Charleston Grills East Coast Oysters This time last year Mario Batali ordered biscuits (honored!) and when communicating with us asked, “where should I eat in Charleston?” It’s a question that I get quite often from friends, retailers, people simply emailing me to ask. We have so many phenomenal spots – from the corner greasy spoon to the historic white table cloth – it’s hard to send someone to just one place. As I was celebrating my 7th wedding anniversary this past weekend I realized that my husband had the answer. The best dinner in Charleston is a progressive one.

My husband started the evening with a private carriage tour at dusk with Palmetto Carriage. A lot of locals simply don’t think about carriage rides. While at first thought it might seem a little touristy it really is a beautiful way to see the city and like everyone, sometimes you need to be reminded of the wonder of home. Nothing is nicer than a balmy fall night in Charleston.

Our first stop was Charleston Grill, where we feasted on oysters at the bar and a martini with Jason Hall. Jason is a master mixologist and there is no greater place to sit and indulge in a fantastic drink paired with his wonderful conversation and commentary. The recipe for the oysters is below. Next we walked down Meeting Street to have dinner at Fig where we saddled up to the bar for our favorite of the night – chef Mike Lata’s pig trotters.

I know I have at least one friend who agrees that some of the best dining in Charleston is at the bar. The attention is wonderful, the bartenders are always willing to share their best picks of the menu and amazing wine pairings. Plus, you never know what interesting people you might meet seated beside you. Our final stop was Peninsula Grill where we shared the restaurant’s signature Coconut Cake.

In a Pinch Tip-the best part of bar dining is there are no reservations needed, often allowing for an impromptu evening of fun!

This is a simple and simply delicious recipe!

Charleston Grill’s East Coast Oysters – Cucumber, Meyer Lemon, Apple Mint

Ingredients

  • Finely chopped Cucumbers
  • Meyer Lemon Juice
  • Meyer Lemon Zest
  • Mint

Instructions

  1. Just dot a little of each into each individual shell – no measurements just to taste.

It would be a perfect appetizer for a fancier dinner at home, or with a few remaining oysters after an afternoon oyster roast. Or, as I enjoyed mine with a great with perfectly shaken martini.