I love the the New York Times, I love Charleston, and I love their 36 hours travel series, so I was keen to read this: 36 Hours in Charleston, South Carolina: Things to Do and See. I was also curious to see how it compare it their 2016 version: 36 Hours in Charleston, S.C. and their somewhat 2008 version, Visiting Charleston, S.C., on a Budget.
Overall it’s a good guide, but some of the restaurants they recommend are not necessarily the best of the city. While I don’t recommend you read the comments section, one person had good advice: “Go to FIG, go to 167 Raw, The Ordinary, Maison, Melfi, The Grocery, Doar Brothers for a cocktail, Sorelle, Verns, Edmunds Oast, Lewis BBQ, Rodneys BBQ….there are probably 30-40 restaurants in this town I would go to instead of Fleet. Sullivans has beautiful beaches and OD is good for brunch. But just good. Also, go see Folly Beach. Funky and boho. The Gaillard is our large concert hall but also look to see who’s playing at Music Hall or Music Farm. Go out to some of the Breweries on Upper Morrison and Spruill. ” Well said. I’d add Chubbyfish (if you can get in), and Santis. Butcher & Bee used to be good: now it’s gone. If you want some cool stuff to take home, head over to J. Stark: their bags are fantastic, and their store is beautiful.
Charleston is a great city, and I’m glad the Times is featuring it. But if you are looking for places to eat, either talk to a local or check out Eater for the Carolinas. You’ll be glad you did.