One of the best things about living in Charleston, South Carolina, is undoubtedly the food. Restaurants lining King, Market, and East Bay Streets can supply any foodie with a wide range of options, including some of the best sweet tea you'll ever have. My suitemates and I are like the rest of the College of Charleston student body and the flocks of tourists flooding the city in that we love the food here. The difference is that for us, finding a place to eat has also become somewhat of a scavenger hunt since two of my suitemates are gluten-free. In a place like the South where deep-fried and breaded foods are a staple, finding good gluten-free options can be a challenge. But fear not Charlestonians, because this city has some great gluten-free hidden gems. Whether you're celiac, gluten intolerant or just seeking to try out the new fad diet, here are the top five places to find gluten-free food in Charleston:
1. Breizh Pan Crepes
All the crepes at this lesser-known George Street restaurant can be made gluten-free. Crepes made at this locally owned French restaurant are made with buckwheat in the traditional style from Brittany, France. The menu includes breakfast and lunch crepes as well as dessert crepes. All of their savory crepes are gluten-free to begin with, and dessert crepes can be made gluten-free upon request. This place heralds in at number one by virtue of having an almost entirely gluten-free menu to begin with. Plus, whether you're gluten-free or not, these crepes are absolutely delicious.
Menu recommendations include the L'Huelgoat crepe (but really all their buckwheat crepes).
2. Low Country Bistro
Shrimp and grits are a Charleston staple. Unfortunately if you're gluten-free, it can be difficult to find a version of this dish that you can eat. Look no further than Low Country Bistro, which has secured the number two spot by virtue of its fantastic gluten-free shrimp and grits. Overall, they also have a vast gluten-free menu. Located on Market Street, it's also a great spot if you're looking for the traditional Charleston low-country ambiance.
Menu recommendations include shrimp and grits (of course) and eggplant parmesan.
3. Co
It's especially difficult to find gluten-free Asian cuisine due to the frequent use of soy sauce. However Co, a pan-Asian restaurant with Vietnamese specialties located on King Street, has a gluten-free menu with fantastic Asian food. Co has gluten-free options in nearly every aspect of their menu and even provides access to their gluten-free menu on their website.
Menu recommendations include curry laksa, beef pho and curry shrimp.
4. Persimmon Café
Persimmon Café is a beloved Charleston meal destination and is located on Calhoun Street inside The College Laundry laundromat. Despite the slightly odd location, Persimmon Café is perhaps the best light-eating location on the peninsula, certainly if you're looking for a gluten-free option. All of Persimmon Café's signature sandwiches can be made on gluten-free bread, and the extremely friendly staff will make sure the grill is wiped down to eliminate gluten contamination. Persimmon is also great for a college budget as every third Thursday they offer a "date night" special where for just $20, you can get two sandwiches, two sides, two drinks and one custard.
Menu recommendations include basil limeade, the caprese sandwich and the roasted chicken sandwich.
5. Caviar and Bananas
This popular café is actually on the College of Charleston campus right next to the CVS on George Street. Caviar and Bananas gets points for its wide variety of gluten-free options, especially in its supply of naturally gluten-free options. Their staff is also incredibly accommodating about making sandwiches on what my roommate declares to be the best gluten-free bread in Charleston.
Menu recommendations include the caprese sandwich.
BONUS: King Street Cookies
If you're looking for a gluten-free dessert fix after a fantastic dinner or lunch, look no further than King Street Cookies. This college favorite also serves some wonderful gluten-free cookies. It's only a short walk from campus, but if you're really exhausted after a long day of class and a couple blocks feels like a couple of miles, they also deliver!
Menu recommendations include the toffee crunch cookie.
