As the world’s top tourism destination, Charleston, South Carolina, is considered to be a bonafide foodie haven, too.
After kicking of 2022 with a month-long stay in the city, we landed on several incredible Black-owned gems that left our plant-based and pescatarian dietary preferences more than satisfied.
Here are our top spots for indulging in flavors sweet, savory, and of course, fresh.
Gillie’s Seafood
805 Folly Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
We had a good feeling it’d be delicious beforehand, but we really didn’t know how much Gillie’s Seafood would feed our souls when our friend KJ of Black Food Fridays dropped the invite. From the grilled flounder, okra, and grits to the hush puppies + “Bam Sauce” to the crab cakes, calamari, and cornbread, Gillie’s delivered some of *the best* flavors we’ve had in the Lowcountry.
Dell’z
1617 Ashley River Rd, Charleston, SC 29407
We’ve been fans of Dell’z for years! In fact, it was the only restaurant Jess would eat from in Charleston during our shorter visits from Columbia over the years. They’re one of the few spots in the city that offer whole foods-based vegan eats— even our go-to vegan “Jazzy Pizza” is basically a salad! We’re also fans of their new fresh-pressed juices, salads, and staple wraps like the “Snobby Joe” and “Hummer.”
Caribbean Delight
3309 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC 29405
Growing up in a Jamaican household means Steve is definitely a Jamaican cuisine connoisseur. Every city we land in, it’s a must that we find some food from the island. After one bite of Caribbean Delight’s ackee and sal’fish, cabbage, collards, and plantain, we more than found our fix! (The stewed snapper didn’t even make any pics because someone couldn’t wait.)
Daddy’s Girls Bakery
2021B Reynolds Ave Suite 102, North Charleston, SC 29405
Recently featured by Travel + Leisure, Daddy’s Girls Bakery is hands-down the sweetest gem of North Charleston. We tried traditional Charleston Chewies for the first time there, and let it be known, we had to have a serious conversation about not going in on the whole box on the drive home. (Check out this Instagram Reel for a peek at our unexpected cake decorating date while we were there!)
Give these Black-owned restaurants in Charleston a try, and let us know which ones are your favorite!
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2 Responses
Omgoodness I live in the Charleston area and never heard of of these establishments…Thank you!
We’re glad you know now, Genie! Let us know what you think once you try ’em out!