Featured Image Credit: Facebook/Community Pizza House
We all know the Holy City is known for it’s fantastic foodie scene (among many other things). If you’re a local, sometimes it feels hard to find a great spot to eat without the hassle of dealing with the traffic, parking, and crowd downtown.
Good news is, you don’t have to go downtown to find an amazing place to grab brunch, a quick bite or a few cocktails. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite restaurants in your neighborhood known for its laid-back atmosphere and unforgettable food that will make you feel like you are in the middle of all the action without, well, being IN all the action.
(These are not in order by any means.)
North Charleston: Community Pizza House
Image Credit: Facebook/ Community Pizza House
Some may say that Park Circle is the best spot in North Charleston for a good bite to eat. Buttttt we beg to differ. Head past Park Circle and make your way towards the Tanger Outlets to Community Pizza House. This massive building with a spacious dining room, outside seating and an upstairs deck offers custom wood fired pizzas, crisp salads, signature sandwiches and plenty of “community” plates for the whole table to share. Be sure to grab one of their hand crafted sodas with your meal…you won’t regret it.
West Ashley: Oak Barrel Tavern
Image Credit: Facebook/ Oak Barrel Tavern
Blink and you might miss this hidden little gem next to Roost Bar & Grill in Avondale! It’s a cramped, dim-lit room that feels a lot like a neighborhood tavern. There isn’t plenty of seating, however there is a small bar that offers seating as well. The best part is the sushi..which is only available on select nights when Sushi Ninja LLC is there! Be sure to check out their Facebook for a schedule.
James Island: Zia Taqueria
Image Credit: Facebook/ Zia Taqueria
In the mood for authentic Mexican? You can find it at Zia Taqueria. Start off with a tart margarita that’s served in a pint glass, then fill your belly with their crave able, homemade salsa and tacos. We recommend the fish tacos (oh…em…gee…our mouth is watering just thinking about them.) Best part? This little spot offers $2.50 tacos on Mondays…heck yeah!
Johns Island: Fat Hen
Image Credit: Facebook/ Fat Hen
Fat Hen is actually considered one of the best places in all of Charleston for brunch! This adorable cottage has scrumptious dinners as well, focusing on Fresh-country flare with an ever changing menu. Enjoy a $10 mimosa carafe with your brunch..but be sure to make a reservation beforehand. You can thank us later!
Mount Pleasant: Pickled Palate
Image Credit: www.thepickledpalate.com
This is your go-to spot for enjoying wine and cheese in a chill atmosphere. Pickled Palate has just that. With a vintage garden to sit in, fresh brewed teas, a great wine selection, fresh panini’s, salads and sandwiches, this little gem has something for just about everyone. You’ll feel like you’re eating in an enchanted forest!
Sullivan’s Island: Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
Image Credit: Facebook/ Mex 1 Coastal Cantina
It’s hard to imagine not making a pit-stop at Poe’s when on Sullivan’s Island, but we’re here to tell you that there are some other amazing restaurants just across the street that are just as hoppin! Mex 1 Coastal Cantina is the perfect spot to go to after a long day at the beach. They infuse their own tequila, give you free chips and dip to start with, and play some gnarly surfing videos on every single TV, all day long.
Folly Beach: St. James Gate Irish Pub
Image Credit: Facebook/ St. James Gate Irish Pub
With the windows open and the sea air pouring in, meals are just a whole lot better at this authentic Irish pub on Folly Beach. The chef, a former marine, has been perfecting his craft for years, and it shows in his food. Start off with a charcuterie board with homemade Irish soda bread, then enjoy a FRESH lobster roll. Yes, a fresh Maine lobster roll in South Carolina. The restaurant gets their lobster fresh twice a week. Ohhhh yeah.