Charleston, South Carolina is mainly known for its history, its cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages and its pretty pastel-colored antebellum houses. But what about its amazing food scene? Here are four foodie finds in Charleston that are putting this celebrated Southern town on the map.
1. Circa 1886
At Circa 1886, chef Marc Collins puts a healthy, distinctive spin on classic Lowcountry dishes while highlighting what is local and in season. Located in the original carriage house of the Wentworth Mansion, the romantic fine-dining restaurant also offers flawless service and an extensive wine list. Elegantly prepared rabbit, trout, and venison are just a few menu options to choose or try the Chef’s Tasting Menu for a palate-pleasing adventure.
2. Butcher and Bee
If comfort food’s your thing, this family-friendly restaurant with a second location in Nashville, offers fresh-made cuisine using the finest seasonal ingredients. Can’t decide what to order? Opt for “Eat Like a Chef” and your whole table will be treated to a family-style, chef-selected festive feast inspired by the farms and fields around Charleston. Or try the seared local fish, roasted chicken or beef short ribs. You won’t go home hungry!
3. High Cotton
You’ll feel right at home in High Cotton’s stylish dining rooms with heart pine floors and antique brick. This family-run restaurant specializes in the bounty of the sea from shrimp and grits to oysters on the half shell. Not a fan of seafood? Not to worry. Try the sumptuous filet mignon with béarnaise sauce or a New Zealand rack of lamb. Decadent desserts include pecan pie and lavender caramel crème brûlée. Sunday brunch will make you swoon!
4. Husk Restaurant
Executive chef and Lowcountry native Travis Grimes runs the show at this much-lauded restaurant situated in a late 19th-century home in historic downtown Charleston. Focusing exclusively on Southern cuisine, chef Travis changes the menu frequently to ensure guests taste the finest ingredient-driven cuisine available. Depending on the season, the menu may offer deviled eggs with pickled okra and trout roe or South Carolina shrimp and Choppee okra stew with Carolina gold rice and flowering basil. Don’t miss the sweet potato pie with Grand Marnier cream for dessert.
By Peggy Sijswerda, MFA, has written about travel and wellness for 25 years, covering myriad topics from design trends in Stockholm to spa treatments in Spain. She loves riding horses and hanging out with family and friends around a campfire. Follow Peggy on instagram.com/peggywrites and facebook.com/ifyouseekadventure. Visit www.ifyouseekadventure.com for more adventures.