Top 10

Episode Transcript

Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey everybody, and welcome, Welcome back to our little podcast
about Charleston, South Carolina. All kinds of special stuff going
on this week actually in Charleston and Seaweed, which is
kind of like all the outdoorsy stuff and art and
that has to do with outdoors and think duckhead and
duck boots and that kind of stuff. So it's a

(00:22):
great weekend. A lot of people here. Body's having a
good time. But you know, this is the ninth episode
that we've done about Charleston, and we've covered a lot
how to get here, the best way to get around
once you get here, best accommodation, some of the best restaurants,
the overall vibes of nightlife. You know, We've talked about
a lot of different things. So I kind of wanted

(00:43):
to go back and start kind of from the beginning.
It just kind of remind everybody while we're doing this
sometimes it's got to like reset, right, So this is
our reset and then excuse me, I have a massive
gold uh, but we're you know, when I'm done with
with the little reset part here, I've got a bit

(01:06):
of a special treat because I've got the what and
I live in Charleston, South Carolina. So it's what I
think are the ten best activities if you're visiting Charleston
and if you live here, and then I have the
ten best restaurants, in my opinion. Tried to stay mostly
downtown Charleston, but there's one or two that are that
are in the surrounding areas. All of them are restaurants

(01:28):
that I've been to, and uh, I think that you know,
it's time we actually put them out there and rank
them what I think. So anyway, you know, we all
know that Charleston, South Carolina is a city steeped in
history and brimming with charm. It has captivated the hearts
of countless travelers for centuries, including me. Uh this, this guy.

(01:52):
This podcast really it's kind of like a visitor's guide
to Charleston is really what it is, uh for for
first time visitors and people that have been here several times.
And I hope that people that live here listen to
this and they get a little something out of it too,
because we do a lot of staycations in Charleston, and
I mean, why leave, right, So just kind of a
refresher for people that live here. Some of the cool

(02:13):
things to do that. We don't do. You know, as
we go about our daily lives, we're living in Charleston.
So all of this is from me. It's just from
a special place of love and appreciation for this extraordinary place,
a desire to share its many wonders with a wider audience.

(02:37):
It's more than just a list of landmarks and attractions.
It's an invitation to experience the authentic essence of Charleston
and its history. It's cuisine, it's people, and it's breath
taking beauty. Whether you're drawn to the historic architecture, the
vibrant culinary scene, the relaxing beaches, or the unique blend

(02:58):
of Southern hospitality and modern energy, these episodes will serve
as your trusted companion. We've endeavored to provide you with
not only practical information details and accommodation, dining, transportation, but
also a deeper understanding of the city's character through vivid descriptions,

(03:20):
captivating narratives, and personal antidotes, which, as y'all know, I
have plenty. We aim to transport you to Charleston, allowing
you to experience its magic before you even arrive. So
this guide is the culmination of extensive research, countless conversations
with locals, including myself, and genuine desire to capture the

(03:44):
true spirit of this remarkable city. We have strived, or striven,
however you want to say that, I like, strive to
create a resource that's both informative and inspiring design to
guide you on an unforgetable jo through the streets and
stories of Charleston. We hope this guide enhances your experience

(04:08):
and creates lasting memories of this unique and unforgettable destination.
So as we've gone through it, I've encouraged to take notes,
shot some things down here and there that you hear
along the way, and do a little more research on
your own and figure out exactly what you want to
do with your iterated Charleston. But Charleston, you know, the
name itself evokes images of cobblestone streets, Annabella mansions draped

(04:33):
in Spanish moss, and the gentle rhythm of the ocean waves,
and all of that is absolutely right on this This
podcast is your passport to exploring the captivating city and
journey that transcends mere sight seeing and dives into the
heart and soul of historic Charleston. More than just a

(04:57):
tourist destination. Charleston is a living test of to resilience, history,
and southern charm. Within these within these words, all right,
you'll listen, and you'll uncover the multifaceted narrative of Charleston,
from its pivotal role in American history to its thriving

(05:17):
culinary scene and stunning coastal landscapes. We will explore the
grand historical sites such as Fort Sumter, Rainbow Row, but
also venture beyond the well trodden paths to discover the
hidden gems, local secrets that make Charleston truly unique. Y'all
savor the flavor of low country cuisine, shrimp and grits

(05:40):
and all that good stuff and just the contemporary gastronomic
delights that's all here in Charleston, and discover the perfect
beach for relaxation or adventure that would be Sulivan's Island
or Ala Palm's Folly Beach. I mean, we've been there,
We've already been through all this. This is not just

(06:02):
a podcast, it's curated experience designed to connect with the
city's rich history, a vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality
of its people. Prepare to be enchanted by the architecture,
captivated by the stories and inspired by the spirit of Charleston,
a city that effortlessly blends its past with its present,

(06:23):
created an unforgettable destination for every traveler. Whether you're a
seasoned explorer or a first time visitor, these episodes will
equip you with the knowledge and insight to create a
truly memorable experience in Charleston. Let the journey begin. So
that's the way I started this eight or nine weeks ago.

(06:44):
If y'all remember, if you've been with me that long,
which I certainly hope you have. So now I want
to go into because I don't put my personal opinion
out there as far as rating things very often because
it's so subjective. But guess what I'm doing today, I
am stepping out of my comfort zone. So in my

(07:05):
opinion when I'm talking about first time visitors and on
the fringe, there are people that live here as well.
Of the top of things to do in and around Charleston,
South Carolina, Number one, you gotta visit Magnolia Plantation and Gardens.
It was established in sixteen seventy six. And yes, my

(07:25):
kids ask if I was here when it was founded,
and no, it's a little bit older than me. You know.
It offers stunning gardens, a plantation house tour, and a
glimpse into Charleston's past. It's awesome. I mean, it's a
great you know, a few hours out of your day
to go check out something that's beautiful and historic. Fort
Sumter National Museum got to get there by boat, right.

(07:50):
I have a good friend that owns that boat that
gets you out there, called the Spirit of Charleston. So anyway,
visit this site where the first shots of the Ovil
War were fired. Accessible to by ferry, the fort provides
guided tours and historic exhibitions. You can see the big
cannons and the walls and all the bunkers. It's a

(08:12):
really cool experience and there's usually someone there that can
answer all of your questions. They do have some guided
tours so the battery and White Point Garden. Stroll around
the historic seawall lined with Antebellum homes, huge homes by
the way, and enjoy the scenic views of Charleston Harbor.

(08:32):
And they're all preserved so well. They all have these
great courtyards and these gardens in the back, and I mean,
it really is like stepping way back in time, and
it's amazing that they keep them up this way. We're
not even going to talk about how much these these
homes cost. Right the Charleston City Market, everybody knows the market,

(08:53):
vibrant marketplace featuring local artisans, crafts, and the famous sweet
grass baskets. I'll tell you what, if you know how
these ladies work to do these baskets, you would absolutely
understand why they're so expensive. That is, for the real ones,
worth every penny. Probably the best souvenir you can get
in Charleston. Rainbow Row we all know Rainbow Row right,

(09:14):
series of thirteen colorful historic houses on the Space Street,
perfect for pictures. Just walk up and take some photos.
Would be great to take home with you. A Boon
Hall Plantation and gardens that's just right down the street
from where I am right now. It's famous for us
breath taking avenue of oaks. You've seen this place in
a lot of movies. I have a lot of friends

(09:37):
that have been buried there and had the receptions and
things there. This plantation offers insights into the region's history
and culture. They also have like the best haunted house
in the Charleston area by the way Angel Oak Tree
located on John's Island. I used to live right down
the street from this thing, to be honest with you.

(09:58):
So this is the other live oak. It's estimated to
be well over four hundred years old, and it is
a natural marvel. This thing is huge. It has these
branches that are bigger than a big oak tree that
actually come down and they hit the ground and I
think they might even have some roots of their own,
and then they come back up. It's just I mean,

(10:20):
it's absolutely amazing. It looks like something out of a
movie that was generated with AI or something totally cool.
The Arthur Revenue Bridge comes in at number eight. I mean,
what a marvel. This is the iconic cable stayed bridge
offers a pedestrian walkway with panoramic views and city harbor.

(10:40):
So there are I lived here before this bridge was
built and there was really no way to walk across
or ride a bike or anything across from Mount pleasant
And to Charleston. You would take in your life in
your own hands if you try to do that now.

Speaker 2 (10:55):
It's the place is busy with people walking, jogging, biking
all the time, all hours of the day, night, morning,
I mean, it's just it's amazing to see people getting
out and exercising that.

Speaker 1 (11:07):
Way and taking in the incredible sight. Sullivan's Island Beach. Now,
I lived on Sullivan's for ten years. I let' tell
you that right now my favorite place that I've ever
lived in my life. It is a beautiful Barrier Island.
There's really no long short term rentals or hotels. There

(11:28):
are some great restaurants and one of them made my
top ten lists by the way, stay tuned. So I mean,
it's a relaxing coastal experience with charming local eateries nearby.
So you know, mainly you have from a tourist standpoint,
you have day trippers that come out, and then you
have the locals that live there. That's it. There's not people.

(11:49):
There's not a big hotel emptying out there or anything
like that. It's just laid back, beautiful beach. Just awesome.
Number ten excuse me cold still have Wholed Exchange and
Provost Dungeon. So this was built in seventeen seventy one,
still older than me. This historic building has served various roles,

(12:10):
including the British Dungeon during the American Revolution and this
thing is haunted, So go check it out. Do it totnight.
I'm just kidding. No, go at night. They will let
you in, but it's definite. It definitely makes the list
I got. I could do fifty, a list of fifty,
but I don't have time. Okay, So here's the top
ten restaurants in Charleston, and this is done by law.

(12:31):
So Number one High Time Cuisine, located on Sullivan's Island.
High Time offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring fresh,
locally sourced ingredients. The owner's name is Emily. You just
tell them that you heard about High Time. For me,
it's like walking into Cheers. I mean you are welcomed

(12:54):
as a friend and family the second you walk through
that door. Absolutely amazing. It's where all the local go.
You meet some interesting people. You know, there's a lot
of there's a lot of famous people live on Sullivan's
so you never know who you get a run into.
Number two eighty two Queen nestled in the historic French Quarter.
This is known for its Southern cuisine and charming courtyard dining.

(13:17):
Definitely want to sit outside circa eighteen eighty six, Situated
in a historic Carriage House circa eighteen eighty six offers
a fine dining experience with a menu that reflects Charleston's
rich history. It's amazing fine dining place number four and
this really should be up at number two, but I

(13:39):
didn't feel like changing at all. But that's Hall's Chop
House downtown on King Street. It speaks for itself. If
you're looking for fun and great great food and steaks,
best people watching in town, get there early. Go see
Josh or yeah, go see Josh ar Gender and he'll

(14:02):
he'll take care of you. I promise you will. Or
Justin or Justin, They'll both take care of you. The
Ordinary House in historic Bank Building, Great Place number six Husk.
A lot of people know Husk. All locally sourced dishes,
It interprets traditional recipes, and it restores historic comb It's awesome. Burns,

(14:25):
located in the Elliott Borough neighborhood, Verse, offers contemporary American
menu with a focus on local ingredients. Check it out.
It's worth the fined pink bellies. Okay, so I'm going
off the main map right here. It's the Vietnamese inspired
eatery in downtown Charleston, known for its inventive dishes and

(14:47):
vibrant flavors. Go check it out. Pink Bellies The Italian
Boy after Dark offering that's a funny name, but a
great place offering Italian cuisine in a cozy setting. This
spot is perfect for late night meal, you know what
I'm saying. Marbled and Finn. Now, this is one place
that I have not been, but I heard so many
good things about it I wanted to put on the list.

(15:08):
It's a downtown steakhouse for its quality cuts and elegant ambionce.
And so these the selections that I just gave you.
You know, I'm trying to provide a bit of Charleston's
rich history, cultural experiences and in the culinary excellence. And
there's so many great places to eat in Charleston. Oh
my goodness. You got to start somewhere though, right, So

(15:30):
drive out to drive out to Sullivan's Island. Start with
high time, get to know the staff there. They'll tell
you other places to go. You're gonna absolutely love it,
and you can tell me all about it later. All right,
Well that's all I got for today. We'll get right
back into the episodes next week. So until then, and
until I see you next time. God bless,