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The Best Rooftop Bars in Charleston

Open-air restaurants are all the rage this summer, as establishments adhere to COVID-19 guidelines. Luckily, Charlestonians already love to dine outdoors. While many restaurants are finding ways to create more patio seating, nothing quite compares to a rooftop view. Here’s a roundup of the best rooftop bars in Charleston for the next time you decide to hit the town. 

Stars Rooftop & Grill Room

This King Street beauty has a short, but sweet, rotating menu. With stellar drinks and a downtown view, this establishment is nothing short of fabulous. Locals love the weekend Brunch as it’s known iconically for their decadent selection. Pop a cork and cheer mimosas with friends on their open-air rooftop. 

The Rooftop Bar at The Vendue

Enjoy al fresco lunch on the highrise patio at this chic hotel. For lively atmosphere and Southern architecture views, join the folks at the Vendue. On hotter days, a Strawberry Basil Lemonade will quench your thirst. Their plethora of seating offers options for parties of all sizes.

The Watch 

You’ll forget to check your watch as time spent on the rooftop of the Restoration Hotel is time well spent. Guests will want to head to the restaurant at sunset for an incredible Holy City golden hour. As you soak up the last of the sun, share appetizers while picking through their selection of sweet libations.

Revelry Brewing 

Calling all IPA drinkers! This rooftop brewery is young, lively, and perfect for an evening escape. Their large selection of home-brewed beer is iconic in this city. Crack a cold one safely outdoors at this large beer garden. 

Red’s Ice House

Ditch downtown and head to Shem Creek for sunset drinks at Reds. The motto here? “Inside is boring!” Enjoy this laid back setting for seafood and drinks as you watch boats float by. The occasional dolphin even makes an appearance along the creek!

Eat & Drink

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

Hall's Chophouse Summerville

Restaurants offering delivery and takeout in Charleston

Restaurants and bars across South Carolina are no longer able to operate with dine-in options as of last week, under an executive order issued by Gov. Henry McMaster. As the state responds to the coronavirus, many restaurants are transitioning to delivery and takeout options in order to keep hungry customers satisfied and safe. Here are some great local spots to keep in mind when social-distancing on an empty stomach. It’s important that we support local businesses during this time!

Boxcar Betty’s

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94Vc7eAbb5/

Frothy Beard

 

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Well, it happened ? Starting tomorrow, March 18th, we will only have to-go beer and food. For food orders, you can call us at 843-872-4201 OR you can order from Uber Eats – they are offering $0 delivery fees. The link is in our bio. For beer, please call us at 843-872-4201 and let us know what you’d like. Just a heads up, the person ordering and the person picking up MUST be the same person and have a valid, 21+ ID. We know this is an uncertain time but our top priority is everyone’s safety. We will have a pick-up location outside (stay tuned for details on that) but you can still come in and pick up your order (you just can’t stay and eat/drink ?) We WILL still be releasing our anniversary beers on Thursday, March 19th. Obviously for pick-up only. Here are the details: ?We can’t ship beer ?Only four 4-packs per person (that is the legal limit) ?If there are any left, glasses will be available online ?2 glasses limit per person ❤️ the Frothy and ZB fam

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Gnome Cafe

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94UluSAV_0/

Poogan’s Porch

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94S9hIDdGJ/

 

The Daily

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94srsOHpk4/

Verde

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9z_303hYfq/

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

https://www.instagram.com/p/B92gP0ElqVl/

Renzo

https://www.instagram.com/p/B92X0SNho11/

Obstinate Daughter

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94vQFOBrSy/

Carmella’s Cafe & Dessert Bar

https://www.instagram.com/p/B94h-e3Batp/

Want more options? Check out the Charleston City Paper’s comprehensive list.

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Hall's Chophouse Summerville

Hall’s Chophouse Officially Opens Fourth Location In Summerville

Featured Image: Hall’s Chophouse

If you ask any Charleston local (or visitor) what their favorite steakhouse is, odds are they’ll say Hall’s Chophouse. With high-end steaks, handcrafted cocktails, and family sides to drool over, we can’t help but agree.

Obviously doing something right in the kitchen, the family-owned restaurant now has four locations, including Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and as of today, Summerville. The new location opened Wednesday, September 18 at 4 p.m. in the Nexton development and is a whopping 6,800 square feet.

The local favorite is one of many favorited Charleston restaurants to expand to the Nexton development.

Earlier in the year, Taco Boy, opened in the area making it the restaurant’s third location. Other locations include Huger Street downtown and Center Street on Folly Beach.

Soon to follow with their grand opening is Paige’s Okra Grill of Mount Pleasant and Poogan’s Hospitality.

Poogan’s, known for Poogan’s Porch and Poogan’s Smokehouse in the Holy City, will welcome their third location, dubbed Poogan’s Southern Kitchen, to the Nexton development in early 2020 along with Paige’s Okra Grill. And, while you can’t make a reservation to either until 2020, reservations can be made for Hall’s Chophouse Summerville now!

 

 

 

 

 

Eat & Drink

The Best Steakhouses in the Holy City

It’s hard not to talk about food when thinking about the best of Charleston. From dive bars to five stars, the Holy City is a mighty force in all things food. A city can’t have a nationally recognized food scene without phenomenal steakhouses. Thankfully, there is no shortage of melt-in-your-mouth steaks in Charleston and these five steakhouses will prove it.

Oak

Oak Steakhouse has it all. Sitting on historic Broad Street with four dining areas spanning three floors, the ambiance complements the food, making Oak the perfect dining experience worth every penny.

5Church

Even though it opened recently in 2015, 5Church has no shortage of good press. Gaining attention from big names like Conde Nast Traveler, USA Today, and Eater, 5Church has mastered its own unique 60-second steak. Searing the steak on one side to reach a perfect medium-rare temperature, 5Church serves you a steak you won’t forget.

Hall’s Chophouse

Hall’s Chophouse has been loved by so many that it has now expanded into four locations across the state. Located on Upper King, the delicious steak is paired with hospitality that is unmatched by any other restaurant. As soon as the host or hostess greets you, you’ll know your steak is being prepared by people who want to serve you the best.

Grill 225

Attached to the Market Pavilion Hotel on East Bay Street is Grill 225, a steakhouse that exclusively serves prime steaks aged for a minimum of 42 days. The time they put into developing the perfect steak shows and will pair great with one of their many delicious sides.

Burwell’s

Burwell’s Stonefire Grill calls themselves one of the most “forward-thinking” steakhouses in America and we agree! Getting to know the farmers that provide their food, Burwell’s assures quality ingredients and quality cuts of meat. Their signature hot rock appetizer with a 700-degree lava rock allows you to sizzle your steak to perfection right at your table!

Eat & Drink

Have a Plant-Based Diet? Charleston’s Got You Covered.

Featured Image: Gnome Cafe

Gnome Cafe

Gnome exists to show you the power of plant-based food! For both breakfast and lunch, they use high-quality ingredients to serve up bold flavors to satisfy any craving.

Dellz Uptown

A Charleston staple, Dellz Uptown has mastered the art of creating classic, feel-good foods like pizza and nachos that are also friendly to vegetarian and vegan eaters. Their Vegan Jazzy Pizza is a must-have. Be sure to try one of their smoothies for the ultimate experience.

The Harbinger Cafe & Bakery

Another great option for those with plant-based diets is The Harbinger. With a kitchen that features locally-sourced, seasonal dishes alongside a bakery with fresh pastries, including gluten-free options!

 

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A well balanced meal if you ask me. ?? ? ?

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Huriyali

Creating food with your health in mind, Huriyali serves up some of the freshest plant-based food in Charleston. From fresh-pressed juice and nut milk to creative deli favorites, you can trust that your health is in good hands when eating at Huriyali!

 

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Cuz who packs a lunch on a Monday?!✨??? #goldenbudhabowlwithcurry

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Tu

Grounded in tradition and culture, Tu delivers delicious dinners from the Indian Subcontinent. Tu takes classic dishes and gives them a unique twist while still paying homage to their origins, a challenging task. The team at Tu works hard to develop relationships with local fishermen and farmers to ensure the quality of their entire menu.

Butcher and Bee

Butcher and Bee started out as a small shop specializing in gourmet sandwiches but has quickly grown into a full menu with a new location serving up a mix of unique and exciting dishes, many of which are vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Using local and sustainable ingredients is a culture and mindset that Butcher and Bee makes a priority.

 

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That moment when you see your dinner approaching the table ?

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Eat & Drink

OpenTable Restaurants Charleston

Results Are In: The Top 10 Overall Restaurants In Charleston

Featured Image Source: Peninsula Grill Facebook

The results are in and OpenTable users have spoken.

Each month OpenTable reads hundreds of thousands of reviews and sorts the results by category to help users discover new, delicious food.

Here are the top ten restaurants to try in Charleston according to OpenTable users:

1. McCrady’s Restaurant

McCrady’s is a tasting-menu-only restaurant located in historic downtown, Charleston. A meal here is $125 per person and is worth the splurge. The restaurant holds the honor of a AAA Five-Diamond Award and is one of Wine Enthusiast’s 100 Best Wine Restaurants in America. Looking to pair a glass of wine with your food? Alcoholic pairings are $80 per person and $160 per person for reserve pairings.

2. Charleston Grill

Located in the fabulous Charleston Place Hotel, Charleston Grill offers Lowcountry cuisine with a French accent. If you’re really looking to go all out and make for an impressively romantic evening, you can dine in the private Vinter’s Room featuring walls of glass-fronted wine cellars showing off their magnificent collection from around the world.

3. Cru Cafe

Looking for some comfort food? Try Cru Cafe. It’s a favorite among tourists and locals and is in a classic single-style Charleston home off the beaten path. It’s consistently ranked as one of the top eateries in Charleston and we can see why.

4. Peninsula Grill

Peninsula Grill is truly a Charleston gem. With delicious food, a beautiful courtyard to dine in, and a fabulous champagne room offering some of the world’s best champagne, it’s no surprise Peninsula Grill made the list. It’s been recognized by several publications including Conde Nast Traveler, Food & Wine, The New York Times, Southern Living, Travel + Leisure, and others.

5. Circa 1886

If there’s one thing we can say about Circa 1886, it’s that Circa 1886 is unlike any other Charleston restaurant. Inspired by dishes from around the world, Chef Marc Collins curated a menu that offers a Lowcountry spin on many well-known dishes.

6. Ella & Ollie’s

One of the two restaurants on the list that is not in downtown, Charleston, Ella & Ollie’s is located on Edisto Island and is a cute southern seafood restaurant. Their food is so loved that they opened a second space next door using the same inspiration and ingredients to create tacos unlike any other.

7. Indaco

Indaco is the only Italian restaurant in Charleston to make the list and we can’t argue it. Indaco offers a great atmosphere, delicious dishes, and one-of-a-kind cocktails that make for a great birthday dinner, anniversary, or just a regular night.

8. Oak Steakhouse

There is no shortage of amazing steakhouses in Charleston and with Oak being the only steakhouse on the list, it’s obviously a must-eat in the Lowcountry. With an exquisite selection of signature cuts, delicious seafood specialties, and a great selection of vegetarian options, Oak Steakhouse has earned its spot on this list.

9. 843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House

The second of the two restaurants not in downtown, Charleston, 843 Korean BBQ & Sushi House is located in North Charleston. It’s dinner and a show at this restaurant as the chefs prepare your dinner right at your table. More of a sushi fan? Try one of their delicate sushi rolls prepared by sushi artists.

10. The Macintosh

Closing out the list is The Macintosh, known for their local ingredients. Executive Chef and partner Jeremiah Bacon creates his menu using seasonal ingredients from local farmers and fishermen. And, once you finish your dinner and drinks here you can head upstairs to its sister lounge, Cocktail Club for a delicious cocktail.

Which one will you try first?

To view the list and make a reservation visit OpenTable, here.

Eat & Drink

Charleston Italian Restaurants

These Italian Restaurants Have The BEST Pasta In Charleston

Charleston has plenty of places for you to get your fix on all things pasta. You might not be in Italy, but go to any of these restaurants and you’ll think you were transported straight to an authentic Italian homemade meal in the heart of the land of pasta. Whether you go for a creamy white sauce, a hearty red meat sauce, or a spaghetti dish complemented with the catch of the day, these Charleston locations will have you begging for another serving of noodles.

Juliet


Juliet is a restaurant inspired by classic Italian dishes located on Upper King Street. According to Tripadvisor, Juliet is home to the best pasta dishes EVER. Take advantage of their Happy Hour everyday from 4pm to 6pm.

Indaco


Indaco serves rustic Italian cuisine by Executive Chef Michael Holler. Wood-fired pizzas, hand-crafted pastas, house-made salami and cured sausages fill the restaurant’s menu which can be enjoyed family-style or a la carte. With community tables, an open kitchen, and a comfortable atmosphere, Indaco is the perfect place to unwind with family, friends, or your significant other.

Monza


One of Charleston’s favorite Italian restaurants just got a whole new look. Monza, located in the heart of King Street, has expanded into what was its sister restaurant, Closed For Business. Be the first to try Monza’s new pasta menu when it reopens this month.

Melfi’s


Stay ahead of the Foodies and reserve your next meal at Charleston’s newest Italian restaurant Melfi’s. It’s all the rage to the Charleston locals with its sophisticated interior. Its long wooden bar, a variety of linen-draped dining tables, and an intimate pizza counter where guests can watch the action surrounding two wood burning ovens, makes it the perfect night out on the town.

Fulton 5


Looking for a romantic date night in Charleston? Walk through the heart of Charleston’s historic district and stumble upon this quaint Italian restaurant. A locals favorite spot, Fulton 5 is a must go for authentic Italian pastas from their tortellini to their Cavatelli.

Trattoria Lucca


Tucked away in a quiet corner of downtown Charleston’s Elliotborough neighborhood lies chef Ken Vedrinski’s charming Italian eatery, Trattoria Lucca. Inspired by the ancient Tuscan city of Lucca, a place renowned for its olive oils, Trattoria Lucca brings the essence of Italian cuisine to the Lowcountry. The dinner menu changes nightly depending on the local ingredients of the day.

Pan E Vino


This tiny Italian restaurant is tucked away in Downtown Charleston. The food is served with the perfect intimate atmosphere with lanterns hanging from an old live oak in the outdoor courtyard providing a dining experience like no other in Charleston. Owned by an Italian family from Northern Italy, you won’t be disappointed by these authentic pasta dishes.

We promise, these dishes won’t disappoint.