High Cotton, One Broad, The Ordinary, Now on the Resy Hit List

Because chef-owner Mike Lata’s extraordinary seafood menu is upstaged only by The Ordinary’s airy, refined atmosphere. In addition to irresistible raw bar options, the seasonal menu offers delicacies like broiled oysters with eggplant, tomato, and parmesan, as well as a crispy triggerfish served with saffron rice and fresh field peas. Reservations are a must (read: get acquainted with Notify).

Because the perfectly executed, local dishes are the culinary equivalent to walking in the tall cotton. From gumbo-influenced shrimp and grits made with andouille sausage and fresh okra, to fried oysters (soaked in buttermilk before being crisply fried), it’s an elegant trip down Southern-comfort-food lane. There’s live jazz nightly, as well as every Sunday during brunch service.

Because this former bank building features some of the most beautifully restored architecture around. Open until 7 p.m. daily, the all-day menu includes stellar pastries and a sandwich-focused menu. Current standouts include pastrami lox served on an everything bagel, cozy charred broccoli gratin, and Indian-spiced roast lamb served in pillowy soft naan flatbread.

Walk-ins only.

Because there’s always room for whipped feta. This hip, airy space is known for its farm-to-table plates, salads, and sandwiches. The menu changes daily, but you can’t go wrong with the kohlrabi Waldorf salad, roast beef sandwich, or signature house burger. Pro-tip: pick up a loaf of Carolina heirloom grain bread for the road.

Because this renovated Charleston single reimagines comfort food, combining global flavors. Inside the design-savvy space, which ranges from hip and trendy to dark and clubby, enjoy a creative and constantly evolving menu of small plates (think a grilled hanger steak with bone marrow salsa or a Wagyu burger encased in a crisp french fry wrapping).

Because savor some of the best local seafood, alongside a bevy of Southern classics. Rather than debate between the jumbo lump crab cake and fried green tomatoes on pimento cheese grits, order them both. Just leave room for a traditional Lowcountry boil or fried chicken with whipped potatoes.

Because at Red Drum, Lowcountry ingredients are poetically paired with Texan recipes—and the results are delightful. Warm up with hand-cut tortilla chips and house-made salsa, before opting for a main course of South Carolina quail served with Texas venison sausage. 

Because the latest outpost of this venerable local sushi restaurant offers almost as many hibachi options as it does rolls. With an array of options—including good-for-groups large-format specialties, in addition to an extensive list of wine, beer, and sake —there’s something to appeal to everyone at the table.

Because come for the food and stay for the onsite brewery and live music. Located on Daniel Island, enjoy dressed-up pub fare (wood-smoked chicken wings and po’ boys) alongside seared scallops and wood-grilled steaks, plus an impressive menu of house-made beers.

Because snag a patio seat at sunset and enjoy laid-back Southern comfort food. Here, specialties include smoked pork chops, mac & cheese, and buttermilk-brined fried chicken with collards.