Where to eat and sleep in Charleston

If you missed our post earlier this week on the engaging activities Charleston provides make sure to check it out under the Features Section. Now that you have some ideas of things to see in Charleston, here are a few ideas on where you could eat and sleep in the city.

For breakfast swing by Whisk at 209 Meeting Street for fruit juices, strong coffee, and sweet breakfast pastries. The smoothies start at $6.50, but you can also create a juice recipe if you are looking for a lighter option. We loved the classic orange juice, the iced caramel latte, and the chocolate croissants. Photos courtesy of Whisk.

Not a far walk from Whisk and the historic area of Charleston is Lowcountry Bistro, which serves southern classics using fresh and local ingredients. Start with their Shrimp & Grits, made with parmesan chive grits, local tomato medley, and a bacon sauce. Then consider the Coleman Farms Chicken & Waffle, made with a sweet potato bacon cornbread waffle, crispy half bone-in chicken, pecan butter, and a bourbon reduction. It was our favorite dish. We also liked the St. Jude Farms Littleneck Clams and the Fried Green Tomatoes. Photos courtesy of Lowcountry Bistro.

We loved dining at Brasserie Gigi at 102 N Market Street for dinner. The dimly lit restaurant has a full bar and several leather booths that make it easy to relax and enjoy a long meal. We loved the craft cocktails, especially the champagne-focused ones. Our favorite entrées were the Steak Frites and the Seared Sea Scallops that were served with creamy chive mashed potatoes, a black truffle vinaigrette, and arugula. Photos courtesy of Brasserie Gigi.

If you love a unique dessert make sure to visit Carmella’s at 198 E Bay Street. The café and dessert bar has numerous snacks including gourmet cakes and pastries, gelato, and Italian ice. They also have a wine bar, dessert cocktails and small plates of pizza and meats and cheeses. Order the award-winning Peanut Butter Explosion solo or pair it with a glass of red, white or rosé.

If you are looking to stay close to the harbor, consider the Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina at 20 Patriots Point Road. The rooms are brightly decorated in blue and yellow linens and start at $339. Visitors will find a few restaurants on site and a large pool area surrounded by a small white sand beach. The resort also offers a trolley with service to Sullivan’s Island Beach and downtown Charleston. Photos courtesy of Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina.

Visitors who want to stay in the historic district should consider the Andrew Pinckney Inn at 40 Pinckney Street. The hotel was featured on the Today Show and offers stunning views of Charleston. The rooms also offer a southern style, but the color choices are more muted than the Charleston Harbor Resort. The Inn is close to the historic Charleston market area. Rooms at the boutique hotel start at $379. Photos courtesy of Andrew Pinckney Inn.

If you’re looking for southern glamor consider Wentworth Mansion, which was recently named the #1 Small City Hotel in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure readers. Wentworth is a grand historic hotel in downtown Charleston that features a luxury spa and stunning chandeliers throughout the mansion. The amenities seem endless and include complimentary breakfast, afternoon snacks with wine, an evening session serving port, sherry, brandy, and nightly homemade chocolates. Rooms start at $390. Photos courtesy of Wentworth Mansion.

Have you been to Charleston? What were your favorite places to grab a drink or meal? Where did you stay? Do you plan on visiting again? Share in the comments below.