the heart of downtown Charleston, Husk is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience authentic Southern cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its farm-to-table approach, sourcing ingredients from local farmers and producers to create dishes that are fresh, flavorful, and truly memorable. Be sure to try the fried chicken, a staple of Southern comfort food, and don’t miss the cornbread with honey butter – it’s a true standout.
2. FIG
One of Charleston’s most acclaimed restaurants, FIG has garnered a reputation for its innovative approach to Lowcountry cuisine. Chef Mike Lata showcases the best of local ingredients in dishes that are both refined and approachable. The menu changes daily to reflect the seasonality of the ingredients, so you can be sure that every visit will be a unique culinary experience. Be sure to try the ricotta gnocchi with local mushrooms – it’s a dish you won’t soon forget.
3. The Ordinary
If you’re a seafood lover, The Ordinary is a must-visit when in Charleston. This oyster hall and seafood tavern is known for its expertly prepared dishes that highlight the best of what the ocean has to offer. From the raw bar to the seafood towers, every bite at The Ordinary is a delight for the palate. Be sure to try the crispy oysters with pickled okra – they’re a true standout.
4. Rodney Scott’s BBQ
For some of the best barbecue in Charleston, look no further than Rodney Scott’s BBQ. Chef Rodney Scott is a James Beard Award-winning pitmaster known for his whole-hog barbecue that is cooked low and slow over wood coals. The result is tender, smoky, and incredibly flavorful meat that will have you coming back for more. Be sure to try the pulled pork sandwich with Rodney’s signature vinegar-based barbecue sauce – it’s a true taste of the South.
5. Xiao Bao Biscuit
If you’re in the mood for something a little different, be sure to check out Xiao Bao Biscuit. This Asian fusion restaurant blends Southern comfort food with Asian flavors to create dishes that are truly unique and delicious. The menu changes frequently to reflect the seasonality of the ingredients, so you can be sure that every visit will be a culinary adventure. Be sure to try the okonomiyaki, a Japanese savory pancake topped with a variety of delicious ingredients – it’s a true standout.
6. Leon’s Oyster Shop
For a laid-back dining experience with some of the best fried chicken in town, head to Leon’s Oyster Shop. This casual eatery is known for its delicious fried chicken, oysters, and burgers, all served in a cozy, retro-inspired setting. Be sure to try the fried chicken sandwich with comeback sauce – it’s a true Southern classic.
7. Hominy Grill
A Charleston institution, Hominy Grill is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience classic Southern cooking at its best. The restaurant is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch offerings, including favorites like shrimp and grits, red rice and shrimp, and the legendary Charleston Nasty biscuit. Be sure to stop by for a hearty meal that will leave you satisfied and ready to take on the day.
8. McCrady’s Tavern
For a fine dining experience like no other, be sure to make a reservation at McCrady’s Tavern. This upscale restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Southern cuisine, with dishes that are both sophisticated and flavorful. From the oysters and caviar to the foie gras torchon, every bite at McCrady’s Tavern is a delight for the senses. Be sure to save room for dessert – the milk chocolate mousse with peanut butter ice cream is a true standout.
9. The Park Cafe
For a healthy and delicious meal in Charleston, look no further than The Park Cafe. This charming eatery is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and creative approach to healthy eating. The menu features a variety of salads, sandwiches, and bowls that are both nutritious and flavorful. Be sure to try the avocado toast with poached eggs – it’s a true standout.
10. The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits
For stunning views of Charleston Harbor and delicious food to match, head to The Watch Rooftop Kitchen & Spirits. This rooftop restaurant offers a menu of Southern-inspired dishes that are perfect for enjoying while taking in the sights of the city. Be sure to try the shrimp and grits, a Southern classic that is done justice at The Watch. Pair your meal with a craft cocktail or local beer for the perfect dining experience.
Charleston, South Carolina is a culinary destination like no other, with a vibrant dining scene that showcases the best of Southern cuisine with a modern twist. From traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusion dishes, Charleston has something for every palate. Be sure to check out these top 10 must-try restaurants on your next visit to Charleston for a dining experience that you won’t soon forget.
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