I love nothing more than trying out fun new local spots. Here in Charleston we are lucky to have such a great culinary scene. I often get asked my favorite restaurants and it is honestly so hard to narrow it down because there are just so many great spots here! We recently dined at 2 new restaurants and I loved them both so much! Lenoir + Cudaco are two new must try spots!
Lenoir is located in the heart of downtown and is the mastermind of chef Vivian Howard, who I have been a long time fan. Lenoir is Southern cuisine but with a twist. The menu changes seasonally and is just so innovative. I loved every single dish we tried. They are smaller sized dishes so perfect for sharing. Below is what we shared (again menu is seasonal so these items may no longer be on the menu). Skillet rolls, Tuna Crudo, Seasonal vegetables, Kale Chips, and the patty melt. This is a great spot for a date night or girl’s dinner out. I love the decor and atmosphere!
For any martini lovers they have a dirty martini with stuffed pimento cheese olive. I love a good blue cheese stuffed olive but this was equally delicious and such a great idea!
Cudaco is a seafood spot on James Island. If you love fresh seafood this is the spot to go. They have a wonderful selection of fresh caught seafood (oysters too) that you buy to take home and cook. They also have an excellent menu as well. There is not a ton of seating probably 5 tables inside and 3 outside. So this is a great spot to pick up and take food to go. We actually stayed and dined inside because It was not crowded when we went but I see myself frequenting here to pick up seafood! They have a wine room with a great wine selection and a fridge filled with premade goodies too like dips and nibbles.
We ordered several things off the menu but the fried fish sandwich was what we came for. People rave about this sandwich for a good reason. The fish is perfectly fried and it is nestled on a bun with cheese and pickles and mayo- our heaven! We also shared the baked oysters, tuna crude with caviar, and the rice bowl. All were amazing but the crude was my favorite I think the flavor was just incredible.
Be sure to check out these two spots if you are looking for new places to try!
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