restaurant

National Doughnut Day

National doughnut day is nearly upon us. Every June 5th, doughnut shops across the country pass out sugary bites, free of charge. The holiday was originally created not as a marketing ploy, but rather a way to boost morale for soldiers in World War I back in 1938. Considering we could all use a reason to celebrate, here’s a round-up of participating doughnut shops in Charleston.

Krispy Kreme

Over these last few months, time has seemed to be on a course of its own. Days feel like weeks and weeks feel like days. The good news? Krispy Kreme gets it. Instead of celebrating national doughnut day on its usual June 5th, this year you can get your favorite doughnut, free of charge from June 1st – 5th. Limited to one doughnut per person. For more information visit here.

Dunkin’ Donuts

As if we needed another excuse to go to Dunkin! This national donut day they’re offering what they call, “The Sweet Treat American Deserves.” Participating locations will be offering a free donut of your choosing with any beverage purchase on June 5th. You’ll want to stop in quick before they run out of your favorite sprinkled treat. In case you can’t make it on the 5th, order off GrubHub from June 6th-7th for a free half dozen on all orders $10 or more. Interested in free donuts for a year? All it takes is your best slogan ideas answering the question, “What does The Donut Party stand for to you?” To enter, use the #DunkinDonutPartySweepstakes on Instagram. For more information visit here.

Duck Donuts

Not one, not two, but three days of celebrating is in store for Duck Donuts’ lovers. From June 5th – 7th all online, app, or carry-out orders will be receiving a free cinnamon sugar donut. And if you download their rewards app prior to June 4th, a second cinnamon sugar donut will be headed home with you! For more information visit here.

Eat & Drink

How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Charleston

Featured image source: Charleston Beer Works

St. Patrick’s day is coming, which means it’s time to grab your friends, don your best green outfit, and get ready to enjoy a pint (or two!) to celebrate the occasion. If you’re not sure how to celebrate just yet, check out these events that will be sure to make you feel lucky!

Charleston St. Patrick’s Day Parade

South Carolina’s biggest and best St. Patrick’s Day Parade will see thousands of participants come together downtown to enjoy the holiday. After a traditional 8 a.m. Mass at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, the parade will wind down King and Radcliffe Streets and feature Charleston’s Irish step dancers, fiddlers, fire trucks, military units, bands, and local pro team mascots.

St Paddy’s Day on King Street Bar Crawl

Down the road revelers are invited to check-in at The Brick bar to get their tickets for this green-themed bar crawl. Participants can crawl from popular King Street bars like Trio, Silver Dollar and Mynt at their own pace, enjoying highly discounted cocktails and beers until the after party at 7 p.m. The first 400 people to finish the crawl with a completed drink special scorecards will get free St Paddy’s Day Bar Crawl shirts.

2nd Annual Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 Mile Run

Those looking beyond their beverages this St. Patricks Day can participate in 2nd Annual Shamrocks & Shenanigans Virtual 4 Mile Run. People are invited to dress in Leprechaun costumes, enjoy traditional Irish food, and run or walk at their leisure. Those who complete all four miles will get four clover leafs added to their finishers medal.

Kegs & Eggs

Sesame Burgers and Beer will be hosting their own St. Patty’s event, inviting Charleston to wake up early and fuel themselves for a long day of fun. The North Charleston eatery will start serving corned beef hash, Shepards Pie, breakfast sandwiches, and gallons of festive green beer and mimosas at 9 a.m. in Park Circle. The best part? The event is free!

Eat & Drink

There’s Food For Everyone At Mainland Container Company

Featured Image Credit: Mainland Container Co. Facebook

Dog-friendly and laid-back is an understatement when it comes to Mainland Container Co. in Mt. Pleasant. Many times a dog-friendly location has outside seating and a water bowl or two, but Mainland Container Co. has a section of their menu specifically for your four-legged companion, specifically a grilled, unseasoned chicken breast or a burger cut into bite-sized pieces.

Image Credit: Mainland Container Co. Facebook

The rest of the menu is pretty far-reaching, with a mix of current farm-to-table trends and greasy bar fare. The five golf ball sized hush puppies are delicious. They are served with hot pepper jelly and pimento cheese. Said cheese is to die for, smooth and mild with chunks of cream cheese in the mix. The servers also recommend the Caprese-stuffed avocado, a mix of avocado and the traditional salad from Capri.

Image Credit: Mainland Container Co. Facebook

Mainland Container Co.’s ambitious menu may be overwhelming, but it will not disappoint you or your furry friend.

If you or your pup have any issues climbing up stairs, it may be difficult to get to the main building. Hidden at the end of a gravel road off Ben Sawyer Blvd, the main entrance it as the top of a steep flight of stairs. No worries, there is a ground-level seating area that includes umbrella-covered seating.

To check out their menu, hours, and more, visit their Facebook page.

Eat & Drink

Oh Shoot! The Five Best Oyster Shooters In Charleston

Featured Image Credit: The Darling Oyster Bar Facebook

Oyster season is here and that means that there will be plenty of shucking to be done at oyster roasts, raw bars, and seafood restaurants. Some people like them raw, some people like them fried, and some people like to slurp them in a shot. If you’re one of the latter, then you need to check out the five pace below for the best oyster shooters in Charleston.

Image Credit: The Darling Oyster Bar Facebook

The Darling Oyster Bar

The Darling is a great place to go if you want fresh seafood of any kind, especially oysters. Take a seat at their raw bar and you’ll have a great people watching view of King Street to go with whatever you’re digging into. We suggest starting with an oyster shot that combines a house-made mix with pepper infused vodka and a raw oyster.

Image Credit: Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar Facebook

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar

Amen Street Fish & Raw Bar on East Bay describes their oyster shooters as a combination of the best oysters in Charleston with the best Bloody Marys in Charleston. They start with a fresh raw oyster and a house-infused spicy lemon pepper vodka and add their original Bloody Mary mix to create the shot.

Image Credit: Pearlz Oyster Bar Facebook

Pearlz Oyster Bar

Pearlz has locations in South and North Carolina, so you can get your oyster fix whether you’re in Columbia or Charleston. There are two Charleston locations: one downtown and one in West Ashley. Their signature oyster shooter is a raw oyster, pepper vodka, and spicy cocktail sauce.

Image Credit: Oyster House & O-Bar Facebook

Oyster House & O-Bar

On Market where A.W. Shucks used to be, Oyster House & O-Bar serves fresh seafood and has a classic oyster shot. Their “Southern Belle Oyster Shooter” is made of a raw oyster, infused vodka, and spicy shooter sauce.

Image Credit: Noisy Oyster Seafood Restaurant Facebook

The Noisy Oyster

The Noisy Oyster seafood restaurant has two locations in the Charleston area: one downtown on Market Street and another in North Charleston on Rivers Avenue. They have a plethora of delicious drinks and cocktails to choose from, but visitors like their classic vodka based oyster shooter.

Eat & Drink

Our Favorite Lunch Spots In Charleston

Featured Image Credit: charleston.eater.com

Lunch can be an underappreciated meal of the day. But dining in the Holy City for lunch can turn your sour Monday upside down. Whether it’s a quick bite to eat during a work break, in between classes, or a midday feast with family and friends, Charleston is buzzing with out of this world lunch spots. Here are some of the best lunch eats according to the Taste App.

Five Loaves Cafe

Stop by from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and choose from a selection of sandwiches and soups at Five Loaves Cafe. The downtown Charleston location is nestled between Cannon and Coming Street and recently added a smoothie bar next door!

Image Credit: www.tastefavorites.com

Verde

Looking for fresh ingredients blended into a perfect on the go salad or wrap? Verde is the perfect place to run in during a lunch break. Choose from a large selection of fresh veggies, fruits, and lettuce to create a personalized healthy lunch.

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Butcher & Bee

Venture outside your tastebud comfort zone with this menu. With an assortment of the best local, fresh foods this lunch will leave you feeling very satisfied and ready to conquer the rest of your day. Be sure to try their original Pumpkin’wich or their freshly made hummus.

Image Credit: http://nashvilleguru.com/

Leon’s Fine Poultry and Oysters

Renovated from an old garage, the modern and rustic environment of Leon’s is hard to beat. Known for their mouthwatering oysters, and frozen rose, there’s lots to choose from. Also try their crispy fried chicken, one of the best in the Holy City.

Image Credit: thesouthernweekend

Jack of Cups Saloon

If you’re looking for a warm soup on a crisp day, Jack of Cups is worth the drive out to Folly. The menu varies according to the season. Currently, the fall 2017 menu consists of pumpkin curry soup, Thai peanut-ginger soup, and many sandwiches and salads.

Image Credit: charleston.eater

Brown Dog Deli

With two locations in downtown Charleston on Broad Street and their new location on the corner of Calhoun Street, these small deli’s are a very popular spot for locals. Both locations share very different menus but some of their signature items include their Nacho Taco Salad, Wes’ French Onion Grilled Cheese, and the Big “Mac”

Boxcar Betty’s

Get award-winning chicken sandwiches at Boxcar Betty’s. Featured on the food network, their chicken lives up to its titles. Mix in a southern twist with pimento cheese smothered in your choice of sauces with a side of sweet potato fries.

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Workshop

This accumulation of award-winning restaurants is often referred to as a fancy cafeteria. Workshop’s unique style sets it apart from any other restaurant in Charleston. With large indoor and outdoor seating, customers have the option to choose between 7 restaurants including Bad Wolf Coffee, Slice Co., Pink Bellies, Juan Luis, Slider Gold, Sambar, and Koa bowls.

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Eat & Drink

Better Than Your Momma’s Recipe: The Best Pasta in Charleston

Featured Image Credit: Le Farfalle/ Facebook

Trattoria Lucca

This quaint Italian eatery is tucked away in a quiet corner of downtown Charleston’s Elliotsborough. Fresh pasta is prepared every night, from tagliolini and cavatelli to bucatini. The authentic pastas are tossed with local produce and seafood to create unforgettable dishes. The cresenza with wild ramp brodo was even highlighted by New York Magazine as one of the top pastas in the country.

Image Credit: zomato.com

Mondo’s Italian Restaurant

Serving up fresh pasta to James Island locals for over a decade, you don’t want to miss out on Mondos. Their special pasta dishes include a Bolognese slow simmered in a rich Chianti tomato sauce and a freshly made Linguine coupled with scallops and pancetta.

Fratello’s Italian Tavern

This menu is inspired and derived from tried and true recipes passed down through generations of Italian lineage. Fratello’s family owned business takes pride in their authentic pasta dishes. From their mouthwatering lasagna to their Fra Diavolo di Mare, you’re guaranteed to leave with a happy and full stomach.

Le Farfalle

Chef Michael Toscano is serving up lunch, brunch, and dinner at this modern approach to authentic Italian cuisine. Their large pasta menu includes all handmade noodles, including Fideos, Agnolotti, Ricotta Gnudi and more. Stop by and sit on the festive outside patio and one of the only Italian brunches in town.

Image Credit: www.charlestoncitypaper.com

Vincent Chicco’s

Located right off King Street, Vincent Chicco’s serves upscale Italian cuisine with domestic ingredients in a sophisticated atmosphere. The handmade pasta and sauces are hard to beat in the Lowcountry. The man behind the name, Vincent Chicco’s was an immigrant from Italy who was known as the “king of blind tigers,” fighting against prohibition in Charleston and becoming a local hero. Visitors must also try the Tortellini Al Uovo with house-made tortellini.

Image Credit: www.menuism.com

Fulton Five

Looking for a perfect date night spot? This small Italian restaurant has been named the most romantic restaurant in 1998-2014. Complete with dim candlelight, authentic music, and a rustic feel, you’ll feel like you’ve transported yourself straight to Italy.

Indaco

Located on Upper King Street in downtown Charleston, serves legendary hand-crafted pasta. Salumi and cured sausages are made in-house. Executive Chef Elliot Cusher has even been recognized in national newspapers and food magazines. Venture outside your usual classic Italian dishes and try the goat cheese ravioli, complete with sweet potato, hazelnuts, and sage.

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Monza

Take a break shopping and sightseeing in the heart of downtown Charleston by stopping in at Monza. Named after an Italian superspeedway, Monza’s walls are littered with historic pictures of the races, including Ferrari paraphernalia and sports cars. You can’t go wrong picking between their freshly made lasagna, bolognese, carbonara, and vodka sauce dishes.

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Eat & Drink

Awesome Downtown Spots…With Plenty Of Spots

Featured Image Credit: Facebook/ Rutledge Cab Co.

Sometimes it feels like there are too few parking options for when we want to go eat downtown. Even if you’re lucky enough to find a spot, meter parking will cost you $.025 for 15 minutes. Who has that many quarters on them? If you’re 15 minutes late feeding a meter, expect a ticket tucked under your windshield wiper when you return to your car.

The next best option might seem like a parking garage, but due to all the new development in areas that use to house cheap lots, spots have become more scarce, and not to mention more expensive. It can be super frustrating.

SO, we did the research so you don’t have to. Here are the best restaurant/bars in places in downtown Charleston that offer free parking, whether that be its own parking lot or a few spots that are first come first serve. You can thank us later.

Barsa
Elevated Spanish tapas, paella & cocktails are the draw at this stylish lounge.
Address: 630 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 577-5393

Santis
A collection of eclectic chandeliers light up the Mexican & Southwest food & frozen drinks.
Address: 1302 Meeting Street Rd, Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: (843) 722-2633

Little Jack’s
Casual chophouse serving steaks, salads & sandwiches, plus martinis, in vintage surrounds.
Address: 710 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 531-6868

The Alley
Bright, cheery hangout featuring 8 bowling lanes, American comfort food & 3 bars with flat-screens.
Address: 131 Columbus St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 818-4080

Workshop
Six vendors share space in this trendy food court, offering coffee & an eclectic mix of cuisines.
Address: 1503 King St, Charleston, SC 29405
Phone: (843) 996-4500

Royal American
Cozy, low-key bar & concert venue featuring local & regional musicians, plus hearty pub grub.
Address: 970 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 817-6925

Xiao Bao Biscuit
Creative, multicultural Asian cooking & specialty cocktails in a trendy converted gas station.
Address: 224 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403

Hominy Grill
Busy yet relaxed eatery dishing up Lowcountry classics in homey digs, also popular for its brunch.
Address: 207 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 937-0930

Rutledge Cab Co.
American comfort food with a twist, plus drinks, in trendy, retro-style digs with a covered patio.
Address: 1300 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 720-1440

Saffron Restaurant and Bakery
Sweet & savory baked goods, a global foods market & a comfortable Middle Eastern/Lowcountry cafe.
Address: 333 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 722-5588

Magnolia’s
A refined take on traditional Southern cooking, served in a warm, sophisticated environment.
Address: 185 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 577-7771

Salty Mike’s
Address: 17 Lockwood Dr, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 937-0208

Edmund’s Oast
Hip spot offering New American fare, beer brewed on-site & craft cocktails, plus a patio.
Address: 1081 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 727-1145

Butcher and Bee
Hip outpost offering a rotating menu of inventive, seasonal cuisine made with local ingredients.
Address: 1085 Morrison Dr, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 619-0202

Lewis Barbecue
Texas-style house-smoked meats served in an industrial-hip space with a bar & outdoor tables.
Address: 464 N Nassau St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 805-9500

Taco Boy
Tacos with innovative fillings & frozen cocktails in a funky, vibrant setting, plus outdoor seating.
Address: 217 Huger St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 789-3333

Bay Street Biergarten
Rustic-chic spot for Southern pub grub with Bavarian flair, plus craft beer with pour-your-own taps.
Address: 549 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 266-2437

Recovery Room
No-frills bar offering pinball, darts, pool, pinball & bocce, along with wings, sandwiches & beer.
Address: 685 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 727-0999

Revelry Brewing Company
Address: 10 Conroy St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 203-6194

Fuel
Refined pub eats with Caribbean twists in a repurposed 1950s-era gas station with a big patio.
Address: 211 Rutledge Ave, Charleston, SC 2940
Phone: (843) 737-5959

Palmetto Brewing Company
Address: 289 Huger St, Charleston, SC 29403
Phone: (843) 937-0903

Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
Southern seafood staples served in sleek, light-filled quarters, with a patio overlooking the water.
Address: 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
Phone: (843) 722-8100

Eat & Drink

Don’t Want To Fight The Crowds? 7 Best Alternatives To Dining In Downtown Charleston

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.