Hey there, endless culinary adventures await in Charleston! We've playfully joked that we could savor something new and delicious every day for a year – and still not conquer the vast array of restaurants here. I'm narrowing down the list for you, sharing some personal favorites that capture the essence of Charleston's food and drink scene. Get ready to ride the wave of flavors, and know that I'll keep adding to this list as we keep exploring!
Downtown:
167 Hospitality (167 Bar, 167 Sushi, 167 Raw): The triple threat of deliciousness! Any of the 167 spots is a win. 167 Bar, probably my top pick, boasts incredible cocktails (the Taziki Drink might just be my fave in Charleston). With two levels and a cool coastal atmosphere, it's a vibe. 167 Raw is your go-to for classic, delicious seafood and drinks. Be ready for a wait – explore King Street while they text you when your table is ready. And 167 Sushi offers an intimate dining experience, where you get to watch your sushi being crafted – a truly fun experience.
Sorelle: A combo of Italian market, restaurant, and bar, Sorelle is a gem. The bar, my favorite spot, is perfect for classic cocktails and delicious bites. The bar space itself is a beauty.
Malagon: This cozy market and taperia bring Spanish cuisine to life. Small and large plates meant for sharing with your table. My standout dish? The squid – it literally melts in your mouth.
Chez Nous: Ideal for celebrating special occasions, Chez Nous changes its menu daily, featuring dishes from Southern France, Northern Italy, and Northern Spain. The atmosphere is incredibly charming. Reservations are a must – try snagging one of the bar seats for an exceptional experience!
Harold’s Cabin: A little hole in the wall in Charleston’s Westside Neighborhood, Harold’s Cabin is a true gem. This funky little spot has the freshest ingredients and tastiest cocktails. We had a delicious burger here and the Salty Raccoon cocktail ties my Taziki drink at 167.
James Island/Folly:
Revelry Brewing Co.: These guys have a rooftop downtown, but my vibe is their hidden beach bar by Folly. Kid-friendly and dog-friendly, it's the epitome of cool and laid-back.
Ellis Creek Fish Camp: Ellis is another incredible spot to soak in the Lowcountry scenery. Situated right on a marsh, you'll relax on picnic tables, savoring some of the finest fried grouper sandwiches around. A feast for both your eyes and stomach—an epitome of laid-back living.
John's Island:
Minero: Our go-to for Mexican with a laid-back beachy vibe, perfect for the whole family. And let's not forget – their churros are to die for.
The Lost Isle: One of John's Island's newest hot spots, it's an outdoor fire-to-table restaurant and bar. Picture this – all the food is cooked over fire in their outdoor kitchen, with fire pits sprinkled among the tables and blankets to keep you warm. Delicious food, and the experience is as cool as it gets.
Sullivan's Island:
The Obstinate Daughter: If you find yourself on Sullivan's, a visit to OD is a must. The coastal design is spot-on, and the food is even better. Influenced by Spanish, Italian, and French cuisine, my favorites include the delicious raw bar and amazing pizzas and pastas.
Get ready to dive into Charleston's flavors, and stay tuned for more as our culinary exploration continues! 🍹🍽️
Have a favorite I missed? Leave a comment below!