Charleston is famous for its fantastic culinary scene and you definitely do not want to miss out at dining at one of the city’s many renowned restaurants. Allyssa and Mason both love to try new spots around town and have provided recommendations for some of their favorite restaurants and bars.

Rudy Royale:

If you are looking for classic southern food that won’t break the bank, Rudy Royale is a fantastic option. Located on East Bay just minutes from Water Front Park, this is a great choice for lunch or dinner if you are enjoying the day in downtown. Their variations of fried chicken are amazing, but their other southern-style dishes also don’t disappoint. There are usually tables available at Rudy Royale, but if you have a large party, making a reservation is always a good idea

209 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

https://rudyroyale.com/

Sorelle

This high-end Italian restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience that offers small course meals that allows you try many menu options. Reservations for tables do book up weeks in advanced, so make sure to plan your visit in advanced.

88 Broad St, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.sorellecharleston.com/menus/

82 Queen

This restaurant oozes with southern charm and provides a classic Charleston dining experience. With tables spanning multiple buildings and a beautiful courtyard, the atmosphere is romantic and intimate. 82 Queen is renowned for its shea crab soup, and the couple recommends the short rib entrée.

82 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.82queen.com/menus/

Nick’s German Kitchen

Nick’s is a hidden gem in Mt. Pleasant, that not even all the locals know about. The restaurant is owned by a German family that serves authentic German dishes. If you go, make sure to save room for the made-to-order chocolate souffle; it is one of the best desserts in Charleston!

1150 Hungry Neck Blvd Suite E, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464

https://nicksgerman.com/

EVO Pizza

If you like artisan pizza, you need to stop at EVO in Park Circle. No matter the day, EVO is always bustling with diners. Their pistachio pesto pizza is addicting, and it has become the couple’s go-to take out order. EVO does not take reservations, so keep this in mind if you are planning to visit.

1075 E Montague Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

http://www.evopizza.com/food

Legend Deli:

If you are in downtown and looking for a quick bite for lunch, Legend Deli is the perfect choice. Located right off of King St, the shop offers numerous hot and cold specialty sandwiches. The bride and groom recommend the GOAT sandwich, but any item you try is sure to hit the spot.

41-A George St, Charleston, SC 29401

https://legenddeli.com/

Thai Zapp

Thai Zapp was a staple for Mason and Allyssa early on in their relationship. This spot offers authentic Thai food available for seated service and pick-up. There are always tables here so if you find yourself without a reservation, this is a safe choice!

200 Meeting St Unit 2, Charleston, SC 29401

http://www.thaizappcharleston.com/

Taco Boy

In the couple’s opinion, Taco Boy is the best taqueria in Charleston. They offer a wide variety of taco options and have fantastic quesadillas and dips. The atmosphere is fun and casual and they have large sections of indoor and outdoor seating.

217 Huger Street, Charleston, SC 29403

https://www.tacoboy.net/location/downtown-taco-boy/

Boxcar Betty’s

If you are looking for the best southern-style chicken sandwich, Box Car Betty’s is the place to go. This is a perfect quick service spot if you are out and about and want a fast lunch. There are locations in Mt. Pleasant and West Ashley, so this is an option regardless of what side of town you are on.

1922 Savannah Hwy Charleston, SC 29407

1701 Shoremeade Road Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

https://boxcarbettys.com/

Ruby Sunshine

Ruby Sunshine is a casual brunch spot in downtown Charleston that offers classic breakfast items. This is a great choice if you want brunch but don’t have a reservation.

171 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.rubybrunch.com/location/ruby-sunshine-downtown-charleston/

Junction Kitchen

This is one of the couple’s go-to brunch spots. The menu boasts many classic items with a southern twist, and Mason and Allyssa have tried nearly every entrée on the menu. Junction Kitchen does not take reservations and gets pretty busy during the weekend, so you will want to go early.

4438 Spruill Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405

https://thejunctionkitchen.com/

Callie’s Hot Little Biscuits

Callie’s is a Charleston staple, and if you haven’t had it, we recommend you try it! There are two locations in downtown- one on Upper King and one within the Charleston Market. Callie’s offers large biscuit sandwiches that are great for a meal, as well as mini biscuits if you need a snack during the day. Allyssa highly recommends the chocolate cookie sandwiches at the Upper King location if you are a fan of Oreo cookies.

476 1/2 King Street Charleston, SC 29403

https://calliesbiscuits.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoq0L2bbxI0E0bxlK4ial3RvjVIFvYxVyUup3AXJUkijHIcLNbWj

Carmella’s

The couple frequents this dessert bar so often that the staff recognizes them. Carmella’s is an Italian-style dessert bar that specializes in cannolis and mini cakes. The carrot cake is Allyssa and Mason’s go to order, but there isn’t a bad choice on the menu.

198 East Bay Street, Charleston, SC 29401

https://carmellasdessertbar.com/

Off Track

Off Track Ice Cream makes its own ice cream in house and offers many unique flavors, including several super-tasty vegan options. You can order an ice cream flight and try four different flavors all at once or go all in on a single flavor.

6 Beaufain St, Charleston, SC 29401

offtrackicecream.com

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams

Jeni’s is another popular ice cream spot, with locations in downtown and Mt. Pleasant. At night, it’s not unusual to find a line out the door. You can also find their ice cream by the pint in most grocery stores here, so if you are craving a Charleston treat you can enjoy at home, Jeni’s is a great option.

501-A King St, Charleston, SC 29403

1242 Belk Drive #101, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

https://jenis.com

Sugar Bakeshop

This bakery off Cannon St. often sells out of products before they close. Sugar offers many seasonal flavors, as well as classic everyday offerings. The couple’s wedding cake came from this bakery, so if you want a taste-test or are hungry for more, this is the place to go!

59 1/2, 59 Cannon St, Charleston, SC 29403

sugarbakeshopchs.com

Rooftop at Vendue

If you are looking for a spot to relax and enjoy a beautiful view, the Rooftop at the Vendue is the perfect place. This is Allyssa’s favorite rooftop; it has a great food and drink selection, multiple levels, and offers views of the Ravenel Bridge, the battery, and the churches on Broad. The couple recommends going around sunset for the best photo ops.

19 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.rooftopcharleston.com/

Ritual

Ritual is a great spot if you are looking for an upbeat location with seating available. Ritual is a rooftop bar with indoor and outdoor areas. If you go earlier in the evening, it is a great place to hang out with friends and later at night the venue turns into a full-blown club. This bar definitely appeals more to the younger crowd, but it’s unique décor and fun menu are worth checking out.

145 Calhoun St UNIT 301, Charleston, SC 29401

https://www.ritualchs.com/

Cocktail Club

The Cocktail Club is a 23+ bar that has an upscale and intimate feel. The drinks offered are gourmet and the menu often changes, so it’s a great spot if you are looking for a stellar cocktail.

479 King St, Charleston, SC 29403

https://www.thecocktailclubcharleston.com/