Charleston is easily one of my favorite places to visit and after you go you will see why. Not only is it charming and beautiful but the food is out of this world. I usually focus on the seafood but really everything is so so yum! I also did a quick trip to folly Beach so adding a few recommendations there too!

Where To Stay

Airbnb, of course, is always the best. We lucked out and had a friend offer us her place right in the Battery. It was drop-dead gorgeous and the perfect location. In the past, I have stayed on Sullivans Island and The Francis Marrion Hotel. I would suggest checking out all of the historical b&bs too!

Charleston vs. The Beach? If you’re going for the weekend I suggest you stay in Charleston and make a day trip to the beach. Folly beach is pretty close and oh so cute with a great hippy vibe and great restaurants (Taco Boy and Ritas!)

Where to Eat in Charleston

Literally, every restaurant in Charleston is the best restaurant on some list so it’s really hard to choose. So I have done the work for you. I last visited in May of 2021 but honestly, there are new restaurants all the time so get to googling!

167 Raw – Tiny raw bar that is packed almost all hours but totally worth it. We went specifically for their incredible Lobster Rolls, and they were everything I hoped they would be. Great vibe and good service!

Leons Oyster Bar – A must. We went for lunch and basically ordered everything on the menu. The Heirloom Tomato Salad with peaches and corn was hands down one of the best things I have ever eaten, I could eat that every day. Here is where to get your hush puppies and fried food fix too, Leon’s is known for their fried chicken sandwiches. Oh, and they have frozé too! They don’t take reservations but its big with 2 porches and room for groups.

The Ordinary – This spot has been on my list for years. We sat at the oyster bar and ordered four or every oyster they had. You may be thinking dammmmn that expensive but that’s why we went for Happy Hour! Every day from 5 pm to 6:30.

Sorghum & Salt – A newer spot in Charleston with rave reviews this restaurant puts its own twist on southern cuisine. Perfect for a small group as the plates are best shared. The menu changes daily so you will have to just order one of everything.

The Darling Oyster Bar – I finally got to visit this Instagram chic restaurant for my birthday dinner and it was so so good! Since we were celebrating we went with the seafood tower – the crab claws yalllll so so so good!

Taco Boy – A number of people recommended Taco Boy and now I know why. 1 white queso, 2 really killer tacos 3 great spaces. The Birria taco is a must!

Need another snack and a drink? Head to the gorgeous rooftop at The Grand Bohemian Hotel. Killer drinks, vibe, and really delicious burrata.

Charleston Spots On Our List for Next Time

Husk – Traditional southern food served in a house originally built in the 1800s, oh and James Beard award winner. We went on our last trip and it was okay… I think this place has passed its prime.
Toast – The place to go for brunch.
Bar Normandy – This unassuming bakery was closed when I walked by Sunday but I have heard the pastries are not only delicious but so is the dinner service.
Hometeam – BBQ, backyard, and frozen drinks. There is also a location on Sullivan’s.

Where to Drink

Hometeam is great for day drinking. Stars & The Vendue for rooftop views. Blind Tiger’s back patio is great at night. For a dive bar check out The Recovery Room. Classy cocktails at The Cocktail Club. Husk also has a small house next stoor willed to the brim with bourbon and historic charm.

Beach Trip

Pack up the rental car or take a uber over to Sullivan’s Island and enjoy a day at the beach. When your stomach starts to rumble make your way over to Poe’s for lunch. I have yet to go to the Obsinents Daughter but I have heard it’s just divine.

Check out my quick guide to Folly Beach here.

What else is there to do in Charleston?

Shop! King Street and Meeting street are covered in boutiques and high-end designer stores. Nothing better than shopping after stuffing your face right?!