Known for high-end restaurants, oyster bars and southern specialties, Charleston is a food lovers destination. The good news is that a great meal is almost always guaranteed. The bad news? You'll have to pick and choose which places and plates to try as there are so, so many.

Poogan's Porch

"Get brunch, but split the Pimento Mac & Cheese, first." Kind of an odd recommendation, but the concierge at our hotel had the right idea! After sharing the best mac & cheese I've ever had, I devoured the chicken and waffles. So in other words, come hungry!

Black Tap Coffee

It's 2018 -- this list wouldn't be complete without an artisanal coffee shop! And as we discovered, Black Tap won't disappoint your coffee cravings. I'm an Iced Vanilla Latte kinda girl, but my sources tell me the Lavender Latte is something you shouldn't miss.

The Daily

Butcher & Bee fans, this one is for you. The Daily is is everything you could want in a Charleston cafe! As you sip on freshly bottled juice and snack on avocado toast, I swear you will savor every last bite.

Caviar & Bananas

A gourmet market serving up made to order salads, sandwiches and even sushi in downtown Charleston. (Not to mention an impressive selection of rose and locally sourced IPAs.) On our next trip to Charleston, I'd love to pick up one of their cheese + charcuterie boards for an easy picnic by The Battery.

Leon's

Leon's was our last meal in the city and arguably the coolest. Located in a renovated auto shop (complete with garage doors and decor from Leon himself), we chowed down on memorable, flavorful food. I was a bit surprised when Brady took our waiter's suggestion and ordered the Siam Salad. But after stealing a bite, I was so glad that he did. Meanwhile, I chose fried chicken and the BEST scalloped potatoes -- no exaggeration.

The Darling

Brady and I missed the raw bar memo here, so I feel like I can't give The Darling a fair assessment. While we missed out on the oysters they're known for, we still got a taste of the Low-country by ordering sides of hush puppies and collard greens.

Callie's Hot Little Biscuits

Like a McDonald's breakfast sandwich, but unbelievably better! Biscuits are such a southern staple, we couldn't resist. The restaurant may look like a tiny hole in the wall, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in award-winning bites.

Taco Boy

No matter where Brady and I travel, we always seek out Mexican food. It's our favorite! With a location downtown Charleston and in Folly Beach, there's really no excuse not to try out this taqueria. Months later, I'm still thinking about Taco Boy's guacamole, so start your meal off right and don't skimp on the green stuff!

Sugar Bakeshop

Pinterest made me do it, need I say more? I'll admit that I wouldn't have ordered the grapefruit cupcake if hadn't been the prettiest but, to my surprise it was my favorite!

The Rooftop Bar at Vendue

A panoramic view of Charleston under the stars is pretty magical site to see. And if that doesn't wow you, I'll mention that The Vendue is the #1 hotel in Charleston (and the 9th in the country!) Brady and I met up with a couple from our hometown here and it was the perfect environment for catching up over cocktails.

Have you ever been to Charleston, South Carolina? If so, did your favorite make my list? Let me know in a comment below!

Where to Eat in Charleston