As the popularity of Charleston has grown, so has the culinary scene. With SO many places to choose from, it is easy to get lost in the endless sea of restaurant options. Visitors often flock to the “Big 5:” Husk, Halls, Hominy, Hanks and High Cotton, but getting a taste of the unique and off-the-beaten path culinary experience is an absolute must. At the end of the day, it is always the places that are the hardest to find that are the BEST!
Kanpai: 1035-B9 Johnnie Dodds Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464
Located just off the downtown peninsula in “strip mall”, Kanpai is truly a hole-in-the-wall. Don’t let this deter you though. If you are looking for fresh sushi and authentic Japanese dishes, such as a mouthwatering pork-belly bun, this is the spot you want to go. Don’t forget to BYOB!
Chez Nous: 6 Payne Ct, Charleston, SC 29403
Nestled down a back alleyway, Chez Nous is without a doubt the most romantic restaurant in Charleston. Gas lanterns, rustic décor, and perfect ambiance, makes it an ideal date night atmosphere. With an ever-changing menu (posted daily on social media), makes this restaurant a creative culinary favorite.
Palace Hotel: 35 Hanover St, Charleston, SC 29403
Looking for a real “Big Mac”? The Palace Hotel serves up just that! If you think you are in the wrong place when you arrive, you are just where you need to be. Tucked away in the east side, this off- the-beaten path hot dog and burger joint is back, and thankfully has not changed a bit. The cozy, low-ceilings, accompanied by the checkered-floor gives a great old-school vibe that is hard to beat. Best of all, Tuesday’s feature the “buy one, get one” free beer token night.
Harbinger: 1107 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Harbinger opened its doors on Upper King Street and has impressed the crowd. This cozy cafe, beautifully decorated with Landrum wood tables, features a healthful, made-from-scratch menu and offers creative breakfast and lunch specials. The Harbinger breakfast sandwich is crispy, yet soft, sweet, AND spicy – an absolute must try!
The Wreck: 106 Haddrell Street, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
With the scenic backdrop of Shem Creek, The Wreck has some the freshest South Carolina seafood in town. The best part is, it’s removed from some of the other highly visited tourist favorites located on the creek. You know it’s fresh when there’s a shrimping boat docked right in front of the restaurant! But don’t expect anything fancy – it is what it is … and what it is, is absolutely delicious.
Ready to visit some of these lesser-known restaurants in Charleston SC? Whether you’ve already booked your next trip to the #1 City in the U.S.A, or you’re ready to book any day, we are happy to make your dinner reservations through our Concierge service team – and with some of these local favorites – you might not even need one. Start planning today …
