Heading to Charleston, I was most excited about the seafood. Now if you know me, I consider myself to be a “seafood snob” because I really only like shellfish. Luckily, there was no shortage of options in Charleston. From casual to upscale to capturing the local lowcountry flare, here are three musts for your next visit.
Hyman’s Seafood
Hyman’s Seafood is a Charleston institution. The restaurant has been around since 1890 and is loved by locals and visitors alike. We found it because every time we walked by there was a line out the door. Always a sign of a good place! Each table has little name plaques of who has sat at their table. We sat right where Patti LaBelle herself sat.
We started with the Boom Boom Shrimp. The shrimp was divine and those homemade chips were the chef’s kiss. We decided to keep the shrimp-theme going with the Shrimp tacos. I really enjoyed mine with chipotle mayo they had tableside. Also, I would be remiss to mention the hush puppies. SO. DANG. GOOD.
Hank’s Seafood
In Charleston, I hoped to have a nice meal. Hank’s Seafood came through family recommendations and when I saw the menu, I knew it was the perfect spot for us to go. If you are looking for the same dining option in Charleston, I cannot recommend them enough. They are consistently voted the best seafood restaurant in Charleston. When you walk in, you can immediately tell it is more upscale. The décor was an old-fashioned elegance.
I started with the Hayne Street Spritz. This may have been my favorite spritz to date! So refreshing and tasty. For an appetizer, we got the calamari (a theme of the trip). It was delicious and I really enjoyed the spicy sauce. I decided to take a seafood break and ordered the seared beef tenderloin. Mouthwatering it was and those fried green tomatoes were a perfect pair. My mom kept it seafood and ordered the She Crab soup which she recommends. Lastly, what is the perfect way to finish a southern meal? With pecan pie of course! It was as good as I had imagined it would be!
Cru Café
Cru Café was another recommendation we received. It is a hidden gem in my opinion! Off the main strip in Charleston, this restaurant sits in 18th century home. We wanted something a little lighter for lunch and both ordered salads. I ordered the Caesar and added shrimp while my mom got the Chinese Chicken Salad. We both couldn’t stop raving about how good ours were!
I hope this gives you some recommendations on where to eat in Charleston. Let me know if you have any others I must try on a future visit!
Xoxo
Janelle
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