Our home of Charleston, South Carolina has always been known for its world-class restaurants, but lately it has really outdone itself in terms of creativity and diversity of cuisine styles. So many new restaurants have been popping up that it’s hard to keep track of them all and even harder to get a reservation without booking well in advance. If you’re planning a trip to Charleston soon, we’d recommend going ahead and locking down your spot at these incredible new culinary experiences in town.
Rancho Lewis
One of the newest restaurants on King Street, Rancho Lewis is bringing the flavors and decor of El Paso, Texas to Charleston. It’s the second restaurant of John Lewis, who also owns Lewis Barbecue Lewis and the Texan-inspired design is by Betsy Berry of B. Berry Interiors. The menu, created by head chef, Philip Powers pulls influence from West Texas, Chihuahua, Mexico, and New Mexico. No matter what you decide to order, everything about the food here is fresh, including the tortillas and chips. They’re made on-site in a special room called La Tortilleria containing a custom tortilla machine made specifically for Rancho Lewis. There are also two salsa bars as well as homemade hot sauce available if you want to spice up your meal.
The Caviar Bar at Zero George
If you’ve never had the privilege of staying at the award-winning hotel Zero George, here’s a great reason to visit this stunning 19th-century property in Ansonborough. Their newest culinary experience, The Caviar Bar is helmed by Zero’s executive chef Vinson Petrillo and beverage director Megan Mina. The tasting focused on Regiis Ova caviar along with all the traditional trimmings: crème fraîche, house-baked brioche, soft eggs, lemon, and potato chips. You’ll also get to taste a selection of champagnes and wines chosen specifically to complement the caviar.
Brasserie La Banque
This stunning restaurant has just opened in the prestigious One Broad Street building, which dates to the 1700s. It’s the latest concept by Steve Palmer of The Indigo Road Hospitality Group and features tasty French cuisine in a decadent property that was once a bank. In keeping with the elegance of the building’s architecture, the interiors have been lavishly appointed with leather banquettes, velvet upholstery, and golden chandeliers. The menu is equally as appealing with modern French dishes from crepes to steak frites served with artful twists crafted by executive chef Jeb Aldrich.
Lenoir
Just opened in April within the Renaissance Charleston Historic District Hotel, this brand new restaurant by celebrity chef Vivian Howard is already receiving rave reviews. The cuisine, decor, and name of the restaurant nod to Lenoir County, North Carolina where Howard grew up. The first thing you’ll notice is the bright yellow bar in the center of the dining room, which was designed by local architect David Thompson. All of the tasty fare has been crafted by executive chef Tyson Detzler who previously worked at the Obstinate Daughter on Sullivan’s Island. You’ll find the Southern delights like blueberry barbecue chicken wings and cornmeal dusted-catfish that are hard to resist!
Chasing Sage
While this restaurant opened last year, it’s still new enough that many haven’t yet had the chance to try its artful seasonal dishes. The owners, Walter and Cindy Edward and Forrest Brunton wanted to bring small, delectable bites using ingredients sourced from their own family farm in Smoaks, South Carolina along with tasty cocktails to Charleston. The result is this charming, airy space in Cannonborough-Elliotborough offering a menu that changes daily, but typically features lots of veggies and fresh fish.
Bring Charleston Flavor to Your Own Table
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or have lived in Charleston all your life, you can find plenty of ways to bring some of our local flair to your table at home. Start with textured placemats, like our Straw Loop Set and add Lowcountry-inspired motifs and brightly colored glasses to set the scene with Charleston style. Seafood is a must for the menu, or you can serve comfort foods like biscuits and pimento cheese.
Shop the Look
Straw Loop Set of 4 Placemats
Energized by rich texture, Juliska’s bold, natural tone placemat begs to be layered with chic pattern and color.
Tartaruga Round Shallow Bowl
The handpainted sea turtle is rendered in hues of aqua and taupe against a clean, white canvas on the Tartaruga Round Shallow Bowl.
