Good (Lesser-Known) Places to Eat in Charleston

 Charleston is renowned for its restaurants, but what if you don't want to blow your paycheck on Husk?  (If you do, go for it.  It's fabulous.)

We used to love a few of the old Charleston favorites on the peninsula, but things do evolve.  82 Queen used to be fantastic; the last time we ate there, I was underwhelmed to the point of tears. Sadly I have no plans to return.  Magnolia and Poogan's Porch are old standbys, but I haven't visited them in years!  We also always liked Hominy Grill, but I think it is closed.  Alas. 

Since having children, we've branched out from the Fancier Eateries and have begun to explore some of the lesser-known gems with gentler price tags. Here are a few of our favorites:

*We always loved Dellz Uptown, on the peninsula (Rutledge Ave), but they closed two years ago!  Apparently they've opened a new place in West Ashley, but we've never been.  However, we loved their vegan cuisines, and their meals were lifesavers for us back in the days when my husband and son were avoiding dairy and/or gluten.  

*Sesame Burgers and Beer (even if you don't drink beer; we don't!).  I adore Sesame.  Best French fries ever!  Excellent and imaginative renditions on burgers, using a variety of meat and non-meat (black bean burgers, yum!) items. 

*Bessinger's BBQ out on Savannah Highway: a classic.  Mustard-based barbecue, so Lowcountry and so delicious.  But the best thing at Bessinger's is the onion ring. If you've had it, you know. So good!

*We like EVO Craft Bakery and EVO pizzeria in Park Circle.  Definitely get their croissants for breakfast or a mid-morning treat.  They're some of the better croissants I've had (the other great croissant spot is OWL Bakery in Asheville, NC). 

*Fleet Landing is on the peninsula and right on top of the Cooper River, with great views.  It's a nice stop for lunch if you're touring the market area and want seafood in a casual and scenic setting. 

*We enjoy the Park Pizza Company, also in Park Circle.  

*My father loves Charleston Crab House on Wappoo Cut (James Island).  It's not my personal favorite, but it's a solid place to get a seafood meal and--most importantly--watch the boats drift by on Wappoo Creek. The ambiance is pretty fun and we've had some nice times sitting out on the deck, watching the boats drift past. 

*Dad also enjoys Dig in the Park (also Park Circle), and I like eating outdoors there.  It's got a fun and funky vibe, very neighborhood-hangout.  We ate there after a long day at the beach last June and it was the perfect post-beach spot to relax. 

That's my short list of Most Frequented Spots that are friendly on the wallet and easy to enjoy with the entire family.  If I think of more, I'll add them later!