Stay /
Charleston has been on my short list of places to visit. A girls trip was in the works for months. Finally, schedules, flights and weather aligned. We just had to pick a spot, we landed on Charleston and it was absolutely perfect (highly recommend). We stayed at a quiet quaint little Bed and Breakfast at the end of King Street. The staff at John Rutledege Inn were friendly and accommodating. The Inn had two carriage houses which were separate from the historic house and the room had two large comfy queen size beds with a mini fridge. Added Bonus: Each night you were able to select your breakfast prior to bed, even able to specify the time and location you would like to be served. I was the only East Coaster on the trip, so I would start my morning at the crack of down before the sun rose with a long run through town (my favorite way to explore new cities), post run, I would pick up a green juice on the way back. Upon my return, I would sit in the courtyard with my green juice and book waiting for them to rise. It was the perfect calm and relaxing way to start each day.
Dine /
Overall the food in Charleston was delicious, coming from NYC that says a lot. Our list of spots to try was long and we were only able to cross off a handful — which gives me all the reason to back and visit!
Carmella's Cafe and Dessert Bar
We were craving a dessert post dinner and our bartender told us to take a walk down to E Bay St. and pick something sweet up from Carmella's. They had endless options — we chose cake and cheesecake, but all looked delicious. Added bonus, they are open until 12am!
Basic Kitchen
What a fun trendy spot to dine for Brunch or Dinner. I love that basic kitchen is simple and uses seasonal, local produce keeping the options healthy and delicious. The ambiance is great as well, the restaurant sits in a historic building with floor-to-ceiling windows, and it feels light bright and breezy with adorable decor.
167 Raw
Hot spot in town that is never NOT packed. I was able to get in at the bar and enjoyed a light bite while waiting for the girls to arrive. I ordered the Halibut Ceviche (that I am still thinking about to this day). I am not a Halibut person, but decided to go for it and so happy I did. It was poached to perfection. If you are visiting, definitely try this spot. Next time I am in CHS, I will be going back to try everything else on the menu.
Quick Notes:
| Still on the List to Try | Leons Rodney Scotts BBQ Pink Cactus Chasing Sage (off the beaten path, but adorable & a local fave) Goat. Sheep. Cow. (make sure to call to reserve a sandwich) 82 Queen Husk (menu didn’t resonate with me, but the ambiance is worth it even just for an app or a shared dish — magical) Poe’s Tavern (short walk to the beach, cute outdoor patio area) The Cop-Op (sandwich shop on Sullivan’s island) |
| Streets to Wander | King Street, E Bay Street |
| Must See | Sullivan’s Island, Rainbow Row, Magnolia’s Planation (worth the Uber or drive), Toler’s Marina |
| Shopping | Jane Pope Showroom, Candlefish (see if you can book a candle making class), Hampden Clothing |
