Big T’s Top 5: Charleston Seafood Restaurants
/Bowen’s Island Restaurant:
This is a Lowcountry classic and one you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Located at the tip of a 13 acre island overlooking Folly Creek, it is off the beaten path, funky, and the seafood is always fresh and local. Get fried shrimp, fish, oysters and their famous hushpuppies (or a half or whole tray of local oysters when in season... ya know, the R months). It’s nearing 75 years old and even has a James Beard award to boot!
Rappahannock Oyster Bar:
Located in a 19th century cigar factory in downtown Charleston, this place is rustic yet cool with exposed brick walls and lots of fun atmosphere. There are plenty of raw bar selections and really inventive smaller and larger plates. The smoked fish dip is out of this world! There are lots of spots at both the 40 seat copper bar and outdoor patio when the weather is nice. The service is outstanding too.
167 Raw:
Pick a good time to go because this spot is tiny and jockeying for a table is the name of the game. They are known for the fabulous lobster rolls, but the ceviche and fish and shrimp tacos are right on time. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu. Exciting news though- we’ve heard it’s moving to a larger space on King Street next year!
Wood and Grain:
Chef Patrick Langdon is a master with seafood! The killer raw bar is teeming with fresh oysters, stone crab claws and local shrimp. It is essential to have the ceviche of the day and the tuna tossed with ginger, avocado, sesame and scallion. Both dishes are dreamy! Interestingly enough, W&G has a great selection of salads and wood fired pizzas that are excellent and really complement the seafood.
The Darling Oyster Bar:
This is a stylish little spot with a vintage vibe. The raw bar fronts King Street, so it's a great place to grab a cocktail + some oysters and people watch! During brunch, the chowder fries (aka chowder filled with local clams and bacon served over house fries) are a decadent must.