Travel :: The Charleston Food Scene

A month and a half later, I'm finally wrapping up my posts from Charleston.  And of course I saved the best for last -- the FOOD!  Asides from it's seaside location, historic architecture, and overflowing charm, one of the main reasons we chose to go to Charleston for a girl's weekend was it's booming restaurant scene.  As soon as we booked our hotel we got straight to business on picking restaurants {just one of the many reasons Brooke is my best friend}, and to be honest it was nearly impossible to decide!  Read on for my favorite spots...

Husk: Often listed as one of the top restaurants in the US {and voted best restaurant in the US by Bon Appétit in 2011}, visiting James Beard Award-winning Sean Brock's Husk was a given.  And thankfully the farm-to-table Southern restaurant did not disappoint.  The restaurant has a rotating menu that changes daily and includes any and everything, as long as every single grain, protein, vegetable and spice included is from the South.  

Jeni's Ice Cream: As a former Columbus, OH resident it's not the first time that I've waxed poetically about the perfection that is Jeni's Ice Cream.  Jeni is all about creating unique flavors with locally and sustainably sourced ingredients - think strawberry rose petal, goat cheese with roasted cherries, and sweet potato with torched marshmallows.  

Poogan's Porch: For a casual brunch, visit the classic Poogan's Porch.  Located in a beautifully restored Victorian house the impossibly charming Queen Street - Poogan's is all about low-country cuisine.  The Chicken & Waffles with Blueberry Maple Syrup are a must!

Peninsula Grill: Located inside of the beautiful Planter's Inn, Peninsula Grill is a perfect restaurant for when you're wanting to get dressed up and enjoy an elegant evening.  If the weather allows - you must sit outside in the stunning candlelit courtyard...it was definitely one of the more romantic places I have ever dined.  And for dessert, it's all about their famous Ultimate Coconut Cake.  I don't even typically like Coconut Cake, but trust me...this is life-changing!

The Ordinary: This seafood and oyster hall is located inside an old bank.  The ambiance is lively, the design is stunning {talk about swoon-worthy branding!}, the cocktails are unique, and the oysters are as fresh as can be.  This would be a perfect place to go with a big group for dinner and drinks before going out on the town!

For more of my Charleston adventures: Rainbow Row, Market Pavilion Hotel, The Battery, Magnolia Plantation + The Angel Oak Tree, Exploring the City

Images via Dreams in HD and restaurant websites