New On Resy: Charleston’s Newest Restaurant Openings

Don’t let the shopping center locale fool you. The Lick punches above its weight and raises the bar for West Ashley fine dining with offerings like a plateau of seafood from the raw bar and wagyu steaks sourced from Australia and Japan. The decor is swanky, the atmosphere is sultry, and West Ashleyites are happy not to cross a bridge for fine dining for a change. 

The Japanese tradition of yakiniku (literally “grilled meat”) involves gathering around a table with a smokeless grill installed in the middle so you can cook your own meats, seafood, and vegetables. Mix and match à la carte ingredients or order a shareable combo platter. Fu-O also offers classic Japanese appetizers, soups, and salads, along with fresh oysters from the raw bar. The interactive experience makes it ideal as a date night destination or for a festive family celebration. 

Salty Mike’s Deck Bar just leveled up. While the ground floor remains your go-to for cold brews and harbor views, the upstairs has undergone a sea change, re-emerging as Fin & Crab. From benedicts and omelets in the morning to local seafood specialties for lunch and dinner, this cozy marina restaurant is a great spot for waterfront dining.

When a group of hospitality and culinary pros come together to create their ideal neighborhood hang, the result is sure to be fun. OK Donna features seasonal riffs on traditional Italian dishes, with many options built for sharing. The sleek wooden bar is the heartbeat of the restaurant, offering the full menu service alongside an inventive modern cocktail list. An evening seated at that bar is bound to be better than just OK! 

If you’re looking for a respite from the daily grind, Charlotte’s encourages diners to escape the rush at their bar or in the clubby lounge area — where they suggest “every pour and plate is meant to be savored at a Southern pace.” Enjoy live music while snacking on cheese and charcuterie board and sampling your way through an impressive list of globally-sourced wines by the glass. A small retail area offers bottles to take home and wine accessories, too.