Little Jack’s Tavern, Poogan’s Smokehouse, Charleston Grill, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because this casual steakhouse offers an inviting ambiance in which to enjoy a superlative martini. Chef John Amato’s celebrated burger is considered by many to be the best in town, and some would say you haven’t lived until you’ve tried the succulent combination of Pane di Vita bun, 75/25 patty, and American cheese (with garlic-tossed fries on the side, natch). 

Because where else can you indulge in reimagined Spanish charcuterie and Argentinian steak with chimichurri sauce? Housed in an expanded Charleston single, Tu’s atmosphere is hip and eclectic, with a variety of seating options and lively environment. Go for the vibe, and stay for the creative, globally inspired cuisine.

Because this elegant restaurant features live jazz and an extravagant eight-course tasting menu. Spring for a night out with standouts from Chef Michelle Weaver’s refined menu—highlights include a signature crab cake, prime beef tenderloin, and foie gras-and-smoked duck appetizer.

For reservations, call the restaurant at 843-577-4522.

Because chef Daniel Doyle knows his way around comfort food. Alongside Poogan’s Southern classics (cast iron cornbread and fried chicken with mac and cheese), barbecue is artfully prepared using a combination of hickory, white oak, and cherry woods for optimal flavor and depth. Be sure to save room for specialty dishes like Tennessee hot fish and grits, and decadent smoked pork belly, too.

Because this iconic farm-to-table restaurant is celebrated for preserving Southern traditions and heirloom ingredients—and, given the seasonality, no two visits are the same. James Beard Award-winning chef Sean Brock’s menu starts with notables, like crispy-fried chicken skins and Kentuckyaki pig ear lettuce wraps, and continues with entrees ranging from confit duck leg to Carolina heritage pork with red pea gravy.

For reservations, call the restaurant at 843-577-2500.

Because this bright, stylish restaurant offers a wide array of accessible options (think cold brew-infused cocktails alongside truffle popcorn). Bring company and order mainstays like the smoked pimento cheese board, house burger, or Italian-influenced shrimp and grits with spicy arrabbiata sauce and crawfish butter.

Because no Sunday drive down the Maybank Highway is complete without brunch. Plan ahead; Chef Fred Neuville’s corned beef, duck & apple sausage gratin—made with layers of crepes and a fried egg—is a John’s Island institution.

Because owner Perig Goulet’s duck fat Pommes Frites put him on the map, and you can find them again at his latest endeavor, Goulette. The unpretentious French bistro is a neighborhood staple, where regulars come for the smoked pulled pork and grilled lamb chops. 

Because the menu at this hip, locally sourced establishment changes daily. It’s hard to go wrong with any of the options, but the grass-fed beef burger is always a sure thing. After your meal, saunter next door and enjoy a drink on the porch at sister establishment Pourhouse, one of the few live music venues in the area.

Because this fun, funky space offers a veritable ocean of creative sushi rolls under a flowery parasol-covered ceiling that practically oozes kitschy Asian cuteness. The inventive and creative sushi combinations feature highlights such as crab with avocado and Irish moss to fresh salmon served with Asian pear and Sriracha mayo.