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Discover CharlestonDiscover Charleston

Charleston Dining Must-Haves

If you want to sample real Lowcountry cuisine while you’re in the Charleston area, be sure you look for the following items on local menus:

She-Crab Soup
Indigenous to the Charleston area, this cream-based soup features crabmeat, crab roe, and veggies.

Did you know? William Deas an African American butler created the she-crab soup for Robert Goodwyn Rhett, Charleston's Mayor in 1902. Mr. Deas worked for Mr. Rhett at 116 Broad Street (now known as the John Rutledge House) during the time when William Howard Taft, U.S. President and Chief Justice was a weekend guest on several occasions. Traditionally, Mr. Deas is also referred to as "Rhett's butler".

Shrimp & Grits
Served barbequed or in a variety of other sauces, according to the various chefs’ preferences.

Crab Cakes
Recipes abound, but look for the ones that have lots of crab, and a limited amount of onions, peppers and spices.

Fried Green Tomatoes
So good, someone named a book after them.

Fresh Peach Cobbler
South Carolina is the top peach producer in the United States, not our southern neighbor, Georgia. Anything using fresh peaches is likely a good choice.


Tristan offers a bold American menu with a global influence in a beautiful, yet relaxed atmosphere that reflects the character of a fine dining establishment. Located at 55 South Market Street (next to the French Quarter Inn), Tristan offers an energetic bar and an award-winning wine list.
In 1978 A.W. Shuck’s opened on The Market. It was a place where you could get a plate of fried shrimp, a dozen raw oysters or an ice cold pitcher of beer. Shuck’s has expanded and evolved, but has remained true to its roots of local décor, local food, and a local atmosphere ... a casual, upscale spot where all feel at home.
Welcome to Charleston. Our heart of pine floors, ceiling fans and walls of hand-made brick have been the signatures of Lowcountry high-life since antebellum times. Even our name is derived from plantation jargon for livin’ large. Our menu is hearty and southern, featuring regional favorites prepared with Maverick artistry.
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