Halls Chophouse, The Ordinary, Wild Common, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because this steakhouse boasts some of the most impeccable service around. Savor the VIP treatment with a delightful craft cocktail alongside a superlative wet- or dry-aged cut—bone-in ribeye, New York strip, or Japanese Wagyu filet. Pro-tip: Halls’ uplifting Sunday gospel brunch is always packed, so act fast and make a Resy!

Because this lofty, elegant restaurant prepares some of the finest seafood in town. The former 1920s-era bank is now home to expertly executed fruits of the sea, like charcoal-grilled roe shrimp with sauce vierge and mustard-crusted snapper, with a tomato and chanterelle ragout. Pro-tip: Oysters on the half-shell are best enjoyed with one of The Ordinary’s signature rum-based cocktails.

Because this bright, airy space is upstaged only by its eclectic, four-course tasting menu, which pairs both wild and common ingredients. Along with small plate offerings like grilled local oysters with spring onion relish, course options (also available a la carte) include unique innovations, such as diver scallop crudo with local strawberries and golden tilefish with salt-baked kohlrabi.

Because this Johns Island newcomer is already a local favorite. See what all the buzz is about over a plate of New Orleans’ style BBQ shrimp, made with Worcestershire, hot sauce, and garlic. Along with a host of raw bar and seafood offerings, carnivores will appreciate the wood-fired steaks or bacon-topped fried chicken sandwich. Be sure to get an order of Fran’s yeast rolls—a home-style favorite made with the chef’s family recipe.

Because authentic Spanish tapas can now be found in this buzzy Charleston spot. Expect familiar classics like tortilla Espanola and potato-and-egg omelet, as well as surprises, like the bomba de la Barceloneta– a pork-and-tomato meatball filled with mashed potatoes. 

Because this dapper, nautically-themed restaurant is the perfect cap to a day spent on Sullivan’s Island. Along with exemplary pizza and pasta options, menu standouts include rich, meaty Frogmore chowder, filled with shrimp and sausage; and the vegetarian Anson Mills farro piccolo, tossed with Brussels sprouts, peanuts, and black truffles.

Because the expansive menu of hits makes this popular Greek eatery a bona fide institution. Along with old-school Hellenic favorites like spanakopita, dolmades and avgolemono soup, Stella’s offer grilled psari—whole fish topped with ladolemono, a traditional blend of olive oil and lemon. Note the distinctive wine list, filled with uncommon options from Greece, Crete, and Macedonia.

Because there’s no better time to rediscover this inventive Charleston haunt, whose dedication to seasonal and local fare is unparalleled. Nab a seat at the counter overlooking the kitchen, and watch as the chefs whip up culinary wonders. While the menu changes often, recent options include a six-minute egg served with bacon, collards, and mustard greens, as well as seared scallops with puffed sorghum and a daikon vinaigrette.

Because this modern, upscale restaurant includes a Champagne and caviar bar with a retro, Great Gatsby vibe. Along with escargot and oysters, the thoughtful menu offers classic dishes like veal scallopini and herb-rubbed pork tenderloin with mashed potatoes. Top your meal with a Napoleon– puff pastry filled with raspberry curd and white chocolate pistachio cream.

Because this cozy, genteel space offers a unique balance of old and new. Named for the family who once ran a pharmacy in the same space, Melfi’s offers updated takes on Italian staples like chicken cacciatore and veal Milanese. Check out the automated Sherato cocktail shaker machine, which turns out frothy cocktails and icy glasses of Branca Menta all night long.