Malagón, FIG, Zero Restaurant, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because travel to Spain if only for a night. Expect authentic tapas, an extensive wine list, and a small selection of specialty gourmet grocery items like canned fish, olives, and saffron. Be sure to order the La Bomba de la Barcelona—a deep fried mashed potato ball stuffed with ground pork and covered in a garlic aioli—along with Iberico ham, grilled shrimp, and cured tuna belly.

Because the only way to understand the hype is to get in on it. While the menu changes daily, ‘can’t miss’ selections like chicken liver pate; fish stew Provencal; and ricotta gnocchi with lamb Bolognese, parmesan, and mint are mainstays. The sensational wine program (FIG has won James Beard awards for outstanding wine program and best chef in the Southeast twice) adds to the appeal.

Because this tiny gem is one of the best-kept secrets in all of Charleston. The eight-course tasting menu—served in a romantic outdoor courtyard—shifts with the seasons and currently features Malossal sturgeon caviar service; delicate day boat scallops served with sweet corn and sunchokes; and South Carolina king mackerel prepared with tomatoes, cucumbers, and cantaloupe.

Because you’re not living your best life until you’ve had a bowl of Halls’ legendary she-crab soup. Go with friends, as superlative wet- and dry-aged steaks, lump crab cakes, and a killer chop salad are best enjoyed with a group. The popular Sunday gospel brunch books up quickly, so plan accordingly (read: set a Notify and act fast!).

Because the Bacon happy hour (named for owner, Jeremiah Bacon) is offered Monday through Friday from 5 to 7 and always features a delightful variation on the eponymous food. While the upscale, farm-to-table menu changes daily, a few notable highlights are constant, such as succulent grilled rib eye deckle and extravagantly rich bone marrow bread pudding.

Because live music and refined Lowcountry cuisine is a spectacular pairing. The same can be said of the splendid blackened halibut and the summer sidecar—made with cognac, Cointreau and limoncello. Don’t miss the weekend brunch, when house-made chocolate croissants and brioche French toast are offered.

Because this elegant Johns Island eatery boasts something for everyone. Those seeking Southern comfort will find staples like hushpuppies served with honey butter and an oyster po’ boy with crispy garlic French fries. Feeling fancy? You can’t go wrong with scallop Carpaccio, oysters on the half shell, and the daily catch whole fish—prepared grilled or fried. 

Because Le Farfalle serves impeccably prepared authentic Italian cuisine, and it’s not every day you get to savor delicate octopus carpaccio. With handmade pastas and delightful raw bar options, the menu selections are aplenty; however, be sure to get an order of the whipped ricotta topped with black pepper, honey, and extra virgin olive oil.

Because there’s always room for pizza. A joint effort between North Charleston’s acclaimed EVO Pizzeria and beloved Holy City Brewing, this spot—in a laid-back warehouse space—is chill and welcoming. Pick from an ever-changing list of quirky craft beers, then select one of the stellar 12” wood-fired pizza varieties, panini sandwich, or locally sourced salads, and see why everyone is toasting this new bundle of joy.

Because this convivial spot is all about locally sourced, authentic flavors focused on the Oaxaca region of Mexico. Pink Cactus fills its homemade tortillas—made with masa ground from heirloom corn—with everything from beef tenderloin and pineapple pico, to roasted cauliflower topped with fresh radishes and avocado crema.

Walk-ins only.