Brunch in Charleston, S.C.: A city made for morning cocktails
Charleston’s food culture really shines at brunch, the meal that’s “arguably the greatest merger in history,” said Sydney Gallimore in Thrillist.com. Even a hotel restaurant like the Renaissance’s new 1Kept gets in the spirit on weekend mornings, serving up live music and $25 rosé-all-day. Below, a few other highlights.
“Named after a local woman known for her fantastic cooking,” Virginia’s has a brunch menu “chock full of Southern-inspired dishes,” including tomato pie and shrimp and grits Benedict. 412 King St., (843) 735-5800 A midday visit to this “Alice in Wonderland–esque” restaurant affords the chance to fully appreciate “how breathtakingly gorgeous the space is”—even if you’re passing through to the ivy-lined courtyard. Order the sourdough sticky buns with pecans before they sell out, and don’t be afraid to pair a brunch cocktail with chef Josh Keeler’s “musthave” double bacon burger with Mornay sauce. 492 King St., (843) 203-6338
Farther up King Street, the menu at this speakeasy-style restaurant promises fairly typical brunch fare. But chef Greg Garrison always provides a twist—a lime cream with the huevos rancheros, or stuffed French toast with sweet cream, apricot, and macerated berries. Unlimited mimosas, too! 547 King St., (843) 793-2964
This light-filled eatery on Hampton Park is “arguably one of the prettiest restaurants in all of Charleston.” It also serves “some of the freshest, tastiest food” north of Calhoun Street—much of it light enough that you’ll leave the table with a spring in your step. 730 Rutledge Ave., (843) 410-1070