The city of Charleston, South Carolina, while rich in history and culture, is even richer in amazing food. After living here for almost two years, my friends and I have acquired an obsession with exploring new places to eat out.
I've decided to put together a list of some of my favorite restaurants/bakeries/delis downtown (and believe me, it was extremely difficult to only choose a few). Whether you're a vegetarian, on a budget, or just looking for somewhere with good grub, Charleston is your place.
1. The Park Café. After hearing so many amazing things, my friends and I decided to go here for Sunday brunch and we were not disappointed. Everything on our table looked and tasted wonderful. Great vegetarian options made with fresh, local ingredients.
2. Gnome Café. This entirely vegan, plant-based café serves breakfast and lunch and is a fan favorite in the city. My personal favorites are the cinnamon pancakes and taco salad. I'd recommend this cafe to meat-eaters and vegans alike.
3. Huriyali. Acaí bowls and smoothies are some of my biggest weaknesses. They'll satisfy a sweet tooth in the healthiest, guilt-free way. Huriyali's fresh, all-natural ingredients provide for vibrant, colorful meals and their outdoor patio is such a relaxing environment. Their avocado toast is also to die for, so don't miss out.
4. Kudu Coffee & Craft Beer. Kudu is an incredibly laid-back coffee shop, filled with good music and chill people. A less mainstream option to Starbucks, Kudu has wonderful lattes, hot chocolate, pastries, bagels, you name it. A fun spot for a quick breakfast or caffeine fix in the outdoor patio.
5. O-Ku. O-Ku is the first place I take any family or friends when they visit me in Charleston. It has turned me into a sushi fanatic and I find myself craving their potato roll all the time. O-Ku has such a lively atmosphere and is such a great start to a night out on the town. On Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., they offer half-off sushi and cocktails but it gets super busy (I mean, duh).
5. Caviar and Bananas. A gourmet market and café set right in the middle of the College of Charleston campus. From yummy bagels and pastries for breakfast to salads, sandwiches, or pastas for lunch, Cav&Ban is a go-to for a lot of hungry students.
6. Five Loaves. The best and worst decision was moving into a house only two blocks from this place. From farm to table, Five Loaves has amazing meat and meatless dishes. Whether it be lunch, dinner, or Sunday Brunch, everything I've eaten here has been amazing (The tortellini is life changing).
7. H.O.M. Burger galore for meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans alike. Made with local, fresh ingredients wherever possible, this is your place for a classic or fun burger. Also, happy hour five days a week from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and a ping-pong lounge, how could you go wrong? (You can't).
8. Brown Dog Deli. Growing up in New York, I was so excited to find a deli like this in Charleston. Located right on Broad Street, Brown Dog is the perfect place to grab a sandwich to bring to the Battery or Waterfront Park for a nice lunch with a view. Pictured is the Santa Fe wrap and it's a must.
9. Sugar Bakeshop. This tiny bakery is so cute and so full of love. Sugar has dozens of delicious treats baked fresh every day and their weekly specials never disappoint. They even offer made-to-order cakes and pies (An entire coconut cake from Sugar was by far the best birthday present I received last year).
10. Queen Street Grocery. This corner-store café has been around since 1922 and it's a local favorite. They offer amazing sweet and savory crepes and sandwiches in a super quaint setting. Dine-in and take out options available.
