Eat Like a Local in Charleston, SC

Heavy’s Barburger, Downtown

If you're looking for the perfectly, crispy smashburger on the peninsula, than make your way up Morrison Dr and head into Heavy’s. This restaurant is casual and does not take reservations, but you may need to wait during the lunch rush. The menu ranges from wings, salads and chicken sandwiches, but what you’re coming here for is the Luten’s burger. This thin smashburger is impeccably seasoned with a crispy crust. Toppings are the OG LTO with mustard & mayo and nothing else is really needed. Oh, and do yourself a favor and order the onion rings for the table. You won’t be disappointed.

The Harlow, James Island

This spot has won the hearts of locals with fresh oysters and their Dill Martini. Yes, dill, as is dill pickle juice and dill stuffed olives. The restaurant has a great L-shaped bar that offers an indoor/outdoor setting. Grab a martini or any of their well-crafted cocktails with deliciously cold and salty oysters and add a side of fries and you have the perfect “girl dinner”. Also, as a girl originally from Buffalo, NY, the wings here are some of the best in town.

Wild Olive, Johns Island

This is my absolute favorite Italian restaurant anywhere, not just in Charleston. It doesn’t hurt that I live just 5 minutes away. It is hard to recommend just one dish, as I have never had a bad one here. The pastas are all made in-house, and they have new specials weekly that often sell out. While they are known for their chicken parm, my heart goes out to ravioli doppio. They change the fillings seasonally, and each time I love it more. It may be tough, but be sure to save room for dessert. Another thing they do in-house and I am ordering it even if I am too full and will wait to eat it when I get home. (Which I can rarely do)

Chico Feo, Folly Beach

There is no better alfresco dining than Chico Feo on Folly. If you didn’t know, you might miss this place until you walk around the back and see all the people sitting on picnic tables underneath the trees. You’re coming here for tacos/burritos with a side of sea air. My first visit, I almost considered becoming a vegetarian — the rice and bean burrito was that good. Another menu stable not to be missed is the Cuban sandwich. Among the trees is a great outdoor bar with a great beer list with a lot of local breweries and familiar favorites.

Baker’s Bar, James Island

Three words- sourdough pizza crust. This pizza joint in Windemere shopping plaza on James Island is a hidden gem. For me it’s walking in and seeing all the signed Chianti bottles hanging from the ceiling. (I might have one or two up there myself) The menu is simple and that’s because they do it right. What drew me in originally was the cup and char pepperoni (IYKYK). What has kept me coming back for more is the meatballs and dare I say it, even the salads. Be brave and order the salad on top of the pizza. Trust me, it is good. Just make sure you do not ask for ranch. No, really, don’t.

Tippling Wine Bar, Downtown

There is nothing more Charleston than eating and drinking in a historic home. The space may be small, but the wine list is mighty. Walking in, you very much feel like it was once someone’s home and it is perfectly cozy in that way. This is my go-to pre-dinner drink spot that has a food menu that more than once has risked me being too full for our reservations later. Occasionally they even host a chefs dinner that is on my Charleston bucket list to try.

Harken Café, Downtown

The secret may be out on this one as the line is often out the door, but I promise it is worth the wait. Plus, waiting just gives you more time to drool over what is behind the pastry counter. Pastries change often, and I am anxiously awaiting the return of the blueberry oatmeal bar. Lunch is only offered during the week, and the selections of salads and sandwiches make eating healthy feel so dang good.

Marina Variety Store, Downtown

Despite being on a peninsula, waterfront dining is hard to come by in Charleston. Marina Variety has those Ashley River views and a fabulous breakfast menu to boost. By no means are you coming here for a light meal. This is the place to try chicken, waffles or shrimp and grits. Personally, I have visited more often for breakfast when I am looking for something hearty, maybe to help fix the night before. Another Charleston rarity is that they validate parking for the marina lot. Don’t forget to bring your ticket inside with you and get it stamped before leaving.

Bowen’s Island, Folly Beach

Come for the fried shrimp, but stay for the views. Hands down, one of the most stunning sunsets you will see in town. You will wait in line here. That’s not an “If” but a “how long” question. Bonus, if you are here during oyster season, you can get them steamed by the tray. Grab a drink, wait in line and soak up everything the Lowcountry has to offer.

The Obstinate Daughter, Sullivans Island

Full disclosure, I live on Johns Island, so it takes something special to make me want to cross four bridges for a meal, and this place does it. This is definitely a must-make a reservation type of place. Again, pizza and pasta are the stars of the show with all the dough made in house. The vibe of this place screams I am at the beach, and the menu is everything you are craving for a beach-side meal. Pro-tip, order a pizza for the table so you have more room to try everything else. 100% worth the drive!