I have been itching to get away the past couple of months. So, I packed my bags and made the trip to Charleston, SC. Charleston is truly a mecca for food lovers, and I am certainly guilty as charged for being one of those. Not just a mecca for lovers of southern food, but of all food genres, as well as driving some new ones. So come along as we frolic through the food, and of course, a little fashion, that is Charleston.
First, where to stay. Arriving in charming Charleston, I checked in at the Belmond Charleston Place Hotel in the heart of Downtown. The hotel’s location was just a short walk to some of the most highly recommended dining and shopping spots in the city, and you know that was the daily routine (shop, eat, shop, eat, and do it again). @belmondcharlestonplace, 205 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Now, for the piece de la resistance, the food. Here are a few of my must-dine spots in Charleston, SC.
The first stop on my fairly decadent eating tour through this foodie city is a Charleston classic, Leon’s Fine Poultry & Oyster Shop. Located on a little corner of King Street, Leon’s is housed in an old body shop that belonged to Leon Ravenel, a businessman that served Charleston residents for many years. This Southern gem serves fried chicken, oysters, lots of salads, cheap beer, rosé on tap, tons of grower Champagne and good cocktails. I obviously ordered oysters and the smoked Mahi dip with saltines to start (love me some buttery saltines). Lunch was an iceberg wedge with buttermilk dressing, their famous fried chicken and a crisp glass of rosé. @leonsoystershop, 698 King St, Charleston, SC 29403
Once a humble corner bistro, FIG has blossomed into one of the Southeast’s top culinary destinations. The room is simple and modern and the menu is creative and seasonal. First, we ordered the tomato tarts tatin with Fromage Blanc, goat cheese with added creme that was whipped- so light and delicious (I seriously almost ordered it again for dessert). The staff was so polite, our waitress Felice was phenomenal. She was an energetic and knowledgeable member of their staff. @eatatfig, 232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Next up on this tour of food, is an adorable restaurant tucked away in the cutest Charleston alley. The menu changes daily and consists of two starters, two mains and two desserts. The food was incredibly well-prepared and was very good. One of the best meals of all the great meals had in Charleston. The daily menu is handwritten by the chef in French and English. This was the perfect Sunday brunch to round out the trip! @cheznouscharleston, 6 Payne Court Charleston, SC 29403
Now, for things to do. After indulging in some delicious Southern eats, I needed to work off some calories for my next decadent meal, so I headed out to The Battery for a run. Known for its historic presence as a civil-war defense artillery at the site, it stretches along the lower shores of the Charleston peninsula. The Battery is bordered by the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, which meet here to form Charleston harbor. The most beautiful views of Charleston are on foot in my opinion and honestly my favorite way to explore a city. Charleston, SC 29401
And finally, my favorite Charleston shop for all things fashion.
After touring the store, Desmond (stylist/salesperson) brought me his picks to try and they were absolutely on point. I love asking salespeople at a store to bring me the items that they love and think would be great for me to see and try. Try it sometime! @hampdenclothing, 314 King Street, Charleston, South Carolina 29401
