Charleston
Thanks to attention from the likes of Condé Nast Traveler and Eater, every foodie is putting this South Carolina city on their list!
The Restaurants
Leon's Oyster Shop
An incredible, and very casual, restaurant known for their oysters and fried chicken. I was pleasantly surprised by a great Champagne list and frozen cocktails. There's both indoor and outdoor seating and they only take reservations for parties of 6 or more. Vibe is kind of like Hometown BBQ in Brooklyn.
Chez Nous
This cute and intimate French restaurant changes the menu daily, and you only have two options for starters, mains and desserts.
Chubby Fish (chef pictured)
A the most popular restaurant in Charleston, it’s no surprise this was our favorite meal of the trip. Delicious seafood and very creative dishes. No reservations and the space is small… but worth the wait!
The Ordinary
Housed in a former bank (so it’s a bit loud due to building acoustics), this spot is known for their shellfish platters, amazing oysters and seafood in general. You’ll find a wine list for wine lovers; curated by the same owners who opened FIG.
Callie's Hot Little Biscuit
At this solid breakfast spot you’ll always find a line out the door on a Saturday morning. They make a savory sausage, egg and pimento cheese breakfast sandwich. No seating, takeaway only.
Tippling House
This is a fantastic wine bar around the corner from Chez Nous and Chubby Fish. Go for pre-dinner drinks or a casual get together. Very well curated wine list from the owner, who is a former NY Wine Director and moved down to Charleston during COVID.
Graft Wine Shop
This lovely wine shop on King Street also serves food, and you can open any wines purchased and drink there for a very low markup.
Rodney Scott's BBQ
One of the two main BBQ spots (the other being Lewis BBQ). Incredible restaurant with the vibe of a fast food joint. The BBQ pork is amazing. We had to wait 30 minutes in line to order and get a table, but worth it!
The Hotels
The Dewberry (pictured)
If you’re looking for a luxurious mid-century vibe, this is it. No expense, or detail, was spared in building this beautiful hotel that also boasts one of the best rooftop bars, the Citrus Club.
The Charleston Place
Located in the heart of Charleston’s downtown district, with over 35 luxury shops just steps from the lobby. The 384 rooms and 49 suites are all exceptionally large with stunning city views.
Hotel Bennett
Southern elegance at its very best. From its rotunda, to the salmon-pink Champagne lounge and gorgeous rooftop bar, this is a perfect base to explore all the culinary delights of Charleston. Located right on Marion Square in the heart of downtown.
Zero George (room pictured)
A lovely 18-room luxury boutique hotel that evokes that Old-South charm, where one would spend a lazy afternoon on the veranda. This is Southern living at its very best.
The Pinch
A small, 22-room boutique hotel that’s design forward, yet charming.
When you book any of these hotels with me, exclusive perks include:
Daily Breakfast
VIP Welcome Amenities
Up to USD $100 Food & Beverage or Spa Credit
Complimentary Room Upgrade (subject to availability)
Early check-in/Late check-out whenever possible
The Dewberry also offers complimentary airport transfer, or complimentary valet parking for the duration of your stay.
“Having grown up in Los Angeles, and living in New York for the past 20 years, I must admit that Charleston wasn't at the top of my list of travel destinations. However, after visiting earlier this year, my mind was completely captivated by the incredible quality of the food in its restaurants, as well as the beautiful Southern charm found in its cobblestone-filled streets and stately mansions. I'm now a total convert! Perfect for a weekend getaway, this city will leave you far from hungry, with the freshest seafood in its oyster bars and simply delicious barbecue. Beyond the lip-smacking cuisine, there’s rich history to explore, and downtown Charleston is the perfect place to walk off your latest amazing meal.”
Anny Chen, Jet Set Oenophile