If you’ve only got one weekend to spare in Charleston, never fear. You can still get the most Instagram-worthy Southern cuisine in so little a time. If your stomach can handle it however, that’s up to you.
While it was hard to narrow them down to just a few, here are 7 restaurants you can hit in one weekend that capture the true Charleston spirit.
Poogan’s Porch
Poogan’s Porch has been featured in Martha Stewart Living, Food & Wine, and on the Travel Channel, so if you’re going for Charleston classic, this is the place. Named after Poogan, a scrappy stray pup that took up residence at the restaurant and sadly passed away in 1979. The restaurant still lives on in his honor and you can see his statue and dedication in the front garden. Must try: Chef Isaac’s she crab soup and Springer Mountain Farm fried chicken.
Butcher & Bee
Veg burger on the menu today #eatme #veggieburger A photo posted by Butcher & Bee (@butcherandbee) on Nov 18, 2015 at 8:17am PST
A place with a great hipster vibe, Butcher & Bee is where you want to go for quality sourced ingredients and large portions. With several vegan options too, this place could satisfy any empty stomach. Their menu changes daily so make sure you get here early because when they’re out, they’re out.
Must try: Roast beef sandwich with chimichurri, smoked onion jam, and roasted tomatoes and a Mexican Coke.
CRU Café
Such good food and little shops in Charleston – love this Parisian sandwich packaging from #goatsheepcow for the groomsmen getting ready at our house – and we just had a yummy brunch at #crucafe (thanks for the rec @kerrishigo!) #charleston #weddingday #simocousins A photo posted by Five Marys Farms????????➕???? (@maryheff) on Oct 10, 2015 at 10:01am PDT
A little off the beaten path, CRU Café is know to Charleston locals as the place for American food. The dining room is little small so make sure to get a reservation if you can and even if you can’t the wait isn’t too bad. Do not miss the opportunity to dine outside on the beautiful porch. Must try: Thai seafood risotto, four cheese macaroni, and truffle oil French fries.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Would you rather give up your car or your phone? #convocookie ??(via alexgarey) A photo posted by Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (@jenisicecreams) on Jul 31, 2015 at 11:35am PDT
Located on the main drag downtown, Jeni’s is usually populated late night by the co-eds at College of Charleston. With all the options, be prepared to sample their seasonal flavors and don’t leave without a convo cookie in your sundae.
Must try: Gooey butter sundae with brown butter almond brittle ice cream, butterscotch sauce, salted caramel sauce, freshly whipped cream, and an amaretto cherry.
Lowcountry Bistro
Get your chicken & waffles fix at Lowcountry Bistro! #chickenandwaffles #LowcountryBistro #Charleston A photo posted by Lowcountry Bistro (@lowcountrybistro) on Jun 23, 2015 at 10:01am PDT
Lowcountry Bistro is the weekend brunch hotspot of your dreams. If you’re into hangover cures that involve fried munchies or just looking for some hair of the dog, this place will deliver. Must try: Fried chicken on top of a set potato bacon waffle with bourbon maple syrup and bottomless mimosas.
167 Raw
Today’s #PoBoy = #DayBoat #SeaScallop #chseats #167raw #rawbar #seafood #sandwich A photo posted by 167 Raw (@167_raw) on Oct 2, 2015 at 2:04pm PDT
This sweet spot of downtown Charleston is everything. Don’t be intimidated if you’re an oyster novice; the guys behind the bar will glady naviagte you through your options. It’s super casual but also super small, so you might get stuck waiting in line for a bit. But once you’re seated, you’ll realize that the wait was so worth it. Must try: The lobster roll, the daily selection of oysters, and the key lime pie.
Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit
Thanks @theenglishroom for the awesome picture!! Here’s to a great weekend!!! #Breakfast #bacon #coffee #hotlittlebiscuit A photo posted by Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (@callieshotlittlebiscuit) on Jul 11, 2015 at 5:22am PDT
Hot damn. These hot little biscuits are off the hook. If my tastebuds could give out awards, these biscuits would get one. With a line usually out the door, Callie’s is a popular spot on weekend mornings. Callie’s also has a late night menu for on your way back from boozing.
Must try: Bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit and a pimento cheese sandwich.