Charleston Restaurants

  1. Anson

    Anson is the most upscale Lowcountry restaurant around, set in a dreamy pink-and-green carriage house straight out of central casting. Pecan-crusted lamb and grouper in champagne sauce go well with the lovely wine list.

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  2. Gaulart & Maliclet

    Locals crowd around the shared tables at this tiny bistro, known as 'Fast & French,' to nibble on Gallic cheeses and sausages or nightly specials (around US$15 ) that include bread, soup, a main dish and wine.

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  3. Hank's Seafood Restaurant

    Dark wood, tinkly piano music and fine, fine fish mark this Charleston standard, a 1940s-style fish house specializing in rich seafood classics like Oysters Casino and shrimp linguine.

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  4. Hominy Grill

    Slightly off the beaten path is this sunny café serving whimsical, vegetarian-friendly Southern cuisine. Breakfast and brunch are particularly popular, with overstuffed omelets and, of course, hominy grits, served on the patio.

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  5. Hyman's

    Crowds line up for hours outside this venerable seafood restaurant, fanning themselves with take-out menus while awaiting Hyman's famous she-crab soup, po'boy sandwiches and crispy flounder. Lines are more reasonable at lunch, and kids are always welcome.

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  7. Jestine's Kitchen

    Charleston housekeeper Jestine Mathews lived to be 112, though probably not by eating the glorious fried chicken, fried green tomatoes and (fried) hush puppies at the down-home café named in her honor. Order 'table wine' (sweet tea) to drink and finish up with the famous Coca-Cola cake.

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  8. Magnolias

    Southern fusion is on offer at Magnolias; think 'Down South Eggroll' stuffed with collards and chicken, served with peach chutney, in a chic minimalist dining room.

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  9. Poogan's Porch

    Dine on sherried crab soup and toast points in the dim, floral-patterned environs of this supposedly haunted Victorian mansion, tucked away on a downtown side street.

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  10. S.N.O.B.

    The cheeky name (it stands for 'slightly north of Broad,' as in Broad St) reflects the anything-goes spirit of this newcomer, which draws raves for its eclectic menu, filled with treats like house-smoked salmon or sauteed squab breast over cheese grits. Exposed brick walls and an open kitchen lend a casual ambiance.

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