BABAS ON CANNON

DOWNTOWN

Old world style cafe located downtown that is perfect for coffee and pastries in the morning, sandwiches and salads for lunch, and wine + cocktails in the evening.

O

HARKEN CAFE

DOWNTOWN

Cozy cafe with country-chic vibe that’s perfect for coffees, breakfast or a light lunch.

LEON’S OYSTER SHOP

DOWNTOWN (Upper King)

Famous for its fried chicken and auto-shop exterior, Leon’s is the heart and soul of the peninsula’s food scene. Aside from the chef’s table, reservations aren’t allowed—so make plans to pop over to Little Jack’s for a cocktail while you wait.

EDMUNDS OAST

DOWNTOWN (East Central)

For a casual meal/outing, you can’t go wrong with this brewery featuring a seasonally focused food menu. Great outdoor seating and good for groups.

CIRCE'S GROTTO

DOWNTOWN

Quick and delicious spot to grab a sandwich or salad to go while exploring King Street. Charming side garden with picnic table seating.

BASIC KITCHEN

DOWNTOWN

Surprisingly not as basic as it sounds, BK brings a healthier mix of dishes to the table, with its star being the tempura cauliflower chicken wings.

HOME TEAM BBQ

DOWNTOWN (East Central)

The quintessential outdoor watering hole for Charleston locals, HT is the place to go for a frozen painkiller and smokin’ dry rubbed BBQ. With three locations (downtown, Sullivan’s Island, West Ashley), this casual joint is guaranteed to be packed but worth the claustrophobia.

RODNEY SCOTT’S BBQ

DOWNTOWN (Upper King)

Home of the famous pit master’s James Beard Award winning whole hog BBQ. In addition, the menu includes spare ribs, pit chicken, fried catfish, and classic sides.

LEWIS BBQ

DOWNTOWN (East Central)

Essential for drool-worthy Texas smoked BBQ served up cafeteria style in a sprawling open air setting. Take your pick of anywhere from 1/4 to 1 lb (or more!) of meat paired with classic sides and post up on the patio for the afternoon.

167 RAW BAR

DOWNTOWN

Some of the best seafood and longest lines in the Holy City. Be prepared to sip rose while you wait at least one hour for a table. For oyster enthusiasts out there: we promise, it’s well worth the suspense.

CHEZ NOUS

DOWNTOWN

Pint-sized neighborhood spot with elevated food & wine from France & around Europe in a cozy space. Menu changes daily and can be found on instagram.

THE ORDINARY

DOWNTOWN

Upscale seafood restaurant in old bank building. Incredible raw bar. Book early! Fun fact: this was the location of our first date!

DARLING OYSTER BAR

DOWNTOWN

Stylish spot on King Street for fresh seafood, delicious cocktails and fun people watching.

CHUBBY FISH

DOWNTOWN

One of the best new additions to the Charleston food scene. Quaint neighborhood joint featuring creative seafood focused menu. No reservations but worth the wait!

BISTRONOMY BY NICO

DOWNTOWN

Fantastic new bistro featuring European cuisine and a great wine list. Our tip: order a bunch of the small plates and share tapas style to try lots of flavors!

XIAO BAO BISCUIT

DOWNTOWN

Asian soul food in a hip, LA-esque atmosphere on upper spring street. XB dishes out some of the most innovative small plates on the peninsula–all within the peeling walls of a refurbished gas station. Delicate taste buds, beware: the chili-infused menu may make you sweat.

HALL’S CHOPHOUSE

DOWNTOWN

Charleston’s premiere see and be seen steakhouse. Bar scene is always happening. Insider tip: order the steak nachos off the bar menu. Sunday gospel brunch comes highly recommended.

LENOIR

DOWNTOWN

A new addition to the Charleston food scene coming from celebrity chef Vivian Howard. A delicious modern take on Southern cuisine.

THE OBSTINATE DAUGHTER

SULLIVAN’S ISLAND

A chic seaside restaurant housed in 100% wooden digs combining Italian, French and Spanish flavors with classic Southern cuisine. Go for brunch, dinner or both.

THE POST HOUSE

OLD VILLAGE - MT. PLEASANT

A coastal tavern and inn offering local seasonal fare and great cocktails. Fantastic patio seating and people watching.

BOWENS ISLAND

JAMES ISLAND

Charleston’s quintessential down and dirty seafood “shack”. Famous for its locally harvested oysters, fried shrimp and hushpuppies. Wonderful marsh views and the perfect spot to catch a sunset.