Charleston, SC, is known for its rich culinary traditions, deeply rooted in Southern and Lowcountry cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes when visiting the city:
1. Shrimp and Grits
- What It Is: A signature Lowcountry dish, this consists of succulent shrimp served over creamy, buttery grits. It’s often accompanied by a flavorful sauce made with bacon, garlic, and herbs.
- Why Try It: This dish is iconic to Charleston and the Lowcountry region, blending fresh seafood with hearty grits for a comforting, savory meal.
2. She-Crab Soup
- What It Is: A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a hint of sherry. It's typically thickened with a roux and spiced to perfection.
- Why Try It: This dish is a Charleston staple, offering a unique, flavorful take on seafood soup that's perfect for colder days or as a starter.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes
- What It Is: Slices of green tomatoes dipped in a cornmeal batter and fried until crispy. Often served with a tangy dipping sauce or remoulade.
- Why Try It: A Southern classic that’s crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, fried green tomatoes are a great appetizer or side dish.
4. Lowcountry Boil
- What It Is: A flavorful one-pot meal typically made with shrimp, sausage, corn on the cob, potatoes, and Old Bay seasoning, all boiled together.
- Why Try It: It’s a festive, communal dish that brings together fresh seafood and savory ingredients, often enjoyed in casual settings.
5. Hushpuppies
- What It Is: Fried cornmeal balls, usually served as a side dish or appetizer at seafood restaurants. They’re golden-brown on the outside and soft inside.
- Why Try It: They complement fried seafood perfectly and are a great snack to accompany any Lowcountry meal.
6. Chicken and Waffles
- What It Is: A Southern comfort food favorite, this dish combines crispy fried chicken with a fluffy waffle, typically drizzled with syrup and sometimes served with hot sauce or honey.
- Why Try It: The combination of sweet and savory makes this dish a must-try for those craving a classic Charleston brunch.
7. Pimento Cheese
- What It Is: A Southern cheese spread made with cheddar cheese, pimentos, mayonnaise, and seasoning. It’s often served on crackers, as a dip, or in sandwiches.
- Why Try It: Known as the "caviar of the South," pimento cheese is a savory treat that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
8. Barbecue
- What It Is: Charleston is home to delicious Southern barbecue, typically featuring slow-cooked pork, often served with tangy vinegar-based sauces or mustard-based sauces, depending on the region.
- Why Try It: For true BBQ lovers, Charleston’s distinctive take on pulled pork is a flavorful treat, especially when paired with classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread.
9. Boiled Peanuts
- What It Is: Green peanuts that are boiled in saltwater and often eaten as a snack.
- Why Try It: They are a Southern delicacy and a fun, local snack to try while wandering Charleston’s streets.
10. Okra
- What It Is: A versatile vegetable often featured in Lowcountry cuisine, okra can be fried, pickled, or used in stews like gumbo.
- Why Try It: Okra plays a central role in Southern cooking and is a must-try for visitors who want to experience authentic Charleston flavors.
11. Biscuits
- What It Is: Fluffy, buttery biscuits often served with gravy, or as an accompaniment to any meal.
- Why Try It: A quintessential part of Southern breakfasts and brunches, Charleston’s biscuits are particularly delicious when served warm with butter and honey.
12. Fried Catfish
- What It Is: A classic Southern dish, catfish is breaded in cornmeal and fried until crispy, often served with sides like collard greens or cornbread.
- Why Try It: Fried catfish is a popular choice for seafood lovers looking for a filling, flavorful meal in Charleston.
13. Charleston-style Oyster Roast
- What It Is: Fresh oysters roasted on the half shell over an open flame, often seasoned with butter and served with cocktail sauce or hot sauce.
- Why Try It: Charleston is known for its fresh seafood, and oysters are one of the city’s specialties. An oyster roast is a great experience for seafood enthusiasts.
14. Charleston Dark & Stormy
- What It Is: A popular cocktail made with dark rum, ginger beer, and lime juice. It’s a refreshing drink that captures the spirit of Charleston’s beachside atmosphere.
- Why Try It: It’s the perfect drink to accompany a warm Charleston evening, offering a spicy-sweet flavor combination that pairs well with Southern dishes.
15. Sweet Tea
- What It Is: Iced tea sweetened with sugar, a staple in Southern culture.
- Why Try It: No visit to Charleston is complete without trying sweet tea, which is often served at nearly every restaurant in the city.
Charleston’s food scene offers a delightful mix of seafood, Southern comfort foods, and Lowcountry specialties that will satisfy every palate. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood or enjoying classic Southern dishes, Charleston’s cuisine is an essential part of the city’s charm.
