Southern Charms: Food & Drinks Recommendations

Breakfast

  • Yellow three-story house with a wraparound porch, balcony, and potted plants, surrounded by a black fence, with palm trees and street lamps, and a mural on the adjacent wall depicting a group of people dining outdoors.

    Poogan's Porch

    A Charleston icon, beloved for its classic Southern breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Located on charming Queen Street in the heart of the Historic District

  • Interior of a restaurant bar with tables set for dining, a bar area with bottles of alcohol, and a sign reading 'Prescriptions' hanging from the ceiling.

    Miller's All Day

    Millers All Day is one of Charleston’s most popular daytime spots, known for its retro charm and all-day brunch classics. You can’t make a reservation here, so there’s almost always a wait, but according to Wes, the chicken sandwich is absolutely worth it.

  • Empty restaurant interior with bar seating and booths, featuring wooden furniture, large windows, art on the walls, and potted plants.

    Basic Kitchen

    Basic Kitchen is a fresh, airy Charleston favorite where bright flavors and healthy options take center stage. You’ll want a reservation for this popular brunch spot, but Audrey swears their coffee and vibrant, feel-good dishes make it more than worth planning ahead.

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    Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

    Callie's is a great spot for Southern comfort food. Its two locations (Upper King and City Market) serve a variety of piping hot award winning biscuits, pimento cheese sandwiches, and a range of delicious and locally inspired breakfast, lunch, and late night treats.

Lunch

  • Outdoor restaurant patio with wooden tables, black chairs, blue bottles, and place settings, surrounded by green plants, with ceiling fans and wall-mounted lights, and a chalkboard menu on one wall.

    167 Raw

    167 Raw in Charleston is a chic, modern seafood spot known for its fresh oysters and vibrant, coastal-inspired atmosphere. Perfect for a casual yet stylish brunch or lunch, it’s a local favorite for enjoying fresh flavors in a relaxed setting.

  • Exterior of a small sandwich shop called Circe's Grotto with a sign advertising sandwiches, salads, and panini. The sidewalk with a crosswalk and a fire hydrant is visible in front.

    Circe's Grotto

    Circe’s Grotto in Charleston is the perfect spot for a quick bite, especially if you’re craving Wes’s favorite, chicken caesar salad wraps. Grab a seat outside in the charming alley and enjoy a relaxed, casual vibe while soaking in the city energy.

  • Signage advertisement for Giovanni's Pizzeria, displaying neon sign that reads 'Pizza, Fresh Made Pies & Slices', with colorful Christmas lights on window frame, located inside or outside an Italian restaurant.

    Home Team BBQ

    Home Team BBQ offers a casual lunch experience where you can enjoy their popular smoked meats and southern-inspired sides in a relaxed atmosphere.

Dinner

  • A three-story, white, historic Southern-style house with a wrap-around porch, illuminated at dusk, with several people standing on the sidewalk in front. Next to it is a two-story brick building with lit windows, surrounded by trees and plants.

    Husk

    Husk is a must for dinner or lunch in Charleston, showcasing inventive Southern cuisine in a beautifully restored historic space. Wes loves the deviled eggs and empanadas.

  • Sign for Virginia's on King restaurant with a silhouette of a server carrying a tray of drinks, framed by a tree and set against a white building, with green awnings and palm trees outside.

    Virginia's

    Virginia’s on King is Audrey’s pick for “Southern fancy yummy,” serving elevated Southern cuisine in a charming, elegant setting. Reservations are recommended to enjoy this Charleston favorite.

  • Outdoor patio area with white furniture, potted plants, trees, and a brick pathway.

    82 Queen

    82 Queen is a Charleston classic, known for its charming courtyard and refined Lowcountry cuisine. Reservations are recommended, especially if you want to secure a table in the beautiful courtyard.

  • Chubby Fish

    Widely acclaimed Michelin recommended, James Beard Award recipient, dock to table seafood restaurant. They do not take reservations, so be prepared to put your name in.

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  • Leon's

    A beloved local favorite. Famous for its world-class fried chicken, char-grilled oysters, the Michelin Bib Gourmand-recognized eatery features a funky, unpretentious atmosphere.

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  • Hall's

    Best service in the city, Hall’s is the go to steak house. Wes loves the cold lobster tails.

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Drinks!

  • Rooftop patio with black metal tables and chairs, potted plants, and city skyline in the background under cloudy sky.

    The Vendue Rooftop

    The Vendue Rooftop in Charleston offers stunning city and harbor views, making it a must-visit for cocktails or a sunset moment. With a lively atmosphere and stylish setting, it’s the perfect spot to soak in Charleston’s charm from above.

  • Aerial view of a rooftop patio with people sitting at tables, lounging, and walking. The patio is decorated with potted plants and has a mix of outdoor furniture, including umbrellas and chairs. Surrounding the building are trees and a city street with American and South Carolina flags.

    The Citrus Club

    The Citrus Club Rooftop in the Dewberry is Audrey’s top pick. Be sure to snag a reservation, but it’s well worth it. Enjoy elevated cocktails and panoramic city views in a chic, sophisticated setting.

  • Elegant lounge bar with pink and blue armchairs, marble tables, a pink marble bar counter, floral decor, and a large crystal chandelier overhead.

    The Palmetto Hotel

    Best espresso martinis in town, Audrey says you have to try them.

More Drinks!

  • Outdoor patio of a restaurant or bar with wooden flooring, string lights, and tables and chairs. Some people are sitting and talking, and a mural of a butterfly is visible on the wall.

    Blind Tiger Pub

    Enjoy craft beers, classic cocktails, and refreshing signature drinks in Blind Tiger Pub’s relaxed, historic Charleston courtyard.

  • Interior of a modern cafe with white marble tables and beige chairs, a cozy seating area with a beige sofa decorated with green plants, and a bar with shelves stocked with bottles and glasses in the background, illuminated by pendant lights.

    Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar

    Carmella’s Café and Dessert Bar is Audrey and Wes’s favorite spot in Charleston for an espresso martini. You can’t get a reservation, but the lively atmosphere and standout cocktails make it well worth the wait.

  • Interior of a lively bar with people sitting at tables and the counter. Neon signs and decorations adorn the walls, including beer brands, skull artwork, and vintage posters. There is a staircase leading to an upper level with more signage, lamps, and hanging decorations.

    Henry's On Market

    Enjoy classic cocktails, local beers, and spirited pours across multiple levels at Henry’s On The Market, from the lively rooftop to the cozy whiskey lounge below.