Hey friends! I’m sharing a roundup of the best restaurants and must-see spots we discovered in Charleston during our weekend visit, plus tips on where to stay. If you’re planning a trip to Charleston, I hope this helps—there’s a lot here, so settle in.
Thanks to everyone who sent recommendations before our trip—there were so many great options we couldn’t try them all, but we hit several of the top spots. I’ve grouped my favorites by category for easy reading.
Best Food / Special Occasion Dinner Spot: Husk
Husk is frequently recommended as a must-try in Charleston for a special night out. Housed in a beautiful historic building in downtown Charleston, it offers Southern-inspired cuisine with refined flavors and an inviting atmosphere.
Start at the Husk bar next door if you don’t have a reservation—you’ll get a cozy vibe and excellent cocktails. For dinner in the main house we began with a beet and strawberry salad that was surprisingly good even for someone who usually avoids beets.
My main was Cornmeal Dusted Catfish with red rice, pepper bacon, heirloom kale, meyer lemon, and chilies. The catfish had a crisp exterior without greasiness, and the rice sauce was excellent—the kitchen balances traditional Southern flavors without turning everything heavy and buttery.
My partner had a creative Striploin with mushrooms, tatsoi, hakurei turnip, shishito peppers, and peanut miso—well seasoned and not overpowering. We also loved the savory, smoky cornbread. Dessert (an eggnog tres leches with orange marmalade and nutmeg whip) was pleasant but didn’t match the rest of the meal.
Best Brunch: Sunday Gospel Brunch at Halls Chophouse
Halls Chophouse is commonly cited for steaks and fine dining, but their Sunday Gospel Brunch is a fantastic, slightly more affordable alternative. The live gospel singers make for a festive atmosphere, the service is warm, and they start you with popovers.
I had salmon cakes served with fried eggs and an arugula salad—rich and satisfying, leaning toward the hearty side, but delicious.
Best Places for a Light Meal or Healthy Snack: Verde and Whisk
If you want something lighter, Verde is a build-your-own-salad place similar to Sweetgreen—perfect after travel or before a race. Whisk Coffee and Juice Bar is great for fresh juices, smoothies, and a solid salad bar. We loved the “Ginger Zinger” juice at Whisk (apple, kale, collards, carrot, orange, ginger, turmeric).
Best Southern Comfort Food: Hominy Grill
Hominy Grill was highly recommended, and it didn’t disappoint. After the race we went for a late lunch—Shrimp and Grits and a biscuit were on my list, and the dish lived up to expectations. The ribs were a standout for my partner. The menu also includes fresh salads if you want something lighter.
Best Ambiance & Off-the-Beaten-Path Hipster Spot: Edmund’s Oast
Recommended by locals, Edmund’s Oast is north of downtown and worth the short drive. It has a lively atmosphere, an extensive tap list (including unique flavors), and shareable small plates. Highlights were the cornbread, pickled vegetables, and a smoked trout dish with sauerkraut, beets, potatoes, and dill.
Best Runner-Friendly Pre-Race Dinner: Joe Pasta
The night before our half marathon we wanted a simple, familiar meal. Joe Pasta offers a build-your-own-pasta option—pick pasta, protein, sauce, and add-ins—so we made uncomplicated plates that were easy on the stomach and exactly what we needed.
Where to Stay
We chose the Courtyard Marriott Charleston Historic District for its convenient downtown location and helpful staff. The concierge, Kevin McQuade, was especially valuable—he secured a reservation at a sold-out restaurant and provided a walking map highlighting charming alleys and hidden spots we wouldn’t have found otherwise. Staying downtown put us within walking distance of most sights, which we appreciated.
What to See
Downtown Charleston is full of photogenic alleys, historic spots, and waterfront walks. Highlights we enjoyed:
- The Unitarian Church Graveyard: a quiet, atmospheric spot accessible through an archway between buildings on King Street.
- Stolls Alley, Philadelphia Alley, Ropemaker’s Lane, and Lodge Alley: narrow historic lanes with lots of charm—perfect for wandering and photos.
- The Battery: the southernmost stretch of historic Charleston with a waterfront promenade, park space, and grand historic homes.
- King Street: excellent shopping with a mix of local boutiques and familiar stores.
That’s our Charleston trip in a nutshell. We also published a race recap of the Charleston Half Marathon if you’re interested in the running side of the trip. A special thank-you to sponsors who supported parts of our trip—meals were on us.
Have you been to Charleston? Any other restaurant or sight recommendations? Restaurants that were frequently suggested but we didn’t try include FIG, SNOB (Slightly North of Broad), Magnolias, Five Loaves Café, Poogan’s Porch, The Obstinate Daughter (Sullivan’s Island), and High Cotton.
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