YOUR TURN: “Top 10 Charleston Restaurants” by Joseph Morris

Within the past few decades, the restaurant scene in Charleston has become one of the most talked-about in the nation. Top chefs from all over the nation are flocking to this city filled with historic traditions to create a new spin on Southern cuisine fused with international flavors. Delight your taste buds with fresh seafood, local produce, and some the finest meats in Charleston’s top restaurants.

1. Charleston Grill – Chef Michelle Weaver’s menu takes tradition to the next level by mixing world cuisine with Southern favorites. To complement the atmosphere, a jazz ensemble plays live music every night of the week. Fabulous food and exceptional service put this restaurant among Charleston’s best. Appetizers $12-25 / Entrees $25-48

2. Peninsula Grill – This restaurant has won several awards from publications such as The New York Times, Wine Spectator, and Food & Wine. Chef Graham Daily combines fresh local produce and seafood with ingredients from around the world. In the summer, guests can even eat in the illuminated courtyard. Don’t forget to try the famous layered coconut cake! Appetizers $9-18 / Entrees $25-39

3. Cypress – You’ll find a contemporary menu with a touch of the orient at Cypress. From crispy appetizers to fresh seafood and delectable meats, Chef Craig Deihl’s menu is certainly unique. Aside from the food, the modern interior design presents a departure from tradition. Appetizers $8-15 / Entrees $20-42

4. Circa 1886 – Chef Marc Collins has created a Low Country-inspired menu that’s healthful and full of flavor. Enjoy elegant dishes inspired by Southern favorites without too much butter or cream! Located on the grounds of Wentworth Mansion, Circa 1886 is consistently a customer favorite. Appetizers $8-14 / Entrees $25-35

5. Magnolias – Magnolias opened in 1990 and was one of the first restaurants to spark a dining renaissance in Charleston. Chef Don Drake cooks traditional Southern dishes with an international flair to make your dining experience “uptown…down south” (so the restaurant’s motto goes). In particular, Sunday Brunch is a specialty at Magnolias. Appetizers $5-15 / Entrees $20-32

6. Hank’s Seafood Restaurant – Hank’s is the place to go for Southern seafood dishes. Choose from a variety of seafood platters or pick and choose what you like. For a unique social experience, sit at the Community Table, which seats 15 diners – you’ll get to eat with a whole group of people you’ve never met before! Appetizers $7-15 / Entrees $20-30

7. Hall’s Chophouse – Eat some of the best prime steaks in Charleston in this old-world steakhouse atmosphere. The menu also features fresh seafood, veal, pork, and chicken cooked to perfection. The restaurant also provides vegetarian or vegan dishes on request. You’ll have great food and service in this family owned and operated establishment.  Appetizers $7-15 / Entrees $22-85

8. Husk – Since Chef Sean Brock came to Charleston from Nashville in 2006, he has established two high-quality restaurants dedicated to local food. The menu changes daily, but you can be certain to dine on authentic Southern dishes prepared in an innovative way. Appetizers $8-14 / Entrees $22-26

9. Coast – Dine on local seafood fresh from Charleston’s coast. Try classic favorites made in a hickory and oak wood burning grill for a rustic flavor you won’t find anywhere else. You can also enjoy live music on Sunday evenings. Appetizers $7-15 / Entrees $20-25

10. Slightly North of Broad – Affectionately known as SNOB by happy customers and employees alike, this restaurant features an eclectic mix of creative dishes featuring local cuisine. Chef Frank Lee mixes Southern ingredients with French techniques to make an elegant menu. Appetizers $5-13 / Entrees $18-32

Joseph Morris is a longtime food enthusiast who enjoys traveling around the country in search of inspiring restaurants. He also owns the site Culinary Arts College for students interested in getting a degree in culinary arts.

DISCLAIMER: The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the author are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of CRESCENT: The Magazine.

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