In the off-chance you have yet to find what you’re looking for in one of the hundreds of Charleston blog posts out there, here’s yet another. South Carolina’s ‘Holy City’ is historic, charming, full of color and a foodie’s dream destination. Architectural wonders lie around every cobblestone-clad corner, as does fresh seafood, Lowcountry classics, renowned barbeque or an expertly crafted cocktail. Charleston’s abundance of critically-acclaimed restaurants made my indecisive head spin initially, which quite honestly, is a great problem to have. After much deliberation, here’s my power ranking of everything we ate and drank during our time there.
Food in Charleston, South Carolina
Leon’s
Leon’s appeals to the masses. The West Side restaurant, best known for its fried chicken sandwich and oysters, is set inside a beautifully restored auto body shop. There are few places you can find hush puppies, char-grilled oysters, fresh salads, and a fried chicken sandwich alongside PBR, frozen G&Ts, and a high-end cocktail list, but at Leon’s (nearly) anything is possible. The approachable high/low menu draws a crowd, so head there early to grab a highly coveted seat on their patio. Leon’s was the best meal of our trip, and I often reminisce on this perfect afternoon.
The Ordinary
The beloved 1920s bank-turned-restaurant is a tough reservation to snag, but well worth it from my experience. If you remember nothing else from this post (aside from Leon’s of course), order the crispy oyster sliders at the Ordinary. They are absolutely delicious and worth dropping $9 a piece for. The crisp and brine of the oyster combined with the heat from the mayo sandwiched between a fluffy Hawaiian roll – genuinely divine.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
Despite visiting twice for their bacon, egg and cheese biscuit sandwich, I somehow didn’t take a single picture at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit. Likely because the second our order was ready, we greedily inhaled it without coming up for air. I’m no biscuit connoisseur, however we thought the bacon, egg and cheese was outstanding.
Raw 167
There’s no shortage of raw bar options in Charleston, but if you want to get dressed up with the girls and gossip over $17 martinis, look no further than Raw 167. The oysters, ceviche and crudos are vibrant and fresh; and whatever you do, don’t sleep on the lobster roll.
Frannie & the Fox
On our last night in town, we dined at Frannie & the Fox thinking Italian would be a welcomed change of pace after consuming ungodly amounts of Southern food for three straight days. Let me tell you, this was the right decision. We split the burrata, both salads, and three pizzas on the patio while sipping on Aperol Spritzes and it was the picture-perfect ending to our trip.
Poogan’s Porch
Prepare to be uncomfortably full following a brunch at Poogan’s Porch. I ordered the chicken and waffles, which admittedly looked better than it tasted. Both items were lukewarm, and the waffle lacked the crisp I look forward to with a Belgian-style waffle. We also split an order of the fried green tomatoes and biscuit starter, and by the end of the meal, I was ready to be rolled out of there.
Darling Oyster
This may cause some backlash, but Darling Oyster is overrated. Take it from me and prioritize other oyster and raw bar options in the area.
Drinks in Charleston, South Carolina
Henry’s
Established in 1932, Henry’s holds the title of Charleston’s oldest continuously operating restaurant. We didn’t come for the food, though; we came to drink. Spread across three floors (plus two rooftop patios), each level has its own feel, but the whole place is decked out in antique odds and ends that feel like your great-aunt’s house collided with your favorite dive bar—in the best way. The drink list is unfussy and easygoing, just like the crowd. If you’re in the mood for live music and a laid-back outdoor scene, Henry’s delivers.
The Daily
I took some creative liberties with my “drinks” ranking and threw in a few coffee shops, because sometimes a cold brew deserves as much credit as a French 75. A coworker recommended The Daily, and I’m glad I detoured to give it a try. I went all in: cold brew, berry-acai smoothie, and a giant water in an attempt to outrun a hangover—and honestly, it worked. Bold statement, but this might be the best cold brew in Charleston.
Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
Following an 80-degree afternoon on Sullivan’s Island Beach, I had a thirst only a margarita could quench. Luckily, Coastal Cantina was just down the road and didn’t blink an eye at our sandy beach attire. The cocktail list features margaritas made with their house-infused tequilas, or items such as the ‘The Hydrator,’ made with Tito’s, coconut water and passionfruit. I went rogue and asked for a spicy, skinny margarita and was not disappointed.
Harken
Don’t let the long line deter you; Harken is worth the wait. The cozy cafe known for its lattes, baked goods, and rotational quiches is a local hot spot that fills up quickly on weekend mornings. I made my way to the back of the line on Queen Street and, after much deliberation, ordered a cold brew. The coffee was good, but I should’ve gone with their signature latte. Make no mistake, I’ll be back in the future!
Uptown Social
You’ll find Uptown Social on nearly every Charleston bachelor / bachelorette party itinerary, and after stopping in for a drink it’s easy to see why. What started as a quick rooftop drink quickly escalated to doing a ‘flam-bong’ with college students we met there. If you’re looking to relive the glory days, this is your place.
Citrus Club
Perched on the eighth floor of The Dewberry Hotel, Citrus Club is the highest rooftop bar in Charleston. The outdoor terrace boasts an impressive 360° view of the city and attracts a posh crowd. As the name suggests, Citrus Club’s cocktail list is, you guessed it, citrus-forward. Our drinks were okay, but the fries, on the other hand – crispy and salted to perfection.
Until next time, Charleston.